​Decoding Bed Types: How to Choose the Perfect Bed

Posted by Pam Johnson - Head of Buying on 30th May 2024

​Decoding Bed Types: How to Choose the Perfect Bed

Choosing the right bed goes waaaaaay beyond aesthetics, it's a choice that is bound to directly impact your sleep quality, overall comfort, and even your health. With so many options available, including bed frames, divans, ottomans, and adjustable beds (all of which we have available at Bensons, of course), navigating the choices can seem overwhelming. In this guide, we'll take a deep-dive into each type of bed, to help you make an informed decision that aligns with your unique needs and preferences. Let's get cracking...

Bed Frames: A Timeless Choice

Hip Hop Wooden Bed Frame

Bed frames, a familiar favourite since people stopped sleeping on the ground, available in various materials like wood, metal, and upholstery, are a seriously versatile option. They don’t just provide a sturdy foundation for your mattress, but can also offer us the opportunity to add our own touch of style to the overall aesthetic of your bedroom. Wooden frames tend to give us a warm and traditional feel, while metal frames bring a touch of modernity or an old school feel depending on the frame. Upholstered bed frames, with their array of colours and fabrics, can offer a dash of luxury.

One of the major advantages of choosing a bed frame, is in the adaptability they can bring. You can pair them with wide range of mattresses, allowing you to customise your sleeping experience; additionally, bed frames are renowned for their durability and stability. They quite often feature a slatted base or platform, offering substantial support and additional air circulation for your mattress. We have a huge selection of bed frames to choose from right here at Bensons for Beds.

Divan Beds: Practicality Meets Functionality

Simply By Bensons Calm grey Divan Bed Set On Castors

Divan beds are traditionally known simply as a space-saving solution, merging the base and mattress into a one seamless unit. This is no longer the case however, as designers have made the headboard something of a centrepiece, giving you the opportunity to put your own personal stamp on your bedroom décor, we have a wide array of headboard options too. The standout feature of divan beds is still the built-in storage drawers, of course, providing a clever organisational solution. These beds are great for any sleep space, but are particularly ideal for smaller bedrooms or anyone in need of additional storage space.

The simplicity and clean lines of divan bed bases make them a versatile choice for different interior styles, additional storage makes them truly versatile, and being able to make the styling your very own, makes the divan a major contender in the bed base world!

Ottoman Beds: Effortless Elegance with Hidden Storage

Tamara Grey Velvet Ottoman Bed Frame

Ottoman beds are the sneaky storage ninjas you didn’t know you needed. In a similar way to the divan base, it brings additional storage options to your sleep space, but in a subtle way. Featuring a hydraulic lifting mechanism, and now even an electrically powered system with our Power electric Ottoman, Ottoman beds allow you to easily lift the sleep platform, and access the storage space underneath. Ottoman beds are perfect for discreetly stowing away bulkier items like luggage, blankets, or out-of-season clothing, or pretty much anything really…

The modern and sleek design of ottoman beds, quite often with a minimalist appearance, makes them a great choice for most bedrooms. The lifting mechanism brings us ease of use, bringing a whole new level of convenience to your bedroom. However, the amount of storage space underneath may vary between different models, so make sure you choose one that aligns with your specific storage needs.

Adjustable Beds: Tailored Comfort for Individual Needs

Tech Memory Motion Adjustable Divan bed and mattress set

We’re all clear on what an adjustable bed is, right? They have gained popularity over the years, mostly down to their ability to provide the most personalised comfort and support of any style of bed base. The comfort customisation allows you to independently elevate different areas of the mattress, offering a variety of sleeping and lounging positions. While a lot of people assume adjustable beds are only beneficial for individuals with specific health conditions, like acid reflux or severe snoring, they genuinely cater to a broader audience: basically anyone seeking a customisable sleep experience. There are a lot of different options out there though, with different features and benefits, we have a fantastic range of adjustable bedsat Bensons to help make your choice a little bit easier.

The flexibility of adjustable beds makes them suitable for a range of activities beyond sleep too. If you enjoy reading or watching TV in bed, an adjustable base enables you to find the perfect position for relaxation. An important thing to remember though, is the need to ensure compatibility with the mattress you plan to use, as not all mattresses are suitable for these bases, as it would need to bend and flex.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Bed

1. Comfort and Support

  • Evaluate the level of comfort and support each type of bed provides.
  • Consider your preferred sleeping position and any specific health concerns.

2. Storage Needs:

  • Assess your storage requirements and choose a bed that offers the right amount of space.
  • Divan and ottoman beds are excellent choices for those in need of extra storage.

3. Aesthetic Preferences:

  • Consider the overall style and design of your bedroom.
  • Choose a bed that complements your existing furniture and décor.

4. Budget:

  • Establish a budget for your bed purchase, considering both the bed frame and mattress.
  • Explore different options within your budget to find the best value for your money.

5. Size of the Room:

  • Take into account the size of your bedroom when selecting a bed.
  • Ensure that the chosen bed fits comfortably in your space, allowing for easy movement.

Conclusion: Your Path to Restful Nights

In conclusion, the bed you choose could well be a pivotal factor in your quest for restful nights and overall well-being. Each type of bed – from the classic bed frame to the space-efficient divan, the storage-savvy ottoman, and the customisable adjustable bed – offers unique features and advantages. Consider your individual preferences, lifestyle, and practical needs when making this important decision.

Take the time to visit your local Bensons for Beds showroom, test different options, and envision how each bed will fit into your bedroom space. Remember, a good night's sleep is a cornerstone of a healthy life, and investing in the right bed should be seen as an investment in your health and happiness. Choose wisely, and may your nights be filled with the utmost comfort and rejuvenation. 

authors profile
Pam Johnson
Head of Buying
Pam has worked within Bensons for Beds for 16 years and has a great deal of experience in both developing and sourcing new product ranges. As Head of Buying specialising in mattresses, divans and headboards, Pam is dedicated to providing solutions that help customers to get a great night’s sleep.
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