It’s not every day you stop and think about the top edge of your bed. Most of us are too busy fussing over the best mattresses, cosy duvets, and stylish cushions. But here’s the thing: the headboard collar – the trim, ruffle, or wooden frame at the very top of your headboard – is the unsung hero of bedroom design. Often overlooked, it’s a detail that can take a bed from pretty to perfection.

So, what is a headboard collar exactly? Think of it as the finishing flourish on your bed, rather like a literal collar on your clothes or necklace that you've put on to add impact to an outfit.

'The headboard collar is a place to add a bit of visual intrigue and dovetail your bed into your overall bedroom design,' adds Georgia Metcalfe, founder and creative director of French Bedroom. 'For example, a plain collar around the headbands gives a framing effect to a patterned headboard design making it the unmistakable centrepiece, whilst a ruffled headboard collar will sit with a more cottagecore or vintage theme.'

'For me, it’s a way of showing you have thought of every nuanced element within your bedroom - and the more you look the more you notice!'

It’s not just about looks. 'A well-designed headboard collar can subtly change how a bed feels to lean against at night – it’s these tactile details that make your bedroom feel both beautiful and comforting,' says our Sleep Editor Amy Lockwood.

'If you’re creating a sanctuary for sleep, small design details like the headboard collar can make a surprising difference in how inviting and cosy your bed feels.'

Choosing the right collar is about considering your style, texture, and the overall room scheme. A soft, ruffled collar suits a romantic, vintage feel; a sleek, wooden frame works in a modern, minimalist space. You can go for an oversized collar on an oversiz

Match or contrast with your bedding to create cohesion, or let it stand out as a playful accent. 'If you are a fan of detail then it’s definitely worth considering a contrasting or cohesive headboard collar, just as you would a trim on a lampshade, or the cuffs on a blouse,' suggests Georgia.

Play around with proportions, too. A large collar on a smaller headboard could add an interesting contrast, or a subtle bit of piping on an oversized headboard.

Hardboard collars we love

The headboard collar might be a small element in the space, but it says a lot about your bedroom. It shows thought, intention, and a designer’s eye for detail. And while it’s often overlooked, it’s the little things that make a room feel polished, luxurious and just that bit more special.

Stop what you're doing because I’m possibly about to bring you the best discount of the year - DUSK is selling their stunning Ascot Ottoman Double Bed for just £49. Yep, you heard me right, £49.

There’s no denying that the best beds can often come with an expensive price tag. After all, you want your bed to last years, as you would your best mattress. While DUSK has always been one of the most affordable outlets to purchase quality bed frames, this is easily the best deal I have seen for a long time.

Originally £299, the Ascot Ottoman Double Bed is £250 off and already members of the Ideal Home team are racing to snap it up fast. But you’ll have to be quick, as this deal will only last for today, or as long as stocks last - here’s everything you need to know.

I thought it was a practical joke when I first spotted this deal, a very, very delayed April Fools prank. But while a £49 DUSK bed frame was not on my 2025 bingo card, I was happy to be wrong.

Alongside two other discounted bed frames - the Versailles Bed Frame in Mauve (£65) and the Chambery Bed Frame in Berry (from £51) - DUSK has drastically dropped the prices of these beds in homage to a mistake last autumn, where products were accidentally reduced by 80% for just over an hour until the error was corrected.

Now, you have just today to pick up these bargain beds. In fact, Content Editor, Lauren Bradbury, has already snapped up the Ascott Ottoman Bed this morning.

The Ascott Ottoman bed is discounted in Apricot, and given that terracotta bedrooms are surging in popularity right now, I’d say this peachy tone is a great choice. Made with soft, matte velvet fabric and a soft, curved headboard, this bed looks stylish and comfortable. Curved furniture is certainly the flavour for 2025 - your guests won’t believe you picked up this on-trend frame for less than a meal out for two.

Of course, the biggest draw of this bed is its handy underbed storage, where there is plenty of space to store everything from bedding, towels and pillows - or any clutter you don’t want on show. This bed is also owned by Molly Cleary, one of Ideal Home’s Content Editors, who recommends it based on its handy storage.

‘I've had the Ascot bed for about a year now, and the storage element has been a revelation for keeping clutter out of my bedroom,’ she says.

‘Assembling it was so easy, and the mechanism for lifting it is very uncomplicated. The storage space is deep enough to allow you to pop more organised boxes in there – I use mine to stash winter or summer clothes as well as bits and bobs that I don't want to put far out of reach in the loft.

‘The design of the bed adds so much to a room too, with its subtle curved edges. All in all, it's a really high-quality bed, especially at this sale price!'

With Christmas right around the corner, now is the perfect time to elevate your bedroom and guest bedroom ideas. And I have to say you won’t get a better price than this stylish DUSK bed frame, especially if you take advantage of one of our Dusk discount codes on top. Will you be picking it up?

I'll say it again: I'm not the biggest fan of ironing. So when I was asked the question 'should you iron your bedding?', it was a hard no from me.

I do love to dress a bed, especially when I have guests staying, and there's something so lovely about slipping into a freshly made bed after a hard day's slog, but I've never, ever thought about ironing the sheets before putting them on the bed.

Even if I had one of the best irons to use, ironing my sheets would feel like one job too many when I have a mountain of wrinkled laundry to contend with. It also seems like one of those little luxuries for the lucky few who have extra time on their hands, which I, for one, don't have with my two small children to run after.

However, some swear by the crisp, hotel-fresh sheets, and I guess if I did get the iron out, even just when guests come over, it would definitely earn me brownie points if my guest room felt a little more hotel-worthy.

I couldn't help but wonder if I was alone in my opinion, so I asked some of my Ideal Home colleagues whether they iron their bedding.

'I'm a firm believer that life is too short to iron bedding. Single duvet covers are manageable on an ironing board, but double or king-size duvet covers become unmanageable fast,' explains Sleep Editor, Amy Lockwood.

'That said, sadly, I do think cotton bedding does look far nicer when it's freshly pressed and uncreased. My compromise is to opt for textured bedding that hides creases. DUSK's Portofino Waffle Bedding is a great example. I have this lightweight cotton duvet set on my guest bed, and its textured surface means zero ironing needed before visitors descend. Similarly, linen or muslin bedding is a great option if you want to avoid laborious ironing or steaming.'

‘I haven’t used an iron since moving away from my parents over 10 years ago, and I don’t even own one - so I’m very much team don’t-iron-your-bedding. Although I love nothing more than fresh bedding, I don’t have the time or patience (or even the iron) to iron out a few wrinkles. I find that after a few nights of sleeping, they tend to flatten themselves out anyway, so it doesn’t bother me!’ says Content Editor, Lauren Bradbury, when I ask her.

Personally, I'm somewhere in the middle. I don't want to have to iron bedding to get it looking smooth and pristine, but I do like having it as wrinkle-free as I can using other means.

And our Managing Editor, Thea Babbington-Stitt, tends to agree: 'I go for the 'throw on a clothes airer and hope that some creases fall out' method. That said, I truly believe that few things feel as good as getting into a bed with clean, freshly ironed sheets. So while I don't do it myself, I applaud those who make the time and put in the effort!'

I go to some lengths to avoid having to get the iron out. I tend to use a crease release spray like Lenor crease releaser spray, £9.99 from Amazon (my favourite scent is Ruby Jasmine fyi), or a quick steam with my trusty Tefal aerosteam once the sheets are already on the bed. I think they work well for a fuss-free fix that still makes the bed look neat without the faff of a full ironing session.

Although for some, ironing can actually be a somewhat meditative chore, smoothing out those creases and watching the wrinkles melt away under the steam.

And Lauren's nan is one of those who seems to iron for pleasure. 'My nan irons everything from her socks to her handkerchiefs, and I know the act of ironing brings her a lot of joy, but that trait just hasn’t been passed down to me!'

And it's safe to say, it hasn't been passed down from my nan either...

What about you? Do you iron your bedding or do you think it's a waste of time? Let us know in the comments below.

If you're wondering exactly what a bedstead, bed frame, or slatted bed base is, and how each differs from the other types of bed on the market, you're in the right place.

When it comes to where to buy a bed, we all want a bed that's both comfortable and will look great in our bedroom. The bed is the focal point of any bedroom, after all, and it can make or break the room. But there are a lot of types to choose from.

If you’ve done the hard graft and extensive research to find the best mattress, you need a good bed base to match. And yes, bed bases can seriously impact how your mattress feels to lie on, and how long the mattress will last.

I got together with a few industry experts in the sleep world to talk about bed frames. As a sleep writer, I’m always on the hunt for the definitive sleep setup (conclusion: it’s always subjective!). So I wanted to find out their thoughts on bed frames and bedsteads, and what the pros and cons of them are. Here's what I learnt.

What is a bedstead, otherwise known as a bed frame or slatted bed base?

The term 'bedstead' covers quite a wide spectrum in the bed-base world. They’re often also called bed frames, and put simply, it’s the piece of furniture you rest your mattress on. Bed frames come in all sizes and take on lots of different styles. They often have a headboard and sometimes a footboard too.

‘Bedstead is a generic term for a bedframe,’ says Emily Pratley from sleep retailer And So To Bed. ‘It can include an upholstered bedframe, a metal bedframe, or a wooden bedframe.’

‘Bedsteads come in a vast array of styles from traditional classics to more modern designs,’ says Philippa Warford from the National Bed Federation (NBF). ‘Slatted bases are mostly used with bedsteads.’

‘Your choice will largely be an aesthetic one, but bear in mind mattress support,’ continues Philippa from NBF. ‘This could be fixed or sprung slats, or a metal grid, or rigid woven wire. It is also possible to have a fully sprung bed base (with the same benefits as a divan bed base) inside. Several manufacturers make these to order.'

What are the benefits of a bed frame?

1. Wide range of styles

People often opt for a bed frames over a divan base or ottoman bed because there are more choices of style, and bed frames often offer a more modern look. After all, a bed can make a big visual impact in a bedroom, and inspire the look and feel of the rest of the room.

‘A bedstead or bedframe can be the “centrepiece” of the bedroom, making a real design statement, whether it’s a sleigh-bed, a four-poster or a contemporary design,' agrees Philippa from NBF.

2. Long lasting

The reason why there are so many antique bedsteads on the market is because good-quality ones are built to last and last.

‘A good quality bedframe will also be a long-lasting piece of furniture, as long as it is maintained properly,’ says Philippa from NBF.

How to maintain your bedstead you might be wondering? ‘Paying attention to the condition of the slats and ensuring the fixings are tightened will help prolong its lifespan,’ shares Philippa from NBF.

3. Good for allergy sufferers

If you suffer from allergies, you won't just want to consider what type of mattress is best for allergies, you'll also want to factor in your bed base.

Bed frames are popular with those who suffer from allergies because dust mites – the leading cause of house-born allergies in the UK – can often live in the cosy upholstery covering a divan bed base. Plus, an upholstered bed is more likely to allow pollen or pet dander to stick to it. In contrast, a wooden or metal bedframe is easier to dust and keep clean.

‘For those looking to avoid upholstered beds, perhaps those with dust allergies, you might prefer wooden or metal bedsteads instead,’ agrees Emily from And So To Bed.

What are the disadvantages of a bed frame?

1. Can be very large

Bed frames can be cumbersome, and – as I’ve already mentioned – they can dominate a bedroom, heavily influencing your bedroom ideas.

‘Unlike a divan bed base on castors, once a bedstead or bedframe is positioned in a room, it can’t be moved easily,’ explains Philippa from NBF.

If you move house a lot, or like to change the layout of your room often, a bed frame perhaps isn’t the right option for you. Although that said, if you opt for a flat-pack bed frame, it can be a lot easier to disassemble than a divan or ottoman bed.

2. Style commitment

As well as not being physically a very flexible option, bed frames aren’t aesthetically flexible either. It’s not easy to change the style of your bedframe once you’ve got it, and if you prefer chopping and changing the vibe of your room, a bedstead might not suit you.

Instead, if you opt for a simple divan bed base, you can swap out headboard ideas whenever you feel like it.

‘If you’ve purchased a bedframe for its design elements, remember that fashions and tastes change so it could look outdated in a few years,’ advises Philippa from NBF.

3. Slatted bases don't suit all mattresses

You can put most mattresses on a slatted bed base, but some mattress manufacturers advise the slats must be a certain width or have gaps between them of a certain size. This is often the case with mattresses made from natural fibres where there can be settlement of the filling between the slats.

In contrast, pretty much all mattresses can be used on a divan bed base.

FAQS

How does a mattress stay on a bedstead?

If you’re confused about how to stop your mattress slipping about on a bed frame, worry not! Most bedsteads and bed frames are designed to have the mattress fit snugly and secure within the frame.

‘Generally, the mattress sits inside the side rails and head and foot ends of the bedstead, so any movement is minimal,’ explains Philippa from NBF. ‘Some mattresses are specially designed for use on slats or bedsteads and come with a non-slip material on the underside.’

However, it’s still important to select a bed frame that fits your mattress (or vice versa), so that the mattress stays put. That means matching your bed base to your mattress size.

Can any mattress go on a slatted base?

Not all slatted bases are created equal, and as previously mentioned, your bed base can affect the feel of a mattress and even its lifespan, so it's important to check if your mattress and bed base are going to work together to give you the right support.

‘There are many different suppliers of slatted bases with differing specifications of slat widths and the space between each slat,’ explains Philippa from NBF.

‘Mattress manufacturers should provide their own recommendations for slat spacing and slat widths to suit their particular mattresses, so we strongly advise you to check these before buying, as they can vary. Putting a mattress on an incompatible base could also invalidate manufacturers’ warranties or guarantees.’

Can you put a mattress directly on wooden slats?

Yes, as mentioned above, as long as your wooden slats are the width and spacing advised by the mattress manufacturer, you can put a mattress directly on top of wooden slats.

However, ‘certain manufacturers, such as Vispring, have recommended accessories to use with a slatted base. i.e. a mattress pad,’ explains Emily from And So To Bed. ‘The mattress pad will cover the wooden slatted base and the mattress sits directly on top. The key benefit of a mattress pad is that when you turn and rotate your mattress, you are not left with impressions on the mattress surface caused by the gaps between the slats.’

Should you put plywood over bed slats?

If your bedstead has different slat spacing from that recommended by your mattress manufacturer, you might be tempted to put plywood over the bed slats to solve the problem. But experts say it's something you should do with caution to avoid your mattress becoming mouldy.

‘You can put plywood over slats, but it needs to be properly ventilated with drilled holes to allow air circulation,’ advises Philippa from NBF. Getting air circulating under and around a mattress is the best way to prevent mould.

Can you put a pocket spring mattress on a slatted bed?

Yes, you can put a pocket spring mattress on a slatted bed, but do a little research first. ‘Wide slat gaps can cause a pocket-sprung mattress to sag over time, potentially damaging the springs and affecting the mattress’ integrity,’ says Emma from Bensons for Beds. ‘Ideally, the slats should be no more than 2-3 inches (5-7.5 cm) apart to provide adequate support for the pocket sprung mattress.’

Can you put a memory foam mattress on a slatted bed base?

‘Yes, you can put a memory foam mattress on a slatted bed, as long as the slats are spaced closely enough together to provide adequate support,’ says Emma from Bensons for Beds. ‘For a foam mattress, especially memory foam, the slats should be closer together than normal to prevent the mattress from sinking through the gap.’

Why do beds have slats instead of solid wood?

There are a few reasons why manufacturers go for slats over solid wood on bed frames, but mostly it’s to do with comfort, support, and air flow. ‘Slats work together with the mattress to provide better overall support, especially for your spine, by allowing the mattress to flex where needed,’ explains Emma from Bensons for Beds. And then there’s breathability. Slats allow air to flow around and under your mattress, removing moisture and preventing mould from building up.

Do bed slats cause back pain?

Bed slats themselves won’t cause you back pain. Instead, it's about finding the best type of mattress for back pain, and pairing it with the right base. Figuring out if you need a hard or soft mattress will help, as this means you can find the right level of support to maintain your spinal alignment. Then your back pain shouldn’t be exacerbated by your bed.

Does a mattress feel different on slats?

Whatever base you put your mattress on, it will affect how your mattress feels. So the answer is yes here. ‘Rigid slats will give a bed a firmer feel and affect the durability of the mattress, whereas flexible or sprung slats work with the mattress and will improve comfort levels, as well as prolong its life,’ explains Emma from Bensons for Beds.

Aldi fans, stop what you’re doing and listen up because their hit garden furniture is returning to the middle aisle - and the Acacia Day Bed (£199.99) is worth your attention.

Landing in the middle aisle on 1 May this year, the Acacia Day Bed is a multi-function piece that’s perfect for your garden furniture ideas - and it’s not the only garden furniture good to check out either.

But you know the drill, as with all Specialbuys, when it’s gone, it’s gone - and as we've seen before, Aldi’s garden furniture is expected to sell out quickly.

Last year, shoppers went wild for the sell-out rattan corner sofa, and while it’s back on the middle aisle this time around, I’d argue the Acacia Day bed outshines it. This is largely because you can customise it to suit your garden layout and your personal needs.

You can switch between a three-seater sofa, a left or right corner sofa, a full day bed or even twin sun loungers with a handy central table. Alongside this, you get three back cushions and three foldable base cushions.

The cushions are large for added comfort and are a creamy neutral beige, which will blend effortlessly with the rest of your garden. Plus, with a wooden base, the overall look of the day bed is natural and muted, as not to take away from the rest of your garden.

The multi-functional features of this day bed is what set it apart from other Aldi garden furniture. You can set it up to share, or enjoy your own individual space with a side table.

While I haven’t had a chance to test the Acacia day bed myself, like you, I’m waiting for 1 May - Aldi garden furniture has a reputation for selling out. At £199 per day bed, it’s also an affordable garden furniture choice.

Alongside the day bed, Aldi also has a new Marrakesh Bistro Set (£69.99) launching on 24 April, if you don’t want to wait until May. This brand new design features framing curls and a stunning mosaic tabletop and backrests, making it a beautiful choice for Mediterranean garden ideas.

If you’ve been wondering where to buy garden furniture, Aldi is an affordable option that’s not to be sniffed at. Now all you need are these accessories to complete the look.

If you're thinking ahead to Easter Bank Holiday weekend and wondering where you'll sleep the guests you have coming to stay, Argos has the answer, and one solution is currently under £12.

Yep, this weekend Argos has 25% off selected air beds, and that means inflatable mattresses, such as the Bestway Flocked Air Bed, are now on sale for just £11.25.

Now I know what you might be thinking, an air bed doesn't scream hotel-level luxury for your guests. But the new generation of air beds is far more comfortable than you might think.

The Ideal Home team tested multiple options when compiling our guide to the best air beds on the market, and this affordable blow-up mattress really impressed our reviewers with its robust build.

Its price is also incredibly hard to beat. Even at full price, this air bed is only £15 for a single, £20 for a double, and £30 for a king-size. And thanks to that 25% saving, prices are currently slashed even further.

The only caveat is that if you don't already have a hand or foot pump (and you don't have the lung capacity of an Olympic athlete), you will want to buy a pump to make inflation easier.

Luckily, the Bestway Foot Pump is only £6, but you could also splash out and opt for the Bestway Flocked Air Bed with Mains Pump that simply plugs into an electrical socket for inflation.

Plus, if you want to treat your guests to a little more comfort, Argos also has double-height air beds included in the sale. These offer a higher sleep surface so they're easier for guests to get up from, more support, and better insulation from the ground.

Shop alternative air beds

We found all of these air beds offered a good night's sleep for a few nights during testing, but if you have guests staying longer, adding one of the best mattresss toppers, such as the memory foam Panda Topper over your air bed can make your guests stay even more comfortable, or upgrading to one of the best sofa beds.

Whether you're living room camping or heading into the great outdoors this Easter, there's no doubt this particular Argos sale is perfectly timed.

IKEA has just launched a folding guest bed, and it’s the ideal solution for hosting overnight guests if you’re short on space.

The NORRUDDEN Guest Bed costs £129, which is *far* more affordable than any of the best sofa beds on the market, and, even better, it folds down to around H90 x W80 x D25cm when it's not in use.

That means you can tuck it neatly into a wardrobe or cupboard so your floorspace is clear once guests go home.

Easter is just around the corner, and if you have family or friends coming to stay, I think this is the ideal temporary sleeping solution.

The NORRUDDEN comes with a mattress included and offers a W80 x L193cm sleeping area once it's folded flat. That's just a little smaller than a standard single mattress size, which measures W90 x L190cm.

That mattress may not be the thickest, but it's perfectly adequate for a few nights' kip, and if you want to increase your guests' comfort, you can always add one of the best mattress toppers, such as the cushioning memory foam Panda Topper or firmer IKEA NISSEHOLM Mattress Topper to the bed.

Metal bars on each end of the frame also keep the mattress in place, so there's no chance of it slipping off during the night and leaving your guests sleeping on a bare metal frame!

Once folded back up, the bed also has wheels on one end that make rolling it back into a storage space easy; no heavy lifting required.

Of course, if you have enough floorspace and want a permanent piece of furniture, opting for one of the best chair beds instead could be a great alternative.

Shop alternatives

The only downside is that a chair bed is bigger and bulkier; there's no tucking a sleeper chair out of sight once guests have gone home. Whereas the folding NORRUDDEN Guest Bed is compact enough to hide away out of sight in most wardrobes.

Overall, this is the best value folding bed I've come across, and if you don't have an IKEA locally, the good news is that the Norrudden is available for delivery to most postcodes.

I've been a die-hard decorative bed cushion fan since I was in my teens. Every morning from age 13 to 30, I've spent a couple of minutes styling the cushions on my bed and never regretted a second. For the last decade, I've assumed this was the norm for most adults, particularly those with a fondness for home decor, so imagine my shock when I discovered half of the Ideal Home team are anti-decorative bed cushions when it comes to dressing a bed.

'I don't put any on my bed because it would be too much of a hassle for me personally to put them on every morning and take them off every night. Also, where do you even put them during the night? I don't have that kind of space, I'm afraid,' explains Room Decor Content Editor, Sara Hesikova.

'It's a hard no for me on my bed, or a bed that is used daily,' Renovation Editor, Sarah Handley, answers when I ask her.

I'll admit that as I've grown busier (and gained a partner), the number of cushions and styling formula has been streamlined down to two matching cushions. But, in my opinion, a bed doesn't look made without them. Plus, I love the ritual of making and unmaking my bed each day.

Holly Cockburn, our Kitchen and Bathroom Content Editor agrees saying 'I love having cushions, and controversially love the routine of taking them on and off everyday.'

I love the texture and warmth that cushions can add to a bedroom, and I do count myself lucky that I've managed to convince my (sceptical) partner of their merits and rope him into the morning styling routine. Some of our team have not been so lucky.

'My partner has resolutely banned decorative cushions because he says they're pointless,' says Molly Cleary, our Kitchen Appliance Editor. 'I'd have them if I could, I think they can help spruce a bedroom up, and it's fun to mix and match them with your bedding!'

I second Molly, they are fun, but I want to know what you think. Am I wasting precious time and money? Or are they a little luxury, no bedroom is complete without?

Let us know in the comments below.

One thing most of us can agree on is that our bedrooms rarely have enough storage space, which is why an ottoman bed is such a useful piece of furniture to include.

The hidden storage area inside an ottoman bed means you can stash all sorts of things inside, from spare bedding to winter coats. However, there are some things which experts say you should never store in an ottoman bed, and they might surprise you...

In particular, the one thing all of our experts agreed you should never store inside your ottoman bed was your clean laundry! However, before you start emptying all of your clothes and towels from your ottoman, there is a reason why laundry is best avoided but also a simple fix to allow you to do so.

Here are all the things to avoid stashing out of sight inside your ottoman and why.

What not to store in an ottoman bed

1. Laundry

An ottoman bed is the perfect place to store out-of-season clothing or spare towels, but if your clothes or towels have just been washed and laundered you need to make sure they’re completely dry before you tuck them away.

Why? As Heidi Phillips, owner of Tergo Specialist Cleaning Services explains, ‘if we store items in the ottoman that aren't completely dry then the moisture within the items will have nowhere to go.’ And this should be avoided at all costs because damp and moisture are the main causes of an ottoman bed going mouldy.

However, there’s a simple solution. ‘Air items off before storing them,’ says Heidi, ‘and pay particular attention to items that are recently out of the tumble drier or have recently been ironed. Although they may feel warm and dry to the touch they will still be retaining some moisture. Wait a few hours before storing these items.’

2. Sports gear

For the same reason, Martin Eastwood, COO and bed expert at Mattress Online advises against storing sports gear in your ottoman bed.

'An ottoman bed is a perfect bedroom choice for extra storage, however, there are some things you may want to avoid using the space for – for example anything wet or damp like sports shoes and training kit. This could lead to the fabric becoming smelly and the internal fixings being affected by moisture.'

Megan Thompson, buyer at Bensons for Beds agrees, saying ‘avoid storing anything damp or moisture-prone in your ottoman bed, such as wet clothes, recently worn gym gear or damp towels, as trapped moisture can lead to mould and mildew, potentially damaging both your belongings and the bed itself.’

3. Heavy items

The cavity underneath an ottoman makes a brilliant bedroom storage idea if you have bulky items you want to store out of sight, but, you should avoid storing heavy items inside.

Steve Adams, CEO & mattress expert at Mattress Online comments, 'Ottomans are very practical and a great way to maximise the space in your room with their internal storage. However, it’s important not to place anything too heavy inside that could be difficult to lift in and out, leading to strain or injury.'

'Anything too heavy inside the ottoman could also put pressure on the baseboard if there is one,’ agrees Martin Eastwood, which could damage your bed.

4. Sharp or tall items

So, don't store heavy items inside your ottoman, but if you're decluttering a bedroom, don't be tempted to hide sharp or tall objects inside either or you could risk destroying even the best mattress.

‘Sharp objects should be kept out as they could pierce the mattress,’ says Megan of Bensons for Beds. ‘Tall items should also be avoided as they may put pressure on the slats or lifting mechanism.’

'Don't store anything that’s too tall for your ottoman bed,' agrees cleaning specialist Luis Toja from Fantastic Services. ‘This can cause issues when closing it and cause the slats to break or even damage the mattress or mechanism resulting in costly and time-consuming repairs. Avoid sharp items as well because they risk piercing your mattress and potentially even causing injury to you.'

5. Food

Whilst there are probably easier places to store our midnight snacks, some of us might be tempted to use an ottoman bed's storage space to stash our bulk buys of food items. But the expert advice is simple: don’t.

'It might sound obvious, but food, even if unopened, can attract pests so don’t use your ottoman as an extra pantry!' says Megan. 'Instead, use the space for dry, breathable storage like bedding, clothing, or seasonal items to keep your bedroom organised and sleep friendly.'

So there we go, whilst there are a few things we should all avoid storing inside our ottoman beds, there are plenty of things that can go inside to eliminate bedroom clutter and an ottoman remains a great storage idea for a small bedroom.

If you're in the process of pondering where to buy a bed and weighing up investing in an ottoman versus a divan bed, rest assured all of the do-not-stores apply equally to divan storage beds too.

Do you have an ottoman bed? What are your top tips for what to store inside? Let me know in the comments!

A good bed isn’t just about what it looks like in your bedroom – it will also improve your sleep, health and well-being. There is a range of key indicators to look for in a good-quality bed. Checking these aspects of a bed before you buy will tell you whether a bed is going to see you through decades of sleep, or have you waking up in a few months with a creak in its joints and an ache in your back.

When thinking about how to choose a bed, you need to focus on the quality of the bed. As a sleep-product reviewer and sleep writer, I know how much a bed frame can affect your mattress: how it feels to sleep on and how long it lasts.

I have spoken to industry experts about how to spot a good-quality bed, and how you can put beds to the test before you buy them to make sure you’re getting the best bed you can afford.

1. Weight

A sturdy bed frame is a key feature of good quality. This means it should be substantially weighty. All decent retailers should list the weight of their beds on their website, so this is an easy one to assess at a glance.

‘The heavier the base, generally the better quality as they may contain more robust timber components and drawer components (if it is a drawer version),’ says Philippa Warford from the National Bed Federation (NBF).

2. Upholstery quality

Upholstered beds have a lot of detail you need to look at to check the quality of the fabric and how it’s been sewn together.

‘The easiest way to tell if a bed is good quality is to look at the material it is made of,’ says Jennie Mijailovic, Senior Buyer at DUSK. ‘If you want a luxurious bed frame style, opt for a high-quality fabric or upholstered bed frame. The material should be soft to provide comfort.’

‘Look out for handcrafted design and detail, the fabric cover and layers of padding used in the headboard will work with the frame to provide extra comfort and support,’ agrees Liz Hart, Director of Product Integrity at Loaf.

You really need to do a deep dive here. Ideally, you’d go and look at the bed in person in a showroom. And then you need to do some detective work.

‘Neatly upholstered with straight lines, no loose threads, good quality fabric (i.e. no “see-through”),’ is important in the upholstery, says Philippa from NBF.

‘Also, if possible, check the underside of the divan bases to see how the upholstery is finished and what type of underside material is used. A cheap black or beige polypropylene material is more common on lower-quality bases,’ continues Philippa from NBF.

3. Build quality

The build quality in a bed is a telltale sign of whether a bed is good quality or not.

‘Pay close attention to the joinery of the frame, a well-constructed one should use screws or bolted joints rather than just glue, to prevent loosening over time,’ says Jennie from DUSK.

‘A good quality frame will be able to withstand years of use so it's important to check out the quality of materials that have been used in the frame e.g. solid timber, metal corner brackets etc,’ agrees Liz from Loaf.

‘Check the corner bracket fixings are up to the task,’ says Philippa from NBF. ‘Cheaper fixings can work loose or even break over time. There’s nothing worse than a wobbly bed!’

This leads us neatly onto the next thing to look out for - stability of the bed.

4. Stability

If you’re able to get hands on with a bed before buying, then give it a check over for stability. There are plenty of tips on how to test a bed to see if it’s good below, but stability is definitely something you can test for. Give it a good wobble. If it’s shaky in the showroom, it’s going to be wobbly in your bedroom too.

‘There should be no creaking or movement in a good bed frame,’ says Liz from Loaf. ‘It will need to support the weight of a mattress as well as the people in the bed without bending or sagging, so it should feel sturdy and solid when assembled.’

5. Where you’re buying from

Where to buy a bed is something you need to think about. Always buy a bed from a reputable retailer if you want total peace of mind.

‘Buy from a reputable retailer that sells beds made by trustworthy brands with clear and honest product descriptions,’ says Philippa from NBF.

‘No matter how tempting a bargain sounds, never buy beds from the back of a van – at best it’ll be worth the price you paid (which is never the fake RRP value they claim it is),’ warns Philippa from NBF. ‘We also advise consumers also avoid online/social media marketplace where traceability is next to zero and the quality tends not to be what it claims.’

We have a list of 3 bed retailers we recommend below, compiled by our sleep editor Amy Lockwood. Her years of testing have taught her which retailers are top in the bed-selling stakes.

• Argos: budget-friendly kids and adult beds
• Bensons for Beds: showrooms across the UK
• Next: wide range of UK-wide showrooms

6. Check the materials used

Whether you’re looking for a wooden or metal bedframe, or something upholstered, always look at what the frame is made of. Oak, cherry, maple and walnut are generally considered the best-quality woods for a bed frame. These are strong hardwoods that offer stability and durability. Soft wood such as pine is less likely to last the distance.

If you’re shopping for a metal bed frame, steel is often considered the best metal for a bed frame. It’s strong and durable, and offers a clean, modern look. If you’re after a vintage look, brass can be a good aesthetic option but it’s not as strong as steel.

And if you’re going upholstered, always do your research into what the base and frame underneath is made of. There is no point in forking out for the finest fabrics to find the frame isn’t solid.

7. Slat spacing

‘The base is also important when it comes to the quality of a bed,’ says Jennie from DUSK. ‘You want good quality slats that aren’t too widely spaced as this will provide a strong foundation for your mattress to sit on. This will prevent your mattress from deteriorating too quickly.’

If you really want to drill down into the detail, look for hardwood slats including beech, oak or maple, which are all durable and stable and shouldn’t succumb to warping over time.

How to test a good bed?

So you’re now armed with this knowledge, and you think you’ve found The One in bed form. How do you check if it’s actually good though? It’s good to plan ahead.

‘Ensure you’re wearing comfortable clothing and have set aside plenty of time so that you don’t feel rushed, tired or pressured into making a decision. If you share a bed, go with your partner, as comfort is so subjective,’ says Philippa from NBF.

‘To test your bed for overall sturdiness, one of the best things to do is to check it for creaking, squeaking or offering too much bend,’ says Jennie from DUSK. ‘Some areas of your bed should be slightly more flexible, like your bed slats, but the corners, headboard and sides should be rigid to offer support. You should test these areas with a little bit of pressure by shaking them slightly to see if you’re happy with the structure and that it feels solid.’

‘To test the bed base, ask yourself how stable the bed feels when you turn over,’ adds Philippa from NBF. ‘If it is a bedstead/bed frame, feel around the base and look at the legs and joints – are they sturdy and secure?’

The whole test should take a while. It’s really vital you test rigorously at this stage. ‘When you’re ready to test a bed with the mattress on, take off your shoes and adopt your normal sleeping position – if you’re a back sleeper, you should also lie on your side, and vice versa. You should spend at least 10 minutes per bed, but ideally longer,’ advises Philippa from NBF.

Size matters with beds. As a sleep writer, I am constantly advising everyone to buy as big a bed as they can afford and fit in their bedroom. ‘If you’re shopping together, the two of you should like back with your hands behind your heads. If your elbows touch your partner’s, then it’s a sign to go for a bigger bed,’ adds Philippa from NBF.

With us all (more or less!) settled into the new year, this is the perfect time to reconsider your sleep environment. Is your mattress and bed set up as comfortable and supportive as it can be? Do your wardrobes and storage stick out like a sore thumb? Or maybe you’re looking for something to fill the awkward gap at the bottom of your bed, like a bench or ottoman.

Whatever it is you need, when looking for bedroom furniture, one stop you should always make is Bensons for Beds. Offering beds, mattresses and more for over 70 years, this British brand is truly a home-grown favourite.

To help you achieve the bedroom of your dreams, Bensons for Beds is offering Ideal Home readers an exclusive 6% off any and all purchases made online via our discount code - yes, even on top of any sale prices. This will only last for one week, so act fast. If you need help deciding what to use this gift of a code on, then check out some of our current favourites below…

Our top picks from Bensons for Beds

While the brand offers an impressive selection of bedroom furniture, the most important thing to get right is the bed and mattress. Here are a few options worth considering, especially with the exclusive 6% we have on offer right now.

Learn more about our picks and explore the full ranges at Bensons for Beds today, and don't forget to use our exclusive code to benefit from an additional 6% off your purchase.

IKEA furniture is a staple in most homes, beloved for its price, adaptability and sturdy design. This creator on Instagram has taken the iconic KURA bed and turned it into the ultimate children’s den.

IKEA flat packs are brilliant for putting together easy DIY projects, particularly as plenty of their units have a modular shape which makes them easy to enhance. In fact, there are hundreds of IKEA hacks to sink your teeth into and we think the den bed hack deserves a spot on your inspiration mood boards.

Taking to Instagram, Kirsty Haslam - aka @houseofhaz - revealed her brilliant IKEA hack, where she used MDF panels to curate a stunning den bed for her son. And we think it’s a perfect inspiration for your children’s bedroom ideas.

The hack itself is simple yet the end result looks incredible. Kirsty cut an archway into a slab of MDF before attaching it to the KURA bed which she already owned. Painting it bright yellow (she used Walls R130D Sense of Wonder from Valspar), the result is playful and fun - perfect for a child.

True Joy was Dulux’s colour of the year for 2025, and we’ve seen plenty of sunny shades used to brighten up spaces this year. It’s a great choice for anyone looking to lift spirits, and a kid’s bedroom is the perfect opportunity to try out this bold look.

‘It was sooooo easy,’ Kirsty revealed. ‘I got the idea from a brochure, it was a bespoke den bed and my 6-year-old said I want that. He already had the Kura bed which has a frame. I purchased one piece of MDF from the local timber merchant (you can pick up similar from Wickes) and cut it to the size of the bed frame, cut out a large arch and then nailed it to the bed. It is the easiest IKEA hack I have ever done.’

IKEA’s sleek and simple designs lend themselves to be a DIY-ers dream - you can do as much as your imagination lends itself to!

‘KEA furniture is the obvious choice for DIY hacks for a few reasons. Firstly, it’s affordability. Its low price point means that it’s a risk many DIY newbies are happy to take. You’re not going to want to ruin a family heirloom or solid mahogany piece but you’re more than happy to experiment with an IKEA LACK side table. If it goes wrong, well, there is not really any harm done,’ says Sarah Day, Storage Solutions Expert at Pay Less For Storage.

‘Secondly, thanks to the iconic Swedish minimalist design, IKEA furniture is a blank canvas just crying out to be personalised. Whether it’s a quick coat of paint or being entirely repurposed. IKEA products are a DIYer’s dream when it comes to getting creative. You can easily take an ordinary bit of furniture that everyone has and make it into something unique that only you have.’

Kirsty’s bed den is the perfect example of how a relatively simple idea can look amazing. She’s certainly inspired us, what are you planning on creating?

When shopping for a new bed or bed frame, you’ll find lots of terms thrown about you might not be familiar with. One of those terms might be divan beds. So what is a divan base? Let’s get into it.

I review sleep products – I’ve tested the best mattresses, bed linen, duvets, pillows, toppers – you name it. So I know more than most about bed bases and how to sleep better. And I’m going to share my intel with you here.

I’ve also checked in with fellow sleep experts and industry insiders to get their take on divan beds and to find out everything you need to know before you decide whether a divan bed base is for you.

What is a divan bed base?

‘A divan bed base typically has a solid or sprung covered base, with a separate option headboard – they usually include storage, and have a minimalistic design to contribute to a sleek bedroom aesthetic,’ says Tommy-Joe Reardon from sleep retailer Panda London. ‘They’re very stable and a great all-round option for a comfortable, efficient bed.

‘This makes a divan bed a clever multi-functioning piece of furniture which can help to maximise space in your bedroom, and free up space in your chest of drawers and wardrobes by storing items in pull-out drawers within the bed base,’ adds Megan Thompson, Buyer at Bensons for Beds.

Types of divan bed

There are two different types of bases for divan beds: platform base and sprung base.

‘Platform top bases, also known as solid top bases, have a solid panel top which offers firm support and a sturdy base for your mattress,’ says Michael Buckle, Senior Mattress Buyer at Dreams. The Dream Team Divan Bed Base is an example.

Sprung bases offer a more responsive level of support. ‘With a layer of pocket springs built into the base, these frames are great for providing that extra level of comfort and support,’ says Michael from Dreams. ‘The springs are reactive, taking some of the pressure off of your mattress and increasing its lifespan. The Dreams Flaxby Sprung Divan Bed Base, for instance, has 1000 springs.

Then there are different storage options: one-, two-, four-drawers or something more bespoke.

Benefits of a divan bed base

Good storage potential

‘Divans offer hands-on storage through drawers built into the base of the bed,’ says Adam Black, co-founder at bed and mattress specialists Button & Sprung. ‘These drawers offer generous space to store small to medium-sized items, from books and folders to folded clothes. The usual formation is two drawers for each side, or half, of the bed.’

Loads of design options

Divan bed bases come in a somwhat dizzying number of fabrics and designs, but that means you can find something that will fit in perfectly with your overall decor choices.

‘We have over 150 fabric options here at Loaf', says the brand's furniture buyer, Penny Wilson, 'these can personalise the bed to your bedroom style and taste’.

Great for most types of mattress

‘Divan beds give great versatility with mattress options due to their solid base,’ says Penny from Loaf.

Disadvantages of a divan bed base

Can be expensive

‘Divan beds can be more expensive than traditional bed frames,’ concedes Megan from Bensons for Beds. This is particularly the case with premium divan bed bases with extra engineering, such as the pocket-sprung divan bases and the bespoke storage options.

Can take up more space

If you have a small bedroom a divan bed can sometimes be too large and risk overwhelming the space.

‘The size of the divan base can detract from a minimalistic aesthetic, as its larger profile can dominate a room rather than blending seamlessly into the design,’ adds Michael from Dreams.

‘Additionally, divan bases are typically available in just one shape – square – which may limit their versatility when it comes to fitting into certain spaces or aligning with a variety of interior styles.’

Hard to move around

‘Divan beds can be heavier than other types of beds, making them harder to move and clean around,’ says Megan from Benson for Beds. ‘It can be difficult to vacuum underneath a divan bed because it’s so close to the floor. However, many divan bases have castors, which makes it easier to move the bed for cleaning.’

Where to buy

Looking to buy a divan bed base? Here are my suggestions for where to shop.

• Bensons for Beds: wide range of bed styles
• Dreams: divans and bedsteads
• Feather & Black: bedsteads, divans, and ottomans
• Furniture Village: bedsteads and divan bed bases
• John Lewis: bedsteads, divans, and storage beds
• Loaf: divan beds in a wide range of fabrics

FAQs

How does a mattress stay on a divan bed?

The weight of your mattress should keep it secure on the divan bed base. There are also certain features that help keep it from sliding around.

‘Some divan bases have a non-slip fabric or padding that helps keep the mattress from sliding around,’ says Michael from Dreams. ‘Most divan beds are designed to fit standard mattress sizes, ensuring a snugfit that prevents the mattress from shifting.’

Can you put any mattress on a divan bed?

‘Yes, just make sure that it is the correct size,’ says Adam from Button & Sprung. ‘If you are looking at an upholstered divan it is worth bearing in mind the depth of the mattress against the headboard. A very deep mattress can totally eclipse the design of a statement headboard and create strange proportions

Is a divan or slatted bed better?

As long as the bed is good quality, neither a divan or slatted bed is really better, just different. Although your bed base will affect how a mattress feels.

‘A sign of a cheap bed is when there are large gaps in-between the slats, as this puts pressure on the mattress, dipping in and out of the slats' warns Adam from Button & Sprung.

Are divan beds less noisy?

Ideally no bed base or frame should be noisy, as this will negatively impact your sleep.

‘Generally speaking there's less assembly involved [in divan bases] and therefore fewer fixing points which mean less chance of squeaks,’ says Penny from Loaf.

Are divan beds better for your back?

Although sleep experts are quick to agree on the best mattress for back pain, the jury is still out on the best type of bed frame. It really depends on your tension preferences and has a much to do with your mattress as the frame it sits on.

‘They are the same as any other bedstead,’ says Penny from Loaf. ‘Your support and comfort come from your mattress primarily'.

Why are divan beds so expensive?

A few factors affect the price of divan beds including the upholstery you go for, the construction and storage options. The more elaborate you go – or premium in the case of fabrics – the higher the price point of the divan base is going to be.

How often should you change your divan base?

‘If the base starts to dip and sag then it is time to change the base,’ advises Adam from Button & Sprung. ‘As the main layer that your mattress sits on you will start to feel the lack of support as the base deteriorates. However, this shouldn’t happen in a good quality divan for years – ours are guaranteed for ten years.’

Do you have to put wheels on a divan bed?

No, absolutely not. Some divan beds are on castors or wheels which can make them easier to manouevre should you want to change your bedroom layout or hoover around and underneath the bed, but others are not – it really depends on the design and personal preference.

It goes without saying, that at the end of the day you want to get into a bed that not only feels great but smells great too. You might have already found ways to make a bedroom smell nice, but when it comes to the bed itself, are you totally clued up on how to make a bed smell good?

A great place to start is to replace any old duvets with the best duvets and the same goes with your pillows. And, although it's a big expense, you might even need to get rid of an old mattress and swap that for the best mattress too. A mattress should last around 10 years, so if yours is still within that time frame, there's no need to replace it, but a spot clean or vacuum is advisable.

Once you know that your duvet, pillows and mattress won't be harbouring any old smells and odours, you can then look at ways to make your whole bed smell amazing, and make it last. We've spoken to the experts to find out exactly how to make a bed smell good so you can ensure a fresh fragrance every time you jump into bed.

1. Wash sheets regularly

Ok, so washing your bed sheets regularly might seem like an obvious one, but the longer we leave between washes, the worse it is for your bed. While you might be wondering how often to change bed sheets, neglecting this domestic chore will mean your sheets won't smell fresh, plus the build up of sweat and day-to-day grime isn't great for your bed sheets either, so try to pop them in the wash every 1-2 weeks.

Molly Freshwater, co-founder and creative director at Secret Linen Store comments, 'Want your bed to smell amazing? Here’s how…. First up, wash your sheets regularly—no brainer, right? But here’s my top trick: use Wilton London’s washing liquids and fabric softeners. They’re packed with dreamy botanical scents like lavender and eucalyptus. Your bed will smell like a spa, and they’re eco-friendly too.'

'To keep your bed smelling great, start by regularly washing your sheets—ideally once a week,' agrees Natasha Brook at Dr Beckmann. 'This will help to remove odour build-up but be careful when washing to not overdose with detergent as this creates a film around the fabric leaving it crisp and smelly, trapping odours rather than removing them.'

If you don't have time to change all the bedding that often Purdy Rubin and Charlotte Figg, co-founders of all-natural cleaning company Purdy & Figg suggest, 'change your sheets once a week or just your pillow cases if that’s seems too often.'

2. Dry sheets promptly

Once you've washed your bed sheets, it's important to get them dry again as soon as possible. While you might be wondering how to dry bedding indoors in winter, it's essential to act fast so that your sheets stay smelling fresh.

'Ensure your bedding dries thoroughly after washing' advises Natasha. 'Removing them from the washing machine as soon as the cycle is finished and hanging them up to dry will prevent your bedding absorbing any moisture retaining the smell.'

'But if you need to tumble dry them instead, do it promptly, as you don’t want to leave wet bedding in the washing machine for long periods,' she advises.

Purdy and Charlotte agree that time is of the essence. 'Bed sheets can sometimes smell a bit musty if you have left them too long in the washing machine before taking them out or putting them away before they were completely dry. In that case, the best remedy is to wash them again on a short cycle at 30 degrees.'

3. Keep your mattress clean

While a new mattress might be on the cards if yours has had it's time, knowing how to clean a mattress is by far the quicker and more eco-friendly answer to how to make a bed smell good.

Molly says, 'Don’t forget about your mattress. Sprinkle a mix of baking soda and essential oil on it, let it chill for 30 minutes, then vacuum it up. Any bad smells will be gone!'

Another way to keep your mattress as fresh as possible is with a mattress protector or best mattress topper. But you'll have to wash this as regularly as the bed sheets to ensure that fresh fragrance, so it might be worth having a spare one at hand for change-over day.

4. Spritz sheets with a linen spray

When we think of how to make a bed smell good, some of us might reach for a linen spray and it seems the experts do too.

'Having got rid of the smells you don’t want, you can add in the ones you do,' say Purdy & Charlotte. 'But go carefully as it is easy to get overwhelmed by scent in the bedroom and bearing in mind our nose will stop noticing a scent after a short while, you really only need to smell something nice when you first come into your bedroom or when you get into bed,' they explain.

'One of the best ways to make your bed smell good all the time is to use a pillow spray or a linen spray. Choose a good quality product with light essential oils.'

'To keep things fresh between washes, grab a linen spray and give your bed a little spritz every day,' agrees Molly. 'Or, if you’re feeling fancy, pop a couple of scented sachets (lavender or cedar are my faves) under your pillow or mattress.'

5. Think fresh air

A quick (and free!) answer to how to make a bed smell good, it to let the outside in and throw open your bedroom windows.

Molly suggests, 'Let some fresh air in your bedroom. Pull back the duvet, open the windows, and let your bed breathe.'

'It's easy peasy, and you’ll have the best-smelling (and looking) bed in town.'

Natasha adds, 'Remember to fold your bedding down to let the bed air during the day, which will help keep it fresh, smelling clean and inviting every night.'

To allow not only our beds but our entire homes to breathe, it's important to open our windows everyday, even in winter. Just 10 minutes each morning will help condensation escape and fresh air to circulate your room.

6. Opt for natural fibres

If you want to make a bed look more luxurious, as well as making it smell nice, the answer could be down to which bed sheets you choose. Opt for breathable cotton or linen to ensure a great looking bed.

Purdy and Charlotte suggest, 'Some synthetic fibres can harbour smells, so go for 100% natural fibres in your bedding, which will also give you better heat regulation and a more comfortable night.'

FAQS

How can I make my bed smell good all the time?

'To make your bed smell good all the time, the first thing is to make sure your pillows and mattress are clean,' says Purdy & Charlotte. 'Take the pillows to the launderette or a ‘green’ dry cleaner to make sure they are dust and odour free.'

Once you know your duvet, pillows and mattress are clean, and you're washing your sheets on a regular basis, it seems it's down to a daily spritz of linen spray on your pillows and duvet, to really ensure your bed smells good all the time.

How to deodorise bed sheets?

'If your sheets are a bit musty, throw in half a cup of baking soda with your wash to deodorise them,' suggests Molly. 'It works magic on stubborn smells. Then hit them with a fabric softener for that extra “mmm” factor.'

Natasha suggests deodorising your bed sheets via the power of the sun. 'For extra freshness, air drying in the sun is ideal, as it naturally refreshes and deodorises fabrics,' she explains.

Another way to deodorise bed sheets without washing them, is to pop them in the tumble dryer on a low heat with a dryer sheet. This can refresh the sheets and get rid of any musty smells but won't work if you have stains that need removing.

So which technique will you use to make your bed smell good?

Most bedrooms can benefit from extra storage space, so it's little wonder ottoman beds are such a popular choice. However, there are some important factors to consider before opting for this type of storage bed, and I'm here to explain all.

After all, it's not all about deciding where to buy a bed, the type of bed you invest in will make a big difference to the success of your purchase, too.

Ottoman beds (usually) feature gas-lift hydraulics, which allow you to easily lift up the base (mattress and all) to reveal a plentiful storage space underneath. But before you take the plunge and order something that might not be right for you, there are some things to take into consideration.

I've spoken to a team of industry experts to create a guide that covers all you need to know before buying an ottoman bed, so read on to get clued up.

Things to consider before buying an ottoman bed

'Choosing an ottoman storage bed is a great idea, especially if you are short on space and looking for bedroom storage ideas,' comments Hannah Rosman, Marketing Director at Willow & Hall .

'They provide excellent hidden storage capacity giving you the perfect place to stash everything from out of season clothing to extra bed linen.'

'They’re also super helpful in guest bedrooms, where you may not have room for traditional storage furniture, giving your guests somewhere to keep their possessions neat and tidy. And the real beauty of an ottoman storage bed, is you don’t need to worry about having space to open and close drawers as you would with a divan bed.'

Jo Jacob, Professional Organiser and Founder of Benella agrees that a storage bed with drawers, might not be the best use of space. 'A divan bed with drawers does not provide great storage as only 2 end drawers are normally usable or included. A slatted bed that is clear underneath harbours dust and you can often see anything that is then stored underneath making it look cluttered.'

'An ottoman bed however is the perfect solution due to the storage space. Once the mattress is lifted up you have the whole space to store items such as seasonal clothes, gifts, extra toiletries, bedding etc. The bigger the bed frame is, there may be a few support bars added but the storage space is still large.'

Lucy Mansey, Professional Organiser and founder of Organised by Lucy adds, 'When it comes to bedroom furniture, an ottoman bed is a game-changer. Not only does it offer a sleek and stylish aesthetic, but it also provides invaluable storage space, making it a must-have for anyone looking to optimise their bedroom.'

'However, before you dive into purchasing an Ottoman bed, there are several factors to consider to ensure that it meets your needs perfectly. Here’s what to keep in mind...'

1. The size of your bedroom

'First and foremost of things to consider before buying an ottoman bed, is your bedroom size,' says Lucy.

'Ottoman beds are available in various dimensions, so it’s crucial to select a size that fits comfortably within your room. Measure your space, taking into account not just the bed itself, but also the clearance needed to lift the storage compartment.'

Shelley Cochrane, Accessories Buyer at Furniture Village agrees. 'The first thing to consider when buying an ottoman bed is definitely the size of your bedroom. Whilst this is true when buying any kind of bed, it is especially important when purchasing an ottoman bed because you need to ensure that there is enough room around the bed to access any drawers or storage.'

You might also need to think about the access to your bedroom for when your ottoman bed is delivered, especially if you have a small bedroom. Although it is likely the bed will arrive in pieces to be assembled in situ, it's worth checking that you have clearance on your stairs and through doorways to allow it to actually reach your desired space.

2. Your room shape and layout

Similarly, another one of the things to consider before buying an ottoman bed, is the layout of your room and where you plan to place your bed.

'The shape of your room is an important consideration to think of before buying an ottoman,' says Hannah. 'Storage drawers can be great solution in a large room with lots of access around the bed, whereas an ottoman can suit a smaller room where storage is at a premium. Be careful of sloping ceilings though – make sure you’ll be able to safely, fully open the ottoman storage.'

Jo adds, 'Depending where the bed is going in a room, you can often choose whether you want to lift the bed at the end or on the side. Therefore the room layout needs to be considered. This will also impact on future use of the bed if you are moving a side lift one to a room where you would only be able to lift it from the end.'

Lucy comments, 'Also consider the layout of other furniture and ensure there is enough room to maneuver around the bed easily. In small bedroom layouts, a double ottoman bed might suffice, while larger bedrooms can accommodate a king-size or even a super king-size version.'

3. What your storage needs are

Before buying an ottoman bed, think about what you actually need the storage for.

'It's so important to consider your storage needs,' explains Shelley. 'It is advisable to purchase a bed with as much storage as possible as winter duvets and other bulky items may be stored within the bed throughout the summer months. It’s best to have more storage than you need than to go without.'

Hannah adds, 'Think about what you are looking to store under the bed. Ottomans offer much greater storage space then drawers, so are ideal if you have larger belongings that need to be stored away.'

'Also, who is going to be using the storage? Drawers might be easier for a guest room if you’re looking for somewhere for short-term guests to store their belongings. However, for storing luggage and larger items an ottoman bed will be more practical.'

Jo advises, 'Decide what you are going to be storing underneath so you can ensure the bed you are choosing is deep enough for any particular storage. All items need to be no higher than the corner brackets so the bed closes completely.'

Lucy comments, 'One of the standout features of an Ottoman bed is its ample storage space. But before making a purchase, assess your storage needs. Are you looking to store seasonal clothing, extra bedding, or bulky items like suitcases? This will help you determine the size and depth of storage you require. Some Ottoman beds offer split storage compartments, which can be handy for organising different types of items. Consider investing in storage dividers or vacuum storage bags to maximise the available space efficiently.'

4. How practical it is to use

While an ottoman bed is designed to be easy-access, it still takes a little muscle to lift and depending on how often you think you might need access, the practicalities of use should be a consideration.

Shelley says, 'Another important consideration is the lifting mechanism of the bed. A powered ottoman base means that no heavy lifting is required and you’ll be able to access your storage quickly and with ease.'

But Jo adds, 'Depending on bed and mattress size, ottomans can be difficult to lift so consider age and strength of the person doing the lifting. You can purchase electric ottoman beds that raise with a remote control - they raise and lower slowly to avoid any of the issues associated with manual lifting - but will be more expensive and need a power supply nearby.'

'You'll also need to consider the weight of your mattress. A super-heavy mattress will not work well on your ottoman as it will be too difficult to raise the bed and will impact on the life of the gas lift system.'

'Another factor to take into consideration is that ottoman beds are heavier overall, making them trickier to move around the room, or to a different room of the house.'

'They are also more complicated to assemble as the bed is normally raised via a gas lift system.'

Lucy agrees this is an important consideration. 'Before purchasing an ottoman, inquire about the assembly process. Some Ottoman beds can be complex to set up, requiring professional help, while others might be more straightforward for DIY enthusiasts. Additionally, consider the ease of accessing the storage compartment. Look for beds with a smooth lift mechanism, and test if possible,' she advises.

5. The look and style of the bed

Once you've thought through all the practical things to consider before buying an ottoman bed, the last thing you should think about is how it will look in your space.

Shelley says, 'Finally, think about your preferred colour and style of ottoman. There are many ottoman beds with headboards in eye-catching colourways such as bright yellow or you may prefer a pared-back neutral hue. Similarly, options range from traditional to contemporary so my advice would be to choose something in keeping with your bedroom scheme for a cohesive look.'

Some of our favourite ottoman beds

So now you know all the things to consider before buying an ottoman bed, which one have you got your eye on to transform your bedroom into a clutter-free sleep space?

One of the most common desires for homes across the country, is more storage. While in older homes you might find storage built-in as standard, more modern homes might not have this luxury so finding clever storage solutions for your things becomes the name of the game.

Many of us would think to utilise the space beneath our beds, but before you do, you might want to know the things you shouldn’t store under a bed and why. While under the bed can be turned into a smart bedroom storage idea to make use of otherwise wasted space, storing the wrong things under your bed could lead to their ruin or damage. It could also stop you from getting a good night's sleep or could attract vermin.

We've spoken to an assortment of storage experts and professional organisers to get their take on some things you shouldn’t store under a bed, as well as some things you should, so read on to discover the ultimate 'do's and don'ts' for storing items under your bed.

1. Don't store anything!

As mentioned, utilising the space under your bed for storage might seem like a great idea, however, this is only true if you have the right sort of bed, that provides built-in storage. You might feel that storage ideas for small bedrooms are hard to come by, but there are more options than under the bed.

Vicky Silverthorn, Professional Organiser and Founder of You Need a Vicky explains. 'Ideally, under a bed would work best being clear. I purposely bought a bed that was hard to store things under to encourage a good declutter rather than over-store things in my house.'

'Just because you can’t see something doesn't mean it doesn’t affect us. We are responsible/have a responsibility for every single item we own. When we declutter our stuff we clear space in our minds as well as our homes.'

'Every little action we take to become more organised and give ourselves less to think about moves our lives towards simplicity. Tiny changes we make in our over-busy and over-complicated lives can make a big impact,' Vicky explains.

Sue Spencer, Professional Organiser, KonMari Consultant and founder of A Life More Organised shares that same sentiment and advises, 'If you have a metal or wooden bed frame, it’s best to avoid storing anything underneath them. These spaces are magnets for dust and are difficult to keep clean. Leaving them empty makes it much easier to keep things dust-free and tidy.'

'However,' she adds, 'if you’re short on storage space and need to use the under-bed area I recommend buying under-bed boxes or bags. I’m a big fan of IKEA Skubb boxes, they’re lightweight, affordable, and practical. Using a storage box keeps everything contained and clean, making it easy to pull items out when needed and stopping you from having to crawl around on the floor trying to retrieve things that have slipped into the middle of the bed.'

2. Important paperwork

Another one of the things you shouldn’t store under a bed is paperwork and bills.

Sue advises, 'Avoid hiding important or emotionally significant documents under your bed. Paperwork should be organised and regularly reviewed, not forgotten in a dusty corner.'

In order to make sure you stay on top of bills and any other important deadlines, try not to store the associated paperwork tucked away under you bed. You want to be able to reach for these things fairly easily and if they are hidden under your bed, they could easily get forgotten about. Instead, look to home office storage ideas and try to keep all paperwork in one place.

3. Work

Similarly, keeping your day-to-day work, projects or laptop beneath your sleep space is another one of the things you shouldn’t store under a bed.

Vicky explains, 'Even knowing that work is under your bed, means your brain and body is trying to sleep or relax on a constant to-do list, which will play on your mind and is not good vibes for a restful night of sleep.'

While it might seem convenient to grab your work or laptop from under your bed as you start each day, making the effort to put the them in a home office or elsewhere in your house will massively help towards getting a good nights sleep.

4. Forgotten food

Breakfast in bed is a luxurious treat most of us would find hard to say no to, but don't let any leftovers sneak under the bed and harbour bad smells, or worse, attract unwanted visitors.

Katherine Blackler, Professional Organiser and Founder of Sort My Space comments, 'One of the things that I would definitely avoid storing under a bed would include any perishables or food products that you could lose track of and encourage vermin to discover.'

Similarly, Sue warns against what might be lurking in other bedrooms of the house, namely a teens den (or 'pit' as many a mother has referred to them.)

'Plates, food wrappers, and mugs don’t belong under beds, and they may be the reason for that mysterious bedroom smell!,' she explains.

5. Disorganised belongings

When storage is lacking in your home, it's easy to just stuff bits and bobs under your bed to worry about another day, but this could easily lead to things get forgotten about or even damaged. Plus it can play havoc on your mind, as Vicky explains.

'Something that’s disorganised will play on your mind, even if you don’t realise it. If you are storing things under your bed they should be categorised and neat, and you should be able to recall exactly what’s there, eg. shoes, seasonal clothing or toys.'

Try to organise items into categories before storing them under the bed and avoid shoving random bits and bobs under there.

6. Leather goods

Shoes are always a tricky one to store neatly, and rather then them taking up precious floor space, popping them beneath the bed could be great storage solution. But Sue warns, depending on what they are made of, leather shoes could actually be one of the things you shouldn’t store under a bed.

'The dry, dusty environment under the bed can dry out and cause damage to natural materials like leather,' she explains. 'Plus, shoes tend to gather germs, dust, and unpleasant smells. If not stored in a box, you’re also likely to misplace one of the pair.'

Instead, look to other shoe storage ideas and try to at least refrain from keeping real leather shoes under your bed.

7. Things you use on a daily basis

The last of the things you shouldn’t store under a bed are things that you need access to regularly. If they are in storage boxes or drawers, it means getting on the floor and rolling them out every time you need something, which if it's daily, could really affect your body.

Even if you have a storage bed or ottoman, it's still a lot of strain to be opening up on a regular occurrence, as Katherine is familiar with.

'I had one client whose cleaner was delighted when we found a different space for the towels and bedding, as she was lifting the guest bed's hydraulic action every week to change their beds. My client hadn't clocked how hard work it was to do that weekly.'

FAQS

What should you store under a bed?

Katherine Blackler, Professional Organiser and Founder of Sort My Space says, 'Personally, I use my under bed storage drawers for my fancy dress costumes, sorted and stored in pouches of different categories or outfits. And for my fancier shoes that I only wear for special occasions (most of which are in their shoe boxes for protection).'

'Other examples of things you could keep under the bed, again wrapped to protect against dust or moths, would be seasonal blankets, off season duvets and even suitcases. Depending on the height clearance, you sometimes need to "butterfly" the suitcases (eg. open the zipper and store them opened half half) but you might be able to nest smaller cases into the cavities of a larger suitcase when opened in that format. This works in an enclosed hydraulic bedbase but you might want to wrap them in a bin liner or plastic sheeting if they're sliding under as is.'

'The ultimate aesthetic (and supposedly energetic) vibe for a bedroom would be to keep the space under our beds clear from any belongings. However, most of us don't have the luxury of leaving the largest storage area of the bedroom untapped.'

Katherine adds that 'when working with clients in some house shares, we've had to use the under-bed space for less obvious items like pots and pans and crockery items that were personal to them they didn't want in the communal kitchen. So be prepared to think laterally depending on your situation.'

'It may also be that under-bed drawers are the only drawers that you actually have in your bedroom. If so, you can separate the drawer into smaller categories to keep socks, underwear, gym gear etc in and look down on them in one go. You'll need to be able to easily open that drawer on a daily basis so this can be a good discipline to help keep the floor free of obstacles alongside your bed.'

Sue adds, 'I like to store out-of-season clothes or bedding in storage boxes (or drawers) under the bed. Try to store similar items together and label the boxes so you can easily grab what you need without rummaging.'

'Toys can also be stored under the bed - under-bed storage boxes are perfect for bulky toys like Lego sets or train tracks. It’s also a great way to rotate toys, helping little ones avoid overwhelm from too much clutter.'

What type of bed is best for storage?

Professional organiser, Vicky Silverthorn says, 'The best kind of bed for long-term storage is an ottoman. Seasonal items are perfect to store as well as spare bedding and clothes/items you only need for holiday, eg. ski wear. This also frees up space in your wardrobe so what’s in there is actually what you’re going to wear at that time of year.'

'Ideally, what you store under an ottoman wouldn’t be things you need daily though.'

Katherine adds, 'If you're tight on space, definitely avoid divan bed bases (unless they come with built-in drawers) as they are a wasted opportunity of space for your needs.'

'If you have a metal or wooden bed frame you can often fit under bed drawers retrospectively. These solid-sided drawers can tidy up the bed edges visually and as they have castors on, may be more functional than plastic boxes or cardboard boxes and bags for seeing and reaching your stuff.'

'Even though ottoman beds have enclosed storage,' says Sue, 'they can still gather a lot of dust. I always use storage bags inside this type of bed as it keeps things organised and clean. I always store similar items in each container so it’s easy to find what you need when you want it.'

'If your bed has built-in drawers, central drawers are more practical than those with two separate compartments, as the ones near the bedside table are often difficult to access,' she adds.

Katherine continues, 'Hydraulic beds are also useful but can be expensive investment and keep in mind that they still take a certain amount of muscle power to lift them.'

'So I would recommend hydraulic lift options are used for storing occasional-use or off-season items only, eg Christmas decorations, off-season duvets, guest bedding supplies, sentimental items like greetings cards and letters from friends and family photographs (basically things that you don't need to access on a very regular basis but don't want to chuck away either).'

Hopefully you are now totally clued up on things you shouldn’t store under a bed as well as things that you should, and are one step closer to a more streamlined and clutter-free home.

Thinking of buying a new bed? You might be wondering whether that expensive bed is worth the higher price tag than a more-affordable bed. And it’s a fair enough question.

When thinking about where to buy a bed, budget is one of the main factors that influence what bed you buy – and where you buy it from. There’s a whole range of price points within bed retailers, of course. We’ll take a look at that in this article.

As well as my own expertise as a sleep writer with more than four years of reviewing sleep products, I’ve also spoken to industry insiders to find out what affects the price of beds and how to know if what you’re buying is a good-quality bed or an offer that’s too good to be true.

What is the price range for beds?

As I’ve already touched on, the price of beds ranges massively. On the affordable end of the scale, Dunelm sells a simple double bed frame for £125 and their most expensive option is £1,229 for an adjustable double.

Habitat is another great brand with stylish-yet-reasonable prices for beds. Their Maddox metal bed frame is £135 while their pretty Walsh upholstered bed is their most expensive and costs £510 for a double.

Next is a great mid-price option for beds, and their beds start at an amazing £95 for a double. Their most expensive double is £2,000, but for this you get an ottoman storage bed with a TV lift built in.

If you’re looking at more expensive brands then Button & Sprung double beds start at £695, while Loaf’s start at £745. You might be wondering why retailers’ prices vary so much for a bed – let’s get into that.

What can affect the difference in price between beds?

1. Material

‘The main difference is the choice of fabric, with shearer being the most premium price point– the price will vary based on the fabric specification,’ says Nicky Lines, Chief Product Officer at Loaf.

‘The upholstery details can also affect price, for example, our Luna bed whilst, beautifully made is a simpler design in comparison to the Bedlington bed with further craftsmanship needed. The meterage of fabric required also will affect the price.’

2. Construction

There are loads of different types of beds and bed bases: bed frames, divans, and ottoman beds. And they are all priced differently, generally based on how much engineering and manufacturing goes into the design.

Divans – especially sprung-base divans – are more expensive than a simple frame. And ottomans and storage divans can be pricey too, as they require careful engineering.

‘We do some divan storage beds at Loaf and the extra materials and lifting mechanisms will add to the price point,’ explains Nicky from Loaf. ‘our Tight Space and Store Storage beds start at £745 and £1045 respectively.’

3. Size

An easy one here – the bigger the bed, the more it’s going to cost. This is to cover the extra materials and even engineering a larger bed takes to make.

‘Usually, a bigger bed would cost more than a smaller one, but we always encourage consumers to go as big as they can afford and as big as the space allows,’ says Philippa Warford at the National Bed Federation. 'This is because if you are sharing a bed, there is less chance of partner disturbance. Also, the closer the two of you are, the warmer your sleeping environment will be and possibly less chance of a good night’s sleep.'

4. Bespoke finishes

Some brands, such as Loaf and Button & Sprung, specialise in made-to-order bed frames that you can have custom made in the fabric and finishes of your choice. The fabric you choose will impact the price further – not all the fabrics are priced the same. These bespoke finishes do drive up the price.

5. Features

‘More luxurious features […] can increase the price,’ says Philippa from the National Bed Federation.

These features include adjustable beds and those aforementioned beds with TV lifts. These will understandably drive up the price of your bed.

How do you know you’re buying a good-quality bed?

1. Comfort

Testing the bed before you buy it is a very good idea. Go into a store and see it in person with a mattress similar to the one you already own or are buying on it. Then lie on it in different positions, and move around on it.

2. Sturdiness

Look for solid construction on the bed – sturdy legs are a must. A bed base can impact how a mattress feels, so there is not point springing for the best mattress you can buy and popping it on a cheap bed.

Ideally, there will be sprung slats, which are longer lasting and offer more responsiveness while you sleep. If you are going for a slatted bed base, make sure the slats are close together – no more than 2-3 inches apart. Any wider than this and it’ll damage your mattress.

3. Warranties and guarantees

If a brand or retailer is offering warranties and guarantees, that probably means it has a good degree of belief in its product. Of course, always check the small print on these assurances, but it should offer you some peace of mind that you’re buying something of good quality.

4. Reviews

Unbiased, independent reviews should very much make up some of your research before you click ‘add to basket’. Be wary of reviews that all sound the same, or sound like they might be written by AI. However, independent reviews from reputable sources like Ideal Home’s buying guides can be very helpful.

5. You’re buying from a reputable place

‘Buying from a reputable bed retailer with good independent reviews will give you peace of mind,’ advises Philippa from the National Bed Federation.

‘The National Bed Federation (NBF) is the trusted trade body for UK and Irish bed manufacturers,’ continues Philippa. ‘For added assurance, check the list of NBF-approved brands on their consumer website, Bed Advice UK. All NBF-approved bed manufacturers undergo independent audits to ensure compliance with flammability, health, hygiene and trade

description regulations. This means that the materials used and construction of the bed match the manufacturer’s claims.’

Can a ‘value’ bed ever be a good buy?

It’s absolutely possible to get a brilliant bed at a budget price. And more affordable brands – like the ones I mentioned above – definitely offer good value beds.

‘Yes it’s possible for a value bed to be a good buy, if purchased from a reputable retailer and made by a trustworthy bed manufacturer,’ says Philippa from NBF. ‘Everyone has different budgets, and beds are designed to accommodate this diversity.

‘The sales are a fantastic opportunity to upgrade to a higher quality and possibly more luxurious bed at a price that fits your budget.’

You may be tempted by buying a bed second-hand or via eBay. While there are deals to be had on these online market places, you need to be extremely careful of scams. Ensure you’ve seen the bed and thoroughly checked its quality before handing over any of your hard-earned cash.

Final verdict - What should you pay for a bed?

Never spend more than you can afford. But having said that, investing in the best bed you can is an investment in your sleep and overall well-being. If you’re wondering how to sleep better, a good bed is up there with a way you can try to improve your sleep.

Spend around £500-£1,000 on a bed and you’ll definitely be able to get something very decent. However, deals and offers may make excellent beds more affordable still.

‘We all have different budgets, so buy the best value bed, not necessarily the lowest cost, and go as big as you can afford and that the space allows,’ says Philippa from NBF. ‘The sales are an ideal time to buy a genuine bargain bed but be wary of discounts offering 70% to 80% off the recommended sales price – especially if there are RRPs printed on the mattress label.’

‘Deals that are too good to be true are often found on social media and other online marketplaces, as well as from traders selling from the back of a van, which we strongly advise consumers to avoid,’ says Philippa from NBF. ‘If you are hesitant about buying a new bed, just think that a £1,000 bed, over an average seven-year lifespan, only costs 20p per person per night when shared with a partner.’

So in short, head for the £500 category if you can afford it and you should be in safe territory for a good quality bed.

Our favourite beds

As a sleep-product reviewer, I like to think I know a lot about beds and mattresses. But that hasn’t always been the case – I’ve made mistakes in the past, and I’m here to share with you what those pitfalls are so you don’t make the same mistakes I did.

I now know where to buy a bed, what kind of bed suits me and what size bed suits me. I also know what the best mattress is for me (a Hypnos Wool Origins 6) having tested most brands’ mattresses over the last three years.

As well as all the knowledge I’ve gained, I’ve also spoken to a lot of sleep experts and industry insiders about what makes for a good bed. So if you’re buying a new bed, here’s everything I think you need to know – and what you need to avoid – before you click add to basket.

1. Buy a bed to suit your space

Your bed needs to fit into your bedroom. And while you can buy the bed for the room you want in future, not the room you currently have – be sensible. Remember to check all the doors in your room can open – including your wardrobe door – as well as drawers. Using a tape measure for accuracy is key here, rather than guessing and hoping for the best.

‘Measure the space in the bedroom to help you decide how big you can go,’ says Philippa Warford of the National Bed Federation (NBF).

2. Look at if you need extra storage

‘Consider any storage requirements – a divan base with drawers or an ottoman lift bed may be the solution,’ advises Philippa at the NBF.

‘It’s important to think about how you want your bed to function as a piece of furniture; do you want to gain storage with the bed?’ says Adam Black, co-founder at Button & Sprung.

‘This can help to narrow your search to a divan or ottoman, which will integrate your storage needs. Also think about what you want to store. Ottomans are better if you wish to store bulky or seasonal bedding and divans are better if you want to have greater ease of access to everyday items such as books or folders. If you don’t want to have storage at all within the bed then you can opt for a frame design instead.’

Considering your bedroom storage ideas is advice I wish I’d had when buying a bed. This is especially the case in our spare room. If I had my time again, I would definitely buy an ottoman bed for this space, and perhaps even as my bed too.

3. Know what kind of bed base suits you

Support doesn’t just come from your mattress. Different bed bases offer different levels of support and responsiveness. And you need to find the right level of support for you.

‘If you choose a divan base, bear in mind that a solid or platform top is firmer – but cheaper – than the more luxurious sprung edge divan or firm edge sprung divan,’ says Philippa from NBF.

‘Similarly, if you choose a slatted bed base, then rigid or solid slats will provide a firmer feel, whereas flexible slats will offer a softer feel and prolong the mattress’s lifespan, as they work in conjunction with the mattress,’ says Philippa from NBF.

4. Make sure your base is compatible with your mattress

‘It is also important to note that there are many different suppliers of slatted bases with differing specifications of slat widths and the space between each slat,’ says Philippa from NBF. ‘It is crucial therefore that your mattress is compatible with the slatted base. If not, an incompatible base will invalidate your guarantee. Check with the mattress manufacturer on their recommendations.’

If the gaps between the slats are too wide, it can cause your mattress to sag and age prematurely as the slats cause wear and tear on your mattress.

5. Supersize your bed

Take it from me – go for the biggest bed you can comfortably fit in your room and afford.

When I bought my kingsize bed it was just me and my then-boyfriend using the bed. In the intervening years, that boyfriend became a husband and we now have three kids who expect to snuggle into our bed (why would they use the three beds we bought specifically for them?!). Almost daily I wish dearly that I’d gone for a super king or emperor bed, as I try not to fall out of bed while getting kicked in the kidney by one of my children.

‘If you are sharing with a partner, a larger bed means you are less likely to disturb one another, which is one of the most common sleep complaints. Go as big as your budget and the space allows,’ agrees Philippa from NBF.

‘We always encourage customers to choose the biggest bed and mattress that the room can comfortably accommodate and which you can afford,’ adds Adam from Button & Sprung. ‘Measure the space and mark out where the bed will sit. You might find that you can choose bigger than you imagined and enjoy more room in bed.’

6. Check you can get your bed in your house or flat

If you have tight access requirements where you live, or plan to move in the near-ish future, factor that into your bed-buying mission.

‘If you are worried about getting the bed upstairs, remember most divans have split bases, while many bedsteads are delivered flat-packed for assembly in situ,’ counsels Philippa from NBF. ‘To avoid problems with delivery, you should tell the retailer about potential access problems.’

‘Always wise to check access to ensure the packaged items can be delivered to the room of choice,’ agrees Nicky Lines, Chief Product Officer at Loaf.

7. Make sure it works with the rest of your furniture

You might have loads of bedroom ideas, and your bed needs to work with your overall vision.

‘Any pieces of furniture that you'd like to work alongside the new bed also need to be considered, whether you'd go for Light Ash or Dark Oak for example,’ says Nicky from Loaf. ‘Existing colours in the room also need to be considered.’

Our favourite beds

FAQs

How do you know if a bed is good?

You might be wondering if an expensive bed is worth it. There are ways to find out: testing in store, buying from reputable retailers or brands and reading trustworthy reviews should all be part of your journey when buying a new bed.

‘[A bed is good if] it provides all round comfort,’ says Nicky from Loaf. ‘High quality construction and craftsmanship, materials with considered details & proportions. The use of sprung slats to support the mattress is key for a great night’s sleep.’

How often should you buy a new bed?

‘The lifespan of a bed is shaped by various factors, including its quality, the level of care it receives and how frequently it is used,’ says Philippa from NBF. ‘For example, a bed that serves as your nightly sanctuary for sleep, reading, or watching TV will inevitably wear out sooner than one that is only used occasionally as a guest bed.

‘Changes in our lives — such as moving in with a partner, starting a family, becoming single, relocating, or experiencing fluctuations in weight or ageing — can also signal the need for a new bed,’ advises NBF’s Philippa.

There are clear signs when it’s time to get a new mattress, and many of these signs are the same for beds too.

If you find yourself shopping for a new bed in the Christmas and January sales, keep these tips in mind.

If you’re looking for the perfect bedroom setup, you've probably considered how comfortable your mattress is. You've no doubt also considered what your bed frame looks like. But did you know your bed frame can have a huge impact on what your mattress feels like too?

This means that you can search high and low for the best mattress, but if you don’t have a suitable bed frame for it, you won’t be getting the best out of your sleep setup.

As an expert sleep product reviewer and writer with almost four years of experience reviewing mattresses, I’ve got insider intel to share with you. As well as that, I’ve checked in with some industry experts to find out what they advise on the bed base and mattress debate.

Does your bed base affect how a mattress feels?

To quickly answer the question: yes, a bed base hugely impacts what a mattress feels like to lie on. Different styles of bed bases are going to have different tensions and therefore affect how firm or soft the mattress feels to sleep on top of.

That means that bed comfort isn't all down to choosing between a pocket spring, open coil, memory foam or hybrid mattress. It's not even solved by choosing the right mattress size for a good night's sleep or finding a mattress that offers the right levels of motion isolation or edge support. There's another factor to add to the sleep equation too.

But don't worry. I've enlisted several bed experts to help me break down the main types of bed frames and how they will affect the feel of a mattress below.

Types of bed

There are two main types of bed frame, and each type has variations that will give your bed a different feel.

‘Solid or platform top divans tend to be firmer because the top panel is often just hardboard', sums up Philippa Warford, Marketing and Communications Manager at the National Bed Federation. ‘Sprung edge divans absorb movement due to the complete open coil or pocket spring unit mounted on the bed frame. A rigid slatted base will give a bed a firmer feel than flexible slats and will affect the durability of the mattress'.

Let's break those bed frame types down a little further.

Divan beds

What defines a divan bed is a wooden frame that’s covered in fabric, on top of which sits your mattress. You can attach a headboard to these. There are a few different types of divan beds though. Let’s get into it.

Platform-top divan beds

Platform-top divan bed bases are solid at the top. Owing to the fact they’re solid, they will give a firmer overall feel to your mattress.

‘Solid/platform top divans have a rigid, non-sprung top panel, often made from hardboard,’ says Philippa from the National Bed Federation. ‘Beds with these bases are generally firmer, as well as cheaper than beds with sprung bases.’

Sprung-top divan beds

As the name might suggest, these divan beds have springs in the base. This gives gentler support, but they are more expensive.

‘The most expensive divans will contain a sprung surface layer, which will help distribute the weight of the mattress and the sleepers, creating a more luxurious feel,’ says Chris Tattersall, sleep expert and Managing Director at Woolroom.

Sprung-top divan beds can be further broken down into two specific types:

• Sprung-edge divan beds: ‘Sprung edge is the most luxurious option and feature a complete open coil or pocket spring unit mounted on a frame, which acts like a giant shock absorber, increasing the mattress’s durability,’ explains Philippa from the National Bed Federation.
• Firm-edge divan beds: ‘Firm edge divan beds generally feature a smaller number of larger, heavy duty springs within a rigid, wooden sided frame,’ says Philippa.

How does a divan bed feel?

As I’ve alluded to above, the type of divan base you choose will have a big impact on how firm or soft your mattress feels, and can ultimately play into how to sleep better. A sprung-base divan is going to make your mattress feel softer, whereas a solid platform-base divan will give a firmer tension.

Bedsteads

Next up, there are bedsteads. A bedstead usually consists of a headboard and footboard and a frame onto which slats are placed to support your mattress.

‘Bedsteads come in a vast array of styles from traditional classics to more modern designs and are available in wood, metal, plastics, upholstered or any combination of these’, says Philippa from the National Bed Federation.

'Slatted bases are mostly used with bedsteads' Philippa continues, and there are two different types of slatted bases:

• Sprung slatted bed base: Sprung slatted bed bases are more expensive, but can offer more flexible support. ‘Flexible slats are made from laminated wood and are mounted in a frame, using plastic slat holders. They create a modest level of springiness from their bowed shape,’ says Philippa from the National Bed Federation.
• Solid slatted bed base: These are simpler bed bases, where the slats are straight and rigid and sit directly on the bed frame rather than mounted in plastic. ‘These are normally made of pine or cheaper timber,’ says Chris from Woolroom. Solid slats give a mattress a firmer feel.

How does a slatted bed base feel?

Overall, slatted bed bases tend to make your mattress feel firmer. However, there’s variation depending on the type of slats you go for.

‘Rigid slats will give a bed a firmer feel, but they will affect the durability of the mattress. Rigid slats have no give and work against the mattress, leaving it to do all the work. Flexible slats work with the mattress and will prolong its life and improve comfort levels,’ advises Philippa from the National Bed Federation.

How to choose a bed base

In summation, I think it's clear that the bed frame you choose can definitely affect how a mattress feels. So what's the best way to factor this into your sleep setup?

'Whether you're debating where to buy a bed or which mattress to buy, it's important to be aware that the bed frame you choose can significantly impact how a mattress feels' advises Ideal Home's Sleep Editor, Amy Lockwood.

'This is especially important to consider if you're testing out mattresses in-store, because how a mattress feels in a showroom might be completely different from how it feels at home if your bed base is a different type. Therefore it's just as important to look what's under the mattress as it is to test out the mattress' comfort'.

'If you're not planning to replace your bedframe at the same time as buying a new mattress then I'd always recommend looking for a mattress with a sleep trial. A sleep trial allows you to test out a mattress in your own home for anywhere between 30 and 365 nights. This is the best way of assessing whether you've chosen a mattress that feels comfortable for you in combination with your bedframe'.

And if you are looking to replace your bedframe, here are some of the Ideal Home team's suggestions for where to shop.

• Bensons for Beds: wide range of bed styles
• Dreams: divans and bedsteads
• Feather & Black: bedsteads, divans, and ottomans
• Furniture Village: bedsteads and divan bed bases
• Happy Beds: wide selection of bed frames
• John Lewis: bedsteads, divans, and storage beds

FAQs

Are divan or slatted beds better?

I think the question of whether a divan or slatted bed is better really comes down to personal preference, and all the experts I spoke to echoed this. Chris, from Woolroom, sums it up well: ‘If one is looking for maximum comfort and support, I would say a sprung divan with a firm edge is the best, but if one is looking for style over comfort then perhaps opt for a bedstead.’

Can a bed base ruin a mattress?

Yes, a bed base can ruin a mattress by not providing adequate support to the mattress. When it comes to how often you should replace your mattress, experts generally advise every seven to ten years, but if your bed frame doesn't offer adequate support this can cause your mattress to degrade and sag before its time.

‘A bed base can ruin a mattress if the slats are too far apart as there is not the appropriate level of support for the springs and fillings in a sprung mattress,’ says Chris from Woolroom.

Are slatted beds bad for your back?

No, slatted beds aren’t necessarily bad for your back. It’s just important to choose a supportive mattress that works for you, and a base that works well with the mattress.

If you are stuggling with aches and soreness at night our guide to choosing the best mattress for back pain can help.

Do I need a new bed base when buying a new mattress?

No, absolutely not. However, you should recognise you might not know if a divan base has worn out as all the inner workings are hidden.

‘It can be a false economy to change only the mattress and keep the original base, especially if you are buying a divan set, says Philippa. ‘The old base could reduce the useful life of the new mattress as well as the support and comfort it can offer.

There is nothing like the feeling of sleeping in a posh hotel bed; getting cosy under the crisp white sheets, pillows layered up behind you, knowing you don't even have to make it again in the morning. So knowing how to make a bed look more luxurious is going to massively help you create those same feels at home (but full disclosure, it is going to make it harder to get out of each morning!)

When we're looking for bedroom ideas, we often think of fancy hotels we might have visited, or a celebs sprawling mansion, or even a department store trying to sell us the dream set-up. And what they all share, is a bed fit for a Queen, that you can't help but want to dive straight in to.

So to ensure you know just how to make a bed look more luxurious in your own home, we've compiled this handy step-by-step guide, as well as asking some of the industry's top experts to share their knowledge too. In just a few minutes you'll learn how to dress your bed like a pro, from knowing where to buy bedding, to how to make your bed feel like a cloud.

1. Factor a frame

'Your bed is the central focus in your room, so which style of frame you go for will have a huge impact on the look and feel of your room,' says Interior Stylist Maxine Brady.

It might seem obvious but in order to make a bed look more luxurious, you first have to address the actual bed itself! Four-poster beds have long been reminiscent of a hotel set-up, but if your bedroom is on the small side or has low ceilings, this might not be the best choice for you. But fear not, when it comes to where to buy a bed, there are plenty of options, and even a simple divan bed can be dressed up to the nines and with the right styling and bedding, can look a million dollars.

'If you love that vintage style – look for a frame with an upholstered or painted frame. If you want that modern, minimal look then a large oversized headboard is for you. If you have a small bedroom, then an ottoman bed is the dream! I have just bought one for my spare room where I can now stash my props for shoots in the lift-up storage compartment- it’s fab.'

'However, if you are looking to buy a new bed – allocate the biggest part of your budget to your mattress NOT the bed frame,' advises Maxine. 'Your mattress has the biggest impact on your sleeping patterns more than anything else.'

Which leads us nicely to step number two...

2. Start with a comfortable base

Not only are you going to want to make a bed look more luxurious, you're going to want to it feel that way too, which means starting with the best mattress. While a new mattress is no doubt an investment buy, it's one that will be worth every penny for ensuring ultimate comfort and something that just can't be cheated.

Ideal Home's very own Sleep Editor, Amy Lockwood says, 'A good mattress should last seven to ten years, but there are lots of reasons you might need to swap out a mattress sooner, and whilst adding one of the best mattress toppers to your existing mattress may solve some sleep issues, a topper doesn't solve everything.'

Whinnie Williams, Interior Design expert at Dreams agrees. 'Creating a bed that feels soft, cosy and cloud-like, starts with choosing the right mattress.'

'Thankfully, the Dreams’ Sleepmatch machine, makes this a breeze, helping you to find the ideal fit for your sleep style, whether you’re after firm support or that dreamy, cloud-like softness.'

3. Indulge in a dreamy duvet

Next up, you'll need to think about treating yourself to the best duvets and pillows, to ensure you make a bed look more luxurious.

Emily and Jonathan Attwood, Founders of scooms advise, 'You want to start with choosing high quality, naturally filled duvets and pillows. Especially in the colder seasons, going for a higher tog duvet will instantly make your bed look more inviting and get that all-important cloud-like look and feel.'

Maxine agrees, 'You can not beat a good quality duvet for giving your bed a fluffy, luxurious look.'

'Swapping your duvet cover will make you sleep deeper and for longer. Plus a fluffy one looks lush when styled with fresh linen sheets. It’s worth investing in a good duvet as it will last you for years.'

'Don't forget your pillows too' add Emily and Jonathan, 'doubling up with four pillows will give that depth and make the bed more inviting.'

'Oh yes, pillows are just as important as your duvet', agrees Maxine. 'You'll need one to sleep on that will support your head comfortably so that you don’t wake up with a crooked neck. I would advise natural-filled ones as they are more responsive. If you suffer from allergies, then look out for ones that are hypoallergenic.'

'I also like large oversize square pillows which I use to support myself when reading in bed. They also look great when styled on the bed - as you can choose pillowcases in a pattern or colour for visual interest.'

4. Set the scene with sheets

Once you've got the basics of a comfortable mattress and the best duvets and pillow covered, it's time to select the best bedding sets and sheets for your bed.

Emily & Jonathan advise, 'You then want to choose high quality bed sheets. 100% Egyptian cotton sheets in classic white are the perfect choice as they'll bring a crisp, classic look evocative of the finest luxury hotels, whilst a high thread count will add that supreme softness and comfort.'

Emma Price, founder of Interior Design company Fable & Willow adds, 'As a general rule of thumb, the higher the thread count, the thicker and more luxurious the bedding, which is a crucial factor to always bear in mind when shopping around for your sheets.'

Whinnie agrees that to get that all important plush-hotel vibe and make a bed look more luxurious, you need to opt for white. 'When it comes to bedding, you can't go wrong with crisp, high-quality white sheets. A clean, tailored look is a staple in luxury hotels and creates a fresh, relaxing base for your space.'

However if you're keen for some colour in your bedroom, Whinnie also adds,' The Quiet Luxury trend that we've seen a lot of this year, often embraces the use of soft, quiet tones in the bedroom. But trends like the Unexpected Red Theory and whimsical décor show there's still room for colour in luxurious spaces.'

'Even with a neutral base, you can make a statement with rich jewel tones like deep purples, sumptuous blues, and velvety greens—colours fit for royalty. Consider a bold feature wall or upcycle furniture with leftover paint.'

5. Lean into layers

'The key to making your bed look luxurious and more inviting is layering', say Emily and Jonathan. 'This will create that sumptuous, cloud-like look and feel, helping you get cosier.'

'Opt for layers with beautifully tactile textures - think wool throws, washed cotton or linen bedspreads and cushions in velvets, silk or linen. Keep the look tonal in whites, off-whites and earthy neutrals for a minimalist feel, or allow your personality to shine through with bursts of colour and pattern.'

'This layering of textures, heights, and subtle colours creates a luxurious, inviting look that’s all about balance and comfort.'

Whinnie suggests, 'Use different textures on your bed like throws, drapes, and pillows to create depth. Dress your bed with a duvet, adding textural throws and cushions for visual charm—which can be removed if you get too warm.'

Maxine is a big fan of the layered look too. 'Once you’ve dressed your bed with cosy linens and a thicker duvet, finish off the look with a velvet quilt or a couple of throws.

'Choose ones made from super cosy wools and knits that you can drape over the end of your bed, or style up on a chair nearby – handy for cold evenings. Blankets and throws are a great way to inject colour into your bedroom, for a luxury look.'

6. Herald a headboard

Our final step to ensure you make a bed look more luxurious, is a cracking headboard idea. Headboards are something than can be added to most beds retrospectively and come in a huge variety of shapes and sizes.

Emma advises, 'Having a handmade headboard that complements the room instantly brings the wow factor. Seeing as beds tend to be the main focal point in bedrooms, it makes sense to make them really stand out with a statement headboard that’s got plenty of height, is shaped, piped and has been expertly trimmed.'

Whinnie adds, 'Plush headboards in jewel tones can add instant grandeur, enabling you to keep walls subtly luxurious while making your bed a standout feature.'

Get the look

FAQS

How to make your bed like the Ritz?

'Layering is definitely the secret to making your bed Ritz-worthy', says Emma. 'Making sure all of the sheets fit perfectly, from the valance sheet to the linen, makes all the difference too; it really helps create that perfectly crisp finish.'

'And no luxury bed is complete without a handmade throw or bed runner adorned with beautiful features, such as intricate stitching, eye-catching tassels and trims or double-sided fabric, for instance, velvet on one side and a dainty floral pattern on the other.'

Whinnie adds, 'Oversized cushions are key, too - they add that extra touch of plushness and make the bed feel both cosy and polished.'

'But in my opinion, to bring that indulgent Ritz feel to your own bedroom, it’s all about getting the details just right. Start with mood lighting -layering different light sources creates that warm, welcoming vibe. A pair of bedside lamps will add soft, ambient light that instantly adds depth and cosiness.'

'To add even more depth, go for a mix of textures and layers on your bed. Think plush throws and blankets in varying fabrics such as cashmere or chunky knits. A thick duvet combined with chunky, high-loft pillows completes the Ritz-inspired bed, adding a sense of weight and warmth that’s both comforting and luxurious. With these elements, you’ll achieve a bed that feels inviting, lavish, and expertly styled, capturing the essence of a five-star hotel every night.'

Maxine adds, 'I’m a huge fan of linen sprays for my bed. I have a lavender spray for my sheets which I use every morning when I make my bed. Why? The sheets will feel fresher for longer, lavender is a natural sleep aid and it gives a real boutique-hotel vibe to the room!'

How to make your bed feel like a cloud?

'The secret to creating a ‘Princess and the Pea’ bed undoubtedly depends on the type and amount of bedding you choose,' says Emma.

'Using multiple layers to make your bed will also instantly make it feel super comfy and bouncy. There really are no rules when it comes to dressing beds – you can have as many layers as you like; sheets, duvets, throws, runners, blankets in all different textures and thicknesses.'

Whinnie advises, 'Go for a thick, fluffy duvet cover to wrap yourself in comfort without feeling weighed down- essential for that ‘floating on a cloud’ vibe. For the bedding, a teddy bear fabric set is perfect if you want the ultimate in snuggliness. Or, if you're after something a bit more luxurious, try a silky luxury set that’s smooth and soft without losing any of that cosy factor.'

'Layering cushions in different shapes and sizes adds that plush, inviting look that practically begs you to dive in. And to complete the look, keep the colour palette cool and neutral: soft whites and breezy blues create a calm, serene feel that’s ideal for a cloud-inspired retreat. With these finishing touches, your bed will be a warm, inviting space you’ll never want to leave.'

Maxine shares a little styling secret. 'As a magazine stylist, on photo shoots we often double up the duvet to make them look extra fluffy. And use bubble wrap to fill the corners of cushions so they look picture perfect!!'

'Don’t forget to pile up your pillows. I love lots of squishy ones for reading in bed, plus they'll give the perfect cloud-like vibe to your bed.'

So now you have a guide to creating the most luxurious bed imaginable, will you be taking full advantage of the Black Friday deals and transform your sleep space?

We know we will be!

Bedding and bed linen takes up a lot of space when it’s not in use. Not to mention it’s tricky to keep it fresh so you get that “fresh sheet” feel on your bed linen every time, or preventing a musty smell when storing a duvet for a while. But help is at hand.

You might be wondering how to organise bedding. As a sleep-product writer with around three years of experience, I’ve got a lot of experience in this.

Along with my personal expertise, I’ve spoken to leading bedding brands and home-organisation experts to get their tips and tricks. Here’s the gold standard for storing bedding.

Where is the best place to store bed linen?

Whether you’re storing bedding or duvets, you need a dry place where air can circulate.

‘The best place to store bed linens and bedding is in a cool and dry environment that offers good air circulation,’ says Kate Edmondson, founder of home-organisation service Home Edited. ‘Ideal spaces would be an airing cupboard or designated linen cupboard. Just be sure to avoid areas such as attics or bathroom spaces as these areas can be humid and/or damp and over time can cause mould, mildew and musty smelling linens.’

‘It’s best to store bed linen in a dry linen closet,’ agrees Sue Spencer, owner of A Life More Organised and is a KonMari Master consultant.

‘I like to make sure the different sets of bedding are organised either by size or bedroom so that it’s easy to put them away after washing – and easy to grab them to change the bed,’ continues Sue from A Life More Organised. ‘Or, if you don’t have a large airing cupboard then store the spare set of bedding in the room where it will be used. An ideal space would be in a breathable cotton bag in the drawer under the bed or a dedicated drawer in a chest of drawers.’

Kate from Home Edited advises: ‘The use of bed linen organisers will contain linen sets together, enhancing visibility and accessibility whilst keeping your linens organised.’

‘A great tip for containing linen sets together is using the sets pillowcase to keep bed sheet and duvet cover together,’ says Kate from Home Edited. ‘Folding the duvet and sheet and placing them inside the pillowcase creates an easy grab-and-go when it’s linen-change-over day.’

Where is the best place to store a duvet?

There are plenty of things to consider when thinking about how to store a duvet. They’re big for a start, so require adequate storage space that’s breathable.

But before you pack away your duvet, it’s a good idea to do a bit of prep so it’s ready when you need it again. After all, you’ve invested in the best duvet you could – you want to it be fresh as a daisy when you unpack it again.

‘Make sure that if you’ve washed a seasonal duvet before packing it away that it's completely aired and dry as any residual moisture will turn musty over time,’ advises Sue from A Life More Organised.

‘The best place to store bed linen is in a dry, and dark area with good airflow, such as an airing cupboard or wardrobe ideally,’ says Wendy Miranda, Customer Ambassador at Lakeland. ‘You should avoid storing bedding in humid areas like bathrooms, attics, sheds, or garages, where moisture can cause mold and mildew.’

‘Sometimes space can be limited when organising our bedding, so utilising spaces in our bedrooms such as wardrobe shelving or under an ottoman bed can make for great storage alternative to a designated linen or airing cupboard,’ says Kate from Home Edited.

‘Keep like items together and avoid plastic storage solutions as these won’t allow air to circulate,’ says Home Edited’s Kate. ‘Opt for the use of breathable storage, which will allow air to circulate preventing moisture buildup, while covering items to minimise dust. Breathable materials include cotton, linen, recycled polyester, as well as polypropylene. Be sure to order the right size storage for what you are looking to store and label for easy identification.’

Home Edited’s Kate recommends these affordable polypropylene storage bags for storing duvets from IKEA.

Where is the best place to store pillows?

Pillows are very similar to duvets in where you can store them. Somewhere cool and dry with plenty of ventilation is going to keep them in tip-top condition, so you still have the best pillows when you need them.

‘I recommend storing both duvets and pillows in cotton storage bags as this protects them from dust and dirt,’ says Sue from A Life More Organised. ‘This is especially important if you are storing spare bedding in an ottoman bed as these storage spaces are notoriously dusty.’

Soak & Sleep sell these fantastic pillow storage bags that are perfect for the job.

FAQs

Should you store bedding in vacuum pack bags?

If you have feather and down duvets and pillows, you’re best off avoiding vacuum-pack bags. The quills of the fillings often get damaged when compressed, and unless the duvet and pillows are absolutely bone dry, the moisture can cause mould to grow in your bedding.

However, if your bedding is totally dry and not made from down, then it’s a good space-saving idea.

‘Not only is this space-saving, it also keeps the contents free of dust and moisture, meaning they emerge in the same condition in which they went in,’ says Wendy from Lakeland. ‘Some may feel it’s an extra step too far but others love to do this.’

These Lakeland vacuum tote bags are perfect for the job. I use these to store away summer duvets in winter and they do a fantastic job.

Should you store bedding in a bedroom?

It depends on what your bedroom is like. If it’s damp – perhaps if you air laundry in there – then it’s not ideal.

‘You can store bedding in your bedroom,’ says Wendy from Lakeland. ‘But it’s best to keep it in a cool, dry and well-ventilated area. So depending on your bedroom and storage options you have, it may be best to keep it in an airing cupboard for example if you have one.’

‘If you have space to [store bedding in your bedroom] this then it makes sense to have products close at hand for the regular bed linen change,’ says Simon Glanville, managing director at A Place for Everything. ‘But otherwise store on top of a wardrobe or under a bed – or in a spare bedroom if you have the space.’

‘[This is fine], especially in kids rooms as it makes the emergency change of bedding in the middle of the night much easier,’ says Sue from A Life More Organised. ‘Avoid storing near radiators as this can make the bedding storage humid, which may lead to mildew if the bedding wasn’t completely dry when it was put away.’

How to keep stored bedding smelling fresh?

‘I like to use drawer liners to keep clothes and bedding smelling fresh (and prevent moths),’ says Sue from A Life More Organised. ‘I’ve also used tumble dryer sheets - but you need to be careful as some can leave an oil-like residue if you leave them directly on the bedding (as do essential oils).

‘Sachets of lavender or cedar (like those used to prevent moths) are also a good alternative,’ continues Sue. ‘If you are worried about dampness then baking soda or silica gel sachets are great. It’s worth noting that all these solutions have a shelf life and the fragrance fades so it’s worth regularly checking - the change of seasons is a great reminder to refresh them.’

Why do bed sheets smell after being stored?

This tends to be an indicator you’ve not done all the groundwork mentioned above before storing away. Perhaps the items were not totally dry before storing away, or you’ve stored them somewhere where air can’t circulate around the fibres.

‘This might be because they hadn’t dried properly before they were put away. Make sure they’re completely dry or aired thoroughly before storing them,’ says Wendy from Lakeland.

‘Giving your linen and bedding space to breathe when storing is paramount to avoiding musty smells developing over time,’ agrees Kate from Home Edited. ‘So be sure to avoid overpacking shelving to allow airflow and make sure that they are thoroughly dry before storing away. The use of scented paper or dryer sheets between the linens can help minimise unpleasant smells developing over time.’

If items have become very damp or moth-eaten, then you might wondering where to buy bedding from. Remember to go for the best bedding you can afford as you’re investing in better sleep when buying bedding.

Some bedding and bed linen can be eye-wateringly expensive. But it’s nice to have a little treat sometimes right? You might be wondering why the price varies so much between bed linens, and if luxury bedding is really worth it. Well, you’re in the right place.

As a sleep-product reviewer with almost three years of experience under my belt, I have the answers to a lot of your questions, such as where to buy bed linen and what the best bed linen and best bedding is.

As part of my research for this article, I also spoke to some industry experts from bedding brands and interior designers to get their inside intel into pricey bedding. They’ve spilled on what to look for in quality bedding so you know you’re getting the most for your money.

What is the price range for bedding/bed linen?

The price of bedding varies wildly. We’ll get into why that is in a moment, but first up – what kind of costs are we talking?

Argos is always a good port of call for budget-friendly bed sheets. You can get a kingsize bedding set from there for £12 – unbelievable value. Their duvet inserts are the same price.

Kids’ bedding from H&M is always a win and their single bed linen sets cost around £20. H&M also do an amazing range of bedding for adults, which ranges from £12.99 to £120 – the latter of which is linen.

Speaking of linen, on the other end of the spectrum, linen specialists, Piglet in Bed’s duvet covers can cost around £229 for a kingsize (this is the top of their range though).

‘Purchasing bed linen will ultimately come down to personal preference and budget,’ says Jessica Hanley, founder & CEO at Piglet in Bed. ‘It’s important to consider cost-per-use and the longevity of bed linen, as more premium options might be a larger initial investment but will long outlast synthetic options and encourage less consumption.

‘Regardless of your bed linen budget, look for certifications such as OEKO-TEX® Certified to ensure quality regardless of price.’

What can affect the difference in price between bed linen?

1. Fibres

The key factor in price of bed linen is the fabric it’s made from. Cotton is pricer than polycotton (a blend of synthetic polyester and cotton); linen is more expensive still. And silk, as you are probably aware, is for bigger budgets.

‘The biggest factor that’ll affect the difference in price for bedding is the fabric it's made from,’ says Jessica from Piglet in Bed. ‘Those made up of 100% linen for instance will be more costly than synthetic materials. However, the benefits of bedding made from natural fabrics long outweigh the brief monetary saving of synthetic alternatives.

‘Purchasing bed linen made from a blend of linen and cotton is a great option as it combines the effortless look of linen with the softness of cotton, and its price point is a little more attainable than 100% linen.’

2. Thread count?

We all know thread count drives the price of cotton bed sheets up. Thread count means the number of cotton threads woven in one square inch of fabric. The more threads, the better quality the sheets and the more pricey.

But that’s not always the whole story. ‘The importance of thread count is often hugely exaggerated in the world of bedding,’ says Bedfolk’s Co-founder and Creative Director, Jo James. ‘What really matters …is the quality of the yarn as opposed to the quantity of the threads.

‘Thread count is what many look at and yet this can be quite confusing,’ says Joan Johnson, Founder at luxury bedding brand Ava Innes. ‘People consider the higher the thread count as key to quality, however this does not always equate. The yarn used in bedding can be spun as a single ply or as two ply which then leads to a thicker yarn and a much heavier sheet.

‘With cotton it depends on the length of the stable fibre which is why Egyptian cotton is held in high regard and often priced higher. The longer the fibre in the thread the softer the sheets.’

3. Provenance + production process

You might not see the production line involved in making your duvet, but you may notice it in the price tag.

‘Depending on where the bedlinen or bedding is manufactured will also affect the price of the bedding you choose,’ says Joan from Ava Innes. ‘A higher price will often indicate better quality standard practices, locally sourced materials, good working conditions for makers, and environmentally-friendly credentials.’

‘A brand’s line of production can affect the cost of its bed linen,’ says Jessica from Piglet in Bed. ‘Those that are more focused on longevity and sustainability commit to more responsible sourcing practices and better working conditions, which can bump up the cost of production and in turn the cost of the product.

‘Dyeing, printing and different weaves that require special techniques – such as with gingham bedding - can lead to bedding reflecting a higher price.’

4. Design and finish

‘Another factor will be the design and finish of the bed linen,’ says Laura Burnett, Senior Buyer at Feather & Black. ‘We love our new ruffled bed linen, for example, and the additional work required to craft the trim, or embroider the edges, will be reflected in the price.

How do you know you’re buying a good-quality bedding set?

There’s so much choice in bed linen out there, and you want to put your money in the right place. But there are signs of good bedding sets.

‘My advice is go back to basics. It all starts with the quality of the fibre. Absolutely we should be looking at natural fibres; cotton, bamboo, or linen,’ says Joan from Ava Innes.

‘Ultimately, you’ll know you’ve bought good quality when it can stand the sleep and wash test,’ says Ava Innes’ Joan. ‘Do your research. Know your fibres. And choose brands you trust.’

‘Natural fabrics like linen and cotton are breathable and made to last,’ says Jessica from Piglet in Bed. ‘Linen is especially prized for its natural crumpled texture, thermoregulating abilities and durability, meaning it will last for decades when cared for properly, making the cost-per-use so worth it!’

All the experts I spoke to recommended only buying bed linen and bedding with certified trademarks such as Oeko-Tex Standard 100, GOTS, Fair Trade and British Wool if you’re looking for quality bedding.

Can ‘value’ bedding ever be a good buy?

Not everyone has the same budget for our bedding. And while we may dream that a way to get better sleep is with spenny bedding, our bank accounts might not be such fans.

‘“Value” bedding can still be very comfortable and still feel quality, even if the cost is a more affordable option,’ says Emily Steen, Director at interior designers Wells and Maguire. ‘The “value” bed linen options are usually made from synthetic polymers such as polyester, which can unfortunately be irritating to sensitive skin types. However, they are very durable and long lasting and can still be soft and comfortable if purchased from the right stores.’

‘Where possible, touch it and feel it first so you know what you’re getting. And ideally choose 100% cotton,’ says Joan from Ava Innes.

Final verdict - What should you pay for bedding?

My advice is to only pay what you can afford. Ideally that would be pure cotton. However, for a kingsize pure cotton duvet set you’re probably looking at, at least £50 as an entry point.

Once you start looking for something more high end – those long threads, fancy finishes and hand dyed fabrics – you’re starting to verge into £100-300 bracket.

‘Go to the top of your affordability, bearing in mind that higher quality will be reflected in the level of comfort, durability and ease of use,’ advises Laura from Feather and Black.

Experts have revealed the best place to position your bed to stay warm this winter, and we're all ears for anything that promises a cosier night without spending any money.

Even if you have the best mattress possible, if you're shivering to sleep it's unlikely that you're going to get getting some good quality rest. Where you put a bed in your room for a good night's sleep is important at any time of the year, and can determine how rested and refreshed you feel in general, but if you're trying to beat the chill then this knowledge can go a long way.

The best place to position your bed

‘The best bed placement will vary depending on the characteristics of your home and bedroom, but there are some general rules of thumb you can follow to keep yourself warm,’ explains Jonathan Warren, Bed Specialist and Director at Time4Sleep.

As the largest piece of furniture in the space, the bed will to some extent dictate the bedroom layout you're able to have, but it also dictates how warm the room is and how warm you can be in bed.

‘Placing your bed near a radiator will mean you will feel more of its heat when your heating is running, but you should always try to avoid placing your bed directly in front of the radiator if possible. This will block the radiator and make it much less efficient at distributing heat around the room.'

‘There are other considerations for where to put your bed, including where your door is,' continues Jonathan. 'Place your bed on the same wall as the door to make it easier to walk around your bedroom. This will also have the benefit of shielding your head from any draughts coming through the door during the night.’

Magda Callery, interior designer and Founder of Style by Magda says that positioning your bed is all about strategy – and using the architecture to your benefit.

‘Think of it like planning a cosy fortress—where you place your bed can make all the difference between toasty comfort and waking up feeling like you've spent the night in a chilly draft,’ she says.

‘The MVP of bed placement is against an interior wall. Interior walls are like your bed's personal bodyguards—they keep the warmth in and the cold out. Tucked up against one gives you the perfect balance of insulation and cosiness.'

'Interior walls are the warm hugs of architecture, helping your bed stay cozy by surrounding it with the warmth of the home's interior.'

The worst place to position your bed

You’re probably wondering where the worst place to put a bed is. The answer is by your window – not as insulating as your interior wall, you’re guaranteed to feel the chill.

‘During the winter months, windows are likely to be the coldest point of the room, especially in older homes, meaning you’ll feel much chillier if your bed is near one,' agrees Jonathan. 'You should also try to avoid exterior walls where possible to ensure you’re minimising your proximity to the colder areas of the room.'

Magda also crowns exterior walls as the worst place to put a bed. ‘The worst place? That would be up against an exterior wall or right next to those giant windows (aka cold air's favourite entrance),’ she says.

‘Exterior walls are the cold shoulder – literally. No matter how good the insulation, exterior walls can sneak in the outdoor chill. So, for maximum warmth, stick to those interior walls like your favourite winter blanket!’

‘Unless you're trying to recreate an ‘open-air camping’ experience in your own bedroom, steer clear of these cold zones!’

How else can I stay warm?

Aside from adapting your bedroom layout to promote warmth, there are plenty of other ways to stay cosy this winter. Here are a few of our favourites...

By following these bedroom rules, you'll be tucking your safe in as snug as a bug all winter long.

As nights close in and the temperature drops, you might be looking for ways to keep warm at night. One brilliant way to keep cosy is to use an electric blanket on your bed. We’ve put together an easy everything-you-need-to-know guide on how to use an electric blanket here.

The best electric blankets will keep you snug and warm on chilly nights. There are fleecy ones that are more like toppers, and slim ones that feel imperceptible between you and the mattress. A top tip is to look for ones that have auto shut off timers so you don’t overheat.

I’ve spent two years testing electric blankets and throws, so I know more than my fair share about how to use an electric blanket, and how to get the best out of your electric blanket. I pulled together my insights, and spoke to some industry experts for their advice too.

How to use an electric blanket

An electric blanket is a pretty simple piece of kit, and they’ve been around for years. These go on top of your mattress and warm your bed. This is unlike an electric throw, which you put on top of you or on your sofa to keep you cosy at other times.

‘Electric blankets use an insulated wire/heating element which is inserted into the fabric that heats up when plugged in and switched on,’ says Holly Castle, Brand Manager at Slumberdown. ‘Electric Blankets has a temperature controller, which sometimes features a timer or dual aspect, which is used to control the amount of current entering into the heating elements of the blanket.’

How to put an electric blanket on a bed

To use an electric blanket properly, follow these steps from Holly at Slumberdown:

1. Open the electric blanket out fully and lay it flat on the mattress, allowing space for the pillows.
2. Position the blanket so the mains lead is at the pillow end of the bed.
3. Pass the elasticated straps underneath your mattress to secure the blanket in place.
4. When the blanket is fitted securely, connect the mains lead to the electric blanket’s socket.
5. Make sure the mains lead isn’t too stretched. To detach the mains lead, just lift the flap on the blanket’s socket and pull gently.
6. Cover the electric blanket with a fitted sheet and you’re ready to go!

‘Make sure the electric blanket is placed down as flat and neat as possible, with the wires at the correct areas,’ says Evie Clark, Home Buyer at Lakeland.

There are some things you need to watch out for though. ‘An electric blanket shouldn’t be used with sofa beds, inflatable beds or water beds,’ says Holly from Slumberdown.

A lot of people like to use an electric blanket to warm up your bed before you get in. So if you can plan ahead then switching it on before you slip between the sheets is a good idea. But they don’t take too long to warm up if you forget to do this.

‘Ideally, switch on about 30-60 minutes (depending on how toasty you want it) before you plan on going to bed,’ says Holly from Slumberland. ‘This makes sure the bed is warm and toasty and can help to take the edge off particularly cold nights.’

But there’s no set rules about when to switch it on. ‘This is personal preference,’ says Evie from Lakeland. ‘Some like to pop it on for a little while before getting to bed so it’s lovely and warm as soon as jumping in, others prefer to slowly warm up.’

As for how long to leave it on while you’re in bed, it’s advised to switch it off before you drift off. Some blankets you can set a timer for. ‘You shouldn’t use your electric blanket while asleep in the bed, instead use it to heat your bed up before you get into it. This is for your comfort and safety,’ says Holly from Slumberland.

How to stop an electric blanket from moving overnight

If you move around a lot at night, go for an electric blanket that has elasticated straps that secure it to the bed. In all my days of testing, these haven’t failed me at keeping it secure.

‘Often electric blankets will come with a fastener that helps to keep it in place either at the edges or straps that go under your mattress,’ says Holly from Slumberdown. ‘Depending on how much you move around, it might be that you do have to reposition every few days, but this is really easy to do.’

How to use a heated throw in bed

An electric throw is designed to snuggle on top of you while you’re awake. You could pop it on top of your duvet before you get into bed maybe, but it’d be better to switch on an electric blanket as if you have a good duvet, it will keep the heat locked in better.

‘An electric throw is a blanket that goes over your duvet, but we do not recommend you sleep with it on,’ says Holly from Slumberland. ‘The benefits of it is that you still get the warmth and can also use it in other parts of the house should as the sofa. It is one to have on while in bed, perhaps reading or watching tv but like your electric blanket, we recommend switching off before going to sleep.’

Our favourite electric blankets

FAQs

Do you sleep under or on an electric blanket?

An electric blanket goes on top of your mattress, under your sheet. The controls dangle out of the sheet and then a wire goes to these to a plug.

You may be getting electric blankets and electric throws confused. An electric throw is generally fleece or faux fur, and goes on top of your duvet or you can snuggle it under on the sofa or while you’re working.

How long should you sleep with an electric blanket?

There’s no hard and fast answer to this. There’s nothing to stop you sleeping with your electric blanket on, but you may find you overheat. Many electric blankets have auto shut-off settings on the control, so you can set it to go off after 30 minutes, say.

The are many safety precautions to keep in mind when using an electric blanket, so don't take any shortcuts and heed the experts advice.

Not all sofa beds are created equal, so if you've been tempted by the sleek-looking DUSK Hudson click clack sofa bed, you're probably wondering how it measures up to the competition.

When it comes to choosing the best sofa bed for your home, there are a lot of factors to take into consideration. One of these is the age-old debate of pull-out sofa bed versus click-clack sofa bed. 

At the time I was selecting one for myself I decided to opt for the latter, thanks to the lower price-point and more compact design. Here's how it performed.

DUSK sofa bed review - the Hudson Click Clack

Specifications

• Sofa width: 86.5cm
• Total sofa width when open: 110cm
• Sofa length: 206cm
• Material: Polyester
• Delivery: delivered in 3-7 days
• Assembly: arm, leg and subframe assembly required

How I tested

About the Hudson

I already have a great sofa in my living room, but was looking for another for my home office so that this room could double up as a guest bedroom. My flat has a slightly unusual layout, and the living room is also essentially the hallway between my bedroom and the rest of the apartment, so the narrow office space is the best option for hosting friends and family overnight.

Having done my measurements I worked out that the three-seater DUSK Hudson sofa bed would fit the room I wanted it in, and still allow me access to my desk.

However, I will confess: I made a rookie sofa bed buying mistake as my initial measurements didn't account for the size of the sofa unfolded into bed form, which meant I had to place it against a different wall than I'd planned - otherwise the door wouldn't open or close! The moral of the story; get someone else to sense check your measurements, or use Ideal Home's guide to getting sofa measurements right!

Despite this I've still had plenty of use out of the Hudson sofa bed over the past four months. As mentioned, I've sat and slept on it myself, and three different guests have used it to sleep on, too. Here's what we thought.

Delivery

One of the factors which drew me to the DUSK Hudson click clack sofa bed was its speed of delivery. I needed a quick delivery sofa bed as I had someone arriving for a long weekend in a fortnight, and DUSK promises the Hudson will arrive within 3-7 days.

The sofa arrived within the expected timeframe, and I was kept in the loop by the delivery company, so it was simple enough to arrange a day and time slot.

Upon arrival the two men carried the heavy box up the three winding flights of stairs to my flat and then placed it into the room of my choice. The box was slightly damaged on arrival, but nothing inside was affected.

Ease of assembly

I was slightly tentative about the prospect of having to assemble a sofa bed by myself as although I'm very crafty, I'm not the most practical person (some IKEA pieces have confounded me), but I set myself the challenge to complete it solo.

While it did take some time, just over an hour, I was able to assemble it. In fact, the most difficult part was the issue of firstly opening the large box (80 x 110 x 23 cm), then removing the sofa from within it and, finally, disposing of that cardboard (I had to call in the troops at that point).

The actual assembly was fairly straightforward. In the base of the sofa is a zipped compartment which held the armrests, throw pillows, legs and subframe as well as the screws, the instructions and an Allen key.

The instructions were easy to follow, however, it did require some elbow grease. And, as the sofa bed is quite heavy, you may well need someone with a bit of muscle to be involved.

While I was able to do this on my own, if you're good at DIY, or have another person helping to hold, for example, the armrests, while you tighten the screws, I imagine the task would have taken considerably less time.

Ease of transformation

Part of the allure of something like the DUSK Hudson click clack sofa bed is how easy it is to transform from sofa to bed. On the reverse of the backrest are two hidden zips, and inside each is a metal leg, which you unclip and secure straight outwards.

Next, you push the backrest forward until you hear a click and feel a slight release, which then allows the backrest to be folded all the way back until it's lying horizontally and the legs are on the floor. To transform it back into sofa form, you simply reverse the process.

Both directions take only a matter of seconds once you've had a bit of practise, so it really couldn't be much quicker to set up when guests arrive.

However, one of the downsides of a click clack is that it isn't an actual bed. This means it's tricky to put a sheet on, or secure a mattress topper. My workaround has been to place a topper on it and just accept the fact that it isn't fitted to the surface.

Comfort

A large part of the Hudson sofa bed's appeal is its price. Its full price is £387, but DUSK has frequent sales which usually reduce the price even more. That's an incredibly competitive price considering how much sofa beds usually cost, and extremely good value for a three seater sofa, so I was really interested to find out how comfortable it would be considering its affordable price tag. 

Overall, I found it comfortable enough to sit on. It's on the firmer side, but I think you could just about use it as your main sofa, and I've found the bed fairly comfortable to sleep on. However, there are two things to be aware of.

Firstly, there is a noticeable height difference between what was the seat and what was the backrest when the sofa bed is folded flat for sleeping. Although I fully accept that this may have been a user error in my putting it together.

This doesn't actually bother me, or the majority of my guests. Myself, my mum and my friend all found the backrest section particularly comfy to sleep on.

Secondly, this really isn't an option if you're tall. My 6'4" brother was set to sleep on it, but when I saw him in the morning he told me he gave up and slept on the floor instead. This is because the armrests aren't removable so he had to lie diagonally across the uneven middle section, which isn't ideal for anyone who struggles to get comfy in bed.

Verdict

Whilst I don't think this is an ideal choice for sleeping on every night, or for an extended period of time, for its price, I think the Hudson sofa bed is a great option for an occasional guest spending the odd night, and (as I can also attest) for naps! 

It looks stylish, and there are two colour options available. I opted for the bestselling neutral colourway in a cool-toned grey which is often sold out. However, the off-white bouclé is a good alternative for some extra style points (if perhaps a little higher maintenance).  

You will have to self-assemble it, but this is a fairly easy process with minimal DIY skills, and the fact its delivered flat-packed does mean its easier to get up awkward stairways.

However, once assembled, the armrests aren't removable, so it isn't a great option if you're expecting lots of taller guests.

That said, I still think the DUSK Hudson click clack sofa bed is a good, solid reliable option, especially for its incredible price. It's good-looking and comfortable enough to be used as a main sofa and easily fits three people sitting on it. Plus, there's 45cm clearance underneath which leaves plenty of extra storage space, too.

A sofa bed is such a handy piece of furniture. Great for those short on space, or who want a flexible space that can transform on demand. But you might be wondering whether you should spend a lot of money on a sofa bed.

The best sofa beds range in price enormously. And it’s understandable that before you buy a sofa bed, you’re getting something that’s good value and is going to last.

This guide will explain what might be affecting the price of your most-wanted sofa bed, and if it’s worth forking out the extra cash for a pricey sofa bed.

What is the price range for sofa beds?

As you can probably imagine, there’s a huge range in the price of sofa beds. Why that is, we’ll drill down into more a bit later in this article.

But sofa beds tend to start at around £200. The Mito Double Futon from Dunelm – which we reviewed in our sofa bed buying guide – weighs in at just £206. We loved this one for its affordability and the range of fabrics it comes in, but conceded that it is quite simple in design and really only suitable for one person.

Mid-range sofa beds tend to be around the £2,000 – which is quite a jump from Dunelm’s offering. Our best ever sofa bed is the Darlings of Chelsea Bromley sofa bed is £2,330. The only drawback we found to this comfortable and stylish sofa bed is that there’s not any matching furniture to go with it.

And at the top range, there’s the Heal’s Oswald sofa bed which carries a price tag of £2,799. For this you get a premium sofa bed though, with a kingsize pocket-sprung mattress, hidden storage and a good-sized seating area.

What can affect the difference in price between sofa beds?

1. Materials

The materials used across the sofa bed are going to have a big impact on the cost of your sofa bed. ‘A pocket sprung sofa bed will naturally be a more comfortable sleep due to the extra comfort layer, but this does have an impact on the price so you don’t tend to find this spring make up in entry models,’ says Megan Thompson, buyer at Benson for Beds.

‘Materials such as hardwood frames, high-density foam, and premium fabrics will increase the overall cost,’ agrees Jade Crooks, Commercial Director at DUSK.

2. Bespoke finishes

There are brands that will make your sofa bed to order, incorporating your every whim, size and fabric. But this is going to drive the price of your sofa up to pretty expensive. ‘Designer or custom-made sofa beds will also be much more expensive due to the unique design and amount of time needed to produce,’ says Jade from DUSK.

4. Mechanisms

Sofa beds require mechanisms to allow it to change from sofa to bed. These mechanisms can make or break a sofa bed – quite literally, sometimes. They can go from requiring simple human force – like a futon, which is a simple mechanism but can be very heavy to transform – to something spring-loaded and much slicker.

‘Click clack sofa beds tend to be priced at entry level due to their simple design and easy functionality, whereas other sofa-based options with pull-out mattresses tend to be more expensive due to the built-in extra mechanism and internal mattress,’ explains Megan from Bensons for Beds.

5. Size

As with regular sofas, sofa beds vary in size – and the price reflects this. There are simple armchair sofa beds such as the Habitat Roma – and these armchair sofa beds are normally noticeably more affordable. But if you stray into larger sofa beds, L-shape sofas and chaise lounge-style sofa beds, the price starts ticking up pretty fast.

‘The very nature of a sofa bed is that it should save you space

and maximise functionality, so take time to assess what you really need,’ advises Megan from Bensons for Beds. ‘Do you need a three-seater or will a two-seater do? And for smaller office rooms that you want to double up as a bedroom, you could even consider a single sofa bed, which is the ultimate in space saving.’

How do you know you’re buying a good-quality sofa bed?

The best way to check the quality of a sofa bed is to try before you buy. Pretty much every expert I spoke to about sofa beds has emphasised the need for hands-on testing.

‘I really would recommend trying the comfort level before you buy!’ says Megan from Bensons for Beds. ‘Make sure you fold out the bed, see how easy it is to use and also how comfortable it is to lie on.’

If you can’t get out to a showroom, do plenty of research – like reading Ideal Home’s extensive sofa-bed expertise. Yep, you’re in the right place.

‘A great way to know whether you’re purchasing a good-quality sofa bed is to read the customer reviews,’ says Jade at Dusk. ‘They will give you a clearer understanding of the comfort and durability of the sofa bed – which are important factors to consider.’

Another good litmus test for sofa-bed quality is the materials it’s made of. As we’ve explored above, high-quality materials are going to drive the price up – but it’s worth the investment.

‘To find a sofa bed that’s going to be up to the job, check that it has a solid beech frame that is held together with screws and dowels - not glued and stapled chipboard versions, which break easily and won’t last as long,’ says Nicky Line, Loaf’s Chief Product Officer. ‘You also want to ensure that sofa beds… have sturdy mechanisms and that the designs are easy to manoeuvre.’

‘Make sure the bed you’re buying has a frame made of wood or metal, avoiding any that are made of particleboard or plastic,’ agrees Jade from Dusk.

Can a ‘value’ sofa bed ever be a good buy?

‘Yes, a value sofa bed can be a good buy, especially if you have a limited budget and need a functional piece of furniture without premium features,’ says Jade from Dusk.

‘A sofa bed is a great buy if you need a space-saving solution for a smaller room or living area, that will only be used occasionally when you have guests. What’s more, opting for a lower-cost sofa bed doesn’t mean you are compromising on comfort,’ continues Jade.

Can you fake a more expensive sofa bed for less?

There are a number of ways to fake a more expensive sofa bed. You might want to make your sofa bed more comfortable by adding high-end duvets, pillows and mattress toppers.

As for the aesthetics, you might want to layer on some final touches. ‘Simple details such as a scalloped-edge or fleece cover can really elevate sofa beds from a purely functional to aesthetic piece. You could also use throws or blankets to make it even cosier and more comfortable to lounge on in sofa form,’ says Jade from Dusk.

Final verdict - What should you pay for a sofa bed

As with anything, you should only ever pay what you’re able to afford. More-expensive sofa beds are undoubtedly made from higher-end materials, have more durable mechanisms and might even be more comfortable. But that doesn’t mean more affordable sofa beds are not worthy of consideration. As well as materials and mechanisms, think about the space you’ve got for it, and whether it’s a once-a-year bed for family over the festive period, or something that will be used more regularly. That should help you to decide how much to pay, too.

Having said all that, you can expect to pay anything from £200 to around £3,000 for a sofa bed – and there are plenty of sofa beds between those price points.

If you want to host friends or family but don’t have the space or the money to buy a full-sized bed, you may have been weighing up whether to buy an air bed or a sofa bed. So, which one should you choose? By the end of this air bed vs sofa bed debate, you should have your answer.

At Ideal Home, we’re well-versed in all things sleep, and we know that the best sofa beds and the best air mattresses can provide a welcome sleeping space for your guests. But we also know they’re very different products with different advantages and disadvantages, ultimately suiting different homes and budgets.

That’s why we’ve decided to weigh up these two options in terms of size, comfort, functionality, and affordability to see which one comes out on top. This way, you can make an informed decision and spend your hard-earned money on something that your guests will truly love. So, here goes the air bed vs sofa bed debate…

Air bed vs sofa bed: Sizes

In today’s day and age, air beds and sofa beds come in many different sizes - allowing you to find a size that works for your guests, whether you’re hosting a solo family member or a couple. And while most people traditionally opt for double air beds or sofa beds, you can pick and choose.

If you’re leaning more towards a sofa bed but want to give your guests even more space to get comfy, the Oswald Sofa Bed from Heal’s pulls out to become a king-size bed. Not only that, but some sofa beds also give you options - like the Cory Fabric Scatter Back Sofa Bed from Furniture Village, which comes in either a two-seater, three-seater or a hard-to-find chaise sofa bed.

Of course, if you are working with a smaller space, you also have the option of the best chair beds. But you might still want to weigh up the sofa bed vs chair bed debate to ensure a chair bed is the right option for you.

But if you’re leaning more towards an air bed, you (and your guests) can also rest easy knowing that air beds come in countless different sizes, from the Intex Queen Deluxe Pillow Rest Raised Air Bed from Argos to the OlarHike Inflatable Air Mattress from Amazon which comes in single, double, queen, and king sizes.

So, if you want a range of sizes, both an air bed and a sofa bed will suit you. But if size is an issue in regards to the space available in your home, it’s safe to say that air beds do win this round. After all, air beds can be deflated and packed away as if they were never there, while sofa beds will only ever be as small as the sofa - which is often much bigger than a typical sofa.

Megan Holloway, Founder and Creative Director of Maro Home explains, ‘There are some practical considerations to keep in mind when choosing a sofa bed. For example, the mechanism that allows a sofa to convert into a bed typically adds extra depth to the furniture, which can be an issue in homes with tight access points. Ensuring that the sofa bed can be easily manoeuvred into place is crucial, especially in compact spaces.’

Comfort

You probably don’t need us to tell you that neither air beds nor sofa beds will provide the same level of comfort as a proper bed with one of the best mattresses. In fact, experts warn that you should avoid sleeping on a sofa bed every night - and the same goes for air beds.

But is one more comfortable than the other? Well, this largely depends on your likes and dislikes regarding your sleeping space, as some people prefer the softer feel of a pumped-up air mattress than the harder surface of a sofa bed.

Typically, though, experts agree that sofa beds are more comfortable. Rob Cole, Bedframes and Sofa Beds Buyer at Dreams, says, ‘Air beds are quick to set up and often provide customisable firmness, but they may lack the support and durability of a sofa bed, which typically offers a more consistent and comfortable sleep experience.’

This is something that our Ideal Home reviewer, Millie Fender, found when she tried out the Alice Sofa Bed from Cocoon. She said, ‘The parts of my body that required the most support were well cushioned by the sofa bed's pocket-sprung surface.’

But that’s not to say you won’t feel supported by a high-quality air bed. Although many people worry that air beds will deflate as the night progresses (which is a very common problem if you opt for a cheaper option), you can find extremely comfortable options out there.

Our Deputy Digital Editor, Rebecca Knight, has slept on both a poor-quality air bed at a festival and a high-quality air bed while staying at her sister’s house, and she found the high-quality air bed - similar to this Blissful Double Air Bed from Vango - allowed her to have a very comfortable night’s sleep.

She said, ‘It had a built-in air pump, which was on constantly so it didn’t deflate (a problem I had with the festival one). It also inflated so it was the same height as a proper bed, so it was quite comfy.’

However, she also acknowledged that air beds aren’t perfect. Rebecca added, ‘The big plus is they all collapse down much smaller than a sofa bed, but if they deflate or the pump malfunctions, it's game over.’

So, from a comfort standpoint, we will say that sofa beds win this round - although it is worth noting that both air beds and sofa beds can be made more comfortable by adding one of the best mattress toppers.

Functionality

From a functional standpoint, air and sofa beds both have their perks and drawbacks. Although air beds are relatively easy to store and move out of the way when you don’t have guests (which is ideal if you have limited floor space), they can be a hassle to inflate if you have a fiddly pump.

Sofa beds, on the other hand, are a little more complicated as there are typically two options to choose from. First is the pull-out sofa beds that hide a concertina bedframe and folded mattress underneath the cushions. Then, there are the click-clack sofa beds where the sofa seat and backrest fold flat and lock into position.

Both options require a bit of manual labour, which may be difficult for those with dexterity issues. But if you have space, sofa beds definitely function better than sofa beds.

As Monika Puccio, Head Buyer at Sofa Club, explains, ‘A sofa bed offers the ultimate in practicality by serving as both a comfortable sofa and a cosy bed, giving you two essential pieces of furniture in one versatile design. It seamlessly transitions from daytime seating to nighttime sleeping, making it an ideal solution for any living space.’

This is ideal for those who don’t have a dedicated guest room for visitors, and Megan echoes this sentiment. She says, ‘They will work twice as hard in spaces like kids' playrooms, snugs, home offices or living rooms in homes where extra bedroom space for guests is a premium - they can easily transition from a comfy seating area to the cosiest sleeping spot.’

Because of this, sofa beds win this round if you have the space. If you don’t, air beds will have to take the crown.

Affordability

Prices really do vary when it comes to the air bed vs sofa bed debate, largely because both options can be both affordable and expensive at the same time.

For example, you can buy the Eurohike Double Airbed with Flocked Finish from Amazon for just £38 when it’s not on sale for less. But it’s important to note that an air bed at this price point is generally tailored towards temporary use - like at a festival or on a camping holiday. So, just be warned that it may not be very comfortable.

At the other end of the spectrum, you have the Active Era Luxury King Size Air Bed from Amazon, which retails for £129.99. This air bed has been designed more for comfort than anything else, and it offers a built-in pump to prevent deflation, a built-in pillow, and a flocked top.

For sofa beds, the prices are also wide-ranging. If you’re after a single sofa bed, the Habitat Roma Sofa Bed from Argos has been crowned the ‘best budget smallest’ in our guide and will set you back £230. If you’re after a double sofa bed, the ‘best budget double’ is the Habitat Kota 3 Seater Fabric Clic Clac Sofa Bed from Argos, which retails for £399.

You could pay a lot more for a sofa bed, though. Dubbed the ‘best overall’ in our guide is the Darlings of Chelsea Bromley Sofa Bed - but it’s definitely not cheap. This sofa bed, while incredibly comfortable and stylish, will set you back at least £2481. And that’s for the smallest size.

So, an air bed will suit you best if you’re looking for cheap and cheerful. But if you’re looking for something to use regularly - or one that serves as your main sofa, too - then you should probably stretch to a sofa bed.

Final verdict: Which one should you choose?

Now we’ve reached the end of the air bed vs sofa bed debate; you might be a little confused. Both can serve as comfortable and functional additions to your home for guests, but there’s no doubt about the fact that both also have their downsides.

So, which one should you choose? Well, all of the experts we spoke to have said that if you can afford a sofa bed, it’s a much better option - especially or more long-term use.

Rob says, ‘If you frequently host guests, investing in a sofa bed might be a better choice than an air bed. While air beds are great for temporary or occasional use, sofa beds provide a more permanent and stylish option, serving as regular seating when not in use, though they do require more space.’

This is echoed by Megan, who adds, ‘With air beds, you generally get what you pay for, but they lack the long-term comfort and elegance that a sofa bed can provide, making them a less ideal option for regular use.’

And we must admit that we happen to agree, too. In our eyes, sofa beds will always be better than air beds. But if you need a temporary sleeping solution in a pinch, you shouldn’t discount an air bed.

FAQs

Can I sleep on an air mattress every night?

While air beds and air mattresses are ideal for short-term use, whether for a guest or for a camping trip, most experts would agree that you shouldn’t sleep on an air mattress every night.

This is largely because air mattresses do not offer the back support you need when sleeping, which may result in back pain. So, you can certainly sleep on an air mattress for a few nights, but you should avoid sleeping on it for any longer than that.

Why do airbeds go down overnight?

Airbeds can go down overnight for a few different reasons. It may be that it has been punctured or a seal has broken, or it may just be because air beds naturally deflate as the hours go by.

This is because air beds like to maintain a constant air temperature both inside and outside of the bed. And if the external air temperature is lower than the internal air temperature, it will lose pressure and start to deflate.

Many modern air beds now come with built-in pumps to counteract this, though, which means that they’ll stay inflated throughout the night.

So, will you be choosing an air bed or a sofa bed for your guests?

Sofa beds are a fantastic, practical choice for spare rooms, playrooms, home offices and homes that just need a flexible extra sleep space. However, they’re generally not known for being hugely comfortable to sleep on. We’re here to help with that.

The best sofa beds are going to provide you with a comfortable place to sit, look great in your home and convert easily into a supportive bed. It’s a lot to ask for, and not all sofa beds fulfill that criteria.

So to make sure your guest (or you) are having a great night’s sleep, what can you do to make your sofa bed the most comfortable it can be? Having tested 100s of sleep products including duvets, mattress toppers, pillows and, yes, mattresses – here are my top tips.

1. Buy a decent sofa bed

It sounds obvious, but you want the foundations of your sofa bed to be solid. If you want a sofa bed to be comfortable, you need to buy a decent one.

‘There should be no need to compromise one way or the other, both sofa and bed versions of the sofa bed should feel like they were made solely to serve the function they are performing,’ says Patricia Gibbons, Head of Design at sofa.com.

‘At Loaf, we’ve fine-tuned our designs to ensure we’re always delivering on comfort,’ says Nicky Line, Loaf’s Chief Product Officer. ‘We do this by adding extra foam around the timber frames, so every corner, side and arm has our signature softness throughout. Again, this creates a really lovely experience when a sofa bed is used, as every element has been considered to offer maximum comfort.’

Sofa bed mattresses aren’t all the same. Look for a thick mattress, and if you can spring to a pocket-sprung mattress then definitely go for it. Well-made mattresses are going to make all the difference.

2. Go big

Look for sofa beds with as large a sleep surface as you can – generally the bigger the mattress, the more comfortable it’s going to be. This is especially the case if you’re going to have two people sleeping on the sofa bed at all. Heal’s Oswald sofa bed for example offers a king-size mattress. At Furl you can even get super king size and go for pocket sprung or memory foam.

3. Get a mattress topper

‘If the mattress is only a slim model, buy a separate 2” or 5cm memory foam or latex foam topper pad to place on top that you can roll up and hide away when not in use,’ says Simon Williams of the National Bed Federation.

‘One of the easiest ways is to invest in a luxury mattress topper. A mattress topper will help to elevate the feeling of your sofa bed, providing you with support and comfort,’ agrees Jade Crooks, Commercial Director at DUSK.

The important thing here is that you’ve bought a sofa bed probably so it can fold away. Mattress toppers can be huge, and potentially don’t fold away. You don’t want to be landed with a compact sofa bed and a huge mattress topper. Make sure you find a topper that you can store away by being rolled up and tucked away, or popped in a vacuum-pack storage bag.

4. Invest in decent bedding

Don’t be tempted to scrimp on bedding for sofa beds. The best duvets, pillows and bed linen will make or break how comfortable the bed is.

‘It’s worth investing in these extra bedding essentials if you’re going to be sleeping on a sofa bed for a good few nights,’ says Megan Thompson, Buyer at Bensons For Beds.

‘Quality bed linen can help to provide more comfort,’ says Jade from DUSK. ‘Layering your sofa bed with a well-fitted sheet, some cosy pillows and a large duvet will help to make it feel more snug.’

‘Pay particular attention to your pillows, says Gisela Lancaster, Head of Buying at Sofology. ‘Depending on the type of mechanism and frame construction, you may need extras for support.’

Think about the fact your sofa bed will be probably be used at different times of the year. This means you should buy an all-seasons duvet. Then you can adjust the tog rating of the duvet depending on how mild it is at night. As overheating is one of the key factors affecting sleep, the right duvet is going to make a huge difference.

5. Set the scene

If you’ve got guest staying, you need to convert what might be your office by day into a comfortable oasis for their stay. After all, everyone sleeps better in a calm environment. Keeping your guests awake as your printer resets or your kids’ annoying electronic toys go off is less than ideal.

‘It’s not just the bed that makes for a comfortable stay so providing extras such as cosy throw and a small table for a bedside light and a glass of water will make your guest feel more comfortable,’ says Gisela Lancaster from Sofology. ‘A small storage basket is also perfect for stowing clothes and making the space feel calmer and more organised.

6. Keep things clean

A clean mattress equals a better night’s sleep, and this extends to your sofa bed mattress. Your body sheds skin cells and bodily fluids every night – grim but true. And these can cause a restless night, especially if the dust from dead skin has attracted dust mites. These allergens can ruin sleep for allergy sufferers. And that’s before we think how sleeping on a mattress with a less-than-fresh scent feels. Deep shudder.

A quick spruce of your sofa-bed mattress will keep things fresh, extend the lifespan of your mattress and help you (or your guests) get a better night’s sleep. If you’re wondering how to clean a mattress, it’s not as arduous as it sounds.

And after all that work, you’d be wise to use a mattress protector on your sofa-bed mattress in tip-top condition.

7. Keep on top of maintenance

It’s not just the sleep surface you need to think about when making your sofa bed more comfortable. The whole sofa bed needs to be given some TLC to keep it at its best.

Regularly oiling the legs and mechanisms will mean the bed is less likely to squeak as people move on top of it. A silent bed is what you’re after for a good night’s sleep. Check for loose bolts and screws too.

‘You can regularly rotate the cushions and mattress of your sofa bed to minimise the impact of everyday wear. This will help your sofa bed feel softer and last much longer,’ says Jade at DUSK.

FAQs

Why is my sofa bed so uncomfortable?

There are a few key reasons your sofa bed might be uncomfortable. If it’s uncomfortable to sleep on, your problem is probably the mattress. Many sofa beds come with thin mattresses to enable them to be folded up. If you suspect your mattress is letting you down, consider purchasing a mattress topper. You can also flip and rotate your mattress so it gets more evenly worn.

Sofa beds can often feel more firm to sit on than regular sofas. This is because of all the engineering going on under the cushions. Adding some scatter cushions and layering throws can help soften things up.

When buying your sofa bed spare a thought for who will be sleeping on it and make it as comfortable as possible for them.

Since I started working at Ideal Home, I've been lucky enough to test out some of the best sofa beds on the market for our buying guide, so I now know plenty about how to choose the right sofa bed for your needs, and the common sofa bed buying mistakes to avoid.

However, when I bought my first sofa bed, I knew very little about what to look for when I shopped, or what to expect from the sofa bed buying process.

As such, these are the top three pieces of advice I now offer to anyone looking to buy either a sofa bed, or a more compact chair bed, for their home.

1. Factor in lead times

One thing I didn’t consider before furnishing my first home was that a lot of furniture has a lead time attached. This means the length of time you’ll need to wait between ordering your brand new piece of furniture and when it’s delivered to your home.

As furniture is very bulky most retailers can’t stock many of each item in their warehouses, and so a lot of furniture is made to order. Our guide to quick delivery sofas and sofa beds has a list of retailers where delivery is almost immediate, but in most cases, made-to-order furniture can mean a significant wait.

This is especially true if you’re ordering a sofa or sofa bed with a lot of upholstery options – the retailer may have some stock ready-made in the most popular colourways, but if you want a more unusual pattern, colour, or print, then your order will often be made from scratch, which can mean a longer wait.

Lead times can vary from 1-2 weeks to up to 14-16 weeks, so if you’re ordering a sofa bed because you have guests coming to stay on a specific date then you’ll want to factor lead times into your purchase so that their bed arrives before they do!

2. Check measurements of the sleeping area

Unless your sofa bed purchase is for kid's sleepovers, if you're planning on hosting grown ups then I would recommend checking the measurements of the sofa bed sleeping area before you buy. This is especially important if you know you're likely to be hosting a couple of guests at a time.

Many sofa beds are marketed as doubles, and yet the dimensions of the sleeping area can be a lot smaller – in both width and length – than a standard double mattress. As Kelly Collins, Interior Designer and Head of Creative at furniture retailer Swyft Home confirms, 'check the size to ensure it accommodates your needs, as many sofa beds only fit about one person comfortably'.

Your guests might not mind the lack of a guest bedroom and be happy to get cosy for one night, but if they're staying for longer then a cramped sofa bed can end up being a very uncomfortable experience. And no one wants to wake up to grumpy guests in the morning!

Similarly, if you know your regular guests are tall then it's worth checking the length of the sofa bed. Unfortunately most are shorter than a standard mattress, but some are FAR shorter and could leave your guests with their feet hanging well off the edge!

3. Add a mattress topper into the equation

Whatever sofa bed you buy, in my opinion, you’re going to want to add a mattress topper to it.

What is a mattress topper? This is a cushioned layer that you can add to an overly firm mattress to soften it up, or, to a sofa bed. If you opt for a clic-clac sofa bed then most are firmer than a regular mattress, and if you opt for a pull-out sofa bed then most have thinner mattresses than your standard best mattress.

Adding a mattress topper to your sofa bed will increase its comfort levels considerably and protect your purchase from spills or stains. If you’re looking for a cheaper option, you could just use a mattress protector to protect the sofa bed’s sleep surface, but this won’t add any cushioning, so in my view, a topper is a must.

Some sofa beds, like Swyft's Model 04 sofa bed, come with a bespoke mattress topper included, but most don't. I generally recommend Panda's Mattress Topper, as it comes in a wide range of size options, meaning you're more likely to find the right fit for a non-standard sleeping area size.

The only downside is that you will then need somewhere to store the topper when the sofa bed isn’t in use. If you’re short on storage space then a sofa bed with built-in storage can be a great option, as Gisela Lancaster, Head of Buying, at furniture retailer Sofology agrees.

'Sofa beds with hidden storage are a smart and practical choice. Perfect for storing extra bedding, they help free up space in the rest of the home. Alternatively, a complementary ottoman footstool will serve the same function and offer a perch for guests to sit whilst the sofa bed is out'.

And lastly, I'd add to this list that I think it's well worth considering whether a sofa bed is actually the right solution for you before you invest. After all, even the most affordable sofa beds don't come cheap.

I think a sofa bed can be a great option for a spare room or a home office where you want to ditch the guest bed to create more space, but still have somewhere you can host guests. Or for any room where you want to add occasional seating as well as creating a guest sleeping area.

However, if you're considering adding a sofa bed to your living room as your main seating, then after much testing experience, I might be tempted to look at an alternative solution.

That's because pretty much all sofa beds are going to feel firmer to sit on than one of the best sofas you can buy, especially if you're shopping on a budget. So, unless you can afford to invest in the crème de la crème of sofa beds, which tend to cost around the £2000+ mark, then personally, in a living room, I would be tempted to opt for a regular sofa as your main seating and a good old-fashioned air bed for hosting your visitors.

After all, indoor floor camping can still be fun... right?!

Cleaning a sofa bed can feel like a workout session if you want to do it properly. Fishing forgotten items trapped in the crevices – coins, crumbs, the remote you thought you'd lost months ago, a random sock – can require adopting some interesting yoga poses. As can attending to mechanisms buried deep within. And that's even before you've reached for the vacuum cleaner or flipped the mattress.

Then there are the stains, from the pizza you dropped on it last movie night to the red wine or Ribena spills. How do you remove the evidence, as it were, without potentially marking your sofa bed for good?

We've asked experts, including Henry Paterson at cleaning company Housekeep and Lynsey Crombie, AKA The Queen of Clean, for their advice on keeping a sofa bed spick, span and stylish for years to come.

How to clean a sofa bed

To keep your sofa bed looking fresh and presentable, regular cleaning is essential. Start by checking the care instructions specific to your fabric when you first get your sofa bed. Here are some top tips:

1. Start by clearing the crevices

Before you get into the physical cleaning of your sofa bed, first deal with anything that shouldn't be there. Remove and cushions, fold out the bed, and start mining for anything that may have been lost in the body of the sofa, from loose change to your kids' or pets' toys. That way you can be sure nothing precious will get lost as you complete the next task.

2. Get the vacuum out

Now that you've rescued any items that shouldn't be there, you can get the vacuum cleaner out and run it over your sofa bed's surfaces.

'Regularly vacuum the sofa bed surfaces but avoid vacuuming the mattress directly as this could disturb the fillings,' says Rob Cole. 'Instead, use a soft brush to gently remove any dust or debris from the mattress.'

3. Tackle any stains

'Stains are inevitable, however, prompt techniques can work to effectively remove them,' says Monika Puccio, head of buying at Sofa Club. 'Begin by blotting the stain gently with a clean cloth to absorb any excess liquid, and avoiding rubbing it, as it may spread the stain further.'

'Follow up by using a mild washing-up liquid or a specialised upholstery cleaner,' she says. 'Apply it to the stain and gently blot until the stain fades away – although remember to test the cleaner on a more hidden area of your sofa first to ensure it doesn't cause any discolouration or damage.'

But what about older stains? 'If there are any stains that have built up over time, spotting them with a fabric-appropriate cleaner, and blotting gently without rubbing, should do the trick of bringing the sofa bed back to its original look,' says Stephany Aubrey, brand specialist at Zinus.

If you've invested heavily in your sofa bed, and are worried about stains in general, it may well be worth purchasing a protection plan, such as the Dreams Bedcover Service Plan, which costs between £15 and £99 depending on the item. This will allow you to arrange professional cleaning in the event of accidental spillages, free of charge.

4. Deep clean the upholstery

How you clean your upholstery will depend on what it's made from, although Lynsey Crombie recommends bicarbonate of soda as a way of removing grime and embedded dirt in almost any sofa bed.

'Test the fabric first in an inconspicuous area, but bicarbonate of soda is safe for most types of upholstery,' she tells us. 'You will need a couple of cleaning cloths, a stiff brush, some bicarbonate of soda and your vacuum cleaner loaded with a small brush attachment.'

'Use the stiff brush (Lynsey recommends the Silverline hand brush, £5.60, Amazon) to brush away crumbs, dust, and other debris. Sprinkle the couch with bicarbonate of soda which you can also mix with an essential oil if you wish and let it sit for 20 to 30 minutes,' she advises. 'Use the brush attachment on your vacuum to thoroughly remove the baking soda or mixture.'

Alternatively, Henry at Housekeep has differing methods for cleaning cotton and leather upholstery.

For leather upholstery:

• 'It's best to use a microfibre cloth and a leather cleaning spray, which you can usually find in the supermarket,' says Henry. 'It's normally just a case of spraying and wiping – but always worth double-checking the product instructions. You can also buy leather cleaning wipes specifically designed for leather upholstery.'
• 'Always check your cleaning products on a discreet area first (e.g. the back) to confirm there's no adverse reaction,' he adds.
• 'It's worth investing in a leather upholstery protection cream, too, which you can periodically apply to keep upholstery in good condition.' Try Furniture Clinic's leather protection cream, £14.99, Amazon.

For woven cotton upholstery:

• 'Beyond your usual vacuuming routine, you'll want to have an upholstery cleaning product for spot cleaning and stain/odour removal, or just the occasional clean,' says Henry.
• 'These often come with a soft brush attachment making them super simple to apply, for example, Simoniz Upholstery & Carpet Cleaner 400ml, £4.39, Toolstation.,' he adds.

'Linen sofas are more delicate,' adds Henry, 'so it's worth checking the care instruction or manufacturer's instructions for specific instructions on this.'

5. Tackle any mechanical parts

'To keep the mechanical parts of your sofa bed clean and prevent rust, start by regularly dusting and wiping down the components with a dry cloth to remove any debris,' advises Monika Puccio at Sofa Club. 'For more thorough cleaning, you can use washing up liquid alongside a soft cloth to gently clean the metal parts. Ensure to dry the components once washed to prevent any buildup of moisture which could damage the components.'

'Any multi-surface spray should work for the mechanical parts of your sofa bed,' adds Henry. 'Apply conservatively to a soft cloth and then wipe the mechanical parts. Buff dry with another clean cloth to ensure no residue or risk of rust.'

6. Freshen up the cushions and covers

'Regularly machine wash the cushion covers if they're detachable,' says Henry. 'You can check the care instructions on the label for more information. Consider hiring a professional upholstery cleaning team to do a deep clean (using hot water extraction) every 6-12 months. You can also hire a Rug Doctor or a similar carpet and do this yourself.'

'To keep your sofa bed smelling fresh, regular hoovering and use of a fabric freshener can be a quick and effective approach to maintain a fresh-smelling sofa,' adds Monika. 'For a deeper clean, sprinkle baking soda liberally over the sofa, let it sit for 15 minutes to neutralise odour, and then vacuum.'

'If your sofa has removable covers, I would recommend hand washing with a diluted upholstery cleaner in lukewarm water, allowing it to dry naturally,' she continues. 'Flipping and rotating your cushions periodically alongside plumping can keep your sofa looking as fresh as possible.'

FAQs

How often should you clean a sofa bed?

'The frequency of cleaning depends on how often you use the sofa bed,' says Rob Cole, bedframes and sofa bed buyer at Dreams. 'But even if unused, sofas can gather dust quickly.'

Rob has given us a breakdown of his recommended daily and weekly sofa bed cleaning and care regime. On a daily basis, he suggests:

• Plumping your sofa bed’s cushions to help them keep their shape.
• Keeping the sofa bed away from direct sunlight to prevent colour fading.
• Treating any spillages immediately.

On a weekly basis, you should:

• Vacuum the sofa bed on and behind the cushions using a low setting.
• Use a soft brush to clean the mattress if your sofa bed has one.
• Consider steam cleaning for deeper stains, but always check the manufacturer’s instructions.
• Clean any used sheets after guests leave, and wash throw blankets about once a month to keep them fresh.

How do I remove pet hair from a sofa bed?

'If you have pets you'll want to vacuum your sofa – or sofa bed – more often than you'd otherwise need to,' says Henry. 'To keep you ticking over between deeper cleans, use a lint roller or order a specialist pet hair roller online – these are pretty inexpensive and designed specifically for removing pet hair.'

'To remove pet hair from a sofa bed, I would advise using an upholstery brush to buff away the hair, dirt and dust. This, alongside regular vacuuming, will prove highly effective,' agrees Monika.

'To prevent pet hair build-up on your sofa, consider using blankets or throws to protect against the hair and marks,' she adds. 'This approach can extend the lifespan of the sofa and simplify cleaning, as you can easily put the throws in the wash.'

If space or money is tight, you might be wondering if it’s possible to sleep on a sofa bed every night. While it’s probably not the ideal choice for you and your back long term, there are ways you can make this a possibility.

Even the best sofa beds aren’t really designed for every night use, year round. They’re built with occasional use in mind. But this doesn’t always mean once in a blue moon. ‘People use sofa beds as regularly as once or twice a week if they have kids coming to stay who don’t normally live with them, or for people who work different shift patterns and need to sleep undisturbed,’ says Megan Thompson, Buyer for Benson for Beds.

‘[Sofa beds] are also a great temporary solution for life change such as moving house and waiting for a new bed frame to arrive, or when you first have a baby and are taking it in turns to do the night feeds,’ say Megan. As someone who has tested more than 20 mattresses and plenty of other sleep products, I’m going to take you through the finer details of the pros and cons, as well as things to consider.

Are sofa beds good for long term use?

As with standard mattresses for beds, you’re going to have to do extensive research before taking the plunge on a sofa bed that’s worthy of sleeping on every night.

‘Sofa beds have amazing benefits when it comes to maximising space in a smaller home and giving you the option to host overnight guests,’ says Jade Crooks, Commercial Director at DUSK. ‘However, not all sofa beds are suitable for long-term use, so you should make sure to check individual product specifications when shopping around.’

‘Generally sofa beds are designed as a sofa with occasional use as a bed,’ says Simon Williams of the National Bed Federation. ‘That is because most sofa beds only contain a slim mattress that won’t provide sufficient support for long term use.’

OK, so perhaps not ideal but if you’re still keen on the idea of sleeping on a sofa bed every night, then what should we be looking for?

What should you look for in a sofa bed to sleep on it for a extended period of time?

‘Comfort is one of the main things you want to look for in a sofa bed. You need to make sure that it can fulfil both functions, allowing you to lounge on the sofa during the day and then get enough sleep support at night,’ says Jade from DUSK.

Comfort is going to come down to what the mattress is made from. As Simon Williams from National Bed Federation already pointed out, sofa bed mattresses are thinner so the mattress needs to do a lot of work here.

Generally pocket-sprung mattresses are going to be the ones to go for. The Oswald sofa bed from Heals is designed for everyday use and has a foam and pocket-sprung mattress. It also offers a king-size sleep surface, which is a rarity for sofa beds.

‘You also need to make sure that the mechanism on the sofa bed is sturdy,’ says Jade from Dusk. ‘That’s because, if you are regularly switching between sofa and bed, your mechanism will need to be robust to stand the test of time.’

Why should you not sleep on a sofa every night

1. Poor sleep quality

As sofa beds have thinner mattresses, they’re generally less supportive and comfortable. This will affect the quality of your sleep, and over a long period of time this can have a knock-on affect on your overall health.

This is because if you’re uncomfortable, you will wake more often and spend less time in deep sleep. Deep sleep is important because it strengthens your mental and physical health.

Initially you might not even be aware that you’re not getting good-quality sleep, as you might not fully wake up when you’re uncomfortable.

2. Could cause aches and pain

Again, the relative lack of support that sofa beds offer compared to standard bed mattresses is going to affect your body.

Ideally your spine should be aligned when you sleep. If your body isn’t properly supported it can cause hip, shoulder, neck and/or back pain. Generally speaking, sofa bed mattresses don’t offer decent support.

This will become exacerbated over time. The mattress will lose its support as it ages, and the more you use it the faster it wears out. Add to this that you’re constantly folding it in and out, this wear and tear really stacks up. This isn’t a spiral you want to put yourself in if you can avoid it.

3. Not great for allergies

Owing to all the nooks and crannies of a sofa bed, they are much more difficult to keep clean than regular mattresses.

Add to that, that people are using the sofa during the day – perhaps eating snacks, almost certainly wearing their clothes from outside while sat on it – and it’s just not going to be as clean as a standard bed.

Allergy sufferers especially are going to want a clean, hygienic sleep surface to keep allergens at bay. That’s going to be much harder on a sofa bed.

4. Shortens the life span of sofa bed

As sofa beds are generally designed for occasional use, if you sleep on one every night it’s going to dramatically reduce its lifespan. As we said earlier, while it might seem like a cheaper option than a bed, if you’re having to buy another one in a few years then it’s just a false economy.

FAQs

What is the maximum length of time you should sleep on a sofa bed?

Of course, there are no hard and fast rules here. You can make your own judgement on how long you want to sleep on a sofa bed for. It’s probably better to not think of a sofa bed as a permanent solution, but more of a stop gap as Megan from Bensons for Bed mentions above.

‘If the mattress is only a slim construction, it really won’t provide sufficiently robust support so anything more than a few nights would be more than enough,’ says Simon Williams from the National Bed Federation.

‘​​Sofa beds are perfect for short stays from a few days through to a couple of weeks. However, for long-term stays, nothing is as restorative as a full-size bed,’ says Patricia Gibbons, Head of Design at sofa.com.

How can you make a sofa bed more comfortable for everyday use?

‘Sofa beds are great when it comes to an occasional sleep solution. But if you’re looking for a more long-term versatile sleep solution, additional bedding products can help ensure your sofa bed continues to deliver a comfortable night’s

Sleep,’ says Megan Thompson from Bensons for Beds.

‘Blankets, mattress toppers and duvets can all help to enhance the comfort of a sofa bed,’ Megan says. ‘And don’t forget the importance of the right pillow for a good night’s sleep too. It’s worth investing in these extra bedding essentials if you’re going to be sleeping on a sofa bed for a good few nights.’

Sofa by day and bed by night, the sofa bed is one of the hardest working pieces of furniture around. But double the use also spells double the jeopardy when making a purchase. This is why the list of sofa bed buying mistakes is longer than most.

To ensure you don't have any regrets come delivery day (or the nights that follow) we've asked furniture experts how they would go about shopping for the best sofa beds. They've highlighted all the pitfalls that could turn that dream purchase into a nightmare, from not sizing up properly, to ignoring important features like durability, comfort and construction.

1. Getting the size wrong

One common mistake when purchasing a sofa bed is not considering its size relative to the room. 'A sofa bed that's too large can overwhelm a small space, making it feel cramped and unusable,' says Patricia Gibbons, head of design at Sofa.com. 'Conversely, a sofa bed that's too small might not provide adequate seating or sleeping space.'

'Measure both the room and the sofa bed in both its sofa and bed configurations,' advises Patricia. 'Ensure there's enough space to pull out the bed comfortably without obstructing walkways or other furniture, like coffee and side tables. This careful planning ensures that your sofa bed enhances the room rather than hindering its functionality.'

'To visualise how the sofa bed will sit within your space, I find that it's useful to lay out pieces of paper in the shape of the sofa when set to a bed,' says Caron Grant, brand manager at Bridgman. 'It's the easiest way to establish whether you can still comfortably move around the room.'

'Another size mistake is not accounting for how many people the sofa bed needs to accommodate,' adds Patricia. 'Some sofa beds are designed for single sleepers, while others can comfortably fit two.

'If you frequently have couples or multiple guests, opting for a larger, double sofa bed is essential. A sofa bed that's too small will lead to uncomfortable nights and unhappy guests. Ensure you choose a size that matches your typical guest scenario to provide a good night's sleep for everyone.'

2. Not measuring access points

We all remember Ross, Rachel and Chandler from Friends unsuccessfully trying to 'pivot' their hefty sofa up a staircase. So if you want to avoid the same slapstick fate, measuring up is crucial.

'Make sure you also consider any window heights and the measurements of doors or awkward spaces like hallways and stairwells you’ll have to get the sofa bed through,' Caron suggests.

3. Giving no thought to frequency of use

'When choosing a sofa bed, you need to evaluate how often you are going to use it. If you plan on purchasing a sofa bed for everyday use – for example, if you're living in a small studio apartment – or to handle the kids' last-minute sleepovers, then you might want something that will convert easily,' says Stephany Aubrey, brand specialist at Zinus.

'Click-clack sofa beds are generally the easiest type of mechanism to convert and are on the affordable side of the scale, too,' she says. 'They allow you to effortlessly have the best of both worlds, without compromising on comfort and style.'

However, Gisela Lancaster, head of buying at Sofology, recommends a hardwearing, high-end mechanism for a sofa bed that is going to be used as a bed regularly. ' When choosing a sofa bed it's always best to consider how often it will be used as some are designed for last-minute transformations for unexpected visitors, whilst others offer a higher level of comfort and maybe a better option for a dedicated guest room.'

It's also worth thinking about whether a full-time bed might be a better choice. If a guest bedroom doubles up as an office, a sofa bed makes sense. But if it's a modestly sized room that's only used for sleeping, a small double bed with the best mattress might be a better option than a sofa bed.

4. Prioritising price and looks over comfort

It goes without saying that anyone shopping for a sofa bed will first be drawn to a particular colour, style and price point. But imagine snuggling down for the night on your chosen furniture, only to realise it offers a sleep experience akin to a medieval torture device. Springs poking into you, lumpy cushions, a saggy mattress... it's the perfect recipe for insomnia. Even worse, your overnight guests might pretend it’s fine, but their stiff smiles the next morning say otherwise.

If you’re looking to prioritise comfort, and will be sleeping on the bed frequently, invest more in a pull-out sofa bed that conceals a mattress inside. These mattresses are usually pocket-sprung or foam, like a bed mattress, and are more comfortable compared to the padded cushions you will be sitting and sleeping on with a more affordable click-clack sofa bed.

'Not understanding the mechanism of your sofa bed can lead to frustration and inconvenience,' agrees Patricia. 'Click-clack mechanisms are often more affordable and easy to use, quickly converting the sofa into a bed with a simple movement. However, more technical mechanisms might offer greater durability and ease of use, particularly if the sofa bed will be used frequently. Evaluate how often you will convert the sofa to a bed and choose a mechanism that offers the right balance of cost, convenience, and durability.'

5. Opting for a sub-standard mattress

If your sofa bed will be serving as more of a bed than a sofa, you'll want to ensure that its mattress is up to scratch. Sofa beds tend to ship with a mattress that's thinner than standard, in order that it can sit within the seat mechanism. However, they can be constructed from coils, pocket springs, reflex foam or memory foam depending on your individual sleep needs.

'A critical error in sofa bed buying is overlooking the quality of the mattress. Not all sofa beds come with high-quality mattresses, and a poor mattress can lead to uncomfortable, restless nights,' says Patricia at Sofa.com. 'When evaluating sofa beds, consider the mattress type: sprung mattresses tend to offer better support and comfort compared to foam ones. Investing in a sofa bed with the best mattress possible ensures that your guests sleep well, making your home a welcoming place to stay.'

'Test the mattress on offer as part of the sofa bed to see if it's supportive and comfortable enough,' agrees Gisela at Sofology. If shows signs of being the wrong mattress for your needs, you may want to swap it out before you buy, and if that's not possible, research a replacement. 'Opt for natural fibres such as cotton and wool as this will be a sure way to offer all guests a great night’s sleep,' adds Gisela.

'The Hypnos mattress that comes with a range of Sofology sofa beds is made of sustainably sourced materials, offering cosy comfort that’s kind to the environment.'

6. Forgetting about storage

Storage can be a handy extra feature of a sofa bed – especially one that deals with last-minute guests. A storage compartment that can be filled with sheets, a duvet and pillows will save you having to trek to other parts of the house to find them, and means you can keep your bedding made up and ready to go.

'Take a look at models that provide inbuilt storage for bedding and pillows, making it easy to go from stylish sofa to comfortable bed in minutes,' says Gisela.

7. Ignoring armrest preferences

'Whether or not to have arms on your sofa bed is another important consideration,' says Patricia. 'Sofa beds with arms can offer additional comfort and support when used as a sofa but might limit the sleeping area when used as a bed. On the other hand, armless sofa beds can provide more sleeping space and may be better suited for smaller rooms.'

You will find that many click-clack models won't have arm rests, whereas pull-out sofa beds tend to have them, but there are exceptions on both counts. 'Consider your primary use and personal preferences to make the right choice for your space and comfort needs,' adds Patricia.

8. Picking any old upholstery

Our final potential pitfall is also a common sofa buying mistake. 'Selecting the wrong materials and colours for your sofa bed can also be a significant mistake,' says Patricia. 'Some materials may not hold up well to the dual demands of being both a sofa and a bed. Opt for durable fabrics that can withstand regular use, and consider colours that will not show stains easily.' That may mean avoiding pale colours, unless in the form of an easy to wipe down fabric like leather, or if you choose a sofa bed with washable, removable slip covers.

'Additionally, think about the aesthetic of your room and choose a sofa bed that complements your existing decor. This ensures that your sofa bed remains both functional and stylish over time,' adds Patricia.

Vintique Upholstery's Sharon O'Connor warns against faux leather. 'It's a terrible option for sofas and sofa beds,' Sharon explains. 'It hates moisture, so you can't clean it easily, it doesn't like the changes in temperature that come with body heat – for example, if you're sitting on the sofa in shorts on a hot day – and it will peel very quickly. When I'm choosing sofa upholstery, I will only pick fabrics that have a very high rub count, to make sure they last.'

To understand whether you are getting an upholstery that will withstand the wear and tear of being sat on slept on and repositioned frequently, look for the rub count, also known as the Martindale rub count.

9. Not checking the warranty

You’ve found an amazing deal on a sofa bed, but a few months in, the mattress starts to sag, and the frame creaks ominously every time you sit on it. You realise there’s no warranty or returns policy. Congratulations, you’ve just bought a very expensive dog bed.

That's why you should always check the guarantee and returns policy before purchasing. It’s usually worth spending a little more for peace of mind. Returns can be a particular minefield, but you should typically have 30 days grace if you simply don't get on with the sofa bed – always check before you buy though. The exception may be if you've had a sofa bed made to order with a special fabric or dimensions. These can't usually be returned after purchase unless they're faulty.

A 10-year frame guarantee is typical on a sofa bed, and is offered by both John Lewis and Dunelm. Sofa.com offers a lifetime guarantee on all sofa beds with a solid beechwood frame. Sofology also offers a lifetime guarantee on its frames, springs and webbing, and a two-year guarantee on upholstery and stitching. DFS, on the other hand, has a 15-year warranty on its frames and springs.

Sofa beds you can't go wrong with

FAQs

What can I do to improve the performance of my sofa bed?

'If you already have a sofa bed in your home which you don’t feel is right, there are a few things you can do to help,' says Monika Puccio, Head of Buying at Sofa Club. 'If your issue is with the comfort of the mattress, you may be able to update this with a more luxurious option to add the support and comfort you expect from the sofa bed. Alternatively, opt for a mattress topper to improve comfort without the sometimes high price of buying a mattress.'

'Adding textiles such as cushions and pillows or more comfortable bedding can improve the look and feel of the sofa bed,' Monika adds. 'And if your issue is with the sofa bed mechanisms, this can sometimes be improved by adding some oil to the structure to help prevent any unnecessary squeaking and sticking.'

What can I do to prolong the life of my sofa bed?

'All sofa beds need a bit of TLC every now and again,' says Caron Grant at Bridgman. 'We recommend regularly moving and plumping loose cushions to redistribute the filling and keep the cushion shape. Upholstery should also be regularly brushed with a soft brush to prevent hair compression on the fabric surface, especially in the most frequently used places – that's arms, seat cushions and seat backs.'

Buying a sofa bed can be a tricky endeavour, but with a little foresight, you can avoid these common pitfalls. Measure your space, test for comfort, consider the style, check the assembly process, and ensure there’s a good warranty. With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to finding a sofa bed that’s perfect for both sitting and sleeping—without the sitcom-worthy mishaps. Happy sofa bed hunting!

Amazon Prime Day is currently in full swing, but as Ideal Home's Sleep Editor I've scoured the discounts and other than some Simba bedding deals that are well worth snapping up if you're on the hunt for a new pillow or a mattress topper, I haven't yet seen anything that's tempted me to part with my cash.

Instead, it's this Habitat Chiltern Spindle Bed Frame deal that's caught my eye.

To set the scene, I've had my eye on ercol's Teramo Bed Frame for as long as I can remember. To my mind, it's the perfect bed, combining a minimalist contemporary design with the timeless appeal of wood.

However, just like the best mattresses, the best bed frames don't come cheap, which is exactly why the ercol bed has remained on my wishlist rather than ending up in my bedroom.

The ercol Teramo Bed Frame is actually on sale at Furniture Village right now. But, even with a reduction from £1465 to £1172 for the double, sadly it's still out of my budget.

So imagine my excitement when I came across a Habitat alternative *and* it's now discounted in the Argos furniture sale from £400 to just £320 for the double!

Of course, there are some major differences between the two pieces of furniture.

The ercol bed frame is crafted from solid oak, whereas there's no mention of what type of wood the Habitat Chiltern bed frame is made from. And at this price, I would imagine it's very unlikely to be solid oak, which means the ercol option is likely to be the stronger and more robust design.

Instead, the look of the Chiltern bed is achieved through veneers, but that does mean there are more colour options available, with an oak, walnut or black finish available.

There's also sustainability to consider. Habitat says that the Chiltern bed frame is made from FSC certified wood, meaning the materials used for this product are responsibly sourced.

However, ercol not only ensures the wood used to make its furniture is FSC certified, but also states it complies with UK Timber Regulations and has GIB (Grown in Britain) certifications. This means timber is locally sourced which helps to keep the supply chain as short as possible.

And, of course, there are some design differences too, with the ercol bed featuring a turned spindle top to the headboard and more tapered legs, whereas the Habitat option features a curved top and bottom bar.

Whichever one ends up in my bedroom, one thing is for sure, these are two of the best furniture deals I've seen today, so if you too are considering where to buy a bed, I think you could do a lot worse than considering one of these options.

For now, I'm off to do some quick sums to see which one I'll be sleeping on in the foreseeable future!

I used to refer to our airing cupboard as the 'cupboard of doom' thanks to the absolute chaos of my family of four's bedding and towels stuffed inside it. So when our deputy editor Becky Knight invested in these Amazon bedding organisers (and subsequently raved about them) I instantly thought they could be just the solution I needed for my own storage problem.

Over the years I've built up quite the bedding collection. I have summer and winter duvets and spare pillows, plus sheets and bed linen for my own king-sized bed, then bedding for two kid's rooms and spare sets for overnight guests. I'm lucky enough to have an airing cupboard on the landing, which should mean I can keep my linen cupboard organised, but in reality I've never quite mastered a way to stop it turning into a total mess.

Recently it had reached truly epic levels of disorganisation. It was nigh-on impossible to find anything – the sheets all tangled and mixed up – and you never knew whether the one you managed to extract from the mountain was actually the right-sized one for the bed you were trying to dress.

We were desperately in need of a clearly labelled organising system so that anyone who opens the cupboard can identify what they need. That's precisely why these bedding organiser boxes were calling out to me.

The official name for this clever storage product is 'bedding organiser' but our deputy editor Becky quickly dubbed them 'bedding files' as they look just like box files, designed to stack neatly on a shelf.

Any organising fan will know that dedicated storage solutions don't come cheap, but if they work then they're worth their weight in gold. Priced at £26.99 for a set of three, these bedding organisers may an investment purchase at £10 a box, but the instant transformation when it comes to how I organise my bedding means it definitely pays off. If the price is still leaving you on the fence, you'll be pleased to know there's 30% off right now – they're discounted to £18.89 for a pack of three, making these a great-value solution for your bedding storage woes. .

These organisers arrive flat-packed and are designed to fold up around the bedding, keeping things flat and, most importantly, crease-free.

I found that one organiser fits a full set of king-size bedding including a duvet cover, pillowcases and fitted sheet. I couldn't stretch to multiple sets, so I've decided to allocate one to the most-used bedding sets in my household – the main bedroom and kids' rooms – and now these are quick and easy to grab when I'm tackling the job of changing all the beds.

I'm a big fan of labelling – not only does it help me find what I need in a hurry, but it also means any of the family can clearly see what's what if I'm not on hand to direct them. These files each have a small window where you can see the bedding through at the front, as well as a pocket into which you can insert a label.

I have the files stacked neatly on the eye-level shelf in our airing cupboard, and I've used bigger clothes storage bags from Amazon to stash bedding that's not used as frequently, such as everything for the spare room. With a handle on the front of each file making them easy to grab, I'm a total convert and I'm planning to invest in at least one more set to keep spare towels, beach gear and extra blankets in order, too.

Since Becky first invested in this set more versions have become available to buy on the UK Amazon site. With plenty of choice, you should be able to find a solution that perfectly suits the storage space you have available.

There really is nothing I love more than the sense of satisfaction I get from opening up the cupboard door and seeing everything in its place,. If you've got your own 'cupboard of doom', these are just what you need to get it sorted, fast.

It's well worth doing your research to find the best sofa bed for you and your home, because, as I discovered when trying to find a suitable option for hosting overnight guests in my own home, all sofa beds are not created equal.

If you make the wrong choice, a sofa bed can combine the worst of both worlds. As sofas, they can be stiff, creaky and uncomfortable. As beds, they can often offer thin and unsupportive padding that leave you wondering if you'd have slept better on an inflatable mattress. And, sofa beds aren't cheap, so it's a purchase you want to get right first time.

I've got a very narrow spare room/office space, so after looking at numerous sofa beds that were too wide for the room, I got quite excited when I realised that the 160cm width Cocoon Alice Three-Seater Sofa Bed was a perfect fit for my room's width. As opposed to opting for one of the best chair beds on the market, it also offered me the space to host two guests at once thanks to its double bed-sized sleeping area.

Even better, it's a modular design, meaning it can be disassembled easily if you want to move it to a different room in your house, or if you move house altogether.

Because Cocoon's sofa beds are handmade to order, I wouldn't recommend buying this sofa bed as a quick fix. Mine took about six weeks to arrive, but I've had the chance to test it on a number of occasions since it first arrived – and yes, I've even slept on it myself. Here's how it held up.

Cocoon sofa bed review – the Alice Three-Seater

Specifications

• Sofa width: 160cm
• Bed width: 140cm
• Mattress: Pocket-sprung
• Fabric options: Micro-suede, micro-weave, micro-cloth, micro-velvet
• Colour options: 48
• Design: Modular, for easy delivery
• Delivery: Pre-assembled and in one piece

How I tested

Delivery

After much deliberation, I opted for Cocoon's Alice Three-Seater sofa bed in the shade Sky in the brand's 'micro-weave' upholstery. This feels similar to linen but a lot more durable.

Once the order was placed, the sofa bed took about a month to make, but if you're in a rush Cocoon does offer loan beds to tide you over until your order is ready, and you'll only be charged for the cost of delivery and repackaging. I think this is a reasonable workaround if you want to invest in a great sofa bed but are working to a specific deadline.

Having a large item of furniture delivered can always be a bit stressful, especially when you have to navigate stairs and narrow doorways. I was slightly concerned I might have made one of the cardinal sofa bed buying mistakes and measured up incorrectly, but luckily I needn't have worried. Cocoon sent two very amenable delivery men who got the sofa bed in and upstairs in a jiffy.

The delivery team made the process look very easy, but this is a heavy piece of furniture. Luckily, the back can be removed from the main unit, which is how they got it up my winding staircase, and the modular design means that I won't have any trouble disassembling it when I move out.

In this regard, the Cocoon sofa bed measured up to the flat-pack Swyft Model 04 sofa bed my colleague recently reviewed. That too can be easily disassembled and reassembled for easier delivery and house moves.

Ease of transformation

This sofa bed is designed so that the backrest folds down flat and you can use the sofa seat and the backrest to sleep on.

Cocoon has numerous videos on their site which make it look like you can pull this sofa bed into position with just one hand, and I was pretty surprised when I realised it really was that easy.

First, you need to remove your cushions. Then, you have to lift from the underside of the front panel of the sofa, which will extend towards you and expose the lower section which sits underneath this.

Unlike the top and bottom of the sofa bed, this middle section is white and is not covered in the same fabric. You then just need to pull the backrest towards you, and it will fold flat to create a sofa bed that's the same dimensions as a double mattress.

As you can see below, my spare room is immensely tight on space, so I did find it a bit fiddly to fit my sofa bed with a mattress topper and sheet ready for guests staying over.

However, it would be a lot easier for those without abnormally small rooms as there is a corner at each side of the bed you can attach an elasticated double mattress topper too, although I'd advise you buy a deep fitting option to avoid it slipping away during the night.

Comfort

There are two ways to evaluate the comfort of a sofa bed. In sofa form, the Alice Three-Seater isn't the squishiest sofa I've sat on, and is unlikely to give the best sofas on the market a run for their money. I couldn't picture myself using it in the place of my current sofa in our living room as I would find it too firm for everyday use. However, in our spare room, it's perfectly acceptable for perching on.

As a bed, this Cocoon sofa bed really excels. The first guests who slept on this sofa bed were my parents. They had slept on my old spare bed – an IKEA daybed with an actual mattress – numerous times, but they both commented that the Cocoon sofa bed was significantly more comfortable.

When I quizzed them about the three sections and whether it created any issues to sleep on the gaps between them, they both said they hadn't minded it in the slightest.

I then took a turn sleeping on the sofa bed, half expecting to desert back to my comfy mattress a few hours in. However, I was impressed to find that the Cocoon sofa bed offered really good support to my lower back, which can often get sore when I sleep in a new bed.

Like my parents, I also didn't mind the gaps between the sofa cushions, as they fell at points in my body where I don't exert much pressure like my knees and my neck.

The parts of my body that required the most support were well cushioned by the sofa bed's pocket-sprung surface. And if you do need more comfort, adding one of the best mattress toppers will give you more padding.

Verdict

The Cocoon Alice Three-Seater sofa bed isn't cheap. At the time of writing it's available for £1,550. However, that's comparable to other options I considered in my search.

In my opinion, it's also not the most stylish option on the market. It's a little basic and boxy for my tastes. If I'd had the space, I may have opted for the Cocoon Ashley Corner Sofa Bed, which has an almost-Scandi aesthetic that would have matched my interior style better.

However, sadly a corner sofa bed is a little beyond my spare bedroom's limits. I chose the Alice Three-Seater because of its main USP, which is that it offers a double-sized sleeping area in a relatively very narrow width sofa.

The only sofa bed we've come across that offers a comparable sleeping area with a narrower footprint is Innovation Living's Cubed 140 Sofa Bed. But, if your style is more classic than contemporary, you may prefer the looks of the Alice Three-Seater.

All in all, if you're looking for a full-size sofa bed but are working with a smaller space, then I think this Cocoon sofa bed is a brilliant choice.

It's the most comfortable sofa bed I've slept on by a country mile, so your guests will be thanking you at breakfast. And when they've left, it only takes around two minutes to transform it back into a sofa.

Plus, if you have an even smaller space to work with than mine, there's also the option of the Alice Chair Bed that sleeps one, or the Alice Two-Seater sofa bed that offers a small double bed's worth of sleeping space. Check out our guide to chair beds vs sofa beds if you're not sure which option is right for you.

Suffice to say, if my friends had this sofa bed, I'd be inviting myself over for sleepovers on a regular basis.

Comfortable sofa beds are not easy to find, especially for under £2000. However, the Emma Sofa Bed changed all that when it launched last May. Made by a dedicated mattress company it promised 'a sofa bed that actually feels like a bed' and earned an award in our Ideal Home bedroom awards.

However, the key sticking point with this sofa bed was always the price point of £1,999, but Emma has decided to discontinue its sofa bed and reduced the price by almost £600 to £1,399.30. The offer will only be available while stock lasts, so if you've been hunting for the best sofa bed for a guest room act fast.

Is the Emma sofa bed worth it?

Emma mattresses already have a brilliant reputation for comfort and affordability, claiming the title of 'best budget buy' in our best mattress guide with the Emma Original Mattress. They transferred this knowledge into the first Emma mattress sofa bed with an 18cm mattress. To compare, higher-end sofa beds usually only include a 12-14cm mattress, like our top-rated Darlings of Chelsea’s Bromley sofa bed, with a starting price of £2000. Most mattresses start at 25cm deep, so it does close the gap between the two.

The Emma sofa bed construction is the secret to how it can hide such a thick mattress. The sofa bed works similarly to a traditional trundle bed using two single mattresses. The single bed pulls up from underneath to make one or two single beds, or the slats can be attached to make a double bed. Both mattresses sit neatly in the under-sofa bed drawer when not in use.

Emma claims the bed is so easy to switch from lounging to sleeping that it can be set up in 10 seconds.

While the sleeping credentials are good, sofa beds must look good too when not in use, and the Emma sofa bed delivers basic good looks. The options are limited as it's only available in one size: 222cm wide and 92 cm deep; and one colour: grey. However, the versatile colour and simple modern design make it perfect for fitting into almost any design scheme. It also uses a water-repellent fabric to help keep your sofa bed in good condition for longer.

In keeping with Emma's mattress in a box USP the sofa bed arrives in two boxes, one including the structure of the sofa and the other with the two mattresses. While we have tried to put it together ourselves, Emma promises that these can constructed easily with no tools needed.

Alternative sofa beds

Saying all that while we do think this is a brilliant chance to snap up a versatile and comfortable sofa bed that your in-laws won't complain about, if you're budget is a little tighter these are three great alternatives that we highly rate.

The 'grow your own' trend isn't going anywhere fast, as more and more of us take to the soil to grow our own fruit and vegetables. It makes sense, then, that so many gardeners are keen to learn how to build a raised garden bed.

Now, there's no denying that raised beds are very much a labour of love: you need to learn how to prepare raised beds for winter, for starters, and how to fill your raised garden bed, too.

Still, they are one of those timeless garden projects that will absolutely repay your efforts in kind, because they will make it easier than ever to grow your own vegetables, fruit, herbs, and more at home.

How to build a raised garden bed

'A raised garden bed is one of those rare items – beautiful and practical, if done right,' says award-winning garden designer and National Allotment Society ambassador Zoe Claymore. 

'A raised garden bed can enhance the look of your outdoor space, not to mention allow renters and those without access to soil to reap the benefits of a beautiful flower border or garden filled with edimentals,' she continues. 

Two key things to consider when buying or building a raised bed, Zoe says, are: 

• How deep do you need them to be? 'To have the most flexibility and to reap the benefits, I recommend to clients to buy or build beds that are at least 40cm deep,' says Zoe. 'As a general rule of thumb, 30cm is deep enough for bulbs, salad leaves and strawberries, while a 60cm bed will allow you to grow not only smaller crops but also fruit bushes and small trees.'
• What is the access to your space like? 'Will you be able to get them in and out of your property area, and how easily can you move them?' asks Zoe.

What you will need to build a raised garden bed

If you decide to build a raised garden bed from scratch, you're in luck: Escape To The Chateau's Dick Strawbridge has joined forces with Homebase to teach us how to create one from leftover decking boards and offcuts of wood.

While Dick uses boards leftover from building garden decking to make his planters, he says you could also use wooden sleepers, which are readily available at most DIY sheds.

If you'd like to give it a go, you will need to source the aforementioned wood, as well as...

• A handsaw, like this universal handsaw from Amazon
• Stainless steel screws, like this 25-pack of stainless steel screws from Homebase
• A tape measure and pencil
• A drill-driver, like the BLACK+DECKER 18 V Cordless Drill Driver from Amazon
• A good multi-purpose compost, like Rocket Gro's Multi-Purpose Compost Peat Free with added John Innes from Amazon
• A selection of plants
• Small clamps (optional)

Step-by-step guide

'This is a really good project to start with,' says Dick, 'because you don't need much to make it all happen.'

He adds, though, that you should make sure you have a workbench or sturdy surface for sawing your wood safely – or you could use a mitre saw for speed and a neat cut.

Once you've secured all of those bits and bobs, you can dive into this project headfirst.

1. Measure your deck boards

Once you've decided where to place your planter, you should work out how big it should be. Dick suggests that, once you have decided on the length of your raised bed, that its width should correspond to the offcuts you're left with after sawing your wooden planks to length.

A few things to bear in mind:

• Make sure you can always reach the middle of your bed, so you can get at your crops easily
• Make the lengths a little shorter (and the widths a little wider) for the second level of your raised garden bed
• Make your measurement marks using a little 'V' rather than a large dot for a more accurate pinpoint

2. Cut the deck boards to size

Before you begin, make sure your saw is sharp. Then, to start cutting on the line exactly, use your knuckle to support one side of the saw. 

Keep the saw upright, to avoid, as Dick puts it 'a bit of a wonk' on the edge of your wood. 

Pull up the saw, and cut on the down motion.

3. Clamp the wood to stop it splintering

When you reach about two thirds in to your cut, there's a danger you could snap the end of the wood off. To avoid this and the splintering it causes, clamp the wood together where you've already cut, then continue to saw through.

Continue to cut all your pieces out.

4. Screw the deck boards together

You will need to use three screws on the first piece of wood, making sure that the tips of the screws pop out the other side. 

Then, rest the wood onto the next piece, and drill down into it. You will want to continue this process for the next level of the framework.

5. Secure the framework with leftover wood

To hold the two frames one on top of the other, Dick advises using offcuts of wood. 

He says that, if you screw from the outside frame into the 'dog end' of wood, everything will hold together.

6. Add your compost

Next, you will need to fill your planter with good quality compost. 

'Don't spare the compost,' says Dick. 'You'll know if it's good quality because it smells good!'

If you learn how to make compost, you could save yourself more than a few pennies and fill your raised garden bed in no time.

7. Start planting

If you're not sure what to fill your bed with, take a leaf from Dick's book.

'I plant herbs and salads and things I know we'll be able to harvest and use this summer,' he says, noting that he also takes care to grow tomatoes and strawberries, getting his son, Arthur, in to help. 

That's the joy of raised beds – they're great for getting the kids into gardening!

FAQs

What do I put on the bottom of a raised garden bed?

You will want to make sure your raised garden bed is lined with absorbent materials, like shredded newspaper or cardboard, as this will help to keep your soil nice and moist. 

Follow this up with good-quality compost, and don't scrimp on the mulching!

What are the benefits of a raised garden bed?

One good reason to build a raised bed or planter is to contain an area of your garden. 'A planter with compost in it heats up nice and quickly with the sun, and you can control the nutrients in the soil very easily,' says Dick.

So if you have a particular natural soil type in your garden that's not ideal for the plants you want to grow (for example, a very clay-based or lime-based soil), a raised bed may be the answer.

A raised garden bed also makes it easier than ever to keep weeds at bay, says Zoe, and they require less watering, too.

'They are particularly good if you have poor, contaminated or badly draining soil,' she adds. 

'Raised beds will enable drainage through the bottom and, as you are adding your growing medium, you can choose what is best for the plants you want to grow.'

How high should my raised bed be?

As mentioned already, it's best to aim for a raised garden bed that is around 40cm high – and, in our example, the raised bed is two deckboards high, because the main purpose of this raised bed or planter is to 'contain' the planting on this piece of ground.

'However, if you want to make a raised be that's convenient to get into, perhaps if you're older and can't bed over so easily, the higher you build the bed, the easier it is to work in it,' advises Dick. 

You would therefore want your bed to be three or four planks high.

Of course, if you decide you'd prefer not to build a raised garden bed from scratch, there is a splurge option.

'Want your own National Trust Kitchen Garden? Invest in a raised bed or two from The Hampton Collection,' says Zoe. 

Available in a range of sizes, these super solid galvanised metal beds are made to be transported, so you can take them with you easily if you move house. 

'These beds are also virtually maintenance-free and take merely minutes to install,' adds Zoe.

And on that note, we'll leave you to decide if you fancy a fun new garden upcycling project, or an instant raised garden bed to get planting in. Then all that's left to do is decide what you'll be planting, we suppose...

Good luck!

If you love the idea of building a raised garden bed but hate the high price tag associated with it, you might be happy to know that you can very easily cut costs. In fact, you can fill a raised garden bed for free. 

No, you don’t have to remortgage your house to grow your own fruits and vegetables in your garden. While raised garden beds are a great way to utilise extra growing space (even when you have poor-quality soil), they’re often incredibly wide and deep. Because of this, most people assume that they have to spend a small fortune buying bags upon bags of compost from the garden centre. 

That’s not the case, however. With these free soil alternatives (and a little extra soil from elsewhere in your garden), you can fill a raised garden bed without spending a penny. 

How to fill a raised garden bed 

‘It can take a lot of material to fill a raised bed, much more than you may think,’ explains Darren Stephens, Head Chef and Kitchen Gardener at Bishopstrow Hotel. ‘Rather than reaching for pricey bags of topsoil or compost, consider tapping into the wealth of organic matter available for free, which can ultimately yield much more nutrient-rich soil, far superior to anything store-bought.’ 

1. Use homemade compost

If you currently throw away your potato peelings and grass cuttings, you’re missing out on some serious freebies. Yes, it’s incredibly easy to make your own compost, and you can use it to feed everything from your garden borders to your decorative flower planters and your raised garden beds.  

Steve Chilton, garden expert at LeisureBench says, ‘You can make your own compost bin by mixing garden waste and kitchen waste and letting it rot down. Garden waste, such as grass cuttings, leaves, and other debris, is perfect, while kitchen waste, such as fruit peels, fruit and veg scraps, bread, coffee grounds and even tea bags. This will help provide plenty of nutrients for your plants and will greatly fill up your raised planters.’

And you don’t need a huge amount of space to make this compost, either. If you have a small garden, you can take advantage of the best hot composting bin for small gardens. 

2. Use old newspapers

Yes, we know that physical newspapers aren’t as common as they once were. But if you’re a purist who loves to buy the Sunday paper from your local newsagents, you’ll be happy to know that you can use it to fill a raised garden bed. When you’ve finished reading it, of course. 

While it won’t necessarily provide your tomatoes or garden herbs with nutrients, the newspaper can limit how much soil you need to buy from the garden centre. 

‘Newspaper is a great addition to a raised garden bed and works as a filler,’ says Steve, ‘I recommend dampening the newspaper before you include it, although it should get wet enough once you water your plants.’

3. Cardboard

Whether you’ve just moved house or you get a regular food box delivery, there’s a high chance that you have a huge collection of cardboard in your home. And while you could certainly pop it in your recycling bin for the council to collect, why not recycle it yourself?

Cardboard is a great way to fill up the space in your raised garden bed, but it also serves a handy purpose to protect your produce and prevent weed growth. 

Steve explains, ‘I recommend placing a few layers of cardboard at the bottom of your raised bed as not only does this fill up the bed, but it helps to prevent weeds from growing and too much moisture from escaping. Just shred up some pieces or use cardboard from small boxes that fit in your garden bed correctly.’

4. Wood waste

You probably have a lot of wood waste readily available without realising it. In fact, you might have spare logs in your shed or a whole load of loose sticks sitting on your lawn. If that’s the case, you can use this wood waste to fill a raised garden bed.

Steve says, ‘Things like sticks, logs and wood chippings are great to fill up a raised planter. If you only have large logs, cut them down into smaller bits.’

This idea is echoed by Darren, who says, ‘If your raised bed is deep, line the bottom with twigs and branches. This will provide great drainage and improve the mycelium level. Over this, you can spread soil from elsewhere in the garden. Be careful to choose this from places where it won’t be missed.’

5. Use a combination of green and brown waste

Yes, we may have already mentioned green and brown waste, but it’s important to note just how effective this stuff can be when you’re trying to fill a raised garden waste - especially if you use them together. 

Darren explains, ‘Try layering the bed with ‘green’ and ‘brown’ waste. Green waste is high in nitrogen, such as grass clippings or used coffee grounds, while brown waste is high in carbon, like sawdust, wood shavings, shredded newspaper, or cardboard.’ 

‘The mix of the two will create heat and ‘cook’ your ‘lasagne’, breaking down all the matter and turning it into compost. You can also add food scraps (but not actual lasagne, only vegetable or fruit waste). Even humble fallen leaves, shredded up with a lawn mower, while not high in nutrients, add great substance.’

‘It may take patience for the raised bed to undergo its transformation, but it will cost a lot less and champion sustainability.’

FAQs

What should I fill my raised garden bed with?

Most experts would agree that a raised garden bed should be filled with a mixture of organic matter (such as garden waste and fruit and veg scraps) and topsoil. However, you don’t necessarily need too much topsoil. In most cases, 20% topsoil should do the trick.

If you wanted to, you could also layer the bottom of the raised garden bed with the likes of sticks, cardboard, or even some sand. This will help to improve drainage. 

What do you put in the bottom of a raised garden bed?

Organic matter is ideal for the bottom of a raised garden bed. This will provide your crops or plants with essential nutrients while also being a very cheap filler. In fact, you could use your own homemade compost or organic waste. 

So, how will you be filling your raised garden bed?

EDITOR’S NOTE: An earlier version of this article included a quote from a purported expert whose credentials we have not been able to verify. The quote has been removed. We regret this lapse in our verification process and have updated our internal protocols to reduce the risk of recurrence.

We've almost hit summer, and there couldn't be a better time to brainstorm some showstopping flower bed ideas.

Designing a flower bed should always be fun, and whether you're working with small garden ideas or fully-fledged garden border ideas, there's plenty of room for creativity. You might stick to traditional bedding plants for a classic flower bed aesthetic, or go for a wilder, informal approach.

To get a feel for the best flower bed ideas out there, we've spoken to garden designers and plant experts. You'll find our favourites in the list below.

1. Plant for pollinators

One of the main benefits of flower bed ideas in the garden (besides them looking beautiful) is that they can attract pollinators to your space. To provide a steady supply of nectar throughout the year, it’s a good idea to choose plants that bees love, which also bloom in succession.

‘Including winter- or early spring-flowering plants such as snowdrops, hellebores, crocus, narcissus and lungwort in your borders is attractive and will also maximise their value to pollinators in spring,’ explains the National Trust’s Senior National Consultant for Plant Health and Sustainability, Rebecca Bevan, in her new book, The National Trust Book of Nature Friendly Gardening.

‘Equally, late-flowering plants such as persicarias, asters and sedums are great to extend the season after the big summer show.'

2. Tier with a traditional planting scheme

Many flower bed ideas will follow a traditional planting scheme, allowing you to get a good view of every plant. That way, you can curate a flower bed which can be appreciated in its entirety.

'When you are following a traditional planting scheme, low edging plants are essential for the front of beds and borders in small gardens,' says garden designer Harriet Worsley. 'Aim for a tall structure in the back of the bed, medium plants and skinny drifts of flowers in the middle, and smaller plants at the front.'

Consider including some filler plants for sparse flower beds, too.

'For a country garden cottage look, I love Alchemilla mollis with its neon fluff of flowers and leaves that hoard raindrops like diamonds,' continues Harriet. 'It works well with that little naughty superspreader, the pink and white daisy Erigeron karvinskianus, which reseeds itself in every corner.'

You can buy Erigeron karvinskianus from Crocus, and Alchemilla mollis from Sarah Raven.

3. Plant in raised beds

Raised planters can tie in nicely with your flower bed ideas and make a feature of your planting scheme. Many flowering varieties benefit from the extra drainage and can be better appreciated at a greater height – just make sure you know how to fill a raised bed.

'Plants such as hellebores, with their flower heads that nod down, positively benefit from being planted higher up, as you then can see the flowers,' says Harriet. 'Raised beds are excellent for city gardens as you can get closer to small plants and really appreciate their colour and form.'

You can even turn your raised flower beds into a garden seating area. 'Raised beds are also excellent because they double up as seating in a small garden,' says Harriet. 'Just make sure the retaining wall is wide enough to sit on, and at a comfortable height of around 50cm.'

4. Create a snug

Tradition dictates that the very best flower bed ideas will run along the edges of your garden, which is why they can often become conflated with garden edging ideas.

Here's the thing, though: you can adapt your flower beds to suit your individual space – whether that's to line your garden paths or build a 'snug' around your patio, sheltering your outdoor seating area and creating a truly cosy garden all year round.

'Wherever you put your flower bed, though, pay attention to how much sunlight that particular area gets,' says Craig Wilson, co-founder, director and in-house gardening expert at Gardeners Dream. 'This will play a part in what flowers you go on to plant.'

5. Introduce a romantic colour palette

Searches for Bridgerton-inspired gardens have soared since the Netflix release, and a Bridgerton garden was even at the Chelsea Flower Show 2024.

Is it any wonder, then, that romantic colour palettes are dominating our favourite flower bed ideas on social media?

6. Add plenty of texture

Maximalists will love the impact that comes from adding different heights and textures to their flower bed ideas.

'It's a great way to add interest, especially if you want to keep your colour theme simple,' says Craig from Gardeners Dream. 'Try planting hollyhocks or sunflowers to add some height, or plant some hydrangeas for maximum texture.'

Foxgloves and roses, too, are a great way to add some variety to your flower bed – and don't forget the allure of ornamental grasses like Stipa tenuissima, from £3.79 at Crocus.

7. Have fun with edimentals

Edimentals are becoming increasingly popular, and little wonder: there are so many vegetables that are both pretty enough to plant in flower beds and incredibly tasty.

'Look up the French potager style of garden,' says Dan Ryan, parks and garden manager for The Gatton Trust, referring to the traditional jardin de curé's romantic, informal style that allows vegetables, fruit, flowers and herbs to coexist.

'They were growing beautiful vegetables in mixed beds long before the days of Instagram,' he adds.

8. Activate all the senses

If you know how to grow lavender, you know already know how to add at least one sensory element to your flower bed ideas!

'A flower bed doesn't just have to stimulate one of our five basic senses,' says Christopher O'Donoghue, one of the co-directors at Gardens Revived. 'As well as looking beautiful, you can set yours up so it plays with touch, taste, sound, and – my personal favourite – scent, too!'

There are plenty of scented plants for a relaxing garden that can be included in your flower bed ideas, from geraniums to rosemary.

As well as lavender, Christopher suggests planting the likes of roses, jasmine, mock orange, sweet box and aromatic herbs like thyme and rosemary in your flower beds.

'All of these are wonderfully perfumed, so should make a real impact on anyone who walks by – and they're all brilliant for pollinators, too, so should tie in well with any of your favourite wildlife garden ideas.'

9. Add some seasonal interest

It's all too easy to get swept up in the idea that your flower bed ideas are for the warmer months only, but there are plenty of winter flowers you can use to add seasonal interest all year round.

'Choosing a mix of perennial, biennial and annual plants means you should have flowers and interest in your flower bed for as much of the year as possible,' says Morris Hankinson, director of Hopes Grove Nurseries.

As well as a few evergreen shrubs, which will always help you add colour to your winter garden, you might consider planting hellebores and violas, too.

'Dahlias and hydrangeas should keep things looking beautiful into autumn, too,' adds Christopher.

10. Don't neglect those shady spots

If you have a shady or north-facing garden, fret not: you can still make your flower bed ideas a reality – you just have to think outside the box a little bit.

'For a part shady border, you could plant a stand out tree such as Acer palmatum ‘Orange Dream’ or Acer palmatum ‘Sango Kaku’,' says Morris.

'Once this is done, be sure to fill the flower bed with plants that love dappled shade, such as hostas and epimediums.'

He adds, too, that you should focus on learning how to plant bulbs that will thrive in a shady environment, such as cyclamens and crocuses.

FAQs

What is the best way to lay out a flower bed?

The key to a successful flower bed is offering a diverse mix of height and structure.

'There are no real hard and fast rules when it comes to flower beds,' says Christopher from Gardens Revived. 'If you want a more formal look, keep taller plants towards the back of the flower beds – although it's good to mix things up if you're hoping for a more natural effect. And try to keep annuals nearer the front, so they're easier to remove and replace each growing season.'

It's also a good idea to think about the changing seasons and what will work well at different times of the year.

'Because of the differing flowering times, variety is your friend,' says Craig from Gardeners Dream. 'Plus, planting them alongside some evergreen shrubs will ensure your beds never look bare.'

What is the best thing to put in flower beds?

It all depends on how much sunlight your garden gets, and the type of soil you have – whether you're looking for the best plants for clay soil, sandy soil or loamy soil.

Garden designer Harriet Worsley has a few favourites. 'Liriope muscari is a useful filler for the front, and I often add seasonal annuals to give that extra boost,' she says. 'White trailing Bacopa is a winner as it's summer flowering and tolerates a bit of shade. For winter, I always go for white Cyclamen, the ones grown as annuals, and for summer, white Pelargoniums adore the sun and can handle a bit of neglect – just water them once a week.

'For big grand borders, lavender or Nepeta look absolutely stunning as edging plants – nothing beats that summer swathe of purple, and the lavender scent.'

Of course, your flower bed ideas will need some TLC – mulching, in particular, is important for keeping weeds at bay – but they will repay your efforts tenfold with their colourful blooms.

Argos is currently having a 20% off sale across selected furniture that is only live until the end of today – and our top pick is the popular Habitat Kota sofa bed that has won our hearts at Ideal Home, in an all-new boucle option that is ever so luxe-looking.

The Habitat Kota sofa bed has earned a top spot in our pick of the best sofa beds on the market, offering you the most bang for your buck at £399 (but going for even less today). If you're after something larger that doesn't break the bank, this generous three-seater sofa that can so easily switch to a double bed will do just the job.

While there is a wider sale going on the site with Habitat's designer-style garden furniture also available with 20% off until 27th February, out of the many Argos deals currently available for today only, believe us when we say this is the one not to pass up on. 

• Habitat Kota 3 Seater Boucle Clic Clac Sofa Bed, was £399 now £319.20 at Argos using code FURN20 at checkout

There's a reason why the Habitat Kota sofa bed is such a popular option for shoppers. Not only do you get the benefits of snapping up one of the best sofas, as it's large enough to act as primary seating in a room but you've also got the option to host guests with it.

If you need a small living room sofa idea or want it as an addition to a home office as a 'just in case' piece of kit (you never know when guests will appear at your doorstep) that is still equally stylish, look no further.

The Habitat Kota sofa bed is big enough to seat three and sleep two, with a simple no-nonsense click-clack design that makes it easy to switch between the two. Its newest colourway, the cream boucle, is probably our favourite of the previously available options.

However, rest assured that the fabric and velvet upholstery options are still there too should this be your preference for your living room – better yet, they're pretty on-trend sofa colours of charcoal, teal, green, grey, and even orange.

The sale ends at midnight today, so if you've got your eyes on this sofa bed, we suggest acting fast. Remember to use code FURN20 at checkout. You can thank us later.

Valentine's Day is just around the corner, and whether you've got plans or are simply declaring it the best Galentines yet, Feng Shui plays a bigger role in your love life than you may initially think.

Considering the bedroom has long been known as the place 'where the magic happens', it pays to use the ancient practice rooted in balance and harmony to your advantage – especially when deciding where to put a bed in a room. Little do you know, you're not actually the problem, but rather how your bedroom furniture is arranged.

Luckily, that's exactly what architect and Feng Shui expert, Cliff Tan, is here to tell us today. He is currently partnered with Bumble's Make Room for Romance campaign, offering advice on how to make a fresh start in their love lives, through the eyes of Feng Shui. According to him, there's a chance that you've fallen foul of a bedroom design mistake that is keeping you from good graces within love and relationships.

According to recent research from Bumble, they've found that 42% of people are more motivated to go after what they want in relationships. However, with a change in attitude towards your love life should also come a shift in your living space to accommodate it.

'There are many Feng Shui elements making your room less suitable for love,' begins Cliff. 'One thing to remember when it comes to relationships is it's all about balance. For example, the most basic thing is to have space on both sides of your bed: two bedside tables and two table lamps.'

You heard that, folks? That means no beds pushed up against a wall during the time you're looking for love – and honestly, even more so if you're already sharing a bedroom with a partner. If you want to get lucky in love, Cliff suggests keeping your bed in the middle of the room. He demonstrates this visually in this TikTok video.

'Space on both sides represents the two channels to enter the bed, representing two people and balance.' This signifies a space for someone else there. He continues, 'Even for a single person, if you have a bedroom layout like this, you'll see it looks pretty and balanced, reminding you that someone should fill that space.'

Better yet, improving your home's Feng Shui (and ultimately, your love life) really is as simple as rearranging furniture accordingly. So, if your boudoir requires a well-deserved rejig, consider moving your bed keeping those 'two channels' on either side in mind.

Alternatively, if you've got a small bedroom and really can't place your bed in the centre, you can still keep it in the corner pushed against a wall and instead have items to represent space for two.

'Instead of having a single armchair in your bedroom, replace it with a loveseat that can fit two people. When you're sat on it and see the empty space, you can visually place another person there,' explains Cliff.

While you're configuring your bed position, Cliff also advises you to consider another Feng Shui-approved addition to your sleeping space: a Love Corner.

The Love Corner in Feng Shui is usually a corner deep inside the room away from the entrance, filled with things that traditionally represent love – and the key thing to remember is that it should always be visible from your bed.

Consider filling it with flowers, pink and red motifs, and 'cliche' things you may associate with love. 'What's most important is whatever you put in your love corner makes you think of the sweetness of love,' concludes Cliff.

Cliff Tan is taking part in the Make Room for Romance campaign with Bumble, to help people have a fresh start in their love lives.

If there's one piece of furniture we simply have to get right, it's got to be our bed. Given how much time we spend in it - and the close link between a good night's sleep and our health and wellbeing - knowing how to choose a bed that's right for you is essential.

The 'perfect' bed will look and feel different for everyone, based on individual needs and lifestyle. The best mattresses are real game-changers, but unless you pair them with the right bedframe, they're not going to work as well at helping you to sleep better.

'We spend a third of our lives in our beds and as such, investing in the right bed is something we should all prioritise,' says Theresa Schnorbach, Sleep Expert at Emma - The Sleep Company.

Fortunately, you can learn how to choose a bed that's right for you. There are four all-important factors to consider that will help you choose the bed of your dreams.

How to choose a bed: the 4 factors to consider

'Bed frames have two purposes,' says Shelley Cochrane, Accessories Buyer, Furniture Village. 'First, they provide support to your mattress, usually on a wooden slatted or sprung base. And second, as they come in a wide variety of styles, they’re a fantastic way to set the tone for your bedroom scheme and can help establish a design style or anchor a colour theme.' 

Here are the four things to consider before you invest in a bed. These expert-approved tips will teach you how to choose a bed that will serve you well for years to come.

1. The base of the bedframe

Knowing how to choose a bed firstly involves deciding on the type of base you want your mattress to be supported by. Sleep scientist Theresa lays out the following guidelines for the different bedframe bases:

• Solid slats tend to be what we think of when we think of a traditional bed, with the mattress supported across timber slats spaced across the bed frame. This helps to promote airflow.
• Sturdy and fixed slats are a great option if you like a firmer feel. These bases also tend to be a more affordable option. 
• Sprung slats have a bit of spring to them thanks to their convex shape. This extra bit of ‘bounce’ not only helps to provide great support and absorb your nighttime movements (great if you’re a wriggly sleeper!), but can also help to give your mattress a longer life. 

Have a browse through the different types of bedframes available and you should get a clearer picture of which will work best for you. 

2. The size of your bedroom

The size of your bedroom will determine how big or small your bedframe should be. Small bedrooms shouldn't try and encompass a huge bed, and vice versa, large bedrooms should make use of excess space with a bigger bedframe. 

The experts recommend getting a bedframe that's as big as your room allows, to increase your chances of better sleep. 'A larger bed provides more room to stretch and move during the night,' says Carl Wash, Founder, Bed Guru. 'For couples, this reduces the chance of disturbing your partner while sleeping.'

3. Materials of the frame

'You’ll want to choose a bed frame made from high-quality, long-lasting materials, like solid wood or metal for maximum comfort,' says Lena Gierasinska, Head of Product and Displays, Barker and Stonehouse. 'Choosing a bedframe that provides ample support is crucial – spending lots of money on a mattress is pointless unless you also invest in a bed frame that offers support.'

Hardwoods like oak are great for longevity, as they're resistant to moisture. Metals like steel are just as sturdy, and they look great in modern bedroom ideas. And don't rule out an upholstered fabric bedframe, a stylish choice that will also stand the test of time. 

4. The need for extra storage

If you're low on bedroom storage ideas, a bed which includes storage is a good option. Given how much space the bed takes up, you may as well put it to good use by opting for a divan bed - especially if your bedroom is on the smaller side. 

'A neat and tidy space will not only help you to maintain the look and feel of your scheme but will help to create a calming sleep environment,' says Shelley from Furniture Village. 'A divan set with drawers or an ottoman bed frame will provide useful extra storage space without taking up any extra floor space.'

FAQs

Which type of bed is best?

The type of bed that is “best” will largely come down to your preferences as a sleeper. There are however some things that will ring true for all. 

'Ultimately, you want your bed frame, mattress, and bedding to work together to support you and hold your spine in the proper alignment as you sleep,' says Theresa Schnorbach. 'You also want your bed and bedding to help ensure air is flowing freely so that you are kept at an optimal temperature for sleep and so your mattress lasts for years to come.'

Fixed slats are preferred by people who like a firmer feel under their mattress, whereas sprung slats have a bit more 'bounce'. It's always a good idea to test beds before you invest in them, so you can decide which type is best for you.

How do I choose the right bed for my room?

Room size is an important factor to consider when choosing a bed. It's recommended to buy as big a bed as your space allows, but don't take that literally; the bed shouldn't make the room feel overcrowded or leave you with only a small slither of space to walk around.

'To see if a bed is going to be too big or too small in your bedroom, we recommend mapping your bedroom out using masking tape or pieces of paper,' says Carl Walsh from Bed Guru. 'You’re then able to visualise exactly how much floor space you’re going to be left with.'

Carl adds, 'it’s important to remember that with any furniture you’ve mapped out you will have to account for the protrusion of opening draws and doors.'

Now you know how to choose a bed that suits you - and your bedroom - get searching for the perfect bed and look forward to enjoying better sleep for years to come!

With over 170 stores nationwide, Bensons for Beds has been a British retail favourite for more than 70 years. Offering an impressive range of beds, mattresses, and furniture to suit any style or budget, Bensons for Beds really is a one-stop-shop when it comes to creating  your dream bedroom.

We all know the value of a great night's sleep, and the products you choose to enable it are key. From the perfect mattress to suit your comfort needs, to quality beds that will last the test of time, and designer-style furniture to put together a bedroom scheme whatever look you want to achieve, you can get everything you need at Bensons for Beds.

As well as beds and mattresses, there's an impressive range of products to maximise your sleep experience, from the best bedding to storage must-haves such as wardrobes and ottoman storage boxes. There's also a super-stylish collection of sofa beds, with a range of designs that are perfect for maximising even the smallest of homes. 

If giving your bedroom a makeover is on your interiors to do list, you can enjoy an extra, exclusive 6% off any order at Bensons for Beds by adding the code MVCNY6 when you checkout online. Be inspired by our edit of the most-loved products on our radar, or browse the website and discover more Bensons for Beds discounts. 

What to buy from Bensons for Beds

If you're looking for ways to host overnight guests without a dedicated guest bedroom, then you may well be weighing up whether a chair bed or a sofa bed is the right choice for you.

If so, you're in the right place. As Ideal Home's Sleep Editor, I've spent the past five years testing out the best sofa beds and best chair beds on the market, so I know all there is to know about the pros, cons, and differences between each design.

Here's everything you need to know to work out whether a chair bed or a sofa bed will suit your needs better.

What's the difference between a chair bed and a sofa bed?

First things first, in order to decide which is the right option for you, it's important to know the difference between a chair bed and a sofa bed, and this all comes down to size.

A chair bed can only seat one person at a time, whereas a sofa bed can seat multiple people at a time.

Just like with normal sofas, sofa beds also come in a variety of widths and configurations. You can get two-seater sofa beds, three-seater sofa beds, and even four-seater sofa beds. You can also get sofa beds that are built into a chaise or corner sofa configuration, although these are less common.

With those size differences in mind, it's perhaps obvious that there are going to be differences in the sleeping space available on a chair bed versus a sofa bed as well.

A chair bed will only sleep one person, whereas a sofa bed can usually sleep two. Most sofa beds are somewhere between a small double and a king-sized bed.

So how does that impact which is the right choice for you? I've weighed up the main pros and cons of each below.

Chair bed benefits

• Takes up less space: If you have a small home, a chair bed is a lot easier to squeeze into a room than a sofa bed
• More affordable: It's not always the case as the quality of the materials and manufacture play a part, but a chair bed will usually be cheaper than a sofa bed of a similar construction.

Chair bed disadvantages

• Can only seat and sleep one guest: As a much smaller piece of furniture, you can only sit or sleep one visitor at a time
• Less options: There are a lot less chair beds on the market than there are sofa beds, and that means less choice

Sofa bed benefits

• More space: You get a lot more seating and sleeping space on a sofa bed compared to a chair bed
• More options: There are also *lots* more sofa beds on the market than there are chair beds, so you have far more styles, designs, and upholstery options to choose from

Sofa bed disadvantages

• Takes up more floor space: Sofa beds are often big and bulky, especially once extended. You're going to need a fairly big room to fit one in
• More expensive: A larger piece of furniture means more cost. A sofa bed is usually more expensive than a chair bed
• Bulky delivery: If you have a home with awkward access, you may need to look for a flatpack sofa bed, as this piece of furniture is a lot harder to get through a narrow hallway or up a staircase than a chair bed

Final verdict: chair bed vs sofa bed

So which is the right choice for you? Ultimately, the decision on whether to opt for a chair bed or a sofa bed all comes down to the space you have available and what your hosting requirements are.

If you tend to only host one guest at a time, then you may only need a chair bed. Opting for a chair bed will save you money when compared to a larger sofa bed, and a chair bed will take up less floor space if you don't have a lot of spare room in your home.

However, if you want to give your guest a little more space to stretch out, they will probably be more comfortable on a sofa bed instead. And if you want to host two guests at the same time, then you'll definitely need a sofa bed.

Three chair bed recommendations

Made your decision? These are three of the top-rated chair beds I've tested, and below are three of my top sofa bed recommendations.

Three sofa bed recommendations

So, will you be buying a chair bed or a sofa bed for your guests to enjoy?

When I chose the Made Haru sofa bed a year ago I knew its firmness wouldn't suit all guests, so this Black Friday I'm snapping up Panda's bamboo mattress topper deal, which our in-house mattress expert says is the best mattress topper for a sofa bed.

The Made Haru sofa bed might look like one of the best sofa beds, but unfortunately, it's not something you'd want to sleep more than a night or two on. However, with my Mum visiting this December for her birthday I wanted to treat her to a comfier bed set up with the Panda Memory Foam mattress topper so she could get a good night's sleep before a couple of full days of celebrating.

Panda already has made entries into our best mattress round-ups, and when I mentioned my sofa bed predicament to Ideal Home's mattress expert, Ecommerce Editor Amy Lockwood, she instantly suggested Panda's mattress topper as the best mattress topper for the job. 

Even better, it's currently one of the best Black Friday deals we've seen, reduced from £139.95 to £118.96 for a double in the Panda Black Friday sale.

Choosing a mattress topper for a sofa bed, especially one like the Made Haru bed which is a small double can be tricky. However, what Amy likes best about the Panda mattress topper is that it comes in a huge range of sizes.

'Most sofa beds don't have the same sized sleeping areas as a standard mattress', explains Amy, 'That's why finding the best mattress topper for a sofa bed can be a little tricky. I always recommend the Panda Bamboo Mattress Topper as it comes in loads of different size options, from a UK Single through to EU Emperor, and everything inbetween!'

'It's also been rated 5 out of 5 stars by our review team. At 5cm deep, it may not be the thickest mattress topper out there, but it is made of pure memory foam which does a great job at adding cushioning comfort to a hard surface – like an uncomfortable sofa bed! – as well as masking lumps and bumps underneath. Plus, side sleepers especially will appreciate how pressure points like hips and shoulders sink into the topper for more cushioned support'.

So whether you have a Haru sofa bed like me or another unorthodox-size sofa bed, you are more likely to find a perfect fit with this mattress topper. 

But, what about the comfort factor? Panda says this mattress topper has been designed to give you that 'new mattress' feeling. It also features a 'gel-infused technology' that the brand says reacts to your body temperature and keeps you cool throughout the night. Our seasoned sleep testers definitely found it slept cooler than many memory foam mattresses – which bodes well for my guest's sleeping comfortably.

In fact, in our mattress topper buying guide, our sleep experts dubbed it the 'best memory foam mattress topper you can buy', due to the affordable price point and the number of five-star reviews it's racked up. The memory foam's improved breathability also means it ranks well in our guide to the best cooling mattress toppers.

The one challenge I am preparing to overcome is where to store the mattress topper when not in use. However, since it arrives rolled up in a box already, I'm hoping to transfer it to a breathable storage bag to store it in our spare bedding cupboard until guests arrive. 

While I'm hoping this Panda mattress topper finally stops any guest complaining about the firmness of the Made Haru sofa bed, Panda does offer a 30-day sleep trial. If after 30 days I'm not convinced or find I'm defeated by the storage situation I can send it back - sounds like a win-win to me!

EDITOR’S NOTE: An earlier version of this article included a quote from a purported expert whose credentials we have not been able to verify. The quote has been removed. We regret this lapse in our verification process and have updated our internal protocols to reduce the risk of recurrence.

I'm willing to bet that how to get rid of bed bugs isn't information any of us *want* to be searching online for.

However, if you've recently spotted this unwelcome household pest in your home, it's definitely information you *need* to know.

According to experts, there are five main signs of bed bugs, and if you're encountering any of these in your home, you’ll naturally want to know how to quickly get rid of bed bugs from your bed, bedroom, and living areas.

As such, I've asked multiple pest control experts for a step-by-step guide on how to get rid of these creepy crawlies, pronto.

How to get rid of bed bugs

First up, it's worth knowing that just because your home may have bed bugs, that doesn't mean it's unclean. 'It’s generally false to assume that bed bug infestations only happen to dirty properties,' reassures Mihail Velev, pest control technician at pest control service Fantastic Pest Control.

'Many luxurious hotels get infested by these pests and they can be found in well-maintained homes as well as in dirty ones.'

Wondering where bed bugs come from? These sneaky pests can find their way into a spotless home via second-hand furniture, luggage, or even hitch a ride on clothing if you happen to sit on public transport that has an infestation in the upholstered seating.

So if you discover you have a bed bug infestation in your home, it's nothing to be ashamed of, but you do need to take action to eliminate them immediately.

If you rent, you can contact your landlord or try contacting your local council's environmental health or pest control team. Alternatively, you can consult a pest control company that is a member of the British Pest Control Association.

Experts generally recommend getting professional help to get rid of bed bugs because they can be notoriously hard to eradicate. Plus, an infestation can easily recur if any eggs are missed.

However, there are also steps you can take to get rid of bed bugs yourself. So let's get into it.

How to get rid of bed bugs

1. Wash your bedding

'Once detected, quick action is essential to remove bed bugs from your home's mattresses and bedding,' advises Charles Williams, bedding expert and co-founder of bedsava.

That means stripping the bed and getting bedding into the washing machine. 'All bedding, including sheets, pillowcases, mattress toppers, and duvets, should be washed at a minimum of 60 degrees, then tumble dried on high for at least 30 minutes,' explains Charles.

‘All affected bedding, clothes, and furnishings must be thoroughly washed at above 60°C setting to eliminate any hidden eggs and bed bugs,’ agrees Dr. Jonathan Kirby, pest expert at NOPE! pest control. That also includes pyjamas and soft toys.

If there are fabric items you can't wash at high temperatures, Charles advises that 'smaller items infested with bed bugs, such as decorative pillows or soft toys, can be placed in sealed plastic bags and frozen for at least 24 hours. The extreme cold temperatures will ensure all bed bugs and eggs are killed.'

2. Vacuum your bed and mattress

After stripping your bedding, vacuum your mattress thoroughly on as high a suction as your vacuum allows.

‘Although it won’t eliminate the problem entirely, vacuuming is a control measure,' explains pest technician Mihail Velev. 'It’s effective for removing live bed bugs, as well as their other forms, such as the nymphs and eggs, from the surface of the mattress, which can significantly reduce the bed bug population. Focus on the seams, folds, and crevices of your mattress where bed bugs tend to hide.’

‘After vacuuming, consider using a mattress encasement,' says Mihail. 'These are special covers that trap any remaining bed bugs inside and prevent them from feeding or escaping.’

The best we've tested is the Soak & Sleep Anti Bed Bug Mattress Encasementwhich offers impenetrable waterproof protection to all six sides of your mattress.

3. Vacuum the surrounding area

Next is more vacuuming. 'Vacuum deeply throughout your property,' advises Charles, 'focusing on bed bases, floors and furniture.'

Also, 'check nightstands and drawers for any signs,' says Mihail. 'Check behind the headboard, the bed frame and legs, and the wall behind the bed. Look for small dark red or brown spots and eggs or the bugs themselves. Use a flashlight to inspect the inside of any closets'.

Bed bugs are only 4-7mm long, so they can squeeze themselves into small gaps around bed frames, plug sockets, sofas, furniture, and even underneath the wallpaper.

You can use a vacuum cleaner with a plastic crevice nozzle attachment to suck up the bed bugs, including their eggs, larvae, and droppings. Then make sure to throw away the vacuum cleaner bag and its contents in a sealed bin liner immediately.

‘Bed bugs can survive in a vacuum bag, so it's crucial to dispose of it properly. Seal it tightly in a plastic bag and discard it in an outdoor trash bin, so you don’t release the pests back inside,’ Mihail advises.

4. Steam clean upholstery

Unfortunately, bed bugs love hiding in warm, comfortable spaces – hence the name. That makes mattresses, sofas, and upholstered furniture – like headboards and beds – particularly difficult to remove infestations from, and hoovering alone will only capture eggs and bugs on the surface.

'Headboards are a common hiding spot for bed bugs, which typically lurk in warm, soft spaces like upholstery or fabric,' agrees Martin Seeley, senior sleep expert at MattressNextDay.

This is where you either need a professional, or one of the best steam cleaners in the business. Because our experts agree that steam cleaning can kill bed bugs and their eggs instantly.

'You can use an upholstery-safe steam cleaner on large areas like your bed and fabric sofas as bed bugs can’t survive above 48°C,’ says pest expert Jonathan Kirby.

5. Treat the area with a bed bug spray

‘To ensure long-lasting impact, apply a bed bug killer to mattresses, furnishings and furniture to eradicate living bed bugs and prevent re-infestation for up to three months,’ recommends Jonathan.

‘Bed bugs hide inside cracks and gaps, so ensure to spray those areas. Choose one that kills bugs quickly, while remaining safe for home use.’

Alternatively, you can fashion your own bed bug spray at home. Tea tree oil can also be used as a natural bed bug insecticide. Mix up your own spray, using 1 drop of tea tree oil to every fluid ounce of water.

FAQs

What are bed bugs?

Bed bugs are small oval and brownish insects that are similar in size and colour to an apple seed. They have flattened bodies which makes it easy for them to fit into tiny spaces and they like to live in groups in hiding places. They are parasites that consume human blood and can cause a number of health issues such as skin irritation and allergic reactions.

How to spot bed bugs

'Some of the most common signs to look out for are red, itchy bites that appear in lines or clusters across arms, legs or the back,' explains bedding expert Charles Williams. 'You may also notice tiny black dots or rust-coloured stains on mattresses, sheets, or furniture. A sign of a more advanced infestation is a musty, sweet odour.'

'Most infestations will start small but spread quickly if unnoticed. The key to stopping bed bugs is detecting them as early as possible.'

What kills bed bugs instantly?

All our experts concur that hot temperatures can kill bed bugs instantly. That means either machine washing infected fabric and furnishings at 50-60°C, or using a steam cleaner to kill the unwanted pests in your home.

How can I protect my mattress from bed bugs?

Unfortunately, a mattress heavily infested with bed bugs may need to be disposed of completely and replaced with a new one. The best mattresses certainly don't come cheap, so this is one area where prevention is definitely well worth it.

You can invest in a bed bug-proof mattress encasement as a preventative measure to protect your mattress from a bed bug infestation. It’s also effective at trapping bed bugs inside the mattress if you’ve already got them.

What to do if you're worried they'll come back?! Continue checking regularly for signs of returning bed bugs and treat any infested areas immediately, or call in the professionals if they keep coming back.

In the midst of the current bed bug scare we’re facing in the UK, sales for everything bed bug-related have soared. Including this Lakeland mattress vacuum, with sales rising by 211% in the last week alone, according to the company’s report. Call it the bed bug epidemic effect. 

But is a mattress vacuum like the Lakeland Mattress Vacuum with UV what you need to combat bed bugs? Whether that’s for prevention or if you do indeed find yourself in the unfortunate situation of having the pests invading your home. 

We put it to our pest experts to advise whether we should also be running out and bagging this £49.99 gadget as many Brits have. This is what they had to say about it.

Is this Lakeland mattress vacuum what you need to combat bed bugs? 

As we find ourselves in the middle of a bed bug crisis, it’s only natural we’re searching for ways how to get rid of bed bugs. So is this mattress vacuum one of them?

While the Lakeland vacuum is not designed specifically to combat bed bugs, the company claims that the hot air from the vacuum heats the mattress, drying any moisture within as well as drying any present bed bugs which helps to eradicate them. In addition, the UV lamp function is apparently lethal to the pests, while the vibrations from the appliance disturb the creepy crawlies. But do they actually?  

‘Vacuuming is a key part of a broader process for ridding yourself of bed bugs but alone won’t be effective in combating the pests,’ says Dr. Jonathan Kirby, pest expert at NOPE!.

Mihail Velev, Fantastic Pest Control's pest technician, continues, ‘Dealing with a bed bug problem needs to be done quickly to prevent it from turning into an infestation and vacuuming your mattress is one of the first and most useful steps in managing such a problem. Although it won’t eliminate the problem entirely, vacuuming is a control measure.’

So while a mattress vacuum like this one is effective as one of the steps taken, even the best vacuum cleaner won’t completely and single-handedly rid you of bed bugs. 

How to use a mattress vacuum to get rid of bed bugs

If you do come across signs of bed bugs in your bed, then vacuuming your mattress should be one of the steps taken. But it should be done in tandem with other precautions.

‘It should follow on from washing all affected items at 60°C and come before treating affected areas with a pesticidal spray to kill bed bugs on contact,’ Dr. Jonathan recommends.

Mihail adds, ‘For better control, it’s recommended to vacuum regularly, at least once a week. When doing that, focus on the seams, folds, and crevices of your mattress where bed bugs tend to hide. Besides that, use a vacuum cleaner with a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter to ensure that even tiny particles, such as bed bug eggs, are captured, preventing them from being released back into the air.’ The Lakeland mattress vacuum is indeed fitted with a HEPA filter.

What you do after you hoover up the pests is as important as how you do it though. ‘If you hoover the bed bugs, you need to make sure there is a bag in the hoover and empty it immediately after you have hoovered otherwise the bed bugs will simply crawl back out,’ warns Sarah Beck, operations manager at The Pest Master.

‘Bed bugs can be spread around very easily and hoovering them up without changing the hoover bag or emptying is a sure-fire way of moving them around the property.’

Vacuum cleaning your mattress can also be done alongside steam cleaning it as steam does kill bed bugs.

Is the UV lamp function effective against bed bugs?

‘The UV light feature of the vacuum cleaner provides disruption and can damage the DNA of bed bugs, leading to their death,’ Mihail explains. ‘It can be effective in killing bed bugs, their eggs and nymphs on the surface of the mattress or other areas. Besides that, the UV light can act as a supplementary treatment method, enhancing the overall effectiveness of the vacuuming process.’ 

‘However, when using a vacuum cleaner with this feature, keep in mind that the UV light has limited penetration power and it will likely not reach bed bugs hidden in cracks, crevices or deep within the mattress.’

So while this gadget is effective in tackling the bed bug issue, it can’t deal with it alone. As Mihail says, ‘Because vacuuming alone won’t completely eliminate a bed bug infestation, it should be part of a comprehensive integrated pest management strategy that includes other methods, such as thermal treatments, insecticides or professional help.’

Bed bugs are a never-ending threat that could invade our homes at any given moment. Which is why taking preventative measurements is always advised. And we just came across one that almost sounds too good to be true - an Amazon bed bug-proof mattress encasement.

If something promises to protect our best mattress from bed bug infestation, we’re instantly intrigued. Especially as the UK is currently facing a second bed bug epidemic of the year. But of course, you should always take precautions to keep your home safe from these pests.

But as great as the Amazon Utopia Bedding Waterproof Mattress Encasement sound - especially when selling for £27.99 for the double size - we remain slightly sceptical about its effectiveness. Which is why we decided to run this product by our pest control experts first to get their thoughts on it before we commit.

Does the Amazon bed bug-proof mattress encasement really work?

While this is not a way of how to get rid of bed bugs, the mattress encasement will prevent the creepy crawlies from infesting your mattress. At least in theory. Simultaneously, the cover should also protect the mattress from any potential spillages as the material is waterproof.

The protector completely envelops the mattress and seals with a zip on the side. But is this enough to keep bed bugs at bay?

‘A waterproof mattress encasement can be effective in protecting your mattress against getting infested with bed bugs,’ says Mihail Velev, pest technician at Fantastic Pest Control. ‘This is because these specialised encasements are designed to fully enclose the mattress, creating a barrier that these pests can't get through.’

There are still some things to consider though as not every mattress encasement is made equal.  

‘In the pest industry, it’s recommended to use three-sided zips as single zips still allow bedbugs to get in and out through the zip,’ advises Sarah Beck, operations manager at The Pest Master. This mattress protector in question even comes with a zip guard to ensure the zipper is sealed tightly so nothing gets through.

‘The material of the encasement should be durable and tightly woven,' advises Mihail. 'Bed bugs are tiny, and a good encasement should have a pore size small enough to prevent them from passing through it.'

'Most encasements that are effective for bed bug protection contain an internal polyurethane membrane, so it's highly advisable to look for a product with such features.'

But at the same time, the material should be breathable enough so that your mattress doesn’t develop mould or mildew.

This cautionary measure still shouldn’t stop you from regularly checking for signs of bed bugs just to be sure. ‘Mattresses are only a small part of a bed bug problem and they are not exclusive to the mattress,’ warns Sarah.

‘While a mattress encasement can prevent bed bugs from infesting the mattress, it doesn't eliminate the risk entirely. It's crucial to regularly inspect the encasement for any signs of bed bugs or their excrement. Early detection is key to effective control,’ Mihail concludes.

So while this product got the green light from the pros, you shouldn’t rely on it solely. 

Bed bug infestations are no joke. These creepy crawlies are vicious and incredibly difficult to get rid of. Not to mention hard to spot. But there are several signs of bed bugs you can look out for to determine whether you’re dealing with these nocturnal pests.

As apparently another bed bug epidemic is heading for the UK (or perhaps it’s already here), it’s never been more important to be able to tell if you have bed bugs, as well as knowing how to get rid of them.

So we turned to our pest experts to learn more about what exactly we should be looking out for when trying to establish if bed bugs have invaded our home. Fingers crossed they haven’t and won’t.

5 signs of bed bugs

According to Dr. Jonathan Kirby, pest expert at NOPE!, the company’s research ‘revealed that over one-third (36%) of Brits say they aren’t confident they’re able to identify bed bugs.’ So there is clearly some room of improvement when it comes to the nation’s education on the matter of bed bugs.

And even if your home is spotless, that doesn’t mean you’re immune to bed bugs. ‘It’s false to assume that someone has a bed bug infestation because of a dirty property,’ says Mihail Velev, pest technician at Fantastic Pest Control. ‘Many luxurious hotels have also been infested by these pests, and the issue has nothing to do with the level of cleanliness. You’re as likely to come across them in immaculately maintained homes and hotels as you’re in dirty ones.’

So nobody’s safe. We’ve narrowed it down to five of the most common signs that bed bugs have infiltrated your best mattress or anywhere in your home.

1. Bites

Bed bugs are blood-thirsty pests, which is why they usually set up camp in your bed or somewhere near it. They bite people at night to feed on their blood so one of the clearest signs of bed bugs are these bites. 

‘When identifying bed bugs, you’ll probably not notice the bugs themselves, but the bites on your skin will indicate their presence. The bites are usually painless but later turn into itchy welts that can become red and swollen,’ Mihail says. 

Unlike mosquito or spider bites, bed bug bites appear in clusters rather than as singular marks. ‘Generally, the first sign is someone having a reaction to the bites, or the anaesthetic the bedbug injects into you before taking your blood,’ explains Sarah Beck, operations manager at The Pest Master.

Dr. Jonathan points out that the pests attack any exposed skin and recommends covering up if you suspect you might have bed bugs.

2. Stains

There are two types of stains that you might encounter if bed bugs are in your headboard, mattress or bed frame. The first are blood stains. ‘If you're a restless sleeper, you'll see blood spots on your bedding or mattress because of bed bugs being crushed during the night,’ Mihail says.

The other and more prevalent are dark, rusty-looking stains. ‘Bed bugs also leave dark, rusty stains behind them, similar to a felt pen mark, that may bleed into the fabric. These are actually droppings,’ Mihail explains. The reddish, rusty undertone of these stains are due to the bugs’ bloody diet.

3. Eggs and cast skins

If you don’t spot the bed bugs themselves, you might notice signs of them, such as their cast skins, eggs or egg shells.

Bed bug cast skins ‘are left behind when baby bed bugs turn into adults. They may repeat this process up to five times before they reach full maturity. The cast skins look like coloured empty bed bug shells, and you’re most likely to find them in crevices and corners, rather than on the bedding,’ Mihail says.

A single female bed bug can lay up to 500 eggs over a two-month period, which is why infestations develop so rapidly and why you might spot these eggs or their shells. ‘Bed bug egg shells are only about 1mm in length, but you can see them with an unaided eye. They are similar to dried-out cast skins but flatter and less shiny.’

‘On the other hand, bed bug eggs are shiny and translucent and are typically found away from the main population. They have a sticky film that adheres to surfaces,’ Mihail describes.

4. Odour

One thing that you might (or might not) notice is a different and unpleasant smell in your bedroom, which might be a sign of bed bugs. It is described as a musty or mouldy odour.

‘The odour that bed bugs leave behind is sweet and musty, and it is more obvious in heavier infestations or when the pests have been disturbed,’ Mihail advises.

5. Crawling bed bugs

If you’re ‘lucky’, you might catch the bugs red handed as they make their way across your mattress or bedding. But let’s face it, no one with bed bugs in their home is lucky per se. 

‘Bed bugs are nocturnal, so try looking at night if you want to catch them crawling across your mattress,’ Dr. Jonathan recommends.

We hope that you will never have to check for these as facing the possibility of a bed bug presence in your home is not a pleasant experience. But if you do, we hope these tips will make the process all the less difficult for you.

Having just recovered from a bed bug epidemic scare back in August of this year, we barely got a moment to have a breather before new reports started circling of a new outbreak last week. Bed bug infestations are no fun and are incredibly difficult to get rid of - even though there are ways how to get rid of bed bugs, do not despair - resulting in hives of itchy bites on affected homeowners. So this is not the kind of news anyone wants to hear.

And now the panic is further intensifying as bed bugs have apparently been spotted on the London Underground. But before we start freaking out ourselves, we went to our pest control experts to find out whether there actually is a new bed bug epidemic. And if so, why? 

 Paris bed bug epidemic in the UK 

According to reports, the bed bug epidemic is coming from Paris this time, crossing the channel with travellers.

‘It’s been reported that Paris has had a recent outbreak of bed bugs and that they’re on the way to the UK,’ confirms Dr. Jonathan Kirby, pest expert at NOPE!. ‘Though bed bugs are an all-year-round pest, you do tend to find they’re most prevalent in August and September. So it could simply be that other factors are at play such as increased travelling and unseasonably warm weather this time of year.’

But perhaps the situation is not as dire as the media makes it seem. At least not yet.

‘We have had a slight increase in call outs but wouldn’t say there is an epidemic,’ says Sarah Beck, operations manager at The Pest Master. But she puts the increased spreading largely down to travel, even though she believes it’s often difficult to determine where they come from as they are master concealers. ‘The more that people travel the more risk of them spreading around.’

But how do these biting, blood-thirsty creatures find their way into your best mattress?

Paul Blackhurst, head of technical academy at Rentokil pest control that has experienced a 65% increase in bed bug enquiries year-on-year, explains they don’t just crawl in through open doors or windows. They need to be carried in. 

‘Bed bugs exhibit an excellent hiding ability, concealing themselves in various nooks and crannies within bedrooms, including cupboards and carpets,' he notes. They can seek refuge in upholstery such as sofas, curtains, and chairs, extending their presence to unexpected places such as the seats of planes, trains, and coaches.'

'These cunning pests are adept hitchhikers, readily latching onto humans for transportation, driven by their attraction to body heat and their insatiable need for their next blood meal.'

That’s why travel is such a common way to bring bed bugs into your home. ‘In the summer months in particular, when families come back from holidays abroad, bed bugs can be transmitted far easier,' stresses Dr Jonathan.

'In fact, we found that 60% of Brits don’t wash all their clothes they took away with them on vacation and 75% don’t clean their luggage either – so infestations can set in once a family is back from their summer break.' Lesson learned. Always wash your clothes and luggage once you’re back from holiday.

‘Before settling into your holiday accommodation, carefully examine the bed, mattress, and surrounding areas for any signs of bed bugs, such as dark stains, faecal pellets, shed exoskeletons, or even live bugs,' advises pest control expert Paul.

And if you do find signs of bed bugs in your hotel room, it is recommended to alert management, request a refund and change hotels. As switching to another room likely won’t be effective enough since bed bugs can be transmitted via housekeeping carts. 

Remember, it doesn’t matter if you’re in a five-star hotel, a budget hostel or enjoying the comfort of your own home - these bed bugs are far from picky!