What are the different types of bed frames?

When it comes to creating a comfortable bedroom, the mattress often gets most of the attention. But the bed frame you choose plays just as important a role. A good frame provides support for your mattress, contributes to the look and feel of your room, and can even help you make better use of your space.

With so many types of bed frames available today, it’s not always easy to know which one is right for you. Some are designed with storage in mind, others focus on comfort and adjustability, while some are ideal for children’s bedrooms or shared spaces.

In this guide, we’ll explore several popular bed frame styles, including ottoman beds, divan beds, kids’ beds, adjustable beds, and bunk beds, along with their key features and benefits. By the end, you’ll have a clearer idea of which option might suit your home, your sleep preferences, and your bedroom style.

Why choosing the right bed frame matters

A bed frame does far more than simply hold your mattress off the floor. The right frame creates a stable and supportive base that allows your mattress to perform exactly as it should. Without proper support, even a high-quality mattress can begin to lose its shape or comfort over time.

Beyond support, bed frames can also affect the overall functionality of your bedroom. In smaller spaces, a frame with built-in storage can help keep everyday clutter out of sight. In shared rooms or children’s bedrooms, the right design can make the most of the available floor space.

The visual side of things shouldn’t be overlooked, either. Because the bed is usually the largest piece of furniture in the room, its design naturally becomes a focal point.

Choosing a frame that complements your décor can make the entire room feel more cohesive and inviting. So, exploring the types of bed frames and making a decision is ultimately about balancing practicality and comfort with style.

Ottoman bed frames

Ottoman beds have become increasingly popular in recent years, particularly for people looking to make the most of their bedroom space. What makes them stand out is the generous storage area hidden beneath the mattress.

Unlike traditional types of bed frames that may include a couple of drawers, ottoman beds lift upwards to reveal storage that spans the entire base of the bed. The mattress platform is typically raised using gas-lift pistons, which means the mechanism is designed to open smoothly and with minimal effort.

This design makes ottoman beds especially useful in homes where storage is limited. Bedding, seasonal clothing, spare blankets, or even suitcases can be tucked away neatly out of sight. For many households, this can reduce the need for additional furniture such as bulky storage boxes or extra wardrobes.

In terms of style, ottoman beds tend to have a modern and streamlined appearance. Because the storage is hidden inside the frame, the exterior remains clean and uncluttered. This makes them particularly well-suited to contemporary bedrooms where a tidy, minimalist look is preferred.

Fun fact: The term ‘ottoman’ originally comes from the furniture used in the homes of the Ottoman Empire. These pieces often had hidden storage inside cushioned seating, which inspired the name used for modern ottoman beds!

Divan bed frames

Divan beds have long been a popular choice in homes across the UK, and that’s for good reason. Known for their reliability and straightforward design, they offer a sturdy and supportive base for your mattress.

A divan bed usually consists of a solid base that is upholstered in fabric. Many models come in two sections that fit together, which makes them easier to transport and position in the room. The mattress sits directly on top of this base, creating a stable sleeping surface.

One of the appealing aspects of divan beds is their versatility. Many designs include built-in storage drawers that can be accessed from the sides or foot of the bed. This feature makes them particularly useful in bedrooms where extra storage space is needed but there isn’t enough room for large furniture.

Another advantage of divan beds is their understated appearance. Their simple structure allows them to blend easily into a wide variety of bedroom styles. Whether the room has a contemporary feel or a more traditional look, a divan bed can complement the overall design without dominating the space.

Fun fact: The word ‘divan’ is believed by many to be of Turkish and Persian origin, and supposedly referred to long, cushioned seating found in palaces and council chambers, where guests would sit and relax. This concept eventually evolved into the supportive upholstered bases we’re so familiar with today!

Kids’ bed frames

Children’s bedrooms often require furniture that balances practicality with creativity. Our kids’ beds are designed with this in mind, offering solutions that support growing children while also helping to keep their rooms organised.

Unlike standard beds, children’s beds are often tailored to younger sleepers. Many sit lower to the ground, making it easier for children to climb in and out safely. Some designs include built-in safety rails, which can be reassuring for parents of younger children who may still be adjusting to sleeping in their own bed.

Storage is another common feature in children’s bed designs. Drawers beneath the mattress or integrated compartments can provide a convenient place to store toys, clothes, or bedding. This can be especially helpful in smaller bedrooms where space is at a premium.

Beyond practicality, kids’ beds often play a role in shaping the character of a child’s bedroom. Many designs incorporate playful elements or themes that make the space feel more personal. For children, their bedroom is often both a place to sleep and a place to play, so choosing the right bed can help create the perfect environment.

Fun fact: The first beds designed specifically for children began appearing during the Victorian era, when families started creating dedicated nurseries and children’s bedrooms rather than having everyone sleep in the same space.

Adjustable bed frames

Adjustable beds offer a different approach to sleep and relaxation by allowing the position of the mattress to be changed at the touch of a button. Instead of remaining flat, these beds can raise the head section, and sometimes the foot section, to create a more comfortable position.

This flexibility can be particularly appealing for people who enjoy reading, watching television, or using a laptop while in bed. Rather than propping themselves up with pillows, they can simply adjust the bed to the angle that feels most comfortable.

Many adjustable beds use a motorised mechanism that is controlled with a handheld remote or integrated controls. Despite the technology involved, the overall design is typically sleek and unobtrusive, meaning the bed still looks at home in a modern bedroom.

Adjustable beds are also valued for the sense of personalised comfort they provide. Being able to change the bed’s position allows users to find the angle that best suits their relaxation habits and sleeping preferences.

Fun fact: The very first adjustable bed was patented by an American mattress company called Andrew Wuest and Son, which featured a simplistic hinge mechanism in the bed’s head. We’ve certainly come a long way since!

Bunk beds

Bunk beds are a familiar and practical solution for shared bedrooms or homes where space needs to be used efficiently. By stacking two sleeping areas vertically, bunk beds allow two people to sleep comfortably while taking up the floor space of a single bed.

This space-saving design makes them particularly popular in children’s bedrooms. When siblings share a room, bunk beds can free up valuable floor space for desks, storage, or play areas.

Most bunk beds feature a ladder or steps that allow access to the upper bunk, along with safety rails to prevent falls during the night. Modern designs are typically built with durability in mind, ensuring the frame remains stable and secure.

In addition to their practicality, bunk beds often bring a sense of fun to children’s bedrooms. Many kids enjoy the novelty of sleeping on the top bunk, which can make bedtime feel a little more exciting.

Fun fact: Bunk beds were originally used in environments where space was extremely limited, such as naval ships and military barracks, before becoming a popular feature in family homes. They’re far more focused on comfort now, of course!

Choosing the right bed size

Alongside selecting between different types of bed frames, it’s important to consider the size of the bed that will work best in your room.

The right size depends on both the available space and your personal sleeping preferences. A single bed can be a practical choice for children’s rooms or smaller bedrooms, while a double bed provides more room for a single sleeper or a cosy option for couples.

Larger sizes, such as king or super king beds, offer additional space to stretch out, which can make a noticeable difference to comfort. However, it’s important to make sure that the bedroom is large enough to accommodate the frame while still allowing space to move around comfortably.

You might be better off with a standard double or small double bed if space is at a bit of a premium in your bedroom. Of course, for children and teens, a single bed will typically suffice. Measuring the room carefully before choosing a bed can prevent awkward layouts and ensure the space remains functional.

Matching your bed frame with the right mattress

A bed frame and mattress should always work together as a supportive combination. Even the most comfortable mattress won’t perform properly if it sits on a base that doesn’t suit it.

For example, divan beds provide a solid and even surface that works well with many types of mattresses. Ottoman beds, on the other hand, rely on lifting mechanisms, so the mattress needs to be compatible with the moving base.

It’s also important to make sure that the mattress size matches the dimensions of the frame. A snug fit prevents unnecessary movement and helps maintain stability throughout the night.

Taking the time to choose a compatible mattress and frame can improve comfort while also helping both pieces of furniture last longer. Why not give our mattress match tool a try to find your perfect match for your bed and sleeping style?

A few things to consider before buying a bed frame

Choosing between different types of bed frames becomes much easier when you think about how the bed will be used on a daily basis.

Start by considering the space available in your bedroom. If storage is limited, a bed with built-in storage may be the most practical solution. Ottoman beds and divan beds with drawers are particularly helpful in this regard.

It’s also worth thinking about who will be using the bed. Children, adults, and guests may all have slightly different needs when it comes to bed height, size, and features.

Style can also influence the decision. Some people prefer a sleek and modern look, while others favour something more subtle and functional. Because the bed often acts as the focal point of the room, choosing a design that fits the overall aesthetic can make the space feel more balanced.

Finally, the budget will naturally play a role. All types of bed frames are available at a wide range of price points, so having a clear idea of what you’re comfortable spending can help narrow down the options.

Finding the right bed frame for your home

With so many types of bed frames available today, there’s no single solution that works for everyone. The best choice depends on your space, your lifestyle, and what you value most in a bedroom.

Ottoman beds are ideal for maximising storage while keeping the room tidy. Divan beds offer reliable support and a simple, versatile design. Kids’ beds provide practical solutions tailored to younger sleepers, while adjustable beds bring a new level of comfort and flexibility. Bunk beds, meanwhile, remain one of the most effective ways to save space in shared rooms.

By considering how you use your bedroom and what features matter most to you, it becomes much easier to find a bed frame that fits naturally into your home.

After all, the right bed frame forms the foundation of a comfortable night’s sleep and helps create a bedroom that feels both functional and welcoming. Want to find out which bed frame works best for your lifestyle? Try out our Bed Finder and discover your perfect night’s sleep with ease.