How Do I Know What Size Headboard I Need?

Selecting the perfect headboard for your bed is more than just a matter of style – it's about getting the measurements spot on.

Whether you're looking for a luxurious king size option or a compact single style, incorrect height can throw off your entire bedroom's aesthetics and comfort.

When the height isn't quite right, you might find your mattress sitting awkwardly high or low. An overly tall design can appear imposing and unbalanced, while one that's too short won't provide adequate support when you're sitting up in bed.

Your choice should ideally extend 60-80cm above your mattress, providing just enough support to comfortably rest against without making contact with the wall.

It's worth noting that proportions typically vary with bed size – for instance, a super king option generally stands taller than a small double style to maintain visual balance with the wider bed frame.

While some contemporary ideas embrace intentionally oversized designs, these dramatic statement pieces aren't everyone's cup of tea. Their bold proportions can overwhelm smaller spaces and might not suit traditional bedroom aesthetics.

However, if you're looking to make a statement, an upholstered headboard in this style could become a striking focal point.

However, if you're looking to make a statement, an upholstered design in this style could become a striking focal point.

Here's where things can get a bit tricky – you need to be mindful of EU and UK size differences. A UK double option won't necessarily fit an EU double bed frame. European beds typically have wider dimensions than their UK counterparts, so ensuring compatibility is crucial.

A grey design that looks perfect in the showroom might not fit your bed if you haven't checked these specifications.

At Bedstar, we exclusively stock UK-sized beds and options, so if you've purchased your bed from us, you're already working with UK dimensions.

However, if your bed came from another retailer, it's essential to take precise measurements and consult with the supplier about compatibility, especially when choosing something specific like a double option.

Next comes an often-overlooked consideration – your mattress thickness will affect how much of your selection remains visible. Let's say you're eyeing a superking option that's 75cm tall, but you have a 30cm thick mattress.

In this scenario, only 45cm of the design will be visible above the mattress. This visual balance is crucial for achieving the look you want.

The thickness of your mattress plays a vital role in determining the ideal height. Keep in mind that some bed frames are designed with a slight recess to secure the mattress, which might lower it by about an inch.

When selecting your choice, you can factor this reduction into your calculations for the most accurate fit.

Determine what type of headboard option you need

When it comes to options, you'll need to choose between two main types: strutted or floor-standing:

Once you've accounted for your mattress thickness, you can start shopping for a design that will provide that ideal 60-80cm of visible height above your bed. This measurement ensures both aesthetic appeal and practical functionality.

For example, the Giltedge Beds Monte Carlo offers a height of 61cm above your mattress – a standard measurement for strutted styles that works well with most bed setups. This height provides excellent support while maintaining clean lines and proportions.

If your frame doesn't include bolt holes for attachment, you'll need to consider a floor-standing design. These typically measure around 135cm in total height.

This style stands independently on the floor and creates a grand, sophisticated look that many homeowners prefer.

Looking at specific examples the Belgravia models both stand at 135cm tall, providing approximately 60cm of visible height above your mattress. For those seeking something slightly more dramatic, the Sweet Dreams Ottowa offers a taller 141cm option, perfect for rooms with higher ceilings or when you want to make more of a statement.

The beauty of both strutted and floor-standing options is their versatility – they're designed to fit any divan base of the corresponding size.

Whether you're matching a single headboard to a single divan or a king size headboard to a larger base, the compatibility is guaranteed as long as you stick to the same size category.

When comparing strutted and floor-standing designs, it's worth noting that floor-standing models come with a fixed height that often cannot be adjusted.

In contrast, strutted headboards, feature two legs which extend downwards from the main design, with a channel cut out. These struts are used to attach the headboard to the bed frame, offering more flexibility, and allow for slight height adjustments of a few inches.

This adaptability can be particularly valuable when fine-tuning your headboard's position.

The relationship between your headboard height and mattress is crucial for optimal comfort, particularly when sitting up in bed.

Whether you opt for a small double headboard or a super king headboard, you'll want to ensure there's sufficient support behind you. Industry experts recommend having 60-80 cm of visible headboard above your mattress for ideal support when sitting up.

This measurement serves as an excellent guideline when browsing through various headboard ideas.

At Bedstar, we pride ourselves on offering an extensive selection of headboards to suit every need and budget. From elegant upholstered headboards that add a touch of luxury to practical double bed headboards that prioritise comfort, our range includes options for every preference.

If you're in the market for a complete bed solution, consider our divan beds that come with perfectly matched headboards, whether you're looking for a grey headboard or a classic design.

For those seeking further inspiration for their bedroom makeover, we invite you to explore our comprehensive guides.

Our articles on the best beds to buy and the exciting Bedroom Design Trends 2025 offer valuable insights into creating your perfect sleep sanctuary.

Let us help you transform your bedroom into a space that truly wows, whether you're searching for a king size headboard or innovative headboard ideas that make a statement.