Our bedrooms see a fair amount of use; 33 percent of our lives are spent sleeping. Most of us don't think anything about that until we experience repeated nights of bad sleep. That is when we take a close look at our beds. Whether you're here to search for a better bed and better rest or you simply need a new bed and bedroom furniture, you've come to the right place. We know how to buy beds, so let us share our knowledge and help you find the perfect bed.
When you're looking for a bed, consider the size, style and material that will look and feel best in your home.
The size of the bed you choose can depend on a few different factors; namely, the size of your existing mattress set, your size/height and personal space preference and if the bed will be shared or not. These will determine which bed you want; however, do not forget to factor in the size of the room. You may want a California king-sized bed but your bedroom may only fit a queen-sized bed comfortably. You need to have enough space to walk around the bed, access your closet, change the sheets and use your bedroom and other furniture normally.
Bed measurements are as follows:
For shared beds, you should have at least a full or double bed. If you are both tall people, opt for a king or California king bed; sleeping diagonally on your bed to keep your feet from hanging over the side wears the mattress in a strange way!
Twin beds and extra long twin beds are very suitable for most teenagers, and they come in as many styles and forms as the larger beds do, including bunk beds. For children who are smaller and younger than your teenager, you can use single beds or look for toddler's beds. Toddler's beds will be a bit smaller and sized perfectly for them. If you are searching for kid's beds and for more information on kid's bed sizes, read our kid's furniture buying guide for more information.
Classic bed styles never loose their appeal. They are tasteful, elegant and timeless. A good example of a classic bed style is a wrought iron bed. Brass beds are also a classic. Although metal beds seem to be the first classic beds you picture, wooden beds, in mahogany, oak, cherry, pine, maple, walnut or rosewood are also timeless bedroom furniture.
Metal beds
Traditional Victorian style wrought iron beds were hand-made; today these "antique" beds are reproduced using more efficient processes that make these beds more affordable. Because the beds are made by machine, the sizes are more predictable and made to accommodate the standard sized mattresses.
Canopy beds
Canopy beds have four posts that are connected together at the top with rods. A canopy bed is usually draped with luxurious sheer fabrics to create a romantic ambiance, but they can be left unadorned or a more light-blocking fabric can be used. The design of canopy beds is a classic; royalty used such beds. Because heat is trapped in the drapery over the canopy bed, these beds are great for colder areas.
Modern canopy beds are made from metal, usually featuring ornate designs, but can also be found in wood. Wood canopy beds can also display ornate designs, but are generally more simplistic and classic with rich finishes.
Sleigh beds
Sleigh beds are timeless and reminiscent of royal times. Sleigh beds have a headboard that is larger than the footboard, and both are curved with the tops rolling outward. Sleigh beds are made from wood and can be simple or include ornate inlays, flourishes and rich finishes.
Beds with footboards may be too constricting for tall sleepers whose feet will frequently hit the footboard. If you love the style of the sleigh bed, make sure you buy one that is long enough to keep your feet from knocking into the footboard.
Many of the classic beds can be made in a more modern style when they are made with modern materials. A classic sleigh bed will look more sleek and new in rich leather and a canopy bed more simplistic in straight lines and dark-stained, unembellished woods.
Leather beds
Leather beds blend well with homes that have a modern or contemporary style. Leather beds will also work in more traditional homes when there is a definite masculine style present. The leather used can make a big difference in the look, feel and care of the bed, so a bit of understanding of leather furniture is needed.
Platform beds
Platform beds are simple and ideal for the minimalist in you, or for your child, from teen to college student. Platform beds are low to the ground with a sleek design. The mattress is supported by slats, eliminating the need for a box spring or other mattress foundation. Sometimes platform beds can have headboards and footboards, but the main element that makes them platform beds is still the same: low to the ground.
Platform beds can be made from wood, metal or leather. Wood platform beds are the most simple (unfinished wood beds are rather like being in nature) and work well with low coffee tables, night stands and dressers. Metal platform beds are strong, sturdy and need less maintenance. The metal versions are made from tubular or sheet steel. Larger sized beds, like the queen and king beds, have an extra center support to prevent sagging.
Bunk beds
Bunk beds are twin beds stacked upon each other and are used in kids' rooms because they save space. Bunk beds can be made from wood or metal and come in several styles themselves.
Futon bunk beds and loft bunk beds are ideal space savers for your child's bedroom. The bed is lofted to the top, and underneath they can either have a futon beneath or a computer or desk workstation beneath.
Futons
Futons are a convertible bed/sofa combination. Futons are perfect for small apartments, dorm rooms and spare bedrooms. For more information on futons, please refer to our futon buying guide.
Mattresses are a tricky bed essential to buy. You want to make sure the mattress is soft, but with the right firmness, as well as durable, lump-free and exactly what you will be comfortable sleeping on night after night.
For more in depth information on how to buy mattresses, read our mattress buying guide.
Do I need a headboard?
The bed you choose could include a headboard, but you can always add one if it is not included. The function of a headboard is to keep the pillows from falling or becoming lodged between the wall and the bed. Headboards also help to cover that bare wall right behind your bed. If you read in bed frequently, a headboard will soften that cold, hard wall and keep your pillows in place.
What is a daybed ?
Day beds are beds that have a frame resembling a sofa; the frame extends along three sides to transform the bed into a seating area. Day beds usually have a space underneath where you can conceal a trundle bed, and some day beds include a trundle bed. For guest rooms, day beds with a trundle bed provide more sleeping room; you can make two beds or one large bed using a pop-up trundle bed.
Bed toppings
With your new bed, you'll also need new bedding. Shop for bedding that will truly make your bed the focus of the room. Pillows, pillow shams and cases, sheets and comforters: stick with the style of your existing d?cor or create a whole new look with your new bedding.
Bedroom storage
Although some platform beds have storage included, you may need more. Add a storage bench at the foot of your bed for a place to sit that conceals extra storage for your bed linens.
Buy sets to save money
If you want your bedroom to look pulled together and finished, shop for a bedroom set. With bedroom sets you will have your dressers and nightstands included with your bed. Your bedroom furniture will look spectacular and you will save a bundle of money.
