When choosing the right bed frame, there a few key considerations to keep in mind. It’s important that your bed base is suited to your mattress, and that it is the right size for your bedroom and everyone who will be using it.
Most importantly, it’s crucial that you choose the right type or style of bed frame, taking into account support capabilities, storage options and suitability to your bedroom. We discuss common types of bases in our guide below.
Pairing the right bed frame with your mattress
Checking mattress compatibility is an essential step when choosing a bed base, as the wrong pairing can affect both comfort and durability. Different mattresses are designed to work best with specific base types, so it’s important to confirm that the base provides the right kind of support.
- Adjustable bases should only be used with a mattress designed to flex and bend, either foam mattresses or spring mattresses that have special edge guard technology.
- Spring and hybrid mattresses often require even, consistent support to prevent sagging or uneven wear, so they often perform best on solid surfaces (like divan bases) rather than slats.
- Foam mattresses require bases with good ventilation, as it helps them retain their shape and performance over time.
Using a compatible base also helps the mattress respond as intended, supporting your body correctly and maintaining comfort night after night. Taking the time to match your mattress with the right base can extend its lifespan and protect your investment.
Choosing the right size bed frame
Choosing the right size bed frame is about balancing comfort with the practical layout of your bedroom or guest room. Start by considering how the bed will fit within the space alongside existing furniture, not just the room’s overall dimensions. A well-sized bed frame should allow easy movement and comfortably accommodate everyone using it.
- Measure the space where the bed will sit, accounting for wardrobes, bedside tables and drawers
- Leave enough clearance (around a metre where possible) to walk around the bed and access furniture
- Choose a bed length 10–15cm longer than the tallest sleeper to prevent them from feeling cramped, with low or open footboards for more legroom
- Ensure the width comfortably suits one or two sleepers, depending on intended use
- Check the bed base is the right size for your mattress. Your mattress should sit neatly on the base without hanging off the sides, or without leaving a large amount of bed base surface left over. For more on sizing, see our Mattress Size Guide.
Different types of bed frames and bases
The type of bed base or frame is one of the most important decisions, as it can influence the size that will best suit your space. An adjustable bed or a storage bed base will need more clearance room, for instance, while divan bases and other frames are more compact and will squeeze into tighter spots.Â
In addition to their sizes, bases differ in their construction and supportive capabilities, meaning that you should also consider the effective comfort of your bed base, whether it will support your mattress appropriately, and how long the base itself is expected to last.
Divan bed frames
A divan base is a solid platform upholstered with fabric, designed to evenly support a mattress while keeping a small, neat profile. If built with a quality internal support system, a divan bed frame will support your mattress for many years, with little chance that the mattress will sag in the middle.
When choosing a divan base, look for a sturdy internal build and check that the overall height works well with your mattress and bedroom layout. They may have glides, castors or solid feet, sometimes with customisable height options.
Wooden or metal bed frames
Wood or metal bed frames use slats to support the mattress and promote airflow. While these bed frames often have more variety in style and appearance, making them a popular choice for design’s sake, they are not all equally supportive.
Choose a frame made from quality timber with strong joints, or metal that is unlikely to rust, flake or break down. Most importantly, ensure the slats are well spaced and supportive. The distance between the slats should be no wider than the slats themselves. Larger sizes (such as Queen) need a supportive centre rail to ensure the mattress does not dip or sag.
Adjustable beds and bases
An adjustable bed features a motorised base that allows the head and foot sections to lower and raise for personalised comfort and support. Some, like the Sealy adjustable range, have additional features such as device charging, under-bed lights and in some cases, even massage functions.
When selecting an adjustable base, make sure the mattress is compatible and is designed to flex with the base. Test the smoothness and range of movement, and consider ease of control, power access and any specific comfort or health needs.
Drawer storage bed frame
A drawer storage bed combines mattress support with built-in drawers for easy-access storage. Some bases will have slats, while others have a similar construction to divan bases with a solid top.
Drawer bed frames are often customisable, with various drawer configurations to suit your bedroom layout. To choose the right option, measure the room to ensure there’s enough space for drawers to open fully and check that the base and runners feel solid and smooth. It is also a good idea to know the weight capacity for each drawer, so that you’re confident on the quality of the base and its construction.
Gas lift storage bed frame
A gas lift storage bed uses a lifting mechanism to raise the mattress and base, revealing a large storage area underneath. Like drawer bases, these beds may feature slats or sturdier divan-style support platforms. Some storage bases combine drawers and gas lifts for added convenience.
When choosing a gas lift storage base, check that the lifting action is smooth and secure, confirm there’s enough space around the bed to lift it comfortably, and look for a strong frame with good ventilation.
Key summary
- When choosing the right bed frame, ensure it is suitable for your mattress type.
- Be sure your bedroom has enough space for the bed base in question, allowing for plenty of room to access furniture and doors.
- Know the different types of bed bases and whether they’re right for you, including divans, standard frames, adjustable beds and storage beds.
Frequently asked questions
Using the right base or bed frame helps your mattress perform as designed. A compatible base improves support, comfort, ventilation and durability, while the wrong base can lead to sagging, reduced comfort and a shorter mattress lifespan.
No. Adjustable bases should only be used with mattresses designed to flex, such as foam or specially engineered spring mattresses with flexible edge support.
Not always. Spring and hybrid mattresses usually need even, consistent support and often perform better on solid bases.
Measure the available space carefully, including surrounding furniture. Allow room to walk around the bed and access drawers or wardrobes, and ensure the base matches your mattress size exactly.
Yes. Drawer, gas lift and adjustable bases require extra clearance for movement, lifting or drawer access, so it’s important to factor this into your room layout before choosing.
