How to Choose a Bed? A Comprehensive Guide

Summary:

Have you been planning to change your bed? Well, if it is making that creaking sound, then you should, but you should also know how to choose a bed. With so many choices, materials, styles, colours, and bed types, you have to be fully informed before making the final decision. So, here we have this detailed guide that will explain everything you need to know about your preferred bed.

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Buying a new bed for your room is not exactly the same as buying a dresser or a wardrobe. It is a completely different and significant decision that costs a lot. It won’t be wrong to say that it is like a great investment that is for your sleep, health, and so much more. You spend most of the time in your bedroom, especially when all you want is to lie down and experience peace.

An improper bed can cause:

• Sleepless nights
  
• Pain or ache
  
• Tiredness

But with the right bed? You might enjoy the best sleep ever.

This guide will take you through what you need to know to select an ideal bed, including its types, size, materials, design, and more.

Why Your Bed Matters?

1/3 of your life is spent sleeping. That’s roughly 26 years in bed! A bad bed can lead to:

• Poor posture
  
• Back and neck pain
  
• Allergies (due to dust mites)
  
• Poor sleep
  
• Pain and discomfort
  
• Mood disorders
  
• Stress and so much more

If you are choosing a new bed or have an old one, then it should be able to support:

• Spinal alignment
  
• Quality rest
  
• Muscle recovery
  
• Daily productivity
  

Bed Frame vs Mattress: Which Holds The Most Importance?

Both of them matter, and here is a breakdown of how they both work:

What Are The Different Types Of Beds In The UK?

How To Pick A Bed Based On Size?

Tips For Choosing Bed Size

• Measure your room dimensions.
  
• Consider who will use the bed.
  
• Consider your height and sleeping position.
  
• Always keep room for kids or pets.
  
• Factor in existing furniture
  
• Check stairways and doorways for ease of delivery.
  
• Balance comfort with practicality.
  
• Be familiar with the standard sizes in the UK.
  
• Test in-store or get a free trial
  
• Always match bed size with mattress size
  

How To Choose A Bed Based On Height?

How To Choose a Bed Frame - Key Features To Consider

When buying a bed, go beyond appearance. Look at:

1. Support

Slatted vs solid base:

• Sprung slats offer bounce and flexibility.
  
• Solid slats provide firmer support.

2. Headboard

A headboard is like a must-have for sitting up, reading, and working. You can go for these two options:

• Upholstered = comfy and soft
  
• Wooden/metal = stylish, firmer

3. Hygiene

Choose materials that are:

• Easy to clean
  
• Moisture-resistant
  
• Less prone to dust mite build-up

4. Assembly

• Some beds require DIY assembly.
  
• If not handy, look for brands offering installation.

Note: Choose divan beds or ottoman divan beds as they have easy and quick installation.

Material Options When Choosing a Bed

What to consider:

• Match the material with your interior style.
  
• If you move often, choose something lighter, like metal.
  
• For luxury or comfort, upholstered is a top choice.
  

Storage Beds: Should You Go For It Or Not?

Storage beds are widely popular because they are nothing short of a miracle for small spaces. These are a lifesaver, and we definitely recommend people opting for them, maximising the space they have. You don’t need to put more furniture in the room; instead, use the storage space in your bed. 

Pros:

• Great space-saving solution
  
• Ideal for small rooms or flats
  
• Extra space for bedding, clothes, shoes, and more
  
• Helps reduce bedroom clutter
  
• No need for extra furniture for the  organisation
  
• Keeps stored items dust-free and more protected
  
• Stylish options are available in various fabrics and finishes
  
• Makes seasonal storage easy and accessible
  
• Perfect for maximising functionality in guest rooms or box rooms

Cons:

• Lifting mechanisms (like ottoman styles) may be stiff or hard to use
  
• Not ideal if you move home frequently
  
• Drawer access can be limited if the space beside the bed is tight
  
• Not all models work well with very heavy mattresses
  
• Repairs (e.g. faulty gas lifts or broken hinges) can be trickier
  

Popular types of storage beds:

• Ottoman divan bed (lift-up base)
  
• Divan beds (side drawers)
  
• Headboard shelves (for small items/books)

Aesthetics & Style Tips

The bed is usually the centrepiece of your bedroom. So choose with style in mind:

Consider:

• Colour palette: With so many options in fabrics and colours nowadays, you really have to consider the colour palette matching the interiors and your bed. 
  
• Height: Low beds give a modern and chic look and are quite in trend these days. On the other high beds offer that luxury and traditional feel.
  
• Storage: If you’re choosing, let's say an upholstered ottoman bed, then it gives you plenty of space. However, if you’re choosing a divan bed with drawers, it's mostly for the items you want to keep close at hand.

Bedroom Styles & Best Bed Types

Budget Planning For Your Dream Bed 

Beds vary widely in price, from budget frames to luxury designs. Here's how to budget smartly:

Price Ranges (Estimate UK)

 

Choosing A New Bed - Common Mistakes To Avoid

Even the most high-priced beds are not that practical. So, it is best to avoid these pitfalls:

• Do not buy a bed that is too big unless you don’t need it or have the space. You should have that much area to properly move around or clean your room. 
  
• A lot of people mess up because they don’t measure the room before buying a new bed. You have to consider the room space, entryways, and doorways. 
  
• You have to consider the storage needs if you have a small room or apartment. Get a bed that offers you the most practical solution and helps you save money on more furniture. 
  
• A lot of people forget to match their mattress size with the bed. 
  
• Style doesn’t mean that you will get maximum comfort or support. Think more about this!
  

Final Thoughts

There are no box-checking strategies to purchasing the most suitable bed; rather, it involves being aware of what you require. 

Ask yourself:

• Do I desire style or storage, or both?
  
• Should I get additional storage?
  
• Do I change houses frequently?
  
• How much should I spend, and what will provide the best sleep?

The right bed changes everything in your room and in your sleep. Do not make the decision fast. Be careful, everything should be measured, particularly go in-store where you can try it out and lastly, trust your instincts.

FAQs

Which type of bed is best for small bedrooms?

Storage beds, such as ottoman beds or divans that have drawers, will be the best alternative when dealing with smaller bedrooms. They will also save you space as they come with built-in storage, hence fewer products like furniture. The functionality is also maximised in the platform beds that have shelves or even drawers. Aesthetically, narrow or low-profile bed frames may help to open up a small room and the space in it.

Which is better metal bed or a wooden bed?

Wooden beds are:

• Solid
  
• Reliable
  
• Matches any contemporary or traditional setting

Metal beds tend to be:

• Lighter
  
• Cheaper
  
• Have a sleek, minimalist look.

Both of these bed options are good. You should just consider the one that suits your budget and room aesthetics.