Bed Buying Guide
Shopping for a new bed or mattress should be an exciting time, but with the amount of choices available it can quickly become quite overwhelming.
But don’t worry, Cousins have created this helpful bed buying guide to quickly explain the differences and benefits of each type of bed to you.
Divan beds
Divan beds comprise of a mattress and base that combine to give optimal comfort and support. The base is either a sprung or platform-top solid base, and on Double size beds is generally in two adjoining halves for ease of delivery and access.
A divan bed base is crafted from a wooden railed frame, covered in a layer of soft fibre and then upholstered in fabric. The base is made to the same measurements as a standard mattress, making them more compact than standard bedsteads.
A divan is useful if you are tight on space, and most have optional drawers, available in various configurations (see more below), for additional storage options to help store spare bedding and towels.
Another benefit of a divan bed is that headboards are optional, making them more suitable in loft rooms or those with sloping ceilings, where spatial height or access is an issue.
Ottoman Beds
Originating from late 18th Century Turkey, Ottoman beds allow for maximum storage space underneath the mattress. Stylish and practical, an Ottoman bed allows for discreet storage space to help keep your bedroom tidy.
An Ottoman is an ideal space to store larger items such as bulky suitcases or a large shoe collection.
This makes them a practical option if space is limited in your bedroom, but would suit larger rooms as well.
They are available as a foot-end opening ottoman or as a side-opening ottoman.
Foot-end opening ottomans are available as full or half opening ottoman storage systems depending on your need for additional storage.
Bedsteads or Bed Frames
A bedstead can help make an instant visual statement piece within your bedroom, and can provide a definite classic or contemporary look. They are available in a variety of finishes from wood, metal, fabric, leather and even mirrored panels!
The dimensions of a bedstead are slightly greater than a divan base equivalent to the standard size mattress. Most bedsteads support a mattress on a solid timber or sprung wooden slat base, allowing air to circulate around the mattress.
Storage is mostly still available with space underneath the bed, if it’s on legs.
Cousins Furniture offer bedstead delivery and assembly for your peace of mind.
Adjustable Beds
These are electronically adjustable and can be manoeuvred into different positions, and suit those with specific health or medical needs. They can make it easier for a person to get in and out of bed, and even into different positions for better reading or comfort when lying in bed, or when watching TV!
The sectioned mattress on an adjustable bed is able to lift in different parts and positions, such as the back or as a knee raise.
Guest Beds or Sofa Beds
Ideal for those last minute stop overs, big birthday parties or seasonal holidays.
A sofa bed can be useful for its dual functionality, acting as seating for either you or your guests during the day and then transforming into their bed for the night. They can be stored in any room, and don’t take up as much space when not needed. You can find a matching sofa bed style to suit your living or sleeping space, many are available with complementing standard sofas and chairs.
An alternative option is a trundle guest bed, where the spare mattress slides out from underneath the other bed.
Looking at your options
Before buying your new bed it’s important to measure your room.
Think about the size of the mattress you will need, as well as the type of bed you would like (remember that a bedstead will be typically larger than a divan bed in relation to the mattress size), as well as the additional room you will need for your drawers to fully open.
Standard mattress and divan sizes are as follows:
Small Single 75 x 190cm
Single 90 x 190cm
Small Double 120 x 190cm
Double135 x 190cm
King 150 x 200cm
Super King 180 x 200cm
Drawers are available in Single, Small Double, Double, King and Super King divans:
Made-to-measure beds
Is standard not what you’re looking for? Got a specific dimension or mattress filling in mind?
Try Cousins Bespoke Beds to design your own bed or mattress to your own personalised style, comfort and support.
For an in-depth mattress buying guide, click here
The best way of selecting the best bed and mattress for you is to visit one of our stores where we have over 80 beds on display, including all of the leading brands.
Whether you want the luxury of a natural, pocket sprung mattress from Harrison, Hypnos or Rest Assured, or a supportive memory foam mattress from Tempur, we recommend that you always try before you buy.
Speak to one of our friendly and knowledgeable sleep experts, or speak with us on live chat today.
