Investing in a decent bed will help your sleeping hours be more comfortable and fulfilling, in turn helping you make the most of the time you’re awake. A good bed starts with a good bed frame – we’ve outlined the main types of beds below.

DIVAN BEDS
Essentially, a divan is a base, on to which you add a bed mattress and headboard, sometimes as part of a bed package. There are two types of divan bases available. Pocket sprung divans have springs in the base, offering a softer top and extra comfort. Cheaper platform top divans have a hard top and will give a firmer feel, though the overall firmness of the bed will depend on the mattress you choose.

• Pros Tends to be cheaper than other types of beds, lots of sizes, shapes and storage options. These are especially good for those who like entertaining lots of guests without filling up the room with excessive furniture.
  Cons Less ornate and stylish than other varieties of beds, only some offer storage space.

  BEDSTEADS
  Bedsteads are slatted frames (as opposed to solid bases), usually made of metal or wood and comprising a base, legs and headboard. They’re usually a more decorative option, with a variety of colours, finishes and styles – from a traditional pine bedstead to a luxurious four-poster bedstead.

  • Pros Look great, with lots of styles available, no need to buy a separate headboard.
    Cons Storing items underneath the bed can look messy; tend to be more expensive than divan beds.

    STORAGE BEDS
    As the name suggests, storage beds offer just that – lots of tidy storage options below or underneath the bed. They’re a great option if you’re short on bedroom space but want something a bit more stylish than a standard divan bed. Choose between storage drawers or an ottoman-style bed that fully lifts up, letting you store your belongings inside.

    • Pros Good for small bedrooms, lots of storage options.
      Cons Can be heavy and awkward to move or lift.

      MORE BED TYPES
      There are lots of types of beds in the market – often designed to meet a specific requirement or appeal to particular age groups. Choose from a wide variety to suit your need.

      • Sofa beds and folding beds Flexible, compact bed options that work well in a guest bedroom, or where a bed won’t be used every day.
        Bunk beds Two beds in one, for brothers and sisters in a shared bedroom – and lots of fun for kids too.
        Cot beds For smaller children, chose cot beds rather than cots.