Buying a bed online is convenient, but you cannot lie on it first, and a bed is large, heavy and awkward to send back. A little preparation avoids most of the problems people have. This checklist covers what to check before you order, in the order you should check it, and what to look for in a retailer’s delivery, returns and warranty terms.
1. Decide what you need
Start with the basics: a complete bed or a part of one. A divan bed set includes a base and headboard. A divan base is the base only, and a mattress and headboard are bought separately. If you want storage, choose between drawers on a divan and a lift-up ottoman bed. See our divan bed vs bed frame guide if you are unsure.
2. Get the size right
UK bed sizes are standard but easy to mix up. Small Single is 2ft 6 (75cm), Single is 3ft (90cm), Small Double is 4ft (120cm), Double is 4ft 6 (135cm), King is 5ft (150cm) and Super King is 6ft (180cm). A bed and a mattress must be the same size, so check both. Always read the exact dimensions on the product page. Our guide to measuring your bedroom shows how much room each size needs.
3. Check the delivery route
Measure the front door, the hallway, the stairs and the bedroom doorway. If anything is tight, choose a split or sectional base. Many of our beds are supplied in sections, and the split platform top divan base is built for narrow stairs. Ask any retailer whether it delivers to the room you choose, and what happens if the bed will not fit.
4. Understand what delivery includes
- Cost: is delivery free, and to which areas? Remote or offshore locations may differ.
- Timing: how many days, and how will you be told?
- Who delivers: one person or two?
- Where: to the door, or the room of your choice?
- Assembly: is it included?
With us, delivery is free to mainland UK, takes 5 working days and is carried out by a two-person team to the room of your choice. Standard delivery does not include assembly. See the full terms on our delivery information page.
5. Read the returns policy properly
Returns for large furniture differ from returns for small items. Look for:
- The return window, and when it starts (for example, from delivery)
- The condition required (unused, unassembled, original packaging)
- Who pays for return shipping
- Exclusions, such as used or unsealed mattresses, made-to-order or clearance items
- How refunds are paid, and how long they take
Our returns policy allows returns within 14 days of delivery for eligible items. Read the details on our returns policy page.
6. Check the warranty
A warranty protects against manufacturing defects, not normal wear. Check how long it lasts, what it covers and what it excludes. Our beds, bases and mattresses have a 3-year manufacturer’s warranty against manufacturing defects under normal residential use, including the lift mechanism on ottoman beds. See the warranty page.
7. Look at the materials and construction
- Frame: reinforced timber with strong corner joints and a solid top is a good sign.
- Mattress: check the spring count, depth, comfort level and fillings.
- Fabric: check the fabric type and colour swatch.
- Origin: where is it made? Ours are handmade in the UK.
8. Choose the fabric and colour carefully
Colours differ between screens and rooms. View swatches in daylight, compare them with your walls and flooring, and choose a neutral if you are unsure. See our bed fabric guide.
9. Check the mattress and base work together
A divan base suits all mattress types. A slatted frame needs close slats for foam. Make sure the mattress depth suits the headboard and that the fitted sheets fit.
10. Check reviews and contact details
Check the retailer has a real address, a phone number and email. Be careful with reviews that look vague or generic, and prefer independent review sites. Contact the retailer with a question before you buy, because the speed and quality of the answer tells you a lot. Ours is support@crownrestbeds.co.uk or 020 7864 7286.
Your pre-order checklist
- Type of bed and storage chosen
- Size matches room and mattress
- Delivery route measured
- Delivery terms and timing understood
- Returns policy read, with exclusions noted
- Warranty length and coverage checked
- Fabric and colour confirmed
- Base and mattress compatible
Questions to ask a retailer before buying
- How is the bed delivered, and what if it will not fit?
- Is there a fee for missed deliveries?
- How do I report damage, and how quickly?
- What is covered by the warranty, and how do I claim?
- Can I change my order after I have placed it?
Our terms say that you should report damaged or missing items within 48 hours of delivery with clear photos, and that orders can be cancelled within 24 hours of placement. Read the full terms on our returns page and delivery page.
Red flags
- No postal address, phone number or email
- Vague delivery times or hidden fees
- No information on materials or construction
- Reviews that look generic or copied
- Pressure tactics, such as constant countdown timers
Protecting yourself
Pay using a method that offers buyer protection, such as a credit card or a recognised payment provider. Keep your order confirmation, take photos when the bed arrives and check the delivery for damage before the team leaves. Keep all packaging until you are sure you will keep the bed.
Online versus in-store
In-store buying lets you lie on a mattress, but selection and fabric choice are often wider online. If you cannot try a mattress, use the guide on choosing a mattress by sleeping position to narrow down the options, and give it a few weeks to settle.
Common questions
Can I return a bed if I change my mind?
It depends on the retailer and the item. Check the conditions, which usually require the item to be unused and in its original packaging.
How long does delivery take?
It varies. Ours takes 5 working days to mainland UK.
Should I buy the mattress and bed together?
It is convenient, but separate purchases give you more choice. Just match the size.
Browse our full range of handmade beds, made in the UK.
