What Do You Need From Your Bed Frame?
Before choosing a bed frame, think about how you use your bedroom and what matters most to you. These four questions can help narrow down your options.
What Size?
Choose a frame that matches your mattress size and gives you enough sleeping space.
What Material?
Choose from upholstered, wooden and metal frames to suit your bedroom style.
Need Storage?
Consider a frame with built-in storage if you want to make better use of the space underneath your bed.
What Style?
Choose a design that complements your existing furniture and bedroom décor.
What Type of Bed Frame Should I Choose?
Bed frames are available in a wide range of designs and materials. The best option depends on the style you prefer, the support you need and the space available in your bedroom.
Upholstered Bed Frames
Upholstered frames add softness and comfort to your bedroom and are available in a wide choice of fabrics, colours and headboard designs.
Wooden Bed Frames
Wooden frames provide a timeless appearance and can work well with both traditional and contemporary bedroom interiors.
Metal Bed Frames
Metal frames can provide a clean, versatile look and are available in a range of traditional and modern designs.
What Size Bed Frame Should I Choose?
Your bed frame should match the mattress size you intend to use. Remember that the overall dimensions of the frame can be larger than the mattress itself.
A practical option for children's bedrooms, compact rooms and smaller guest spaces.
Ideal for one person and a popular choice for children's, teenagers' and guest bedrooms.
Provides more sleeping space than a single while taking up less room than a standard double.
A popular option for couples and spacious single sleepers.
Offers additional width and length for couples who want more sleeping space.
The largest standard UK bed size, ideal for couples wanting plenty of sleeping space.
Which Bed Frame Material Is Best?
Different materials create different looks and can offer different practical benefits. Consider your bedroom décor, maintenance preferences and the style you want to achieve.
Upholstered
Soft upholstery creates a comfortable, inviting appearance and works particularly well with statement headboards.
Wood
Wooden frames offer a natural appearance and can complement a wide range of bedroom styles.
Metal
Metal frames can provide a clean and versatile finish, with designs ranging from simple to more decorative.
Do I Need a Bed Frame With Storage?
Storage can be particularly useful if you're working with limited bedroom space. Consider how much you need to store and how frequently you need to access it.
No Built-In Storage
A traditional frame can provide a simple, open design and leaves you free to use separate bedroom storage.
Drawer Storage
Built-in drawers can provide convenient access to bedding, clothing and other everyday items.
Ottoman Storage
Lift-up storage uses much of the space beneath the mattress and can be useful for larger or less frequently used items.
How Does a Bed Frame Support Your Mattress?
The bed frame provides the foundation for your mattress, so it's important to choose a frame with a suitable support system and weight capacity.
Slats provide a supportive surface for the mattress while allowing air to circulate underneath.
Check the manufacturer's recommended weight capacity before choosing your frame.
Make sure the frame is designed for your mattress size and type.
Look for a well-constructed frame designed to provide a stable and secure foundation.
How Do I Choose the Right Bed Height?
The finished height of your bed depends on the frame, feet, base and mattress. Consider both comfort and the overall appearance you want in your bedroom.
Getting In & Out
Choose a height that allows you to sit down and stand up comfortably.
Mattress Depth
A deeper mattress will increase the overall height of your finished bed.
Bedroom Style
The height and proportions of your frame can influence the overall look of your bedroom.
What Headboard Should I Choose?
A headboard can make your bed a focal point while providing a comfortable place to lean against when sitting up.
Upholstered
Soft and comfortable, upholstered headboards are available in a wide range of colours, fabrics and designs.
Wooden
Wooden headboards provide a classic appearance and can complement both traditional and contemporary rooms.
Statement Styles
A large or distinctive headboard can become a central feature of your bedroom.
8 Things to Check Before Buying a Bed Frame
Check the available space and leave enough room to move around the bed.
Make sure the frame matches the mattress size you need.
Consider upholstered, wooden or metal designs.
Decide whether you need drawers, ottoman storage or an open frame.
Confirm that your mattress is suitable for the chosen frame.
Remember that mattress depth contributes to the finished bed height.
Check the headboard size and fixing method before purchasing.
Measure doorways, stairways and other access points before ordering.
Don't Forget the Mattress
Your bed frame is only part of your sleep setup. Choosing the right mattress is equally important. Consider your preferred firmness, sleeping position, mattress type and level of support.
Read Our Mattress Buying Guide →Frequently Asked Questions About Bed Frames
What is a bed frame?
A bed frame is the structure that supports your mattress and creates the main framework of your bed. Bed frames are available in materials and designs including upholstered, wooden and metal options.
What is the best type of bed frame?
The best bed frame depends on your priorities. Upholstered frames can create a soft, comfortable look, wooden frames offer a timeless style and metal frames provide a versatile alternative. Storage options may also be important if bedroom space is limited.
Should my bed frame be the same size as my mattress?
Your bed frame should be designed for the mattress size you intend to use. However, the overall external dimensions of the frame will usually be larger than the mattress itself.
Are bed frames good for storage?
Some bed frames include built-in drawers or lift-up ottoman storage. If storage is a priority, compare the available storage options before choosing your frame.
Can I use any mattress on a bed frame?
Not necessarily. Always check the manufacturer's recommendations for mattress size, type and weight compatibility before purchasing.
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