A Bed for Every Dream: Guide to Choosing the Perfect Bed

Embarking on the quest for the perfect bed opens up a world of choices and considerations. Your bed is not just a piece of furniture, but a significant element determining your rest, rejuvenation, and overall well-being. It's no secret that we spend about a third of our lives in bed, making its selection an essential process, not to be taken lightly. This comprehensive guide aims to simplify the process of choosing the perfect bed, offering insights into understanding your unique needs, exploring different bed sizes and dimensions, types of beds, material, and styles, as well as the importance of a good night's sleep and necessary budget and quality considerations. By addressing all these factors, you can ensure that your chosen bed completely aligns with your requirements and offers you the restful slumber you deserve for a good night's sleep.

Understanding Your Needs

Your bed should be a personal haven, handpicked to accommodate your specific needs. Understanding these needs is the first step toward choosing the right bed. Factors like the size of your room, the amount of storage you require, your individual sleep style preference, and the interior design of your bedroom play pivotal roles in framing these needs, including the colour of the bed. Whether you prefer a minimalist, space-saving design or a luxurious, extravagant frame, identifying your needs lays a solid foundation for your quest for the perfect bed.

Space and room size

The size of your bedroom essentially dictates the size of the bed you should invest in. It’s important to consider not just the space available for the bed itself, but also the additional room needed for other furniture and for moving around effortlessly. Here are some tips for evaluating your space and room size: Think about the size of the room and overall bedroom size when choosing the ideal bed size. If the bedroom is too small, a massive bed won’t be a reasonable space for you to relax properly. It's important to have enough space around your bed for comfortable movement and relaxation.

●      Measure Your Room: Start by measuring your room's length and width. This will give you an idea of how much space a bed can occupy without hindering your movements or obstructing doors and windows.

●      Furniture Placement: Consider the placement of other furniture pieces like nightstands, wardrobes, dressers, etc. Their dimensions directly impact the space available for your bed.

●      Easy Movement: There should ideally be at least two feet of space around your bed. This allows for comfortable movement and easy bed making.

●      Bed Placement: Besides the bed dimensions, your bed's placement will also influence your room's overall decor. Placement against a wall or centred to create symmetry, both have their aesthetic narrative.

Remember, overcrowding your bedroom with an oversized bed can do more harm than good, disrupting your peace and causing discomfort.

Personal preferences and sleep styles

Everyone has unique sleep habits and preferences. Some people sprawl out, taking up as much space as possible, while others curl up in a foetal position. To cater to your personal sleep style, the type of bed you choose is crucial. An outline of common sleep styles and recommended bed types is provided below:

Back Sleeper: Firm mattress with good support.

Stomach Sleeper: Medium-firm to avoid unnatural bending in the spine.

Side Sleeper: Softer mattress for pressure relief on shoulders and hips.

Restless Sleeper: Larger bed to accommodate constant movement.

These specific sleep patterns affect not only the most suitable mattress for you but also the bed's overall structure. Thinking about your typical sleep behaviour helps you prioritise what factors are most important in a bed, providing a more tailored approach to finding your perfect bed.

Bed Sizes and Dimensions

Knowing the standard sizes and dimensions of beds is a fundamental step in the selection process. Beds come in various sizes, from single and twin beds, perfect for solo sleepers or children, to spacious queen, king, and California king beds perfect for couples or those who enjoy extra space. Understanding these standardised measurements, including the single bed size of 3’0” x 6’3” (90 x 190cm), can help streamline your decision-making process and ensure your choice satisfies your quantity of sleep, quality of sleep, and spatial requirements in the UK.

Single, Twin, and Twin XL

Single and Twin size beds are perfect for solo sleepers. They provide ample space for one person while taking up minimal room space. With compact dimensions, they are a popular choice for children’s rooms, guest rooms, or small apartments. Twin XL adds extra legroom, catering better to taller individuals.

Before buying a single, twin or twin XL bed, think about who will be using it and the available room. While they serve well for a child or teenager, they might not provide enough comfort for an adult who enjoys stretching out.

Double and Full

Double and Full beds offer more width and are an apt step up from a twin bed. They are suitable for two sleepers, providing enough space to stretch out. However, adults may find these sizes a bit snug over time.

A double or full bed works well in a guest room for couples or for an adult who likes to spread out while sleeping. However, it does take up more room space than a single or twin bed, so consider your bedroom dimensions before making a choice.

Queen

Queen beds, larger than Double or Full beds, offer ample space for two sleepers or those who appreciate more room to roll around. They provide a perfect balance of comfortable sleeping space and efficient use of room space.

Queen: 203 cm x 152 cm

Comfortable yet not excessive in size, a queen size bed is a popular choice among adults. It’s perfect for master bedrooms, offering extra room for those nights when kids or pets join you.

King and California King

King and California King beds are the epitome of luxury. They provide a generous amount of space for individuals, couples, or even entire families that fancy a movie night in bed.

A king bed gives you plenty of space to sleep comfortably without bumping into your partner. The California King, longer and narrower, is ideal for tall people or those who prefer a large bed without consuming too much width in the room.

Types of Beds

Beds come in various styles, each offering distinct features and benefits, further expanding your options. From bed frames and divan beds to ottoman beds, adjustable beds, kids' beds, bunk beds, and storage beds – the choices are endless. Understanding the advantages of each type, considering your spatial and storage requirements, and your style preference can help you choose the best type of bed for your needs. If you're looking for a bed that won't take up too much space but still offers ample storage, a divan base may be the perfect option for you. With a divan bed, the mattress lies on top of the base, making it a great choice for compact spaces with no footboard to obstruct walkways. View our selection of divan beds and bed frames to find the perfect fit for your dream bedroom.

Bed frames

Bed frames, also known as bedsteads, are the structures that support your mattress. They come in a variety of materials, from metal and wood to upholstered options for extra cosiness.

●      Style Diversity: With incredible diversity in design, bed frames can transform your room’s aesthetic appeal. They can be simple for a minimalist look, ornate for an antique vibe, or padded for a modern touch.

●      Breathability: Bed frames, especially those with wooden or metal slats, provide excellent air circulation around the mattress. This ventilation eliminates moisture build-up and keeps the mattress feeling fresh.

●      Height Advantage: Bed frames elevate your mattress off the floor, making it easier for you to get in and out of bed. This added height can also provide useful under-bed storage space.

Choosing a bed frame involves finding one that harmonises with your bedroom decor, meets your practical needs, and offers the durability you require.

Divan beds

Divan beds are essentially box-shaped bases topped with a mattress, offering a comfortable and simple design. They are one of the most popular types of beds because of their incredibly versatile and convenient nature.

Many divan beds come with built-in storage options, making them a stylish and practical solution for rooms lacking storage facilities. Whether it's drawers or a lift-up, ottoman-style base, a divan bed can help you maximise your bedroom space.

Divan beds also offer choices in terms of firmness. You can choose from platform-top bases for a firmer feel, or sprung-edge designs for extra bounce and comfort. Moreover, divan beds are often sold without a headboard, meaning you have the freedom to customise your bed further.

From their compact design and storage capacity to their customisability, the benefits of owning a divan bed are manifold.

Ottoman beds

When you need a serious amount of additional storage space, Ottoman beds are a fantastic solution. Here's why:

●      Abundant Storage: Unlike other beds, these offer an incredible volume of storage space hidden beneath the mattress. With a simple gas or hydraulic lift mechanism, the mattress can be easily elevated to uncover an expansive storage unit.

●      Versatile Design: They are available in various sizes, designs, and materials, making them suitable for different decor styles and spatial needs.

●      Efficient Use of Space: Ottoman beds maximise floor space by utilising under-bed area, making them ideal for smaller bedrooms or cluttered spaces.

Their innovative structure and design make ottoman beds the perfect blend of practicality and comfort.

Adjustable beds

Adjustable beds offer an unmatched level of customisation in terms of comfort, positioning, and support. Often powered by electricity, they enable you to raise or lower specific areas of the bed to get into your most comfortable sleep position.

These beds can relieve issues such as back pain, snoring, or acid reflux by allowing you to elevate your head or feet. Additionally, they're incredibly beneficial if you spend a lot of time in bed, as they let you move into different positions for reading, working, or watching TV.

While adjustable beds are typically more expensive than their flat counterparts, the personalised comfort and therapeutic benefits they offer make them a worthwhile investment for many.

Kids beds and bunk beds

Particularly suited for children’s rooms, kids' beds, and bunk beds provide functionality and fun elements that kids love. Here are some advantages:

●      Space Efficient: Bunk beds provide stacked sleeping spaces, making them perfect for shared bedrooms, saving precious floor space for play or study areas.

●      Variety and Versatility: Kids' beds come in various styles, sizes, and themes, which can be entertaining and appealing for children. Some designs even convert easily from toddler to teen stages, providing long-lasting use.

●      Additional Features: Bunk beds often come with built-in storage facilities or convertible features like a study desk, providing added functionality.
Whether it's a race car-shaped bed for your budding speedster or a princess-themed bunk bed for your little sweetheart, these beds can be both functional and fun.

Storage beds

Storage beds are designed to make your bed work harder for your bedroom. They not only offer a relaxing sleep space but also incorporate multiple storage options.

●      Optimal Space Utilisation: The under-bed area often accumulates dust and rarely serves any practical purpose. Storage beds optimise this wasted space by turning it into drawers, shelves, or lift-up storage units.

●      Clutter Reduction: By offering ample space to stash away linens, spare pillows, or out-of-season clothes, these beds contribute to keeping your bedroom neat and uncluttered.

●      Aesthetic Appeal: Despite their utilitarian nature, storage beds do not compromise on style. They are available in numerous designs, materials, and finishes to complement any decor theme.

In today’s compact living era, the integrated storage solutions of these beds make them a valuable addition to any modern home.

Choosing the Right Bed Material and Style

Your bed should harmonise with your room decor while suiting your comfort needs. When choosing the right bed material and style, consider the aesthetic appeal of the bedroom, durability requirements, and personal preferences. Wooden bed frames offer a classic warmth, metal frames provide a sleek modern look, and upholstered frames provide plush comfort. Spring beds work well with spring mattresses, while foam mattresses are better suited for slatted designs. It’s best to buy a new bed and mattress simultaneously to ensure longevity. Matching your bed with your bedroom decor infuses the room with unity and personality while promising a restful retreat after a long day. For those looking for a more eco-friendly option, consider a bed made with natural materials such as organic cotton, wool, or bamboo. These materials not only offer comfort and durability, but also promote sustainability and ethical production practices.

Wooden bed frames

Wooden bed frames are a timeless choice popular for their versatility, durability, and classic appeal.

●      Natural Elegance: The natural grain patterns and warm tones of wooden beds add an inviting, organic touch to your bedroom.

●      Durability: Hard wooden frames like oak or mahogany are incredibly sturdy and long-lasting, making them an excellent lifetime investment.

●      Versatile Design: From sleek, modern designs to rustic, farmhouse-style frames, wooden beds come in an array of styles to suit diverse decor themes.

●      Sustainability: Choosing an eco-friendly wooden frame made from sustainably sourced timber makes your purchase both stylish and planet-friendly.
Their enduring charm, combined with a plethora of designs and finishes, makes wooden bed frames a popular choice among many households.

Metal bed frames

Metal bed frames provide a sleek, contemporary touch to your bedroom. Here are some benefits of choosing metal frames:

●      Durability: Metal beds are sturdy and typically last longer against wear and tear.

●      Sophisticated Aesthetics: Ranging from minimalist industrial designs to ornate vintage-style frames, metal beds make a chic statement in your bedroom.

●      Insect Resistant: Unlike wooden frames, metal is naturally resistant to bed bugs and other pests.

●      Budget-Friendly: High-quality metal beds are often more affordable compared to solid wood or upholstered models.

Easy-to-maintain and sleek in aesthetics, metal bed frames provide an elegant sleeping solution without breaking the bank.

Upholstered and fabric bed frames

Upholstered beds bring a plush, luxe feel to your bedroom. They offer both comfort and style and are much favoured for their following qualities:

●      Comfort: With softly padded headboards and sides, upholstered beds add a cosy and comfortable element to your bedroom.

●      Style Statement: They come in a range of fabric choices — from crushed velvet to leather — and colours, serving as a stunning centrepiece to your room.

●      Sound Absorption: The fabric cover on these beds help diminish noise, making for a quieter sleep environment.

●      Customization: Many brands offer customisable fabric options allowing you to create a bed that matches your unique decor preferences.

An upholstered bed can turn your sleeping space into a chic retreat, elevating your bedroom aesthetics manifold.

Matching your bed with your bedroom decor

Your bed is the centrepiece of your bedroom; thus, its alignment with your overall room decor is crucial. Whether your decor theme is minimalist, rustic, vintage, bohemian, or modern, your bed should harmonise with it.

A wooden or metal frame with clean lines and neutral shades is perfect for a minimalist or industrial look. On the other hand, an upholstered bed in luxurious velvet or patterned fabric can set a glamorous or boho tone.

Consider colours, patterns, and style of your current furniture, walls, and flooring. You might want to match your bed with these existing elements or create a contrast to make your bed a statement. Remember, your personality and individual taste should always shine through in your decor choices - including the bed you sleep in.

Budget and Quality Considerations

While a good-quality bed is a worthwhile investment, splurging on the most expensive option is not always the best way to go. Budget, quality, and value should go hand in hand in your decision. Striking a balance between getting a durable, high-quality bed and not overshooting your budget might involve some research and comparison. Explore options that offer affordability without compromising on longevity, durability, and long-lasting value, such as spring mattresses. By being smart about your purchase, you can find a bed that perfectly suits your needs and budget.

Affordable vs. luxury beds

The price range of beds is wide, spanning from affordable to luxury. Below is a summary of what you can expect at different price points:

Affordable beds often offer good quality and durability but may compromise on design diversity and extra features. They are highly accessible and can be a great starting point for young adults or those with tight budgets.

Mid-Range beds offer a balance of quality, variety, and affordability. They have better material quality, more design options, and often include some additional features like storage compartments.

Luxury beds, on the other hand, offer the best quality, exclusive designs and plenty of extras like customization, built-in storage, and more. These beds are crafted with premium materials and offer superior comfort and aesthetics.

Regardless of price range, ensure you prioritise quality and durability so that your bed stands the test of time and use.

Ensuring durability and long-lasting value

Ensuring durability and long-lasting value is not only a matter of selecting the right material and type of bed but also involves aspects like maintenance and warranty.

●      Material Quality: Durable materials like solid wood or high-density foam tend to be more expensive initially but last longer, thus offering better value in the long run.

●      Construction: Handcrafted joinery, sturdy frames, and high-resilience springs often suggest a more durable bed that can withstand regular use.

●      Maintenance: Upholstery materials, especially in lighter shades, might stain easily. Choosing a bed with removable, washable covers or investing in a mattress protector can extend the life of your bed.

●      Warranty: A lengthy warranty period not only gives peace of mind but also indicates the manufacturer's confidence in the product's durability.
Investing in a durable bed guarantees both financial savings and physical comfort over time. This makes it worth considering long-term value rather than initial cost when buying a new bed.

When it comes to purchasing a bed, it's crucial not to rush. After all, this piece of furniture plays a pivotal role in your sleep quality and overall well-being. With research and careful consideration, you'll achieve a bed that is not only well-suited for your needs but also turns your sleeping space into a dream retreat.