Bed Frame Buying Guide
Searching for the best bed frame? Learn everything you need to know about the different types of bed frames to complement your bedroom design from our experts.
Bed frames are the foundation of sleep
We spend one third of our lives asleep, so in terms of time spent using it, your bed is more important than your car, your kitchen, or your phone. It’s the foundation of good sleep, which supports better health and wellbeing. But the problem is that most of the time when you use your bed, you’re asleep, and not actively appreciating your purchase. So, let’s begin this guide with a mindset change: your bed is an investment in health as well as style. The right bed could lead to a life-long commitment that offers lasting benefits, making your bedroom a place of comfort and elegance.
In this guide, you’ll learn why bed frames are so important and how to choose a bed that best supports your sleep. You’ll also discover the advantages and disadvantages of different bed frames, from ottomans to divans. You’ll find sizing advice and, of course, styling tips to help you choose a bed that’s got the perfect look.
How bed frames work
A bed is generally thought to include three key components: the bed frame, the mattress, and the bedding. The bed frame is the structure that supports your mattress and bedding, lifting them off the floor to safeguard against moisture, dust, and wear over time.
A well-crafted bed frame offers the stability your mattress requires to perform at its best. It aids in evenly distributing weight, reducing pressure points, and supporting your body as it should. It prevents your mattress from sagging, enhance air circulation, and ensure lasting comfort and support. Many bed frame designs include a headboard or footboard, adding an extra element of functionality and style.
If you follow the design ethos that the function of a room should be the focus, the bed frame is the centrepiece of your bedroom. Whether you prefer the natural charm of weathered wood, the clean lines of metal, or the softness of upholstered fabric, the right bed frame defines your bedroom style.
General considerations for buying a bed frame
- Size. Whether you’re buying a bed frame first, then a mattress, or the other way around, you need to know the size of your bed frame. In the UK, beds and mattresses come in standard sizes, so a King size sheet fits a King size mattress, which fits a King size bed frame. Bed frame sizes range from Single to Emperor, with Small Double, Double, King, and Super King in between.
- Height. Standard bed frames are between 25cm and 35cm. But your ideal bed height is based on your physical height. If your bed is too low, it will be uncomfortable on your joints while trying to get in and out. The same applies to a bed that’s too high. The depth of your mattress also plays a role in considering bed frame height. The deeper the mattress, the lower the frame you need.
- Headboards and footboards. These are more an aesthetic consideration than a practical one. You don’t gain much structural benefit from having a headboard or footboard, but some bed frames (such as metal bed frames) come with fixed headboards due to their design. Most ottomans and divans allow you to mix and match your headboards to your taste.
A closer look at the different types of bed frames
Selecting the best type of bed frame is a personal decision shaped by your lifestyle, bedroom size, and design preferences. Perhaps you’re drawn to minimalist silhouettes, or maybe hidden storage is high on your list. Whatever your needs, understanding the different types of bed bases is the first step towards finding a bed frame that blends style, comfort, and practicality.
Classic bed frames
A classic bed frame has four legs and a rectangular base supporting a slatted platform for your mattress. Designs range from simple, low-profile frames that speak of modern minimalism to grand four-poster styles that add drama and elegance. The material you choose plays a defining role in the character of your bed frame.
- A wooden bed frame, as beautifully exemplified by our Sienna Bed is a natural choice. Wood types change the style and longevity of your bed frame. Oak and acacia offer strength and reliability, while MDF and Ash are light and flexible.
- A metal bed frame, like the Oliver Bed, offers strength paired with understated sophistication. When choosing a metal bed, check the thickness of the frame and the quality of the welding at the joins. With metal beds, a better build means fewer squeaks.
- An upholstered bed frame, like our Cambourne Bed, brings plenty of comfort. When choosing a fabric upholstered bed frame, the quality of the material is key. It must be durable, breathable, and have the perfect feel.
Key considerations for buying a classic bed frame:
- Slats. Classic bed frames often come with slats. Static slats are cheaper and offer firm, functional support. Sprung slats respond to the weight of your mattress, offering a softer feel.
- Hard top or sprung base? High quality bed frames offer bases with no slats. These bases offer much more stability and longevity than slatted bed frames. A hard top base is usually made of wood for a firm feel. A sprung base adds coil or pocket springs for that ‘sinking into the bed’ feel.
“We’re seeing an uptick in beds with ‘future heirloom appeal’ — beds that last the test of time and can be handed down generation to generation. They’re not transient pieces of furniture anymore, even children’s beds. Grandparents want to pass on their children’s beds to their grandchildren. Beds like that need to be built to last, so look for a classic frame made from iron or oak.”
— Rob Cole, Buyer, Feather & Black
Ottoman beds
An ottoman bed is the perfect marriage of form and function, offering generous hidden storage that doesn’t compromise on style. With a smooth hydraulic lift, the mattress rises effortlessly to reveal a spacious compartment, ideal for keeping spare bedding, duvets, or seasonal clothing neatly tucked away. This makes ottomans particularly well-suited to bedrooms where space is at a premium.
Our Orla Ottoman Bed is a great example of this type of bed frame. It pairs discreet functionality with refined upholstery, creating a focal point that is as practical as it is luxurious.
Key considerations for buying ottoman bed frames:
- Mattress weight. Each ottoman bed has a weight limit of around 90kg (but this varies by build). The heavier the mattress, the more strain it puts on the lift hydraulics, potentially reducing its lifetime use.
- Accessibility. While ottoman beds offer excellent storage, you need to make sure that you can comfortably bend and lift your bed. This is why visiting a store to buy an ottoman bed is essential. Try it out and make sure you’re confident using it. Some ottoman beds have electronic opening, which allows you to open the bed at the push of a button. No bending required!
- Ottoman opening. Ottoman beds offer great flexibility. Some open from the bottom, others from either side. Consider the layout of your bedroom before choosing an ottoman to make sure you’re optimising your space.
Divan bed frames
A divan bed is a solid wooden frame, padded with soft wadding, and upholstered with fabric. It offers a smart and stylish approach to built-in storage thanks to discreet handle-free drawers integrated into the base. It’s a popular bed frame choice that balances functionality with style.
For a design that blends storage, comfort and craftsmanship, the Harrison Spinks Classic Divan and Mattress Set offers tailored style with everyday practicality.
Key considerations for buying divan bed frames:
- Solid base. Solid base divans have no springs, giving the mattress a solid and consistent foundation. It causes your mattress springs to compress, just like being on the floor, making the bed feel firmer.
- Sprung base. This type has springs in the divan base itself. This gives you a feeling of being in the bed, rather than on the bed, a much more luxurious feel. Sprung bases also help your mattress last longer because they reduce mattress spring compression.
- Storage. Most divans offer a range of storage options in the form of drawers. Most divans offer two or four drawer combinations. But be wary: history is littered with tales of divan drawers failing before their mattresses do, so check the build quality of the runners and drawer bottoms.
For more inspiration on combining storage with style, explore our guide to the best storage beds.
How much should you spend on a bed frame?
The cost of a bed frame comes down to two things: materials and build quality. The more you spend on a bed frame, the better the materials and the better the build. For example, a budget divan bed is built from MDF and wrapped in woven fabric. Meanwhile, our best-selling Sienna Bed is made of solid, sustainably sourced weathered oak and includes a sprung slatted base.
Ultimately, you get what you pay for, but the real question you should ask when spending money on a bed is: ‘how much should you spend on the frame and how much on the mattress?’ For the best possible night’s sleep, we recommend investing in a mattress first then the bed frame, because mattresses have a bigger impact on the quality of your sleep than the frame.
How to choose the right bed frame for you
1. Find the right bed frame size
The size of your bed frame is defined by your space, your sleeping habits, and whether you prefer the cosiness of sharing or the indulgence of extra room. A double bed frame offers timeless comfort for two, while a king or super king brings a sense of grandeur to larger rooms. For those seeking the ultimate in luxurious sleep, an emperor bed frame promises unrivalled space and ease. Our bed frame size chart provides a helpful reference as you make your choice:
| Bed Frame Size | Dimensions (cm) |
|---|---|
| Single | 90cm x 190cm |
| Small Double | 120cm x 190cm |
| Double | 135cm x 190cm |
| King | 150cm x 200cm |
| Super King | 180cm x 200cm |
2. Check that your bed frame will fit
Before buying your bed, make sure it fits your bedroom and can be easily moved into your home. Note the measurements of the bed frame using our bed frame size chart and visualise its placement in your bedroom by mapping out the area with masking tape. This allows you to walk around and assess the remaining space, ensuring it meets your expectations.
Next, make sure the mattress you want or have fits the bed frame. Beds and mattresses come in standard sizes, so a King size mattress fits a King size bed. The dimensions of a bed include the outer edge of siderails or feet, so don’t worry if the bed frame is slightly bigger than the mattress.
Finally, make sure that the bed can navigate doorways and staircases. Measure the entry points and clear any obstacles, such as pictures or freestanding lamps, to facilitate easy installation.
NEED HELP ASSEMBLING YOUR BED?
A great bed frame needs to be assembled correctly. That’s why we offer an expert assembly service. Our team will assemble your new bed frame with care and precision, remove all packaging, and leave your space ready for you to enjoy a peaceful night’s sleep. We also offer a recycling service for your old bed and mattress.
3. Choose a style that reflects your taste
Once you have chosen the size, take a moment to consider how your bed frame will enhance the character of your bedroom. This is your chance to select a piece that fits effortlessly within your space but also captures your personal style and helps create a sanctuary of quiet luxury.
Think about the atmosphere you wish to create, whether you are drawn to soft, understated elegance or a design that makes a confident statement. The right bed frame will feel seamlessly at home, uniting your furniture, fabrics and palette in a way that brings harmony, refinement and comfort to your room.
Check out our inspiration articles for ideas on how to style your bedroom.
Discover your signature bed frame style
Your bed frame is more than just a foundation for sleep; it’s the statement piece that shapes the mood of your entire bedroom. Let your personal design vision lead the way, whether you are drawn to timeless craftsmanship, natural textures or plush upholstery. Our collections blend enduring luxury with exceptional functionality, helping you style a bedroom that reflects your individuality and enriches your home for years to come.
French-style beds
A French-style bed brings timeless romance and effortless opulence to any bedroom. With graceful curves, elegant silhouettes, and thoughtful detailing, this style evokes the charm of classic French interiors. Finished in soft weathered oak, painted wood, or wrapped in luxurious fabrics, a French bed creates a striking focal point that combines comfort with refinement.
The Sienna collection captures this aesthetic with sweeping lines, intricate carved accents, and a soft weathered finish that adds relaxed sophistication. For those seeking a more tailored look, the Aubrey Bed pairs clean lines with subtle French design influences, offering a serene and stylish centrepiece for your bedroom sanctuary.
Rattan bed frames
A rattan bed frame is a beautiful addition to contemporary bedroom décor, offering enduring elegance and natural charm that blends seamlessly into various modern-day trends, from rustic farmhouse to Scandinavian chic.
Rattan’s intricately woven and delicately detailed finish is wonderfully tactile, yet incredibly durable and exceptionally long-lasting, allowing you to revel in its inviting warmth and earthy beauty. Our Aubrey Rattan Bed makes a chic style statement, with clean straight lines and an exquisitely crafted central rattan panel in the elegant yet understated headboard. Embrace a softer, more romantic style with our beautiful Sienna Rattan Bed frame, where 100% natural rattan takes centre stage in the gentle, sweeping curves of the graceful headboard.
Wooden bed frames
The natural grain, the subtle variations in tone, and the unique markings bestowed by nature bring a sense of heritage, warmth, and enduring beauty to your bedroom. A versatile material, wood bed frames can take the form of a sharp art deco skyscraper, or the natural curves of a woodland hollow.
So, when choosing wood, consider how much of the wood's natural features you want to showcase. High quality wooden beds can be built from a single piece of wood for maximum stability. Others make use of traditional dovetail joinery techniques to maintain the bed frame's structure and longevity.
Our best-selling Sienna collection is the epitome of wooden bed frame design. Fashioned with French-inspired touches with a weathered oak finish, this collection puts natural wood grain front and centre.
Upholstered bed frames
Whether enveloped in plush velvet, soft linen or cosy bouclé, an upholstered bed frame brings more colour and more testure to your bedroom.
Our timelessly elegant Scandinavian-style Cambourne Bed features a lavishly upholstered headboard wrapped in irresistibly indulgent bouclé. Its gently winged design and calming neutral hue create a cocooning effect to lull you into a state of blissful serenity.
For a bold and sophisticated ambience, the Art Deco-inspired Wooster Bed boasts an impressive statement headboard enveloped in opulent tones of rich cream or deep navy velvet.
Bed styling tips
Bedding
Pillows, duvets, sheets and blankets are key to creating a beautiful bed. We recommend a layered approach, using a variety of materials that keep you cool in summer and warm in winter. For the rustic farmhouse look, choose natural materials like wool or hemp. If you’re more modern chic, consider high quality sheets in linen or cotton.
“Buying good bedding is all about the feel. Get in-store and touch it – the weight and tightness of the weave tells you so much about the quality. Heavier weight means better durability, which means it’ll last longer, so you’ll get more for your money over time. If it feels scratchy, has a lower thread count it's lower quality.”
— Phoebe Richardson, Assistant Buyer, Feather & Black
Headboards
A statement headboard extends the style of your bed, adding verticality, framing, and a useful place to rest your head and back when sitting up. Available in a range of styles, colours, and materials, a headboard has the power to make or break your look. If you sit up in bed a lot, a padded, upholstered headboard is a great choice. For extra indulgence from a cocooning feel, consider a winged headboard, such as our Harrison Spinks Classic Alcott Headboard.
Furniture
Most beds aren’t quite finished without a couple of bedside tables and maybe a lamp. When choosing furniture to go with your bed frame, think about symmetry: do you want a harmonious look or something that feels more organic and free flowing? Bedside furniture also allows you to play with textures and colours, adding more for an eclectic look, or finding ones that match your bed frame for order and neatness.