What is a bed frame or bedstead?

A "bed frame" or a "bedstead" both describe the same thing: the base, or platform, that a mattress is placed on. While still correct, “bedstead” is now generally thought old-fashioned or formal and usually used in reference to antiques. These days we tend to use the term "bed frame".

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Should I replace my bed frame?

Unlike mattresses, there’s no real guide for when a bed frame should be replaced, although Good Housekeeping recommends doing so around every 10 years.

The condition and age of a bed frame can indicate whether it might need replacing. There could be visible signs of wear, such as scratches, dents or stains. Or it may even be broken in places, for example, it could have broken slats or an unstable leg. 

Frames with these, or similar issues, no longer provide adequate structural integrity and generally need replacing. Not only will wear and tear affect the overall look of a bed, and therefore the bedroom, but major defects could also start to impact the frame’s stability and functionality. 

Of course, there are other reasons a bed frame might need replacing. It might:

• Lack the storage features needed.
• No longer suit the style of bedroom, especially common with redecorating.
• No longer suit a person’s needs. For example, when children are growing up and need a larger bed to suit their taller height.

Whatever the reason for a new frame, this guide aims to inform buyers about the selection process, providing a practical resource for reference when buying a bed.

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How to choose a bed

Before getting to the fun stuff like choosing a colour or style, it’s a good idea to first consider the following five things when buying a bed: 

1. Space
2. Sleeping arrangements
3. Firmness
4. Storage
5. Style

1. Space

A bed frame is one of the biggest items of furniture found in a bedroom. Since bed frames are usually larger than mattresses - unlike divan beds, which have the same dimensions as a mattress - it's important to check the overall width, length and height of the bed frame, especially in smaller rooms.

Unlike divans, bed frames include a headboard and a foot end as standard. These measurements need to be included to ensure a bed frame will fit comfortably in the chosen area.

To measure the space available for a bed frame, outline the bedframe measurements on the floor using masking tape. Remember to add some clearance space for drawers if the chosen bed frame has any.

One thing people often forget to think about is the height of the bed frame. There are many varieties of bed frame with varying heights, and the right elevation can really set the look and feel of a bedroom.

A high frame can add a touch of grandeur to a bedroom and also make it look bigger, while a lower frame creates a peaceful space that brings to mind Japanese-style interior design.

Which size bed should I choose?

Bed size selection will often depend on how much floor space is available in a room. While a bigger bed is more comfortable, a superking wouldn't be a practical choice for a small room. On the other hand, most main bedrooms will have enough space for a king size or double bed.

Beds for small bedrooms

In terms of size, a single or a small double bed is probably the best option for a small room. Choosing a bed frame with storage, or with plenty of under-bed space to store any items, is helpful for maximising space.

In loft rooms or box rooms with sloping ceilings, beds without headboards or foot ends may fit more easily beneath lower sections of the ceiling.

Beds for tall people

For taller individuals, a bed that is 10cm longer than the person’s height can provide more comfort and prevent feet from overhanging the end. A king size or superking size bed frame is longer in length than a double.

Beds with low foot ends can also offer extra legroom, while some manufacturers provide made-to-measure options for a customised fit.

2. Sleeping arrangements

Sleeping arrangements are an important consideration when selecting a bed. Whether someone lives alone or shares with a partner, having adequate personal space can contribute to better rest.

Larger beds offer more space and comfort for people to move freely and stretch during the night which can enhance comfort and sleep quality.

When choosing a bed for another person, it is worth factoring in who will be using it and what it will be used for. There are kids’ beds available for children who need their own and guest beds for any visitors who might stay overnight.

3. Firmness

Bed frames are constructed using two types of base. These are called slats, and they determine the overall firmness of the bed. 

There are two types of bed frames that use slats:

Solid slats

A firmer, more supportive option, solid slats enhance the firmness of your bed. They are rigid and more sturdy than sprung slats, and offer no "give".

Sprung slats

Sprung slats are slightly curved, or bowed, creating natural flexibility. They are less firm than solid slats and offer more gentle support. They may also help to prolong the life of your mattress.

Divan Firmness

Divan beds are available in two different base types, which can influence how a mattress feels.

The first is a platform-top divan base, which has a solid surface for the mattress to rest on. This can make a mattress feel firmer.

Another option is a sprung base. Rather than having a solid surface, this type of divan base has a layer of springs beneath where the mattress rests, which can make a mattress feel more spongy.

4. Storage

Another practicality to think about is the need for storage. Coupling a comfy bed with space to store clothes and spare duvets will be a big help in rooms where there isn’t space for multiple wardrobes.

Underbed storage is particularly useful if your bedroom is small. While most bed frames do not include storage underneath as standard, some do include built-in storage.

What suits the space? Does a room require under-bed space rather than fixed storage? Check the dimensions of any specific bed frame for further information. The clear space underneath is called "under-bed clearance".

5. Style

Finally, there's the style factor. A fabric-covered frame might compliment the curtains or other soft furnishings. Perhaps natural materials like a solid wood frame, or a shaker bed might best suit classic decor. A polished metal bed could create an industrial modern look.

Read on to learn more about these specific bed types and familiarise yourself with all the available options.

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A guide to bed types

Below are explanations of some of the most common types of beds, along with the features and potential benefits of each.

Types of bed frames

Bed frames are available in a great range of styles, materials and colours. Most retailers tend to offer four main types of bed frames: wooden, metal, leather and fabric. Below, we explain more about each:

1. Wooden bed frames

A wooden bed frame is a classic addition to any bedroom, creating a warm and attractive look. As a natural product, a wooden bed can be made from pine, oak, or other types of wood. Many wooden beds are environmentally-friendly since they are constructed using wood from sustainable sources, such as Scandinavian pine.

2. Metal bed frames

Metal bed frames are durable, sturdy and stylish. They can be found in designs ranging from traditional to contemporary.

Available in a wide range of colours and models, they provide an attractive, cost-effective alternative to wood or upholstered frames.

3. Fabric bed frame

On trend and available in a wide range of colours, a fabric upholstered bed provides a comfy and stylish centrepiece for your bedroom. Suited to contemporary and traditional tastes alike, a fabric bed frame can give a bedroom a cosier feel than metal or leather beds.

4. Leather bed frame

A leather bed is stylish and easy to clean. A contemporary focal point, offering faux leather or real leather options available in a choice of colours. Leather beds offer a wider variety of storage options than wooden or metal beds. They are also known for their durability.

Other types of beds

Divan beds

Divan beds come with storage space for keeping a multitude of items. Many people choose a divan if they’re looking for space efficiency. This is not only because they come with built-in storage, but also because the bed is usually the same width as the mattress, so there is no protruding frame.

Depending on whether a firmer or softer base is needed, there is a choice of a platform divan, with a solid base, or a sprung edge divan, with more bounce.

Divans usually sit on solid legs or castors, which help with ease of movement.

Ottoman beds

Ottoman bed frames provide additional storage space for large or small items. People often choose an ottoman for smaller bedrooms where storage is at a minimum.

With the help of a gas-hydraulic system, the storage space in ottomans can be accessed by lifting the mattress from the side or bottom, which reveals a larger compartment within the bed. Because ottomans offer the entire base of the bed as storage, the space is much larger than drawers and can accommodate larger items.

Sofa beds

Sofa beds are extremely versatile. They fit nicely into spare rooms or smaller flats providing seating during the day and a place to sleep for overnight guests. They come in a huge range of styles, sizes and colours, while often sitting towards the lower end of the price scale.

When looking at sofa beds, make sure to choose one with a mattress that suits its purpose. Depending on whether the bed is meant for occasional guests or a long-term visitor, the right mattress will offer both comfort and durability.

Guest beds

Guest beds are designed to provide comfortable sleeping arrangements for overnight guests. They can be particularly useful for accommodating family members during the holidays, for kid’s sleepovers or for friends who frequently visit. There are a range of guest bed options available: Sofa beds and day beds are versatile and often used in multi-purpose rooms. While foldaway beds and trundle beds are excellent space savers and can be easily stored away when not in use.

Kids beds

For younger children and toddlers, a small kids' bed can help them feel cosy and secure overnight. Beds designed specifically for children can meet their particular needs as they grow. A toddler bed usually includes safety features like being lower to the ground and having guard rails to prevent children falling out. A cabin bed or bunk bed can maximise space for siblings who share a room.

For parents, there are multiple things to consider when choosing a bed for their children. Will you need some extra storage for toys and games? Is there more than one child to consider? How much space do you have?

Adjustable beds

For those of us who suffer from mobility issues or sore joints, a doctor or physiotherapist may suggest looking into adjustable bed options.

These mechanised beds offer the ability to elevate your head or legs at the tap of a button and find the optimal position to keep the aches and pains away.

Sleigh beds

People are drawn to sleigh beds for their distinctive, elegant design and ornate details. These beds are available in different models from modern to traditional French-style sleigh beds.

They are designed to be large and robust, yet despite this sleigh beds tend to have a softer appearance thanks to a curved scrolling base and headboard.

Sleigh beds come in a range of material options too. The frame can be upholstered in fabric, covered in faux leather or left wooden, offering options to match a bedroom or home decor.

TV beds

TV beds do exactly as their name implies. The bottom of the base contains a television that can be raised or lowered as needed. TV beds can come with built-in speakers, USB ports and media shelves for storing game consoles.

They’re a practical solution that saves space because you won't need to find a surface for an extra bedroom television.

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If you're still unsure about the right type of bed for you, don't hesitate to get in touch with our expert team.