A king size bed gives two people 75cm of width each, which is a good start, but the mattress matters just as much as the size. Partners often differ in weight, body temperature, sleeping position and how firm they like the bed. If you also disagree about the bedroom thermostat, you already know how this goes. This guide explains the mattress features that make the biggest difference to a shared bed, and how to find a compromise that works.

Why a king size bed helps, and where it stops

A UK king size bed is 5ft (150cm) wide and 200cm long, so it is 15cm wider and 10cm longer than a standard double. For two adults, that extra width reduces the chance of knocking into each other, and the extra length suits taller sleepers. A king size bed gives the most comfortable shared space for most bedrooms, with a super king (180cm) the next step up if you have the room. But size does not decide how well the mattress copes with two different bodies, and that is where the mattress type counts.

Motion transfer: feeling your partner move

If one person moves a lot, the other can feel it through the mattress. The main factor is the spring system:

• Pocket sprung mattresses have each spring wrapped in its own fabric pocket, so springs move independently. This reduces movement across the bed. A higher spring count, such as 2000 or 3000, means more springs and finer, more localised support. Examples are our Elysia luxury orthopaedic pocket mattress and Naturelax 3000 luxury natural pocket mattress.
• Memory foam layers absorb movement and mould to each sleeper, which also helps isolate motion. The Memory 1200 orthopaedic pocket mattress combines pocket springs with a memory foam layer.
• Open coil mattresses link the springs together, so movement travels more across the bed. They are usually firmer and more economical, but less suited to light sleepers.

Different weights on the same mattress

A heavier sleeper compresses a mattress more than a lighter one. On a simple foam or open coil mattress this can create a dip on one side. Pocket springs respond independently on each side, and a reinforced edge-to-edge border keeps the surface level and the sleeping area wide. Look for a high spring count, a good depth, and a firmer support level if one of you is considerably heavier. Many of our mattresses are around 25cm deep with reinforced edge support.

Firmness: finding the compromise

Firmness is the most common point of disagreement. In general:

• Side sleepers often like a little more give at the shoulders and hips.
• Back and front sleepers usually prefer firmer support to keep the spine aligned.

When one partner prefers soft and the other firm, a medium or medium-firm mattress is usually the best middle ground. You can add comfort to the firmer side with a mattress topper. Each product page lists the comfort level, so you can compare, for example the firm Sultan luxury orthopaedic mattress against the medium Arctic 2000 hydro-gel mattress.

Temperature: one hot, one cold

People who sleep hot want a mattress that vents heat, and cold sleepers want one that holds warmth. A few features help:

• Hydro-gel layers help dissipate body heat, which suits warm sleepers.
• Natural fillings such as wool and cotton manage moisture and regulate temperature through the seasons.
• Breathable covers and side vents promote airflow.

Separate duvets, one per person, are the simplest fix for different temperatures, and they are common in the UK and Europe. They also stop one person pulling the covers.

Edge support and using the whole bed

On a shared bed, both partners tend to sleep near the edges, so a strong, reinforced border matters. It stops the edges sagging when you sit on them and lets you use the full width. Look for edge-to-edge support in the product details.

Which mattress for which couple?

• Light sleeper and restless partner: a pocket sprung mattress with a high spring count and a memory foam layer
• Different weights: firmer pocket sprung or orthopaedic, with reinforced edges
• One hot sleeper: a hydro-gel or natural fibre mattress
• Back pain concerns: a firm orthopaedic mattress, and ask your GP or physio about persistent pain

Browse our full range of mattresses and filter by size. You can also pair a mattress with an ottoman storage bed or a divan bed in king size, with a headboard that spans the full width.

Five couple profiles and what to choose

1. One light sleeper, one restless sleeper

Choose a pocket sprung mattress with a high spring count and a memory foam layer. The independent springs limit movement, and the foam absorbs it. A reinforced edge lets the restless sleeper use the whole bed without disturbing the other.

2. Different weights

Choose a firmer pocket sprung or orthopaedic mattress with a good depth. A firmer mattress holds shape under the heavier sleeper, and independent springs let the lighter sleeper stay supported. Check the edge reinforcement.

3. One hot, one cold

Choose a breathable mattress, such as a natural or hydro-gel option, and use separate duvets, so each of you can choose your own warmth. A cold sleeper can add a throw without affecting the other.

4. Different sleeping positions

A side sleeper and a back sleeper want different surfaces. A medium-firm mattress with a comfort layer suits both reasonably well. A mattress topper on one side can fine-tune it.

5. Early riser and late sleeper

Motion isolation is what counts. Pocket springs and foam both help, and a stable base prevents creaks. A solid divan base is quieter than many frames.

Do you need a mattress topper?

A topper can adjust the feel of a mattress without replacing it, adding softness to a firm mattress or comfort to one side. It does not fix a worn mattress. If your mattress is more than 7 to 10 years old or sagging, replace it rather than topping it.

Partner differences in the bedroom setup

• Light: if one of you reads late, use directional bedside lamps and a headboard that is comfortable to lean on. See our headboard style guide.
• Bedding: two single-width duvets avoid the tug-of-war and make washing easier.
• Space: a wide bed and a blanket box at the foot give each person a surface for their things.

How to test before you commit

1. Decide what you need from the mattress: support, cooling, motion isolation or all three.
2. Compare the comfort level and spring count on each product page.
3. Choose a medium or medium-firm option if you disagree on firmness.
4. Allow a few weeks for your bodies to adjust to the new mattress.

Our king size ottoman storage beds and divan beds suit any of the mattresses above.

Common questions

Do I need a bigger mattress if one of us is heavy?

Size helps, but the construction matters more. A higher spring count, a deeper mattress and a firmer support level cope better with different weights.

Is a king size enough for two adults?

Yes. It gives each adult 75cm. A super king (180cm) is more spacious if you have the room.

Can two single mattresses make a king?

Two 2ft 6 mattresses together make a 5ft width, and two 3ft mattresses make a 6ft super king. Our Zip & Link bases are designed to join in this way, and let each person choose their own firmness. See our guide to divan base types.

All our mattresses are made in the UK, with free delivery to mainland UK in 5 working days and a 3-year warranty.

A spare room rarely has just one job. It is a guest room for a few nights a year, and the rest of the time it becomes a home office, a hobby room or a store for things with nowhere else to go. A single bed is the natural fit because it takes little floor space, but the room only works well when the bed, storage and layout are planned together. These ideas help you set up a spare room that guests enjoy and that you can use all year.

Start with the bed, because it decides the room

A standard UK single bed is 3ft (90cm) wide and 190cm long, so it takes up about 1.7 square metres. Our single beds also come in Small Single (2ft 6, 75cm) on many products, for the tightest spaces. Pushing the bed against a wall frees one side of the room and leaves a clear path on the other. Put the head of the bed on the wall that is farthest from the door, so a guest is not disturbed by someone walking past.

Choose a base that stores things

In a small room, the biggest gain comes from the space under the bed. Two options work well:

• An ottoman bed. The whole platform lifts on gas-assisted hinges to reveal a large space for spare bedding, towels and a suitcase. We explain what to keep in one in our guide to storing things in an ottoman bed. Look at our ottoman storage beds.
• A divan with drawers. Optional drawers on many divan beds give you everyday access to linen without lifting the bed, which suits a room that is used often.

Either option lets you keep the guest linen in the guest room, so you are not searching the house when someone arrives.

Make the bed flexible with Zip & Link

If the room might host children, friends or a couple at different times, a Zip & Link base is worth a look. It is made as two bases that you can use as two single beds or connect into one larger bed. We offer the Zip & Link platform top divan base and the storage version, the Zip and Link ottoman divan bed base. Two singles also work well for friends or siblings who want separate beds.

Add a headboard for comfort, not just looks

A guest will often read, scroll on a phone or have a cup of tea in bed, so a padded headboard is a real comfort. It also protects the wall and finishes the look so the bed feels like a proper bed, not a spare mattress on a frame. Our upholstered headboards come in winged, buttoned, panelled and modern designs, and suit standard UK divan and ottoman bases. A plain panelled or smooth design looks neat in a small room. Try the flat minimalist modern headboard for a clean look.

Layout ideas for a small room

• Keep the floor clear. Use the bed as the main furniture and add only one other piece, such as a narrow chest or a desk.
• Use the foot of the bed. A narrow ottoman storage box fits at the foot of a single bed, adding a seat and storage for extra blankets.
• Use the wall, not the floor. Shelves above the bed or hooks on the back of the door hold coats and bags without taking space.
• Keep colours calm. A single fabric colour on the bed and headboard makes a small room feel larger.

Bedding and layers for guests

Guests like to adjust to the temperature, so layers work better than a single heavy duvet. A mid-weight duvet with a spare blanket on the ottoman box lets guests decide. Keep a spare pillow in a different firmness, and a mattress protector under the sheet to protect the mattress. Choose a mattress that suits most people, such as a medium-firm pocket sprung option, so the bed is comfortable for a range of sleepers.

The small touches that make a guest welcome

• A bedside table or shelf with a reading light and a charging cable
• A spare towel and a small bottle of water on the bed
• A mirror or hook for coats, so the bag has somewhere to go
• Blackout curtains or a blind if the room faces a street light

Plan the delivery

Spare rooms are often up the stairs and at the end of a narrow landing. Measure the route before you order. If the stairs turn tightly, choose a split or quarter split base, such as the split platform top divan base. Many of our beds are supplied in sections to make carrying easier. See our full guide on measuring for a new bed.

Three guest-room set-ups to copy

The occasional guest room

The room is used a few times a year. Choose an ottoman single bed in a neutral textured fabric, keep guest linen inside the base, and add a simple headboard. The rest of the time it works as a hobby room or store, and the bed looks neat and tidy.

The home-office guest room

You work here during the day and host guests occasionally. Put the desk by the window and the bed along the opposite wall, with the headboard against a solid wall. Use under-bed storage for the linen and keep the floor clear for a chair. A smooth, flat headboard stays out of the way.

The flexible twin room

When children or friends visit, you need two beds. A Zip & Link base can be set up as two single beds and joined for couples. See our divan base types guide to compare options.

Lighting and atmosphere

Lighting changes how welcoming a spare room feels. Combine:

• A bedside lamp in warm white, with a switch within reach of the bed
• A ceiling or overhead light on a dimmer, if possible
• A small night light for guests who need to find the bathroom

A warm tone makes a small room feel calmer. Cool white lights suit work, but they are harsher at night.

Bedding that suits most people

You cannot know a guest’s preferences, so choose neutral, adjustable bedding. A mid-weight duvet (about 10.5 tog) suits most seasons, with an extra blanket available. A choice of two pillows, one firmer and one softer, is welcome. Keep a mattress protector on the bed, and wash the bedding between visits.

Making it feel like a room, not a store

• Clear surfaces and put items in boxes, so the room does not look like storage
• Use a rug under the foot of the bed for a soft landing
• Hang a mirror and a picture to personalise the space
• Keep one or two plants or fresh flowers for a lived-in feel

Choosing the mattress

For a guest room, choose a medium-firm pocket sprung mattress, which suits most sleepers. See our mattress guide to compare comfort levels, and browse the single-size mattresses.

Common questions

What size is a single bed?

A standard UK single is 3ft (90cm) wide and 190cm long. A Small Single is 2ft 6 (75cm) wide.

Can a single bed have storage?

Yes. A single ottoman bed lifts to reveal a large storage space, and a single divan can have drawers.

How do I make a spare room work as an office too?

Choose a bed with storage so that bedding is out of sight, keep the layout simple and use the headboard wall for the bed so the desk can sit by a window.

All of our single beds are handmade in the UK, with free delivery to mainland UK in 5 working days and a 3-year warranty.

A Small Double (4ft) and a Double (4ft 6) sound close, and on paper they are only 15cm apart. In a bedroom that difference can decide whether the room feels comfortable or cramped, and in the bed it changes how much space each sleeper gets. This guide compares the two sizes on room fit, sleeping space, bedding and everyday use, so you can pick the right one.

The sizes at a glance

• Small Double: 4ft wide (about 120cm) and 190cm long
• Double: 4ft 6 wide (about 135cm) and 190cm long

Both are the same length. The only difference is the width, and the 15cm is about the width of a large hardback book. It matters more than it sounds. Check the exact dimensions on each product page, because some mattress and bed sizes differ slightly between makers.

How much space each sleeper gets

Shared between two people, a Small Double gives each person 60cm of width. That is about the width of a standard cot, and less than the 75cm or more most adults take up in their sleep. A Double gives 67.5cm each, which is more comfortable but still tight for two adults. If two adults will share the bed every night, a king size bed at 150cm is the more comfortable choice. For one adult, a Small Double is a generous single bed; for a single sleeper who likes to spread out, a Double gives plenty of room.

Which suits your room?

With 60cm of walking space on each side, a Small Double needs a room about 2.4m wide and a Double about 2.55m wide. If the bed is against one wall, you can fit either in a much smaller room. Small Doubles are common in box rooms, guest rooms, loft conversions and rooms where the door or wardrobe limits the space. If your room is at least 2.6m wide and you want a comfortable adult bed, a Double is usually the better choice. For tips, see our guide to measuring your bedroom for a new bed.

Bedding and accessories

Double bedding is easier to find than Small Double, because the 4ft 6 size is the UK standard. That means more choice and usually lower prices for sheets, duvets and mattress protectors. Small Double bedding is available but in a narrower range. If you use a standard double duvet on a Small Double bed, it will overhang, which can look untidy but also keeps you warm.

Mattress and bed choice

Almost every mattress type is available in both sizes, including pocket sprung, memory foam and orthopaedic. Our mattress range covers sizes from Small Single to Super King. On the bed side, many of our divan beds, ottoman storage beds and bases come in both Small Double and Double, with a matching headboard in the same width.

Who should choose which?

Choose a Small Double if:

• the bed is for one adult and the room is small
• you are furnishing a box room, guest room or attic room
• you want a bed that feels bigger than a single without taking over the room

Choose a Double if:

• the bed will be shared by two people occasionally or every night
• you like to spread out when you sleep
• you want the widest choice of bedding and accessories
• the room is at least 2.6m wide

Consider a King if:

• two adults will share the bed every night and the room has space for 2.7m of width

Storage on a smaller bed

If you are choosing a smaller bed because space is limited, storage becomes more important. An ottoman base lifts to open one large space for bedding and clothes, and a divan with drawers gives everyday access. Either can free a wardrobe and make the room feel less cluttered. See our guide on what to store in an ottoman bed.

Comfort in practice: what 15cm feels like

On paper, 15cm sounds small. In practice, it shows up in three situations.

Sleeping alone

A single adult in a Small Double has plenty of room to turn, with space for a pet or a child’s visit. A Double gives more freedom to spread out and keeps bedding and pillows from falling off the side. If you move a lot in your sleep, the extra width is noticeable.

Sharing the bed for a few nights

For occasional guests, a Small Double works as a compact double. A couple can share it for a weekend, though it will be snug. A Double is more forgiving, and guests are likely to sleep better.

Sharing the bed every night

For two adults who sleep together every night, a Small Double is too small and a Double is the minimum. Many couples find a king size far more comfortable.

Room layouts: what fits where

• A box room of about 2m by 2.5m: a Small Double against a wall leaves a narrow walkway. A Double may be too tight.
• A small double bedroom of about 2.8m by 3m: a Double fits with space for bedside tables and a wardrobe.
• A loft room with sloping ceilings: a Small Double is easier to fit under the slope, with a low headboard.

If you are unsure, tape the bed outline on the floor. Our guide to measuring a bedroom explains how.

Mattress choice at 4ft and 4ft 6

Pocket sprung, memory foam and orthopaedic mattresses are widely available in both sizes. The Double has the widest choice, including more fabric and tension options. If you want a specific mattress, check that it comes in the size you want. Our mattresses come in Small Single, Single, Small Double, Double, King and Super King.

Upgrading later

If you buy a Small Double now and later move to a bigger room, you will need a new base and mattress. If you think you may upgrade, a Double is a safer long-term choice. If you plan to stay in a small room, a Small Double with built-in storage can be perfect.

Storage matters more in smaller beds

Both sizes are available with an ottoman base or divan drawers. With less floor space, the storage under the bed often makes the difference between a calm room and a cluttered one. Read our small bedroom storage ideas for more.

Common questions

Is a small double big enough for two people?

For short-term use, yes. For regular use, a Double or King is more comfortable.

Can I use a double mattress on a small double base?

No. The mattress and base need to match in size, or the mattress will overhang and wear unevenly.

What is the best size for a guest room?

A Double suits most guest rooms because it is the most flexible, and it gives couples a reasonable amount of space.

All of our beds are handmade in the UK with free delivery to mainland UK in 5 working days, and come with a 3-year warranty. Browse the full range of double beds to compare styles.

A divan base looks simple, but the range of types is wider than most people realise. The right base depends on your mattress, your storage needs, your room and, just as important, whether it will fit up the stairs. This guide explains each type we make, who it suits and what to check before you order.

What every divan base has in common

Our divan bases use a reinforced timber frame with strong corner joints and a solid top that spreads your weight evenly across the mattress. They work with memory foam, pocket sprung, orthopaedic and hybrid mattresses, come in sizes from Small Single to Super King and can be upholstered in a wide choice of fabrics and colours. The differences are in the top, the construction and the storage.

Platform top divan base

The platform top is the classic design: a flat, firm top with an anti-slip surface that holds the mattress in place. It suits almost any bedroom and any mattress, and many versions can be fitted with optional drawers. Examples include our premium platform top divan base, reinforced platform top divan base and heavy duty platform top base. If you are unsure which to choose, a platform top is the safest all-round choice.

Cushioned top divan base

The cushioned top divan base adds a soft cushioned layer under the mattress. It gives a slightly gentler feel than a standard platform and suits people who like a softer overall bed. The solid frame underneath is still reinforced for support.

Floating low divan base

The floating low divan base has a low profile that appears to hover above the floor, giving a modern, minimalist look. It suits contemporary bedrooms and lower ceilings, where a tall bed would dominate the room.

Split divan base

A split base is built in two sections that are carried separately and joined in the bedroom. If your home has narrow stairs, tight turns or small doorways, a split base can mean the difference between a bed that arrives easily and one that cannot be delivered. Our split platform top divan base is made for exactly this.

Zip & Link divan base

A Zip & Link base is made as two bases that can be used as two single beds or connected to create a larger sleeping surface. They are popular for guest rooms, holiday lets and children’s rooms that become guest rooms later. We offer the Zip & Link platform top divan base in two lengths, and a version with ottoman storage, the Zip and Link ottoman divan bed base.

Storage divan bases

If the space under the bed is wasted, a storage base is worth considering:

• End lift ottoman base: opens from the foot of the bed on a hydraulic gas-lift. A good choice when side access is limited. See the luxury end lift storage ottoman divan base.
• Side lift ottoman base: opens from the side, which suits rooms where end access is restricted. See the luxury side lift storage ottoman divan base.
• Quarter split end lift base: an end lift made in sections for narrow stairs and hallways: the quarter split end lift ottoman divan base.
• Suitcase storage hideaway base: discreet suitcase-style compartments for bedding and clothes: the suitcase storage hideaway divan base.

For a complete bed with a lift-up base, see our ottoman storage beds.

Which base should you choose?

• Everyday main bedroom: platform top or cushioned top
• Narrow stairs or tight access: split or quarter split
• Guest room or twin-to-double flexibility: Zip & Link
• Lots of clutter and little storage: ottoman or suitcase hideaway base
• Modern, low look: floating low

What to check before you order

1. Mattress size. Choose the base in the same size as your mattress. Standard UK sizes are Small Single (2ft 6), Single (3ft), Small Double (4ft), Double (4ft 6), King (5ft) and Super King (6ft).
2. Mattress depth and type. Any mattress works, but a thicker mattress raises the overall bed height.
3. Storage direction. Decide if drawers or a lift mechanism suits the space around the bed.
4. Delivery route. Measure the stairs and doorways, and choose a split base if access is tight.
5. Headboard. A base is sold on its own, so add a headboard from our headboard range, or choose a complete divan bed set.

Height, feet and the look of the bed

Two bases of the same size can sit at very different heights, depending on the base depth, the feet and the mattress. When you plan the bed, think about:

• Getting in and out. A bed that is too low is hard to get out of; one that is too high can be awkward to get into. Many people like the top of the mattress at about knee height.
• Glider feet. Our bases use chrome-effect glider feet that lift the base slightly off the floor and let it slide on carpet or wood. A floating base gives a deliberately low look.
• Mattress depth. A deep mattress, such as the 25cm ones in our range, raises the bed. A deep mattress on a tall base can make the bed feel high.

Check the dimensions on each product page and think about whether the overall height suits you.

Drawers: the options and the trade-offs

Many platform top and cushioned top bases can be fitted with optional drawers. Before you choose, consider:

• Which side? Drawers can sit on the side or the end of the base. Choose the side that has clear floor space.
• How many? More drawers mean more storage, but the drawers take space in the base and may limit the lift mechanism, so you cannot have both on the same base.
• What will you store? Drawers suit clothes and bedding you use often. An ottoman base suits bulkier items. For ideas on what to put in each, see our ottoman bed storage guide.

Why the top surface matters

The top of a base matters because it supports the mattress directly. A solid platform top spreads the weight evenly, and an anti-slip finish keeps the mattress from sliding. This is important for memory foam and pocket sprung mattresses, which need consistent support. A weak or uneven surface can shorten the life of a mattress and affect comfort. See our guide to mattress and base care.

Matching the base to the headboard

A base is usually bought on its own, so you need a headboard for the finished bed. Our headboards fit standard UK divan and ottoman bases. If you want everything to match, choose a divan bed set or an ottoman set, where the headboard and base are designed together. If you prefer to mix fabrics, a neutral base with a bold headboard is a popular approach.

Two example setups

The practical main bedroom

A reinforced platform top base in a neutral textured fabric, with drawers on one side, a pocket sprung mattress and a panelled headboard. It is durable, easy to keep clean and works with most decor.

The small, flexible guest room

A Zip & Link base used as two singles with a simple headboard each, which can be joined into one larger bed when a couple visits. It uses the room well and can change as needs change.

Warranty and build quality

Look for a reinforced timber frame, strong corner joints and a solid top. Every base we make is handmade in the UK and covered by a 3-year manufacturer’s warranty against manufacturing defects under normal residential use. Read the warranty terms for details.

Common questions

Can I put a memory foam mattress on a divan base?

Yes. A solid platform top gives memory foam the even support it needs.

Do I need a headboard with a divan base?

You do not need one, but most people want one for comfort and appearance. Our headboards are designed to fit standard UK divan and ottoman bases.

Is delivery free?

Yes. Delivery is free to mainland UK in 5 working days, with a two-person team who bring the base to the room of your choice. Every base is handmade in the UK and covered by a 3-year warranty.

The choice between a divan bed and a bed frame comes down to how you live in the room. Both are good beds, and the right one depends on storage, how you want the bedroom to look, the mattress you own and how the bed will be delivered. This guide compares them on the points that actually change your day-to-day experience.

What is the difference?

A divan bed is a solid, upholstered base that supports the mattress directly, usually sold with a headboard. A bed frame is an open structure, typically with a headboard and footboard, with slats or a mesh base to hold the mattress above the floor on legs. Divans are upholstered in fabric from top to bottom. Frames can be wood, metal or upholstered.

Storage

This is the biggest practical difference. A divan can hold storage inside the base: optional drawers on the side or end, or a lift-up ottoman base that opens to a single large space. Our ottoman storage beds use gas-assisted hinges to raise the whole platform, which can hold bedding, off-season clothes and suitcases. A bed frame leaves the space underneath open. You can slide boxes under it, but you will see them, and the space is harder to use well.

Look and feel

A divan has a clean, continuous finish that works with both modern and traditional rooms, and the fabric and colour are your choice. Frames show more of their structure and can suit a rustic or period look. Divans often sit lower to the floor than frames on tall legs, though this depends on the legs you choose.

Mattress support

A divan with a solid platform top gives even support across the whole mattress and an anti-slip surface that keeps it in place. This suits pocket sprung, memory foam, orthopaedic and hybrid mattresses. With a slatted frame the mattress needs the right slat spacing, because foam mattresses can sag between wide gaps. If you are choosing a frame, check the slat spacing before you buy. Our platform top divan base is built with a solid top and reinforced corner joints for this reason.

Airflow

A slatted frame gives a little more airflow around the mattress than a solid base. A divan can have small ventilation holes or a breathable top, but the airflow is less open. If you tend to sleep hot, a breathable mattress matters more than the base. Our mattresses include hydro-gel cooling and natural organic options for this.

Cleaning and dust

With a frame you can see and clean under the bed. With a divan on glider feet, the base sits close to the floor and is sealed, so there is less to collect dust underneath. If you have a robot vacuum or want to see under the bed, a frame with legs is easier. Divan fabric can be vacuumed with an upholstery brush.

Delivery and assembly

Divan bases and frames both arrive in parts. Many of our beds are supplied in sections, and we also make split and quarter split bases for narrow stairs and tight hallways. A solid divan can be bulkier than a flat-pack frame, so it is worth checking your access before ordering. Our two-person delivery team brings the bed to your chosen room.

Which suits you?

A divan bed is usually better if you:

• want storage built in, with drawers or an ottoman base
• prefer a clean, upholstered look with a matching headboard
• use a foam or pocket sprung mattress that needs even support
• want to choose your own fabric and colour

A bed frame is usually better if you:

• like to see the floor under the bed and clean it easily
• want a more open, airy or rustic look
• already own a slatted-friendly mattress and do not need storage

A middle option

If you like the look of a divan but are not sure about storage, start with a plain divan base and add a headboard you love. You can add drawers on many bases, and change the headboard later without changing the base. Or take a complete divan bed set, which includes a matching headboard. Every bed we make is handmade in the UK and covered by a 3-year warranty against manufacturing defects.

Real-life scenarios

The best way to see the difference is to look at how each base fits particular rooms and households.

A small bedroom with no wardrobe space

Here a divan wins on storage. A lift-up ottoman base gives you room for a spare duvet, off-season clothes and a suitcase, which can take the place of a chest of drawers. A frame leaves the space open but unused. See how it works in our guide to small bedroom storage ideas.

A rented flat that you may move from

Think about how the bed will move. A frame that dismantles into slats and rails is easier to move than a bulky base, but a divan made in sections or a split base can also be carried. If you expect to move often, check how the bed comes apart and whether it fits through your usual doorways and stairs.

A family home with pets and children

A divan covered in a textured fabric hides marks well and has no gaps where small objects can disappear. A frame with an open base lets pets and toys vanish underneath. If you have a robot vacuum, a frame with legs is easier to clean beneath.

A hot sleeper

The mattress matters more than the base. A breathable mattress, such as a hydro-gel or natural option, does more for temperature than a slatted frame. See our mattress guide.

Myths about divan beds

“Divan beds are old-fashioned.”

Divans have changed. Modern designs use tailored fabrics, matching headboards and slim glider feet, and suit contemporary rooms as well as traditional ones. A floating low base, such as our floating low divan base, has a distinctly modern look.

“A divan is always firmer.”

The firmness comes from the mattress. A divan gives a stable, even surface, but a soft mattress on a divan still feels soft. A cushioned top, such as on our cushioned top divan base, adds a slightly gentler layer.

“A divan has no airflow.”

Airflow is lower than a slatted frame, but a breathable mattress and regular airing keep the bed fresh. Turn back the covers in the morning, and let the mattress breathe.

How to choose with confidence

1. Decide whether storage is a priority. If yes, choose a divan or an ottoman base.
2. Check your mattress type and the support it needs.
3. Decide on the look you want in the room.
4. Measure the delivery route and room.
5. Check the warranty. Ours covers manufacturing defects for 3 years.

If you are still undecided, a divan bed set is a safe, versatile choice, with optional drawers for storage and a matching headboard.

Common questions

Are divan beds comfortable?

Comfort comes mostly from the mattress. A divan gives a firm, stable foundation, and the mattress you place on it sets how soft or firm the bed feels.

Do divan beds last long?

A divan with a reinforced timber frame, strong corner joints and a solid top is built for years of use. Ours are covered by a 3-year manufacturer’s warranty against manufacturing defects under normal residential use.

Can I use any mattress on a divan?

Yes. A divan base works with memory foam, pocket sprung, orthopaedic and hybrid mattresses in the matching size.

Most people measure the bed and forget to measure everything around it. A bed that technically fits the room can still leave you squeezing past a radiator, unable to open a wardrobe door, or unable to get the bed up the stairs in the first place. This guide walks through the measurements that actually matter, in the order you should take them, with room-size guidance for each UK bed size.

Why the bed size is only half the measurement

A bed is a fixed block in the room, and a headboard adds depth and height on top of the mattress dimensions. Around it you need space to walk, make the bed, open drawers and doors, and, if you choose storage, space for the storage to open. Planning for all of this before you order avoids the two most common problems: a bed that is too big for the room, and a bed that cannot be delivered.

Step 1: Measure the room and mark the obstacles

Measure the width and length of the wall where the bed will sit, then note everything that limits the layout:

• Radiators, skirting boards and sockets on the bed wall
• Window sills and the height of any window behind the headboard
• The swing of the bedroom door, wardrobe doors and chest of drawers
• Sloping ceilings or chimney breasts that limit headboard height

Sketch the room on paper and mark each item with its measurements. It takes ten minutes and saves a lot of guesswork.

Step 2: Allow walking space around the bed

A common rule of thumb is to leave around 60 to 70cm (about two feet) of clear floor on each side of the bed that you will use, and roughly the same at the foot if there is a door or wardrobe there. If you want to sit on the edge of the bed to put on shoes, or you have a bedside table, allow more. The list below gives a rough guide to minimum room widths for each size with 60cm on both sides.

• Single (3ft, 90cm wide): around 2.1m minimum room width
• Small Double (4ft, 120cm wide): around 2.4m
• Double (4ft 6, 135cm wide): around 2.55m
• King size (5ft, 150cm wide): around 2.7m
• Super king (6ft, 180cm wide): around 3m

If the bed sits in a corner or against one wall, you only need the clearance on the open side, so a larger bed becomes possible in a smaller room. Standard UK mattresses are 190cm long, or 200cm for king and super king, so add the mattress length, the headboard depth and about 60cm at the foot to check the length of the room too.

Step 3: Think about height as well as floor space

A headboard changes how a bed looks and how much wall it covers. Check where any headboard would reach against windows, shelves, radiator pipes and sloping ceilings. Our upholstered headboards come in a wide range of styles, so you can pick one that suits a window sill or a sloping roof. Check each product page for its exact dimensions.

Step 4: Plan the storage you will open

Storage affects the layout more than people expect. Drawers on a divan bed need clear floor to pull out. An ottoman bed lifts from the foot or the side, so decide which side has the room to open it. If the foot of the bed is close to a wall or a door, a side lift can work better; if the sides are tight, an end lift is usually the better choice. We explain the difference in our guide to what to store in an ottoman bed.

Step 5: Check the delivery route

This is the step most people skip. Measure the front door, hallway width, the turn at the bottom and top of the stairs, and the bedroom doorway. A bed is delivered in parts, but a base or a mattress can still be awkward in a narrow stairwell. If your access is tight:

• Choose a split base. Our split platform top divan base is built in sections that are easier to carry through narrow stairs and hallways.
• Look at a quarter split option such as the quarter split end lift storage ottoman divan base, designed for narrow staircases and tight hallways.
• Check the product page: many of our beds are supplied in sections for easier handling.

Our delivery team is a two-person crew who carry the bed to the room you choose. You can read the full terms on our delivery information page.

Step 6: Test it on the floor

Before you order, mark the bed on the floor with masking tape or lay cardboard where the mattress will sit. Add a tape line for the headboard. Then walk around the space, open the wardrobe and the door, and stand where the bedside table would go. If anything feels tight, drop to a smaller size or change the layout. It is much easier to fix at this point than after delivery.

A quick checklist before you buy

• Room width and length, plus obstacles and door swings
• At least 60cm of clear floor on each used side of the bed
• Headboard height against windows, shelves and sloping ceilings
• The direction your storage will open (drawers, end lift or side lift)
• Front door, hallway, stairs and bedroom doorway for delivery
• Mattress size that matches the bed, so base and mattress fit together

Three layouts to try before you decide

Most bedrooms fit one of three layouts, and trying each on paper shows quickly which bed size works.

Bed centred on the longest wall

This is the classic layout, with a bedside table either side. It looks balanced and gives access on both sides, but it needs the most width. Use the width figures above, add 40 to 50cm per side for a bedside table, and check you can still open the door fully.

Bed in a corner or against one side wall

Pushing one long side against a wall frees a lot of floor, and it is the most common solution in small rooms and children’s rooms. The trade-off is that one person has to climb in over the foot, and making the bed is harder. If two people share the bed, a corner position is rarely practical. For a single sleeper in a box room, it can turn a single or Small Double bed into a very workable layout.

Bed under a window or a sloping ceiling

This works in loft rooms and bays, but check the headboard height and how the window opens. A low, smooth headboard is easier to live with than a tall winged design. A taller design is better on a flat wall where it can make a statement.

Mistakes people make when measuring

• Measuring from the skirting board, not the usable floor. Skirting, radiators and cable runs reduce the space you really have.
• Forgetting the door swing. A door that opens onto the foot of the bed and hits it is the most common layout error.
• Ignoring the headboard depth. A thick, padded headboard can take several centimetres of room length, which matters in a tight space.
• Not allowing for bedding. A thick duvet and throw hang over the sides, so the bed looks wider than the mattress.
• Skipping the delivery route. A base that does not turn the corner at the top of the stairs is a disaster on delivery day.

A worked example

Take a typical UK double bedroom measuring 3.2m by 3.5m, with a door in one corner and a window on the opposite wall. A king size bed is 1.5m wide, so with 60cm on each side the room needs 2.7m of width, and the 3.2m width allows about 85cm on each side. The bed is 2m long plus a 10cm headboard, which leaves 1.4m at the foot for a chest of drawers or blanket box. A super king bed at 1.8m wide would leave only about 70cm each side, which is workable but tighter. This is the sort of quick calculation that stops a bed from dominating a room.

What if the room is very small?

In a very small room, the answer is usually a smaller bed with storage, not a larger one with a cramped layout. A Small Double bed with an ottoman base often gives more usable space than a double with a wardrobe squeezed in. Choose a slim, smooth headboard and a light fabric colour. If the room is narrow, put the bed on the short wall, which can leave a clear walkway along one side.

Take photos and keep your notes

Photograph the room, the stairs and the doorways, and keep your measurements on your phone. If you contact a retailer with a question, such as whether a split base is needed, these details let them give a precise answer. For more on delivery planning, our delivery information page explains what our delivery team provides.

Common questions

Can I fit a king size bed in a small room?

Sometimes. A king size bed needs about 2.7m of width with 60cm each side. If one side of the bed is against a wall, you can manage with much less. Mark it on the floor to check.

What size is a UK double bed?

A standard UK double is 4ft 6 (135cm) wide and 190cm long. A Small Double is 4ft (120cm) wide.

Do I need to leave space for an ottoman bed to lift?

Yes. The base lifts from either the foot or the side, so leave enough clear floor and headroom for the platform to rise. Check which direction suits your room before you choose.

Once you know your measurements, browse our full range of handmade beds, from divan sets to ottoman storage beds. Every bed is handmade in the UK, with free delivery to mainland UK in 5 working days and a 3-year warranty.