How to choose a bed | Types of beds

The average person spends a third of their life in bed

The average person spends a third of their lives sleeping – the equivalent to at least 200,000 hours spent in the land of nod.

Investing in a decent bed will help your sleeping hours to be more comfortable and fulfilling, in turn helping you to make the most of the time you’re awake.

A good bed starts with a good bed frame – we’ve outlined the main types of bed below.

Next, decide on the best mattress for you – our comprehensive survey of mattress brands reveals the best and worst on the market – and follow our top bed shopping tips to get a good deal.

Divan beds

A divan bed is the most popular and simple style of bed available – and there are countless varieties on sale. Essentially, a divan is a base, on to which you add a bed mattress and headboard, sometimes as part of a bed package.

There are two types of divan base available. Pocket sprung divans have springs in the base, offering a softer top and extra comfort. Cheaper platform top divans have a hard top and will give a firmer feel, though the overall firmness of the bed will depend on the mattress you choose.

Divan beds are simple and practical

Divan bed pros

Most widely available type of bed.
Tends to be cheaper than other types of bed.
Lots of sizes, shapes and storage options.

Divan bed cons

Less ornate and stylish than other varieties of bed.
Only some offer extra storage.

Bedsteads

Bedsteads are slatted frames (as opposed to solid bases), usually made of metal or wood and comprised of a base, legs and headboard. They’re usually a more decorative option, with different colours, finishes and styles to choose from – from a traditional pine bedstead to a luxurious four-poster bedstead.

Upholstered bedsteads, clad with leather or faux-leather, are an increasingly popular option.

Bedsteads can offer a more decorative style

Bedstead pros

Look great, with lots of styles available.
No need to buy a separate headboard.
Different slat types available to offer a harder or more flexible feel.

Bedstead cons

Storing items underneath the bed can look messy.
Usually need to be self-assembled.
Tend to be more expensive than divan beds.

Storage beds

As the name suggests, storage beds offer just that – lots of tidy storage options below or underneath the bed. They’re a great option if you’re short on bedroom space but want something a bit more stylish than a standard divan bed. Choose between storage drawers or an ottoman-style bed that fully lifts up, letting you store your belongings inside.

A storage bed is a good space-saving option

Storage bed pros

Lots of storage space!
Good for small bedrooms.
Lots of storage options.

Storage bed cons

Ottoman beds can be heavy and awkward to move or lift.

More bed types

There are lots more types of bed on the market – often designed to meet a specific requirement or appeal to particular age groups.

Sofa beds and folding beds: flexible, compact bed options that work well in a guest bedroom, or where a bed won’t be used everyday.
Bunk beds: two beds in one for brothers and sisters in a shared bedroom – and lots of play fun for kids, too.
Cot beds: for smaller children, cot beds are convertible cots that can help your little one make the transition from cot to bed.

Article credits: http://www.which.co.uk/home-and-garden/home-improvements/guides/choosing-a-bed/types-of-bed/