What Do You Need From Your New Bed?
Before choosing a style, think about what matters most to you. These four questions can help narrow down your options.
What Size?
Choose a size that gives you enough sleeping space without overwhelming your bedroom.
What Type?
Compare divan beds, bed frames and ottoman beds to find the right solution.
Need Storage?
Make use of the space underneath your bed with drawers or ottoman storage.
What Style?
Finish your bedroom with a headboard and bed design that suits your décor.
When Should I Replace My Bed?
Knowing when to replace your bed isn't just about how it looks. Over time, a bed frame or base can experience wear and tear, while your sleeping requirements may also change.
Visible Wear & Tear
Sagging, broken components, damaged upholstery or structural issues can indicate your bed is past its best.
Reduced Comfort
If your current bed no longer feels comfortable or supportive, it could be time for an upgrade.
Difficulty Getting Comfortable
Regular tossing and turning may be a sign that your current bed and mattress no longer meet your needs.
Your Bedroom Has Changed
Moving, redecorating or needing additional storage can all be good reasons to choose a new bed.
Your Mattress Needs Replacing
If you're buying a new mattress, make sure your existing bed base is suitable and in good condition.
What Bed Size Should I Choose?
Choosing the right bed size is one of the most important decisions when buying a new bed. Consider who will use it, how much sleeping space you prefer and how much room you have available.
A useful choice for children's bedrooms, compact rooms and guest spaces.
Ideal for one person and popular for children's, teenagers' and guest bedrooms.
More sleeping space than a single while taking up less room than a standard double.
A popular choice for couples and spacious single sleepers.
Offers additional width and length for a more spacious night's sleep.
The largest standard UK bed size, ideal for couples wanting plenty of sleeping space.
What Type of Bed Should I Choose?
The best bed for you depends on your available space, storage requirements, preferred style and budget.
Practical & Storage-Friendly
Divan beds combine a supportive base with valuable built-in storage, making them ideal for bedrooms where space is limited.
Divan Bed Buying Guide →Style & Choice
Bed frames offer a wide choice of upholstered, wooden and metal designs to complement your bedroom.
Explore Bed Frames →Maximum Storage
Ottoman beds use a lift-up base to provide a large storage area beneath the mattress.
Ottoman Bed Buying Guide →Divan Bed or Bed Frame?
There isn't one right choice for every bedroom. Your decision largely comes down to storage, practicality, style and available space.
Choose a Divan If...
- You prioritise storage and practicality.
- You want a compact bedroom solution.
- You like drawers or ottoman storage.
- You want a sturdy mattress base.
- You want to add a matching headboard.
Choose a Bed Frame If...
- You prioritise style and bedroom aesthetics.
- You want wood, metal or upholstered designs.
- You have a particular look in mind.
- You want a statement piece of furniture.
- Built-in storage isn't your main priority.
What Are the Benefits of a Divan Bed?
Divan beds remain a popular choice because they combine comfort, practicality and storage in one bedroom solution.
Built-In Storage
Choose drawer configurations or ottoman storage for bedding, clothing and other belongings.
Space-Saving
Make use of the space underneath your bed, particularly useful in smaller bedrooms.
Supportive Base
A sturdy divan base provides a stable foundation for your mattress.
Choice of Styles
Choose from different fabrics, colours and finishes to suit your bedroom décor.
Popular UK Sizes
Divan beds are available in popular sizes from single through to super king.
Add a Headboard
Pair your divan with a headboard to create a complete bedroom look.
Which Divan Storage Option Should I Choose?
One of the biggest advantages of a divan bed is the choice of integrated storage. Think about what you plan to store and how often you need to access it.
Drawer Storage
Ideal for everyday items such as spare bedding, pillows, blankets and clothing.
Continental Drawers
Combines different drawer sizes to maximise storage while leaving room for a bedside table.
Ottoman Storage
A large hidden compartment beneath the mattress, ideal for larger or less frequently used items.
How Do I Choose the Right Bed Height?
Bed height affects both the appearance of your bedroom and how easy the bed is to get in and out of. The overall height depends on the bed frame or base, feet and mattress thickness.
Choose a height that allows you to sit down and stand up comfortably.
A deeper mattress will increase the overall height of your finished bed.
Higher beds can feel substantial, while lower beds can create a minimalist look.
The height of the base can affect available clearance underneath the bed.
What Headboard Should I Choose?
A headboard can complete the look of your bed while providing a comfortable place to lean against when sitting up.
Upholstered
Upholstered headboards offer softness and are available in a wide range of fabrics, colours and designs.
Wooden
Wooden headboards provide a classic appearance and work well with traditional and contemporary bedrooms.
Metal
Metal headboards are available in modern and traditional designs and are relatively easy to maintain.
Floor Standing
Floor-standing headboards extend to the floor and can create a striking bedroom focal point.
Strutted
Strutted headboards attach to the bed using struts and offer a practical finishing touch.
Check Compatibility
Always check the headboard size, fixing method and compatibility with your chosen bed.
8 Things to Check Before Buying a Bed
Check available space and leave enough room to move around the bed.
Consider who will use the bed and how much sleeping space you need.
Consider drawers or an ottoman bed if storage is important.
Compare divans, ottoman beds and traditional bed frames.
Make sure your mattress is the correct size for your chosen bed.
Remember that mattress depth contributes to finished bed height.
Check the size and fixing method before choosing your headboard.
Measure doorways, stairways and access points before ordering.
Don't Forget the Mattress
Your bed base is only part of your sleep setup. Choosing the right mattress is equally important. Think about your preferred firmness, sleeping position, mattress type and the level of support you need.
Read Our Mattress Buying Guide →Frequently Asked Questions About Buying a Bed
What is the most popular bed size in the UK?
Double beds are a popular choice for couples and larger bedrooms, while single beds are commonly used in children's, teenagers' and guest bedrooms. King and super king beds are ideal when you have enough space and want additional sleeping room.
Is a divan bed better than a bed frame?
It depends on your priorities. Divan beds are particularly useful if you want built-in storage and a practical, compact design. Bed frames offer a wider choice of materials, styles and designs. Read our comparison guide →
Are ottoman beds good for storage?
Yes. Ottoman beds provide a large storage area beneath the mattress, making them a practical choice for bedrooms where additional storage furniture isn't ideal. Read our Ottoman Bed Buying Guide →
Does a divan bed come with a headboard?
Headboards are generally an optional addition rather than automatically included with a divan base. Always check the individual product listing to see exactly what is included.
How do I know what size mattress I need?
Your mattress should match the internal dimensions of your bed frame or the specified mattress size for your divan. View our Mattress Size Guide →
Explore Our Bed & Mattress Buying Guides
Still deciding what you need? Explore our buying guides for more helpful advice on beds, mattresses and bedroom furniture.
Ready to Find Your Perfect Bed?
Explore our range of bed frames, divan beds, ottoman beds and headboards to find the right combination for your bedroom.
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