Getting The Right Bed

The best way to buy a new bed is to try one instore, but we understand that this is not always possible. Only you can decide what level of comfort you need, but here are a few guidelines.

Don't think that a firm bed is best for back ache, a bed that moulds and supports is better at relieving pressure on the back. If you sleep on your side or front, a medium support is often the best option as it will mould to the contours of your body. The idea is to align your spine to help minimise back pain.

Visco elastic otherwise known as memory foam has been proven to significantly improve the quality of sleep and is highly recommended by chiropractors and osteopaths. Visco Elastic (memory foam) gently gives a pressure free feel to your mattress as it moulds to the body contours. Remember that the support a bed will give, depends on the weight and build of people using it.

The term 'orthopaedic' is not a medical term and orthopaedic beds can vary significantly between manufacturers. However, orthopaedic mattresses generally provide firm support.

Size matters the bigger the bed the less you'll disturb your partner and the more peaceful night sleep you'll get. A King Size bed (5ft/150cm) whilst taking up very little extra bedroom space makes a considerable difference in comparison with a standard double.

Bed Bases

There are various options to choose from when purchasing a new bed or simply a new base on its own. The divan is still the most popular type of base. Frames and bedsteads have become more fashionable in recent years.

There are two choices with divan bases; sprung edge and solid top.

The sprung edge gives a slightly softer feel to your mattress and helps support your mattress, giving you more comfort and support. Also the life expectancy of your mattress is prolonged as the mattress isn't doing all the work. This is due to a layer of traditional springs on top of the wooded carcass that mould with the mattress.

Solid top (platform top) divan bases are the most popular style of base. It consists of a fibre board top mounted on to solid timber slats for durability. This helps to give a firmer feel to the mattress.

Both sprung edge and solid top divan bases are available with different storage options.

Example two drawers, four drawers and continental four drawers (two large drawers and two smaller drawers) this is ideal for use with bedside cabinets as you can have the bedside cabinets next to the bed and still use the drawers. When access is limited at the sides of your bed there are a couple of different storage solutions, an end drawer and an ottoman storage divan. Ottoman storage divans offer up to 3.5 times more storage than conventional storage. These are available in different sizes.

Frames & Bedsteads

Frames and bedsteads give you the chance to enhance your bedroom by adding character and your own style. The choices of frames and bedsteads are metal, wooden or fabric. The most common way to support your mattress on frames and bedsteads are with wooden slats. They are either solid rigid slats or flexible beech sprung slats.

Metal mesh bases are also available, although not as popular as they once were.

When purchasing any bedstead always beware of the quality and standard of the bases. We only supply quality products.

Standard UK Bed Sizes

2'6" x 6'3" (75cm x 190cm) = Small Single (ideal for children)

3' x 6'3" (90cm x 190cm) = Standard Single

4' x 6'3" (120cm x 190cm) = Small Double or Three Quarter (¾)

4'6" x 6'3" (135cm x 190cm) = Standard Double

5' x 6'6" (150cm x 200cm) = King Size

6' x 6'6" (160cm x 200cm) = Super King