Here's something that might surprise you: 51% of people now buy their beds online rather than in retail stores. That's quite a shift, isn't it? Online bed shopping has become the go-to approach for busy people who need a new mattress without the hassle.
Whether you're buying your first bed or replacing an old faithful, choosing a bed online can feel a bit overwhelming. Think about it – we spend roughly a third of our lives in bed, and a decent bed should last between 7 and 10 years. Yet most people (that's 80% of us!) spend less than two minutes testing a mattress before making a purchase.
But here's the thing – online bed shopping offers some brilliant advantages. You can browse entire product ranges that might not be available in physical stores, take your time comparing options, and read genuine customer reviews. All from the comfort of your current bed, naturally.
This bed buying guide will walk you through everything you need to know about finding your perfect sleep solution online. From measuring your space correctly to understanding different bed types and checking seller trustworthiness, we'll help you make a confident choice that supports your best night's sleep for years to come.
Why Buying a Bed Online Makes Sense
The days of trudging around furniture stores for hours are well and truly over. Online bed shopping has changed the game completely, offering some brilliant advantages that make the whole process so much easier.
More choice and better prices
Online retailers give you access to an incredible selection of bedroom furniture that often beats what you'd find in physical shops. From ottoman beds to divans, upholstered frames to wooden designs, the variety available at your fingertips is truly remarkable. This means you can explore different brands, mattress types, sizes, and firmness levels without any pressure.
Better still, online bed shopping typically offers much better value for money. E-commerce retailers can provide more competitive pricing since they don't maintain expensive showrooms or employ commissioned sales staff. These reduced overhead costs translate into savings that are passed directly to you through regular discounts and promotions. Many online bed sellers offer promotional deals that make upgrading your sleep setup considerably more affordable.
Shop at your own pace
The convenience factor is probably the biggest win when buying a bed online. You can browse options from your sofa, during lunch breaks, or even while lying in your current bed—whenever suits you best. This approach means you can wave goodbye to:
Battling traffic or hunting for parking spaces
Dealing with pushy salespeople working on commission
Rushing decisions in a showroom environment
Shopping from home creates a relaxed atmosphere where you can thoughtfully consider your options. It's particularly brilliant when purchasing bedroom furniture, as you can easily measure your room dimensions and visualise how different pieces might fit your space. And because many online retailers offer convenient bed-in-a-box options that are delivered directly to your door by courier services, you don't need to schedule delivery windows or tidy your home for delivery personnel.
Access to real customer reviews
Here's where online bed shopping really shines: honest feedback from real customers. Quality online retailers provide platforms for genuine reviews that help you make truly informed decisions. These testimonials often include specific details about comfort, durability, delivery experience, and customer service—information you simply wouldn't get in a showroom.
Many trusted bed retailers partner with independent review platforms like Trustpilot and Feefo, where verified customers share their experiences. For instance, Bedstar currently holds an impressive 4.7 out of 5 stars rating on Trustpilot, reflecting their commitment to excellent service. These reviews offer authentic insights into both the products and the retailer's reliability.
Don't forget, online bed retailers typically provide detailed product information, including comprehensive specifications about materials, construction techniques, and features. This transparency allows you to compare options thoroughly and make decisions based on facts rather than sales pitches—ultimately leading to greater satisfaction with your purchase.
Before purchasing any bed online, accurate measuring is the crucial first step that prevents expensive mistakes. With the right dimensions in hand, you'll avoid the disappointment of a bed that doesn't fit your space or meet your needs.
Check room dimensions and layout
UK Bed sizes
Start by measuring your bedroom's length, width, and height using a tape measure. For optimal comfort, most standard bedrooms should be at least 7ft x 10ft for a single bed, 9ft x 9.5ft for a double, 9.5ft x 10ft for a king, and 9.5ft x 11.5ft for a super king. Record these figures carefully and sketch your room's layout, noting the position of doors, windows, and power outlets.
Here's a practical approach: mark out your intended bed space using masking tape or newspaper on the floor. This visual aid helps you envision how much walking space remains around the furniture. You'll want at least 60cm (24 inches) of walking space on either side of the bed and at its foot. Don't forget to consider how doors, wardrobes, and drawers will open fully without obstruction when planning your layout.
Decide on bed size and height
The right bed size balances personal comfort with room dimensions. If you share a bed, ensure there's enough space for both occupants to lie side-by-side with arms behind heads without elbows touching. For taller individuals, choose a bed at least 10cm (4 inches) longer than the tallest person's height.
Bed height is equally important yet often overlooked. The average bed height is approximately 60cm (24 inches) including the mattress and frame, though this can range from 18 to 36 inches. To determine your ideal height, sit on the edge of your bed—your feet should rest flat on the floor with knees aligned with hips. If your knees rise above your hips, the bed is too low; if your feet don't touch the floor comfortably, it's too high.
Standard beds (24-25 inches) work well for most people, whilst taller beds (25-36 inches) create an elegant look in rooms with high ceilings. Low beds (18-24 inches) make rooms appear more spacious but may not suit taller individuals or those with mobility issues.
Consider storage and accessibility
Storage beds offer practical solutions for compact living spaces, essentially using the same space twice. Ottoman beds lift upward for storage access, making them ideal for smaller rooms where there isn't enough space beside the bed to pull out drawers. Beds with drawers require additional clearance—typically 55cm (21.5 inches) on the sides where drawers open.
Before selecting storage options, assess what you'll be storing. Larger items like duvets or luggage are better suited to ottoman beds, whilst smaller items like clothes might work better in drawer storage for regular access.
For those with mobility concerns or disabilities, bed height becomes even more critical. If you experience back pain or limited strength, lifting an ottoman mattress might be challenging despite gas-lift assistance. Drawer storage or adjustable-height beds offer better accessibility. Ensure sufficient space for any mobility aids or equipment needed around the bed.
Takeaway Tip: measuring twice and buying once will save you both money and the hassle of returns.
Your careful measuring and planning will help you make a more informed decision when selecting your perfect bed online, avoiding costly mistakes and ensuring your new purchase enhances both comfort and functionality.
Step 2: Choose the Right Bed Type
Selecting the right bed type makes all the difference to both your sleep quality and bedroom style. With so many options available online, understanding what works best for your space will help you make the perfect choice.
Divan, ottoman, or standard frame?
Each bed base offers distinct advantages depending on what you need most. Divan beds consist of a solid wooden structure covered with fabric upholstery, making them compact and ideal for smaller bedrooms. They typically come in two or four blocks that connect to form the base, often with optional drawer storage. Divans match the exact dimensions of your mattress, which means you're maximising every inch of floor space in compact rooms.
Ottoman beds provide exceptional storage capacity through a lift-up mechanism that reveals a full-length storage compartment underneath. These beds use gas pistons that make raising even heavy mattresses effortless – you'll be amazed how easy it is. Primarily designed for storing bulkier items like winter bedding or suitcases, ottoman beds are perfect for homes where bedroom storage space is at a premium.
Standard bed frames focus more on design impact than storage. They offer visual presence through features like statement headboards and open, floating side rails. Although they typically don't include built-in storage, they bring style and personality to your space in a way that's hard to match.
Wood, metal, or upholstered?
Wooden bed frames bring natural warmth and timeless appeal to any bedroom. Solid wood options like oak are exceptionally durable, ageing gracefully and surviving everything from house moves to years of daily use. Quality hardwood frames can last for generations with proper care – now that's value for money. They work beautifully with almost any interior design style, from rustic country to sleek contemporary.
Metal bed frames offer durability and design versatility at a more accessible price point. Generally less expensive than quality wooden frames, metal options are typically lighter and easier to assemble. They can be shaped into intricate patterns for vintage appeal or kept minimalist for a contemporary look that never goes out of style.
Upholstered frames add softness and luxury to your bedroom experience. They create a comfortable headboard for sitting up in bed and reduce noise compared to all-wood or metal frames. Available in countless fabrics including velvet and leather, upholstered beds allow you to add texture and warmth to your bedroom décor.
Do you need a custom size?
Custom-sized beds solve specific space challenges or accommodate unique requirements. If you have an awkward bedroom layout, limited access through doorways, or specific height needs, made-to-measure options are definitely worth considering.
Many UK manufacturers specialise in creating custom beds, with width options ranging from 69cm (2'3") to 183cm (6'0") and lengths from 152cm (5'0") to 198cm (6'6"). Custom beds typically arrive within two weeks of ordering, with free delivery often included.
Remember that custom beds may require matching headboards and bedding, so factor these additional costs into your budget when making your decision.
Step 3: Check the Seller's Trustworthiness
Trustworthiness is absolutely crucial when buying a bed online, especially for such a significant investment. You want to make sure you're dealing with a reputable retailer who'll look after you properly.
Look for contact details and return policies
Reputable bed sellers always provide comprehensive contact information—including a physical address, telephone number, and email address. This transparency shows the company has nothing to hide and gives you multiple ways to reach them if anything goes wrong.
Check for clear, straightforward return policies before you buy. Quality retailers typically offer:
At least 30 days to return items
Free returns for faulty products
Detailed information about collection procedures
Clear explanation of refund timeframes
The best bed retailers often go beyond these basics, offering extended return periods or comfort guarantees that let you try your bed at home. A transparent, customer-friendly return policy shows they're confident in their product quality.
What certifications should you look for?
The National Bed Federation (NBF) approval serves as your mark of quality and safety within the UK bed industry. Retailers displaying this certification work with manufacturers who meet strict standards regarding materials, fire safety, and trade descriptions.
Beyond NBF approval, look for additional quality markers such as ISO certifications, which show adherence to international quality standards. FSC certification for wooden beds confirms sustainable sourcing, whilst OEKO-TEX certification guarantees textiles are free from harmful substances.
Avoid suspicious discounts and fake reviews
Be wary of retailers advertising perpetual "massive discounts" or "closing down sales" that never seem to end. Legitimate price reductions happen seasonally or during specific sales events, not year-round.
When it comes to reviews, be vigilant about authenticity. Genuine review sections include both positive and negative feedback, with detailed comments rather than vague praise. Many trustworthy bed retailers partner with independent review platforms like Trustpilot, which verify purchaser authenticity.
Watch for suspicious patterns such as numerous five-star reviews posted within short timeframes or using similar language. Instead, choose sellers with consistent review patterns over extended periods, showing long-term customer satisfaction rather than temporary promotional success.
Step 4: Understand Delivery and Aftercare
Once you've selected your perfect bed, the post-purchase details become just as important. Delivery terms, old mattress disposal, and return policies can make a real difference to both your satisfaction and your wallet.
Is delivery included?
Delivery costs vary quite a bit between retailers. Some companies offer next day delivery, whilst others charge based on your order value or how quickly you need it delivered. Standard delivery typically brings items to your doorstep, whereas premium services (£30-£40) include room-of-choice placement. If you have limited mobility or live in a multi-floor home, this upgrade proves invaluable.
Delivery timeframes can range from next-day service to several weeks. Most retailers provide specific delivery windows, with some offering weekend slots for an additional £15. Some companies also provide delivery tracking or pre-delivery calls, giving you approximately one hour's notice before arrival.
Do they offer mattress removal?
Getting rid of your old mattress doesn't have to be a headache. Many retailers now provide mattress recycling services, typically priced between £35-£40 per item. This eco-friendly option ensures your old mattress gets dismantled into up to 19 different components for recycling.
Before collection, make sure your mattress is ready to collect—not damp, wet, or soiled. You'll also need to place it near your front door unless you've paid for room collection. Here's something worth knowing: only 14% of mattresses get recycled annually in the UK—approximately 900,000 units.
What's the return or trial policy?
Sleep trials have become increasingly popular, ranging from 30 nights to a full year. These periods allow you to properly test the bed in your own home environment. Many manufacturers recommend a minimum 30-day adjustment period as materials need time to break in.
Return processes typically start with contacting customer service. Depending on the retailer, you may need to arrange donation to charity, ship the item back, or coordinate a pickup. Keep in mind that certain costs like expedited shipping or old mattress removal fees are usually non-refundable.
Always check for conditions that might void your return rights, such as stains, rips, or improper use.
Conclusion
Finding your perfect bed online requires thoughtful consideration rather than rushed decisions. Throughout this guide, you've discovered how to approach this significant purchase with confidence and clarity. The four key steps - measuring your space, selecting the right bed type, verifying seller credibility, and understanding delivery terms - work together to ensure your online bed purchase meets both your sleep needs and bedroom aesthetics.
The shift toward online bed shopping makes perfect sense when you consider the advantages. You benefit from extensive selection, competitive pricing, and the ability to shop at your own pace while accessing genuine customer feedback. Plus, the convenience of home delivery eliminates many traditional shopping hassles.
Before making your final decision, double-check your measurements and remember the importance of allowing sufficient space around your bed for comfortable movement. The right bed size and height will significantly impact your daily comfort, while your choice between divan, ottoman, or standard frames affects both functionality and style.
So take your time exploring options and reading reviews from verified customers. Look for retailers with transparent policies, proper certifications, and reasonable delivery terms. After all, a quality bed represents an investment in your wellbeing that should serve you well for years to come.
Armed with this knowledge, you can now confidently navigate the online bed marketplace. Your perfect night's sleep awaits - just a few clicks away.
