Before you buy a bed take some time to think of all that you want from it. A comfortable bed is the key to feeling rested, healthy and pain free. And we all know that a good night's sleep can mean greater productivity throughout the day and your bed can contribute to that.
While comfort is the most important factor, you cannot ignore the fact that a bed is also the focal point of your bedroom. How a bed looks is just as important as how it feels. After all, since this is the last place you see at night and the first when you wake up, your bed deserves attention.
Determine Your Bed's Size
How big a bed you should buy depends on the size of your room, and how much space you need. Sometimes you can have the bed size customized for you, but be aware that finding mattresses and sheets can be difficult for no-standard sized beds.
The most commonly available sizes are:
- Twin beds: 39" wide x 75" long
- Extra Long Twin beds: 39" wide x 80" long
- Double beds/Full beds: 54" wide x 75" long
- Queen size beds:60" wide x 80" long
- Standard King/Eastern King size beds: 76" wide x 80" long
- California King/Western King size beds: 72" wide x 84" long
What Kind of Bed?
After you've determined the size, decide what kind of bed you want.
- There are beds that provide extra storage underneath, or inside the headboard.
- A trundle bed in a child's room or guest room provides flexibility.
- Bunk beds in children's rooms save space while providing an extra bed.
- How high or low do you want the bed to be? There are many choices out there.
- Do you want a bed with a box spring or slats to support your mattress? It can make a difference in the kind of support a bed provides. The box springs will have more give, and the slats will be firmer. Try both out to see which one is a better fit for you.
Pick a Style for Your Bed
The style you choose for your bed will depend on your decorating style.
- If your style is traditional, wood is a good choice, with the bed matching the other wood pieces in the room. For a more formal look a darker finish and larger scale will work.
- For a contemporary look, try something with simple, sleek lines. A leather panel might look great in a headboard. You can go with lighter wood as well.
- Mix different materials such as metal and wood in an eclectic bedroom.
- For a rustic or country look, you can still match metal and wood, but avoid a glossy finish. Light or painted wood can also work in this setting.
