Your bedroom should be your own personal sanctuary. A space where you can escape from the outside world and enjoy truly restful sleep. Did you know that you spend a third of your life asleep in bed?

That’s roughly 7 to 9 hours every single night, according to the NHS. So choosing a bed that perfectly fits your room isn’t just about creating a beautiful space – it’s about investing in your daily wellbeing and quality of life.

Image credit: Bedstar

Most people use their mattress every night for around seven years, which means finding the right bed deserves serious thought. Good Housekeeping recommends replacing your bed approximately every 10 years, but if you’re tossing and turning, that’s a clear signal it might be time for an upgrade.

Whether you’re dreaming of more space to stretch out, better support for your back, or simply a fresh new style, this bed buying guide has everything you need. You’ll discover how to measure your room like a pro, explore bed types that match your lifestyle, and make a choice that brings years of comfortable sleep.

Ready to create your perfect sleep sanctuary? Let’s start with the essentials you need to know.

Measure Your Room and Plan the Layout

Getting your measurements right is the foundation of choosing a bed that truly works for your space. Before you fall in love with any particular style, understanding your room’s constraints will save you disappointment later.

Check room dimensions and clearance

Start with the basics: grab a tape measure and record the length, width, and height of your bedroom. You’ll need these exact measurements when you start shopping, so don’t rely on guesswork.

For comfortable movement around your bed, allow at least 24 to 30 inches (60-75cm) of walking space at the foot of the bed. Side clearance is equally important:

  • Twin/full beds: 18 to 24 inches on each side
  • Queen beds: 24 to 30 inches on each side
  • King/California king beds: 30 to 36 inches on each side

These aren’t just suggestions – they ensure you can move freely around your bedroom and access other furniture without squeezing past. Don’t forget to check the location of doors, wardrobes, and drawers when planning. Your new bed shouldn’t block any of them when they’re fully open.

Planning a bed with storage drawers? You’ll need a minimum of 55cm on either side for the drawers to be pulled out completely. For wardrobes with hinged doors, allow 36 inches for the door to open without obstruction.

Account for headboard and footboard size

Here’s where many people slip up: forgetting about headboard dimensions. A standard headboard typically matches the width of your bed frame, but statement headboards can extend 25 to 30 inches beyond the bed width, often reaching past your bedside tables.

These bold headboards create stunning focal points in larger bedrooms, but they can overwhelm compact spaces. Consider the depth of your headboard too. Do you have space for a thin headboard, or could you accommodate a deeper storage headboard with shelving? Your ceiling height and window placement will influence this choice.

Use masking tape to visualise bed footprint

Want a foolproof way to test whether your chosen bed will work? Use masking tape to mark out the exact dimensions on your bedroom floor. This simple trick gives you a real sense of how much space your new bed will actually occupy.

Create an outline with masking tape showing the bed dimensions, plus its headboard and footboard. Walk around this taped area to experience the remaining space. You might discover you can fit a larger bed than expected – or realise you need to scale down your plans.

This visualisation technique helps you plan the placement of bedside tables, lamps, and other essential furniture. Once you’ve lived with the taped outline for a day or two, you’ll know whether the size feels right for your daily routine.

Choose the Right Bed Size for Your Space

Now that you’ve got your room measurements sorted, it’s time to find the bed size that works perfectly for your space. Getting this balance right between comfortable sleeping and room flow can make your bedroom feel either cramped or wonderfully spacious.

Single, double, king or super king?

Image credit: Bedstar

UK bed sizes follow standard dimensions that make choosing much easier:

  • Single: 90cm width × 190cm length
  • Small Double: 120cm width × 190cm length
  • Double: 135cm width × 190cm length
  • King: 150cm width × 200cm length
  • Super King: 180cm width × 200cm length

Here’s something worth knowing – king and super king beds are 10cm longer than singles and doubles, perfect if you’re on the taller side. Think about who’ll be using the bed and how they sleep – do you sprawl out or curl up small?

For couples sharing a standard double, you’re each getting just 67.5cm of space – that’s the same width as a baby’s cot! Partner disturbance causes many sleepless nights, so upgrading to a king or super king could dramatically improve your rest quality.

Your room needs specific minimum dimensions for each bed size:

  • Single bed: At least 7ft × 10ft room (2.1m × 3m)
  • Double bed: At least 9ft × 9ft room (2.7m × 2.7m)
  • King size bed: At least 10ft × 10ft room (3m × 3m)
  • Super king bed: At least 12ft × 12ft room (3.7m × 3.7m)

Beds for small rooms

Bedrooms keep getting smaller – the average main bedroom has shrunk from 165.7 square feet in 1930 to just 141.5 square feet in 2020. Small doubles (120cm width) offer the sweet spot between sleeping comfort and room functionality for compact spaces.

Ottoman beds work brilliantly in small bedrooms, giving you generous storage without losing sleeping space. Divan beds remain one of Britain’s most popular choices, offering endless options with different colours, fabrics, headboards and storage configurations.

For children’s rooms or guest spaces, these space-smart options work beautifully:

  • Bunk or loft beds – ideal for siblings sharing
  • Mid-sleeper beds – creating study or storage space underneath
  • Storage beds with built-in drawers – no need for extra furniture

Don’t forget to check actual bed frame dimensions rather than just mattress size – frames typically extend beyond the mattress measurements.

Beds for tall people

Over 6ft tall? Standard beds might leave your feet hanging off the end uncomfortably. Your ideal bed length should be 10-15cm longer than the tallest person using it. Anyone over 5’11” (180cm) should look at beds that are at least 200cm long.

Exceptionally tall individuals (over 6’6″) have specialist options:

  • Long beds measuring 215cm in length (available in small double, double and king widths)
  • Custom-sized beds with lengths up to 221cm (7ft 3inches)
  • Zip and link options that make turning larger mattresses much easier

Quality becomes crucial when buying longer beds as specialist sizes command premium prices. Look for hand-tied pocket springs rather than just foam – these provide better support across the extra length. Quality mattresses for taller sleepers typically feature at least 2000 pocket springs and substantial upholstery fibres for proper support.

Match your bed size carefully to both your room dimensions and personal needs, and you’ll create a sleep environment that works perfectly for years to come.

Explore bed types that match your needs

Now comes the fun part – choosing a bed frame that perfectly matches your personality and lifestyle. Your bed frame isn’t just about holding your mattress; it’s the centerpiece that sets the tone for your entire bedroom.

Wooden, metal, fabric or leather frames

Wooden frames bring that timeless warmth you can’t get anywhere else. High-quality options in oak, pine, and mahogany offer incredible structural soundness whilst adding natural character to your space. These beauties typically last for decades when properly cared for, making them a smart investment for your sleep sanctuary.

Image credit: Bedstar

Metal bed frames offer something completely different – excellent durability with minimal fuss. From sleek minimalist designs to gorgeously ornate Victorian styles, they deliver lightweight yet sturdy options that work brilliantly in any décor.

Want something more luxurious? Upholstered beds in rich fabrics, sumptuous velvet, or faux leather create instant statement appeal with that hotel-style sophistication. Faux leather deserves special mention here – you get all the luxury looks without the maintenance headaches. Simply wipe clean and you’re done!

Divan vs ottoman vs standard frames

Divans remain one of the UK’s most loved bed choices for good reason. These clever designs feature wooden structures wrapped in fabric, often with optional drawer storage tucked neatly underneath. They’re compact, easy to assemble, and absolutely perfect for smaller spaces.

Ottoman beds take storage to the next level entirely. The entire under-bed area becomes your personal storage warehouse, accessed through a smooth hydraulic lift mechanism. Perfect for bulky items like suitcases or seasonal bedding. Just remember – they can be pricier and trickier to move once assembled.

Standard bed frames with slatted bases offer better airflow around your mattress, though they miss out on the storage cleverness of divans or ottomans. What they lack in practicality, they often make up for in style impact.

Sofa beds and guest beds

Multi-functional spaces call for multi-functional furniture. Modern sofa beds have come a long way from those uncomfortable contraptions of the past – today’s designs transition beautifully between stylish seating and comfortable sleeping. When choosing yours, test both the seated comfort and mattress quality, especially if it’ll see regular overnight guests.

Guest beds and daybeds offer brilliant flexibility for spare rooms that need to work harder. Many feature pull-out trundle beds or clever stackable designs that create proper double beds when needed. Ideal for children’s sleepovers or when family comes to stay.

Adjustable and TV beds

Adjustable beds represent modern sleep technology at its finest. With motorised bases that let you elevate your head or feet exactly where you want them, they can help ease symptoms of sleep apnea, acid reflux, and snoring.

TV beds combine entertainment with comfort through built-in television mechanisms. These smart frames typically house retractable screens in the footboard, keeping your bedroom clutter-free whilst providing entertainment at the touch of a button. Though they come at premium prices, they offer brilliant space-saving benefits that tech-enthusiasts absolutely love.

Image credit: Bedstar

Takeaway Tip: Consider how often you’ll use special features before investing in adjustable or TV beds – they’re fantastic when used regularly but expensive for occasional use.

Consider Storage and Functionality

Storage can completely change how your bedroom works for you. With the right storage solutions, you can keep your space tidy and organised without giving up style or comfort.

Under-bed clearance vs built-in drawers

You’ll need to decide between beds with open under-bed space or built-in storage drawers. Standard bed frames with good clearance underneath (around 19-27cm) let you slide in your own storage boxes or containers. This gives you flexibility to use the space exactly how you want whilst keeping air flowing around your mattress.

Built-in drawer beds offer a neater solution straight away. You can choose from different setups – two large drawers (one each side), four smaller drawers (two per side), or mixed combinations of large and mini drawers. Just remember you’ll need at least 55-60cm of clear space beside your bed for the drawers to pull out properly.

Here’s something worth noting: drawer placement makes a real difference. Some manufacturers make narrower drawers (75cm wide instead of the standard 90cm) that fit perfectly between bedside tables, so you won’t need to shuffle furniture around every time you want to access your storage.

Ottoman beds for maximum storage

Want the ultimate storage solution? Ottoman beds use every inch of under-bed space rather than just sections of it. These clever designs feature a gas-lift or hydraulic system that lifts the entire mattress base, revealing a huge storage area underneath.

You can choose between side-lift and foot-lift options, both giving you easy access to your belongings. The lifting mechanism holds the bed safely open whilst you arrange your things inside, keeping your hands free.

Perfect for smaller bedrooms where every bit of space counts, ottoman beds hide everything from spare bedding to seasonal clothes completely out of sight. They’re particularly brilliant if you’re short on storage elsewhere in your home.

Choosing beds for shared or multi-use rooms

Shared bedrooms and multi-purpose spaces need extra clever storage solutions. For children’s rooms, look at bunk beds with built-in storage – many come with drawers under the bottom bunk, cupboards built into the stairs, or shelving running along the frame.

Guest rooms that double as home offices or hobby spaces work brilliantly with multi-purpose options. Ottoman beds give you loads of space for exercise equipment, whilst day beds or sofa beds provide flexible seating and sleeping.

For shared adult bedrooms, divide your storage zones clearly – maybe give each person their own drawers or split an ottoman bed’s space down the middle. This smart organisation keeps everyone happy whilst making the most of your shared space.

Match Comfort and Style to Your Lifestyle

Your bed should be more than just a place to sleep – it needs to work with your lifestyle and reflect your personal style. The comfort and visual appeal of your bed can make the difference between a bedroom you love and one that leaves you feeling restless.

Why do slats matter for your comfort?

The foundation of your bed’s comfort starts with the slat system beneath your mattress. Solid slats lie flat across the bed frame, giving you firm support with minimal flexibility. These rigid platforms offer excellent stability but transfer pressure directly to your mattress.

Sprung slats work differently – they feature a gentle upward curve that flexes under your weight, absorbing some of the pressure. This creates a softer, more cushioned feel while potentially helping your mattress last longer by reducing impact.

If you suffer from back problems and need firmer support, solid slats typically work better. But if you prefer more pressure relief and even weight distribution, sprung slats could be your perfect match.

Image credit: Bedstar

What style suits your space?

Modern minimalism has evolved into something warmer – you can keep those clean, neutral backdrops while adding textured furniture and subtle colours. Platform beds with exposed legs create beautifully clean lines that work perfectly in contemporary spaces.

Classic styles bring timeless appeal with ornate details, richly finished woods, and traditional patterns. These elegant options complement period properties beautifully and never go out of fashion.

Minimalist bedrooms focus on the essentials without clutter, creating calm, peaceful spaces through simple colour schemes and carefully chosen furniture.

How do you choose colours that work with your décor?

Your bed’s colour can completely change your room’s atmosphere. For smaller bedrooms, lighter shades create the illusion of more space, while larger rooms can handle bolder patterns and deeper colours.

Upholstered beds in neutral tones work beautifully to soften stark white walls while keeping everything balanced. Why not draw inspiration from elements you already love? Perhaps match your headboard fabric to your curtain colours for a pulled-together look.

The key is choosing something that makes you smile every time you walk into your room.

Your Perfect Sleep Sanctuary Awaits

You’ve now got everything you need to choose a bed that will transform your bedroom into the perfect personal retreat. From measuring your space like a pro to exploring all the exciting bed types and storage options available, you’re ready to make a choice that will bring you years of restful nights.

Remember, this isn’t just about finding furniture that fits – you’re creating your own personal sanctuary where you can truly unwind after long days. The bed you choose will support not just your body, but your overall wellbeing for years to come.

Whether you’ve fallen for a cosy small double bed with clever storage, or you’re dreaming of a luxurious super king with all the trimmings, trust your instincts. Your perfect bed is the one that makes you excited to climb in each night and wake up refreshed each morning.

So why wait? Your dream bedroom is calling, and now you have all the knowledge to answer. Sweet dreams start with the perfect bed choice – and yours is out there waiting for you.

Don’t forget, you can always revisit this guide whenever you need a refresher. Here’s to creating a sleep space that’s truly worth shouting about!