Upholstered bed buying guide: fabrics, headboards and care
An upholstered bed wraps the frame and headboard in fabric, so it feels softer and more tailored than a wooden or metal bed. With so many fabrics and headboard styles, a few decisions narrow the choice quickly.
1. Pick a fabric
Our upholstered beds come in velvet, boucle, chenille and linen and linen-look weaves, among others. Each looks and lives differently:
| Fabric | Look and feel | Good to know |
|---|---|---|
| Velvet | Soft pile with a sheen that makes colours look rich | Pile can mark when brushed; this usually brushes out |
| Boucle | Looped, nubbly texture | Very tactile; loops can catch on claws and jewellery |
| Chenille | Soft, tufted yarn with a gentle texture | A cosy, practical everyday choice |
| Linen-look weaves | Relaxed, matt texture | Textured weaves are good at hiding everyday wear |
Our guides to upholstery fabrics and caring for velvet and boucle go into more detail; the same advice applies to beds.
2. Choose a headboard style
- Tall headboards make a statement and are comfortable to lean against when reading in bed.
- Winged headboards curve forward at the sides for a cocooning, hotel-style look.
- Panelled, ribbed and buttoned designs add texture and pattern in a plain fabric.
- Low or simple headboards suit rooms with sloping ceilings or under a window.
Measure the wall height and check for sockets, light switches and windows behind where the headboard will sit.
3. Decide on storage
Many upholstered beds are also ottoman beds, with a base that lifts on gas struts to reveal a large storage space. Some lift from the end, others from the side. Read ottoman vs storage beds explained to see which suits your room.
4. Check the size, inside and out
Padded frames and headboards are larger than the mattress, so always check the external width and length on the product page. Upholstered beds in our range come from makers including Flair Furniture, SOLACE+CO and Swyft, in sizes from single to super king. See edits of double, super king and single upholstered beds.
5. Pick a colour that lasts
- Neutrals such as cream, beige and grey give a calm, hotel-style room and let you change bedding freely. See cream and grey upholstered beds.
- Rich colours such as green, rust or navy velvet make the bed the focal point. Keep the rest of the room simple.
- Paler fabrics show marks more easily, which matters if children or pets jump on the bed.
Living with an upholstered bed
- Vacuum the headboard and frame with a soft brush attachment every week or two.
- Blot spills straight away; don't rub. Follow the care label for any spot cleaning.
- Keep it out of strong direct sunlight to protect the colour.
- Use a pillow or cushion against the headboard if you read in bed often, to reduce wear and hair oils on the fabric.
Upholstered or wooden?
Upholstered beds feel soft and cosy and give you a padded headboard. Wooden beds are easier to wipe clean and bring natural texture. If you love both, choose an upholstered bed and pair it with wooden bedside tables.
Shop upholstered beds
Frequently asked questions
Are upholstered beds hard to keep clean?
Not with regular care. Vacuum with a soft brush, blot spills quickly and follow the care label. Textured fabrics and mid-tones hide everyday wear best.
Are velvet beds good for pets?
Velvet has no loops, so it's less likely to snag than boucle, but pet hair shows on the pile. Vacuum regularly with a soft brush attachment.
Do upholstered beds take up more space?
Usually a little. Padded frames and headboards are larger than the mattress, so check the external dimensions on the product page.