Find the bed of your dreams
You spend a third of your life in bed, so it’s really important to choose one that’s right for you.
In this Guide
Our bed buying guide will give you expert advice on the following:
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How do I know when I need a new bed? • What size bed is best for me? • What bed base is best for me? • What is a storage bed? • What bed material is best for me?
How do I know when I need a new bed?
Unlike your mattress, which should be replaced every 8-10 years, a good bed frame should last much longer if you look after it properly. However, there are a few warning signs to look out for that could mean it’s time for a new bed:
The slats appear to be bent or bowing.
Cracked or broken slats.
Squeaking or creaking when you move.
A sinking feeling when you get into bed.
You have a better night's sleep in a different bed.
You wake up sore, stiff and unrefreshed.
What size bed is best for me?
The size of your mattress and bed are designed to match up perfectly, so there shouldn't be any sizing surprises. But if you’re buying a totally new bed for a room, here are some top tips to find your ideal bed size:
Sharing is caring
If you're sharing your bed, sizing will play a big part in creating an agreeable sleeping environment for you and your partner. Avoid the discomfort of dangling feet over the end of the bed by buying a bed frame that is 10-20cm longer than the tallest sleeper, and allow enough width for elbow room for two.
Read the room
Consider the size of your room, making sure there is enough space around the bed to open the door and walk around (we recommend at least 76cm). If you’re thinking of getting a bed with storage drawers, there also needs to be enough room for these to be accessible.
A tall order
Consider the height of the bed when you are purchasing and the thickness of the mattress that it will be paired with. If your bed is too high or low, people with mobility issues may struggle to get out of a bed that’s too low or high.
What bed base is best for me?
The type of bed base you choose has an impact on the feel of your mattress, so it’s important to pick the right combination of base and mattress for the best night’s sleep possible.
Solid Slats
Solid slats are spaced evenly across the bed frame to support the mattress and are fixed into place with no flex. They offer firmer support than sprung slats and allow air to flow around the mattress.
Best paired with: Foam mattresses
Sprung Slats
Sprung slats are slightly curved, meaning a more reactive and bouncier bed base that provides extra support and comfort. Each side of the bed has a separate slat system which makes them ideal for couples. These can extend the lifetime of your mattress as they work along with it.
Best paired with: Spring mattresses
Divan Base
Divan bases are made from a solid wood, boxed frame and can come in various styles – with or without storage options. They have a solid board placed on top of the frame, which offers a very firm support to the mattress placed on top of it.
Best paired with: Heavy or foam mattresses
Not sure which mattress to choose? Take a look at our handy
What is a storage bed?
Need some extra space? Storage beds (as the name suggests) have built-in storage underneath the slats, and are a perfect way to maximise the space in your room. There are two main types of storage bed:
Ottomans
Ottoman beds maximise underbed storage by lifting to reveal the entire space, eliminating the need for extra room to open drawers. They use gas lift pistons, which click closed easily when you’ve finished accessing the storage area. Ottoman beds have two types of bases: solid or fabric. Solid is better for storing heavier items, and fabric is better for storing bedding and clothes
SHOP NOWDrawers
Storage beds with drawers are a good option if you need to access the storage frequently, as they can be easier to open than ottomans. However, make sure there is enough space around the bed to access the drawers, especially if you’re using bedside tables.
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What bed material is best for me?
The material of your bed frame affects the overall look and feel of your bed, so make sure you choose one that suits your style and comfort needs.
Upholstered Beds
Upholstered beds are a great way to inject colour and more softness into your bedroom. They are comfier to lean against when sitting in bed, and come in a wide range of textures and finishes.
SHOP NOWWooden Beds
Wooden beds bring a natural touch to your bedroom, with different colours and grains available to suit each taste. They are sturdy and easy to care for (unlike upholstered beds, which may stain).
SHOP NOWMetal Beds
Metal beds are usually lighter than wooden beds and easier to move around. They come in classic styles and can come in a wide variety of colours. Like wooden beds, upkeep of a metal bed is easy.
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