Shopping for a new bed?
At It’s Beds and Pine we want to help you get the best night’s sleep possible, so before you come in-store shopping for a new bed, think about what you want from your bed. Here are a few general points to consider:
Type
What sort of style do you prefer?
What do you like or dislike about your current bed?
Do you prefer a firmer or softer feel?
Types of Mattresses
Ottoman Beds: Ottoman beds feature a side or end opening that lifts from the base opening great storage space. It’s perfect for storing clothing, spare bedding, shoes, and more. The ottoman bed is one to consider if your storage options are limited.
Divan Beds: Divan base beds typically come with underbed storage drawers on either side. Perfect space to store bedding and clothing, it’s a very stylish storage option. These beds are usually on castor wheels for easy manoeuvring.
Wooden Beds: Wooden bed frames are typically more traditional looking. Sturdy and easy to style, they suit almost any bedroom and can provide a natural, rustic touch.
The price is right
Always shop for the best value not the lowest price. Of course, there are some perfectly acceptable, lower priced beds available (far preferable to an unhygienic second-hand bed shaped to someone else’s body) but the better the construction, the better the support and comfort and the longer the bed will last.
Size MAtters
With a larger bed you are less likely to disturb your partner. You should be able to lie side by side, with your arms behind your head and your elbows out, without touching. Your bed should also be 4-6in (10-15cm) longer than the tallest partner. Many manufacturers make beds up to 7ft square as a matter of course; others will make special sizes. Also consider the bed’s height – many contemporary styles are low, while those with storage drawers may be much higher.
Fun Fact: Did you know that two people sharing a standard double size bed have only as much personal sleeping space as a baby in a cot?
Typical UK Bed Sizes
| Name | Imperial Size | Metric Size |
|---|---|---|
Small Single | 2’6” x 6’3” | 75 x 190 cm |
Single | 3’ x 6’3” | 90 x 190 cm |
Small Double | 4’ x 6’3” | 120 x 190 cm |
Double | 4’6” x 6’3” | 135 x 190 cm |
King | 5’ x 6’6” | 150 x 200 cm |
Super King | 6’ x 6’6” | 180 x 200 cm |
Buy base and mattress together
At the very least, make sure you try mattresses on a similar type of base. The two are designed to work together and a change of base will affect the feel and performance of the mattress.
Access all areas
If you are worried about getting the bed upstairs, remember most divans have split bases; while many bedsteads are actually delivered in pieces for assembly in situ. To avoid problems with delivery, you should tell us about potential access problems (narrow staircases, tight corners etc) before you buy.
Do you suffer from a Sore Back?
You spend a third of your life in bed, so it’s vital that you make the right choice. We’ve pulled together some helpful tips:
- Try, try and try it again! There is no substitute for lying on mattresses when selecting the right one for you. You wouldn’t buy a new car without taking it for a test drive first – and you’ll be spending even more time in your bed! So wear comfortable clothes, remove your coat and shoes and lie on the bed for quite a long time – at least 10 minutes (preferably more). Adopt your normal sleeping position and lie on your side as well as your back.
- Always shop together if the bed’s for two, to ensure you are both happy with your choice.
- Set aside enough time to do the job properly. Don’t shop when you’re tired or rushed – you run the risk that the beds will all feel wonderful.
- Correct support depends on your weight, height, build and even preferred sleeping position. Ideally the mattress should mould to the shape of your body while remaining supportive. When you lie on your side your spine should be horizontal.
