Types of Bed Designs

best bed for all types of sleepers

Beds are surely one of the most valuable as well as important pieces of furniture, without which a home cannot be complete. However, the different types of bed frames available in the market can actually leave you confused to a great extent. Also, did you know that there are at least 7 different standard types of bed sizes to choose from?

To help you pick your bed with great ease and to fulfill all your basic requirements, as well as design fantasies, we have detailed below all the different types of beds that you can pick from. Hope our detailed classification will help you pick the best bed for your beloved home! Before you buy bedsheets, you need to know which type of bed you are using.

A. Different Types of Bed Frame Sizes:

  1. Single Bed
  2. Twin Bed
  3. Twin XL Bed
  4. Double Bed
  5. Queen-Sized Bed 
  6. King-Sized Bed
  7. California King Sized Bed

1. Single Bed

single size bed online, best bed designs 2021
Source: novocom.top

By far, this is the smallest bed size that is available in the market. It can be used for furnishing small rooms for children.

  • Recommended for: Toddlers and small children before they reach high school
  • Size: 36” x 75”

2. Twin Bed

bed frame design with drawers, bed frame design single
Source: walmart.com

It pretty much similar to a single bed, except for a slightly increased width. A twin bed is designed to accommodate a single child or an adult with average height.

  • Recommended for Small guest spaces, bunk beds, and kids’ rooms
  • Size: 39” x 75”

3. Twin XL Bed

Twin XL bed frame with bookcase headboard
Source: walmart.com

The XL here stands for extra-long. The only difference between a twin bed and a twin xl bed is their length. A twin XL bed can accommodate slightly bigger people.

  • Recommended for Dormitories and Kids’ room for up to high school
  • Size: 39” x 80”

4. Double-Bed

ikea double bed design, ikea double bed with storage
Source: daraz.com.bd

Best pick for slightly larger kids. This bed size can also accommodate 2 average-sized couples in a congested manner. However, this bed size is usually preferred for only a single adult.

  • Recommended for: Larger kids, single person, for a couple in really tight rooms
  • Size: 54” x 75”

5. Queen-Sized Bed

bed for sale online, queen bed sale
Source: pepperfry.com

This is one of the most commonly used types of bed sizes across the world. This bed size allows two adults to lie down easily, whilst not occupying any extra living space.

  • Recommended for: Guest Rooms, Single Adults who like more sleeping space, for couples who wish to save some movement space in their room
  • Size: 60” x 80”

6. King-Sized Bed

king size beds near me for sale
Source: amazon.ca

The length of this bed is similar to a queen-sized bed, however; is much wider. It provides more sleeping space for couples and can also accommodate a pet if you would like.

  • Recommended for: Couples who like free sleeping and rolling space, moderately sized bedrooms
  • Size: 76” x 80”

7. California King Sized Bed

bed design for kids, bed design 2021
Source: overstock.com

By far the biggest bed size that is available in the market, unless you go in for a custom-sized bed. This bed can be used by couples who need some extra space.

  • Recommended for: people with more than average heights, extra-large master bedrooms
  • Size: 72” x 84”

B. Different Types of Bed by Frames Material:

  1. Metal Frame Bed
  2. Wooden Frame Bed
  3. Pallet Bed
  4. Wicker Bed

1. Metal Frame Bed

metal frame bed with headboard
Source: walmart.com

Metal frame beds might lack the stability and warmth of traditional wooden beds; however, they are much lighter as well as versatile in use. They are quite popular amongst people who move a lot or have a lower budget.

  • Highly affordable
  • Light Weight
  • Easy to Assemble
  • Easy to Move

Recommended for: tenants, bachelors, for a contemporary theme-based bedroom

2. Wooden Frame Bed

buy wooden bed frame online
Source: novocom.top

The most commonly used types of bed frames are surely wooden. Wood is highly versatile as well as long-lasting in nature. It can be painted, carved as per the choice of the user as well. Also, provides the required warmth and feel for a cozy bed.

  • Most-commonly used bed frame as per material
  • Can accommodate storage requirements

Recommended for: family use, a longer furniture solution

3. Pallet Bed

pallet bed for sale
Source: bydletsnadno.cz

Pallet beds are also becoming quite common in use. Moreover, you can modify them as per your requirement to form the desired platform for your mattresses. However, you would need to search for the right size and height of pallets in order to make an effective pallet bed.

  • Highly modifiable
  • Easy movement with wheels
  • Quick Assembly
  • Cost-Effective

Recommended for: people with low budget, experimental people, theme-based bedrooms

4. Wicker Bed

Rattan Platform Bed
Source: wayfair.com

Also known as rattan beds, these are basically made when a plastic or plant-based material, which is woven together to form a hard surface for the bed platform, as well as the headboard.

  • Easy cleaning and maintenance
  • Eco-friendly
  • Strong and Durable

Recommended for: theme-based bedrooms, nature enthusiasts

C. Different types of Bed Frames by Usability & Design:

  1. Folding Bed
  2. Standard Bed
  3. Murphy Bed
  4. Poster Bed
  5. Pencil Poster Bed
  6. Low Poster Bed
  7. Half Poster Bed
  8. Platform Bed
  9. Panel Bed
  10. Sleigh Bed
  11. Trundle Bed
  12. Adjustable Bed
  13. Low Profile Bed
  14. Cot Bed
  15. Captain Bed
  16. Divan Bed
  17. Air Bed
  18. Water Bed
  19. Day Bed
  20. Cabin Bed
  21. Bunk Bed
  22. Loft Bed
  23. Storage Bed
  24. Futon Bed
  25. Pull-Out Sofa Bed

1. Folding Bed

best folding bed
Source: amazon.sg

This type of bed usually has a hinged framework. It can be folded into a smaller space when the bed is not in use. It is perfect for places where a bed is not to be used frequently. Some types of bed frames may be folded into small enclosures to be placed in a closet as well.

Recommended for: small-sized bedrooms, guest bedrooms

2. Standard Bed

Modern bed frame
Source: walmart.com

A standard bed is usually a low-lying simple metal frame that requires a box spring along with mattresses to sit on it.

Recommended for: rooms with minimal bed usage, people with low budget

3. Murphy Bed

cheap murphy beds for sale
Source: livinginashoebox.com

More commonly known as wall beds, these types of bed frames are hinged with the vertical surface of the wall. They can be folded vertically when not in use, to make it a part of the wall closet or cupboard.

Recommended for: rooms with a lesser living space, rooms with minimal bed usage

4. Poster Bed

Wooden four poster bed
Source: hgtv.com

More commonly known as the “four-poster bed”, these types of bed frames usually have 4 columns on either of their edges. The 4 columns can be used to hang curtains and a canopy for a cozier and more private feel. Traditionally, highly ornate oak wood was used to build poster beds. However, now they come in different materials as well as configurations.

Recommended for: people looking for a vintage look, people who hate morning light

5. Pencil Poster Bed

Modern Pencil Post bed
Source: lacewoodfurniture.com.au

A pencil poster bed is similar to a four-poster bed in functionality. However, the only difference is that it has thinner columns which provide the bed with a much sleeker look.

6. Low Poster Bed

cheap four poster bed frame
Source: walmart.com

Low poster beds are more common than full poster beds due to their less bulky appearance. They fulfill the purpose of a poster bed, without overpowering its presence in your room. The columns rise just a few inches above the headboard.

7. Half Poster Bed

Four poster bed frame
Source: homesdirect365.co.uk

Half poster beds feature full-sized columns along the headboard. However, the posters towards the feet are even lower than a low poster bed. It helps you provide a distinct and unique look to your room.

8. Platform Bed

best platform bed online
Source: sierralivingconcepts.com

One of the most commonly used types of bed frames, the platform beds have a solid horizontal base at a height from the floor. The platform is usually made with wooden slats, which provide enough strength, flexibility as well as ventilation for the mattress to avoid the use of box springs. Many of the platform beds may even offer storage below the platform.

Recommended for: people with storage needs, people looking for a stable and permanent solution

9. Panel Bed

Solid Wood Panel Bed
Source: savillefurniture.com

The main features of a panel bed are its headboard and footboard, which are essentially made with wooden panels. Headboard and footboard are connected with each other with the help of horizontal wooden rails. They are usually higher and may need a lot of springs below mattresses.

Recommended for: people seeking a raised height bed with a traditional look

10. Sleigh Bed

Beds for sale, beds for sale online
Source: decoratorist.com

A sleigh bed has an outward curved headboard as well as a footboard, making it look like a sled. These types of bed frames are usually made of heavy wood and have storage underneath.

Recommended for: people with storage needs, people seeking a classic French-American look

11. Trundle Bed

Beds for sale cheap,cheap trundle beds for sale
Source: sleepdoctorcampbelltown.com.au

These types of bed frames are actually a combination of 2 beds. One bed gets slid below the other bed to create ample living space during the daytime.

Recommended for: Kids’ rooms

12. Adjustable Bed

beds for sale near me,Cheap adjustable beds with mattress
Source: amazon.com

An adjustable bed is perfect for those who like spending most of their time in bed, even while working or watching TV. They are fitted with a motor which allows various types of seating positions for you.

Recommended for: people who wish to work from their bed, people with mobility issues

13. Low Profile Bed

discount beds near me, low profile platform bed
Source: novocom.top

The platform of a low-profile bed is closer to the ground. In these types of bed frames, support is provided to the mattresses with the help of a thin box spring.

Recommended for: rooms with a low ceiling, people with knee problems

14. Cot Bed

Cheap beds for sale with mattress, cheap cot beds for sale
Source: hayneedle.com

Cot beds are small portable beds that generally have foldable legs. They come in handy when you have extra guests in your home. You can also carry them while camping. They can be folded and kept away when not in use.

Recommended for: occasional use, campers

15. Captain Bed

Captains bed with Trundle
Source: wayfair.com

These types of bed frames usually have sliding drawers for storage of either of their sides. The mattress sits over the storage boxes.

Recommended for: people with storage requirements

16. Divan Bed

best divan beds to buy
Source: livingitup.co.uk

This type of bed has a wooden base, which is enclosed with a choice of fabric. Diwans also have soft headboards and sometimes also feature storage drawers at the base. They are also perfect for sitting and can also be used in common areas.

Recommended for: people with space constraints, multipurpose usage

17. Air Bed

best price double air bed, best price single air bed
Source: terrycralle.com

As compares to air mattresses, air beds are more of a permanent solution and are also used for medical purposes. They are easy to maintain, and can also be used in pull-out couches.

Recommended for: pull-out couches, people with budget constraints

18. Water Bed

water bed for sale , water bed for sleeping
Source: reddit.com

This type of bed might not be in abundant use at home. However, they can be used by people with medical conditions and also provide your room with a unique look.

Recommended for therapies, people with sore muscles

19. Day Bed

Day bed sofa, low cost daybed
Source: homegearhunt.com

Day beds are popularly used in living areas for seating, lounging, as well as sleeping. They can accommodate only one person lying down.

Recommended for multipurpose use in guest rooms and living rooms

20. Cabin Bed

cheap cabin bed with storage, buy mid sleeper cabin bed
Source: thebedstation.co.uk

A cabin-style bed, with an elevated platform for sleeping and a whole lot of additional storage and display shelves below.

Recommended for Kids’ Room

21. Bunk Bed

cheap bunk bed with stairs, best bunk beds for kids
Source: amazon.com

An amazing space-saving piece of furniture where one bed is placed over the other with some space in between. There could be different styles of bunk beds, including, L-shaped, with stairs, with study table, etc.

Recommended for Kids’ Room, Dormitories

22. Loft Bed

loft bed with study table, loft bed for kids
Source: potterybarnkids.com.sa

A loft bed is similar to a bunk bed, however; does not have a bed at the lower level. The bed is only at the upper level and the space below can be used for any of the purposes, including a play area, study table, storage, etc.

Recommended for Kids’ Bedroom

23. Storage Bed

hydraulic storage beds online, best storage beds for small rooms
Source: shopen.aaedsales.com

These types of bed frames feature storge in the form of drawers or concealed boxes under the bed platform. Various beds even have a hydraulic system, where the entire platform gets lifted up to reveal the storage underneath.

Recommended for people with huge storage requirements

24. Futon Bed

cheapest futon bed, cheapest sofa bed online
Source: dhifurniture.com

Japanese-style bedding that doubles as a couch and a bed. It’s a great space saver solution.

Recommended for people with small apartments

25. Pull-Out Sofa Bed

pull out sofa bed on sale, fold out sofa bed cheap
Source: ocfurniture.com

These types of bed frames have foldable mattresses that extend out to a bed when required. Else, they can be used as a sofa when not in use.

Recommended for: use as an extra bedding

D. Types of Beds by Theme:

  1. Traditional Bed
  2. Contemporary Bed
  3. Vintage Bed

1. Traditional Bed

best traditional bed, traditional wooden bed design
Source: furnitureplusli.com

Different types of bed frames that have all the traditional elements and designs that are being used for ages are termed traditional beds. Different elements could be half-testers, canopies, or headboard styles.

2. Contemporary Bed

contemporary bed sale, Best contemporary beds
Source: decoist.com

A bed that uses all the materials, as well as designs that can be termed to be derived from the current living standards, is termed as a contemporary bed. They are minimal in look as well as shape and use all the modern furniture materials.

3. Vintage Bed

vintage bed for sale, antique bed for sale
Source: coytes.com

If you are trying to follow a theme that reminds you of a particular era in the past, the bed style that you may use is termed a vintage bed.

Country Bed

A country bed has rich textures along with highly ornate shapes, usually carved in wood.

Santiago Bed

A vintage-styled bed that features a crown-shaped wooden headboard.

Mission Bed

Types of bed frames that draw focus on horizontal and vertical lines in the design are known as mission beds. They usually have flat panels of wood that form the headboard and the footboard of the bed.

Cottage Bed

They have large wooden headboards, that also might feature carvings. However, the visible parts of the beds are mostly painted in light colors.

Rustic Bed

Types of bed frames that induce the feeling of aged, natural, distressed, and organic in your space are termed Rustic beds.

Scandinavian Bed

These types of beds are completely minimal and functional. They may come in different shapes but do not have any kind of additional aesthetical design elements.

Industrial Bed

Beds that are solely meant for functional purposes and provide you with a raw factory-like look are called industrial beds. They are majorly made in a metal framework.

Mid-Century Bed

Mid-century beds bring back the 1950s-1960s in your mind. These beds usually have linear headboards with tilted and tapering legs. The platform is also a bit elevated from the ground.

Based on the different types of bed frames mentioned above, it would surely become really easy for you to pick your choice based on your requirements. You can also go through the quick points mentioned below to ensure that you get hold of the perfect bed that will stay with you for years to come.

Bed Buying Guide:

Review the Size of Your Bedroom

Ideally, you should have at least 2-3 feet of movement space on all the 3 open sides of your bed. You can measure the free space in your room and accordingly choose from the standard bed sizes mentioned above. Also, keep in mind that the headboard and the footboard may add a few extra inches to the standard bed sizes.

Choose a support type

Your mattresses need support to rest on. If you go in with a platform-based bed frame, you may not need any extra support. However, if your bed frame does not offer ample support to your mattresses, you may need to use a box spring. Not using adequate support may lead to premature sagging of your mattresses.

Choose a frame type

You can either choose a freestanding or an integrated bed frame. A free-standing bed frame does not have any decorative elements. However; you can pair it with your choice of headboard and footboard to create the desired look. The integrated bed frame comprises of complete bed structure, including the headboard, footboard, as well as side rails, creating a more distinctive and heavy bed frame.

Finalize the height of the bed

Taller beds are usually preferred for people with mobility issues. However, if you wish to lie lower, you can pick a platform bed or a low-lying bed. Also, if you have a smaller room size, a lower bed will provide you with a more spacious look.

Choose the type of legs

Do you wish for your bed to be floating with legs or don’t you want any space between the floor and bed base? Also, do not forget to ensure that the legs of the bed have enough protection not to spoil your flooring or furnishings. You can also consider legs with wheels, however; ensure that they get locked property after placement if you go for them.

Finalize the bed material

Wood and metal are the two prominent material options that you will find in different types of bed frames. Moreover, both materials offer different types of bed sizes to choose from at your convenience. Both the materials are reliable. Pick the one that suits your personality and the room theme.

Choose the right support system

You need to properly inspect the support system before you finalize your bed. Ensure that the slats used for supporting your mattress are sturdy enough as well as long-lasting. Some beds may even offer intermittent legs to provide extra strength to the mattress support.

Choose a bed style

It is very important to finalize the style of bed that you wish to go for. You can pick from the above-mentioned different types of bed frames based on your taste and proceed forward to hunt for a befitting bed for your room!

Ensure the quality of the bed

It is very important to inspect the overall quality, finish, as well as craftsmanship of the bed carefully before you get it delivered to your home. If you pick a wooden bed, ensure that sturdy hardwood has been used in the complete support systems of the bed. Skimpy wooden supports may eventually break off after a period of time. If you go in for a metal bed, ensure that no flimsy or weak metal elements of joints exist in the entire bed frame.

FAQs to Buy Right Bed Online

Do you have an existing mattress?

If you already have mattresses and are considering using the same for your new bed, you need to double-check the size of the same. Even the same type of mattresses come in different size variations. Ensure that you have the correct mattress size and then begin the hunt for the bed that can accommodate the same.

What size of bed do you really need?

If you are an average height person or couple, a queen-sized bed would really be ample for you. However, if your height is more than 6’, only then you should consider going in for a King-sized bed.

Which room do you want it for?

If you are looking for a bed for your master bedroom, you certainly should consider either a queen-sized or a king-sized bed. However, if you need it for your guest room or even your living room, you can go in for a customizable bed cum sofa that can fulfill different purposes. When it comes to the kids’ room, you surely need to get creative and select a unique and catchy bed!

Do you need a Headboard or not?

Headboards are really helpful if you consider having your breakfast in bed or if you wish to sit up and read something. However, most modern homes already have padded walls or panels. Therefore, if the back wall of your bed already has the same, maybe you can skip on an additional headboard.

Do you need extra storage space?

If you have a compact home or apartment, you would definitely need a bed with good storage capacity. However, keep in mind that beds with storage are quite stiff, bulky looking, as well as almost impossible to move. Therefore, if you really do not need that extra storage underneath your bed, we would recommend you to go with beds without storage.

What is your budget?

The different types of bed frames available in the market would surely leave you dazzled. Also, there is no upper limit in terms of pricing while selecting a piece of furniture, especially a bed. Therefore, before you start your search in the stores, or even online, it is very important to have a fixed budget in your mind.

Beds are surely one of the most important commodities of our day-to-day lives. Moreover, we certainly can’t afford to make the wrong choice when it comes to picking a bed. However, if you are able to answer all the above-mentioned questions correctly before you start your hunt for a perfect bed, we can ensure you that there is nothing that can stop you from getting the bed of your dreams for your dream home! Also check types of pillow for your bed.

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Bruno Lee

Bruno is a senior editor at LooksGud. He is a fashion observer and devotee who is always curious to know what’s trending in the field. He loves trekking, playing cricket, and fantasy movies. He loves to write about practical, budget-friendly fashion and simple hacks…. want to join the fun?

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