How to Choose the Right Bed Frame
Choosing the right bed frame is about more than just looks. The right option should complement your bedroom style, provide proper mattress support and suit your storage needs, room size and lifestyle.
Types of Bed Frames
Different bed frame styles offer different benefits, from classic designs to practical storage solutions.
- Wooden bed frames: These offer a timeless, sturdy design that suits both traditional and modern UK homes and are known for long-lasting durability.
- Metal bed frames: These are lightweight, stylish and easy to maintain, making them ideal for contemporary bedrooms and smaller spaces.
- Upholstered bed frames: These add comfort and luxury with padded fabric finishes, making them perfect for cosy, statement bedrooms.
- Ottoman bed frames: These maximise storage with a lift-up base, ideal for UK homes where extra space is always welcome.
- Divan bed frames: These provide excellent mattress support and often include built-in drawers for practical, everyday storage.
Choosing the Right Bed Frame Size
Selecting the correct size ensures comfort and helps your bedroom feel balanced rather than cramped.
- Small Single bed frames: These are an ideal choice for a box bedroom – whether it be a child’s bedroom or a guest bedroom. Small single bed frames are designed to accommodate a small single mattress, measuring 75cm x 190cm.
- Single bed frames: These are ideal for those looking for a little more sleep surface but still very much catering for smaller bedrooms. Designed to accommodate a teenager or a solo sleeper, single bed frames fit a single mattress measuring 90cm x 190cm.
- Small double bed frames: Also known as a Queen or Three Quarter, these are a popular choice for guest rooms and smaller bedrooms where every inch counts. Small double beds are designed to fit a small double mattress perfectly, measuring 120cm x 190cm.
- Double bed frames: This is the most popular bed frame size in the UK, measuring 135cm x 190 cm. Designed to sleep two adults comfortably, a double bed frame and mattress works in every bedroom, whether it’s a master bedroom, a teenager’s bedroom, or a guest bedroom.
- King size bed frames: These are more spacious than a standard double, measuring 150cm x 200 cm. They’re both wider and longer, offering exceptional comfort for couples, tall individuals or anyone who shares their bed with pets or children.
- Super king bed frames: These are designed to accommodate a super king mattress, measuring 180cm x 200cm. These deliver maximum space and luxury, best suited to large bedrooms.
Storage Solutions
With storage often limited in UK properties, choosing a bed frame with built-in storage can make a real difference.
- Under-bed drawers: These provide easy access storage for bedding, clothes or spare pillows.
- Lift-up ottoman bases: These offer hidden, full-bed storage that keeps bedrooms clutter-free.
- Raised bed frames: These allow space underneath for storage boxes without built-in mechanisms.
Bed Frames FAQs
What is the best bed frame for a UK bedroom?
The best bed frame depends on your space, storage needs and style preferences. Ottoman and divan bed frames are popular in the UK due to their built-in storage, while wooden and metal frames suit those prioritising design and durability.
Do all bed frames fit UK standard mattresses?
Most bed frames sold in the UK are designed to fit standard UK mattress sizes. Always check the product dimensions to ensure a secure and comfortable fit.
What are bed slats?
Bed slats are the horizontal wooden or metal supports that sit across the bed frame and hold the mattress in place. They help distribute body weight evenly, provide essential support and allow air to circulate around the mattress, which can improve comfort and hygiene.
What’s the difference between solid slats and sprung slats?
Solid slats are flat and firm, offering a sturdier feel and a slightly firmer sleeping surface. Sprung slats are gently curved and flexible, designed to respond to body movement and provide enhanced comfort and pressure relief, making them popular for everyday use.
Are slatted bed frames better than solid bases?
Slatted bed frames are often preferred as they allow airflow, help regulate temperature and support mattress longevity. Solid bases can feel firmer but may reduce ventilation.
Are slatted bed bases suitable for all types of mattresses?
Most slatted bed bases are suitable for standard mattresses, including memory foam, hybrid and sprung mattresses. It’s important to check the recommended slat spacing, as foam mattresses usually require closer slats to ensure proper support and prevent sagging over time.
How long should a good quality bed frame last?
A well-made bed frame can last 10 years or more with proper care. Solid wood and metal frames tend to have the longest lifespan.
Do bed frames require assembly?
Most bed frames require some assembly on delivery. Clear instructions are usually provided, and assembly is generally straightforward with basic tools.