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:

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.