How to Choose a Divan Bed | Mattress365 -

How to Choose a Divan Bed

The right divan bed should give you the sleeping space, storage, support and style you need.

Use this guide to compare size, storage, fabric, base type, mattress compatibility and the practical details that matter before you buy.

Choosing a Divan Bed at a Glance

Choose Your Size

Start with the sleeping space you need and make sure the finished bed will fit comfortably in your bedroom.

Choose Storage

Decide whether you need no storage, drawers, continental drawers or a lift-up storage option.

Choose the Base

Consider the base construction and how it will work with your chosen mattress.

Choose Your Style

Finish the look with the right fabric, colour and compatible headboard.

Choose the Right Divan Bed Size

Single

A practical choice for one person, children's bedrooms, teenagers and guest rooms.

Small Double

Offers more sleeping space than a single while taking up less room than a standard double.

Double

A popular choice for couples and single sleepers who want additional sleeping space.

King

Provides additional width and length for couples who have enough bedroom space.

Super King

The largest standard UK size, ideal when maximum sleeping space is a priority.

TOP TIP: Measure the overall dimensions of the complete divan rather than relying only on the mattress size. Headboards and other additions can increase the total footprint.

Choose the Right Storage Option

No Storage

Choose a simple base if you already have plenty of bedroom storage or prefer a clean, uncluttered design.

Two Drawers

A useful option when you want accessible storage without filling every side of the bed with drawers.

Four Drawers

Provides more divided storage for bedding, clothing and other bedroom essentials.

Continental Drawers

A combination of drawer sizes designed to maximise useful storage while working around bedroom furniture.

Ottoman Storage

A lift-up storage compartment is useful when you need space for larger items such as bedding and luggage.

Which Storage Option Is Best for You?

Choose Drawers If...

  • You regularly access the things you store.
  • You prefer separate compartments.
  • You want easy access without lifting the mattress.
  • You want to organise belongings by drawer.

Choose Ottoman Storage If...

  • You need space for larger belongings.
  • You don't need to access storage every day.
  • You have limited space beside the bed for drawers.
  • You prefer one large hidden storage area.

Consider the Divan Base Type

Solid Base

A solid divan base provides a stable foundation and gives the bed its characteristic practical appearance.

Storage Base

Choose the storage configuration based on what you need to keep underneath the bed and how often you will access it.

Split Base

Larger divans may be supplied in sections, which can make delivery and installation more manageable.

Choose the Right Fabric and Style

Fabric

Choose a finish that suits your bedroom while considering how easy it will be to keep clean and maintain.

Colour

Neutral colours can create a versatile backdrop, while darker or richer shades can make the bed a stronger feature.

Headboard

A compatible headboard can transform a simple divan base into a complete bedroom centrepiece.

Bedroom Décor

Think about the bed alongside your flooring, walls, curtains and other furniture rather than choosing it in isolation.

Check Mattress Compatibility

Your mattress and divan base should be considered together. Check that the mattress is the correct size and suitable for the chosen base.

If you're buying a complete divan set, check exactly what is included and review the available mattress options, firmness levels and specifications before ordering.

Do You Need a Headboard?

Strutted

A practical option that attaches to the bed using struts and can provide a neat finishing touch.

Floor Standing

Creates a larger visual feature and can give the bed a more substantial appearance.

No Headboard

A simple option if you prefer a minimalist look or need to keep the overall bedroom footprint smaller.

Consider the Finished Bed Height

Base Height

The height of the divan base affects how high the mattress sits from the floor.

Mattress Depth

A deeper mattress will increase the overall height of your finished bed.

Getting In & Out

Choose a finished height that feels comfortable when sitting down and standing up.

Bedroom Style

The finished height also influences how substantial or minimalist the bed looks in the room.

8 Things to Check Before Buying a Divan Bed

01 · SIZE

Measure Your Bedroom

Check both the mattress size and the complete external dimensions of the divan.

02 · STORAGE

Choose Your Storage

Decide between no storage, drawers, continental drawers or an ottoman-style option.

03 · BASE

Check the Construction

Consider the type of base and make sure it is suitable for your chosen mattress.

04 · MATTRESS

Choose the Mattress

Consider mattress type, firmness, depth and compatibility with the base.

05 · FABRIC

Choose the Finish

Select a fabric and colour that work with your bedroom and lifestyle.

06 · HEADBOARD

Check Compatibility

Make sure your chosen headboard is the right size and fixing type for the divan.

07 · HEIGHT

Check Finished Height

Consider the combined height of the base and mattress before choosing your final setup.

08 · ACCESS

Measure Delivery Access

Check doors, hallways, stairs and other access points before ordering.

Choose Your Divan and Mattress Together

A divan base is only one part of your sleep setup. Match it with a mattress that suits your preferred comfort, support and sleeping position.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What should I look for when buying a divan bed?

Start with the size you need, then consider storage, base construction, mattress compatibility, fabric, headboard options, finished height and the space available in your bedroom.

Which divan bed storage option is best?

It depends on what you store. Drawers are convenient for regularly used items, while larger lift-up storage can be better for bulky or less frequently accessed belongings.

What size divan bed should I choose?

Choose based on the number of sleepers, the sleeping space you prefer and the size of your bedroom. Always check the complete external dimensions before ordering.

Do divan beds come with mattresses?

This depends on the individual product. Some divan sets are supplied with a mattress while base-only options may also be available. Always check the product listing for exactly what is included.

Do divan beds come with headboards?

Not necessarily. Headboard availability varies by product, so check the individual listing and make sure any headboard you choose is compatible with the divan base.

Are divan beds good for small bedrooms?

Yes. Their practical design and integrated storage options can make divans particularly useful when you want to maximise the functionality of a smaller bedroom.

Explore Our Buying Guides

Need more help choosing a bed or mattress? Visit our Help & Advice centre for buying guides covering beds, mattresses, storage and bedroom furniture.

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Find Your Perfect Divan Bed

Compare sizes, storage options, mattresses and styles to build a divan bed that works for your bedroom.

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