The Different Types of Beds Explained

Pick a bed size and buy a bed frame. It sounds easy until you realise there are more than a dozen types, and some are remarkably more useful than others.

For instance, you’ve got standard bed frames and divans, but divans are also available with ottoman storage and become an ‘ottoman bed’ when you add it.

Then there are kid’s beds, such as high and mid-sleepers, trundle beds, and good old bunk beds for sleeping two kids in one room.

A few more bed frame types include adjustable beds, day beds, and TV beds, each serving a different set of bedroom requirements.

Confused much? Don’t worry about it. Join us below to discover the different types of beds with insight into who they suit the most.

Types of bed frames

Divan beds

Space-saving champions, divan beds match your mattress dimensions precisely with no protruding frame. The base comes upholstered in fabric to complement your decor, while optional drawers transform dead space into storage heaven. You can buy just a divan base or a divan bed set with a mattress.

Ottoman beds

Imagine lifting your entire mattress to reveal a massive storage cavity underneath – that's an ottoman bed's party trick. The gas-lift mechanism makes accessing the space effortless, while the base matches your mattress dimensions like a divan. Some models also let you choose between an end- or side-lift layout.

Standard bed frames

Traditional bed frames are metal or wood and offer timeless bedroom appeal. Metal frames provide industrial strength and a minimalist design, while wooden frames bring natural warmth and character to your space. Both types typically feature slats for mattress support and come in various designs, from simple to ornate.

Adjustable beds

These ergonomic wonders transform your sleeping position at the touch of a button. The multi-hinged base allows independent head and foot adjustments, perfect for reading, watching TV, or finding the ideal position for back pain relief. They are available in single or twin configurations for couples.

TV beds

TV beds have a built-in TV lift at the foot end. The screen emerges smoothly from its hidden compartment when needed and disappears entirely when it's time to sleep. Some TV beds have built-in USB ports, soundbars, and surround sound, which is a perfect solution if you don’t have a wall for a TV adjacent to your bed.

Zip and link beds

Zip and link beds come as a set of two single or small single beds that push together to create a larger bed. Kings pair two small single beds (75 x 190 cm) while super-king zip and links pair two standard singles (90 x 190cm). They work best in guest bedrooms and holiday rentals for room reconfiguration.

How to choose a bed frame

Measure your bedroom if it’s small or awkwardly shaped to determine whether you can accommodate the protruding parts of a standard bed.

If not, you’ll want to look at divan beds and ottomans, as these are the same width and length as the mattress (give or take 5-10cm in length for the headboard).

You can then consider the material of your bed frame, such as fabric, wood, or metal, and its style, such as mid-century modern or industrial.

In-built storage is always handy, whether you get drawers or an ottoman. On average, ottomans cost around 30% more but give you over triple the storage space.

TV beds can also have ottoman storage and provide a neat party trick, but they easily run over £1k for models with good built-in speakers, so it isn't a cheap upgrade.

Related: Bed and Mattress Sizes Guide UK

Types of kid’s beds

Bunk beds

Bunks stack two beds vertically to maximise floor space in shared kids' rooms. They have a sturdy ladder and safety rails, with some designs incorporating storage underneath and bookcases for both bunks. The top bunk typically requires a thinner mattress for safety, while the bottom accommodates standard sizes.

High sleepers

Elevate the sleeping area to create a multi-functional space below – literally. These tall beds typically sit around 180cm high, providing room for a desk, wardrobe, or play area underneath. Some come standard with storage. They are perfect for older children who need study space but lack bedroom square footage.

Mid sleepers

A shorter version of high sleepers, these beds hover around 115cm off the ground and sometimes have drawers and a pull-out desk. Their lower height makes them ideal for younger children while still providing valuable space underneath for storage, play areas, or a compact desk. Some have slides or play tents for added fun.

Triple sleepers

Triple sleepers are larger bunk beds that sleep three people. They usually have a small double or double bottom bunk + a single top bunk or three stacked single bunks (although these only suit tall ceilings). Triple sleepers are versatile for accommodating two mixed-age siblings or three children.

Trundle beds

Trundles cleverly conceal a second mattress underneath the main bed, offering flexible sleeping arrangements for children. The lower bed rolls out smoothly when needed and tucks away to keep your kid’s bedroom tidy. Ideal for sleepovers or occasional guests without sacrificing comfort.

How to choose a kid’s bed

Your child will do fine with a standard single bed, ottoman bed, or divan base with a headboard. It doesn’t need to be anything special.

If you need bunk beds, please consider height restrictions. We strongly advise against letting children under eight use bunk beds or high sleepers. The fall risk is too high, and you can’t possibly supervise them 24/7.

High sleepers are fantastic for older children and teenagers, providing a tremendous gaming zone underneath the bed. Throw a desk under there, and your kid will spend all their time chilling out (and not annoying you!).

Types of occasional bed frames

Guest beds

A guest bed transforms one sleeping space into two with a main bed that sits atop a concealed second bed that pulls out when needed, often with legs that pop up automatically, but sometimes as a trundle – perfect if you usually sleep one guest but need the ability to sleep two on rare occasions.

Folding beds

These are quick-deploy beds that hide away when not needed. They feature a metal frame with a foam mattress that folds in sections. Most come with wheels for easy movement and storage, perfect for unexpected overnight visitors. Don’t expect sumptuous comfort, but it’ll do most people for a night or two.

Sofa beds

Sofa beds are dual-purpose champions that switch from seating to sleeping in moments, making them perfect for home offices and mixed-use rooms. The mechanism varies – some pull out forward while others fold flat – but all aim to provide comfortable daytime seating and a decent sleep surface by night.

How to choose a bed for guests

Consider whether you primarily sleep one or two people per bed. If it’s one, a guest bed with a fold-out trundle is perfect for occasionally sleeping two.

However, a standard bed (small double, double, or king) is best if you mostly have couples or people with young children staying over.

Folding beds are best when you need a third or fourth bed at Christmas and other seasonal times when your house is full.

A sofa bed is another fantastic option for spaces other than bedrooms, such as playrooms, offices, garages, and living rooms. It’s your call.