Given that you probably spend at least a third of your day in bed, anything that makes it more comfortable is probably a good idea. But let’s take a look at all the headboard options you have.
What is a headboard?
Many bed frames incorporate a headboard within their design, but you could also buy a separate bed headboard to fit to your existing base; they’re available in standard bed sizes (or you could get one custom made) in all sorts of shapes and materials, and they’re designed to provide extra comfort and protect the wall behind the bed.
Headboards for beds are available in two designs: as a solid headboard, or as a headboard panel with legs (whichever type you opt for, do check you can get it up the stairs). Both styles slot onto headboard bolts on your base, then tighten these to secure the headboard to the bed.
Choosing the right size headboard
If you’re buying a separate bed headboard, the width you choose should be slightly wider than your bed. With regard to the height of the headboard or bed frame, it should be high enough to support your back when you’re sitting up. But don’t forget to check whether your bed headboard fits the height of your room; bedrooms with sloping ceilings may need a lower headboard like our Sherwood and Ashdown beds, but rooms with high ceilings may benefit from a taller, more substantial headboard as featured in our Hoxton Bed or our award-winning St Ives Bed.
The different types of headboard
Winged headboard. As the name suggests, these headboards for beds have small side wings that project into the room; they can be curved, shaped or squared. Our Didsbury and Melrose beds are perfect examples; this type of bed headboard adds a feeling of cosiness and could even lend a touch of grandeur to your bedroom if that’s the look you’re after.
Padded or upholstered headboard. This type of bed headboard comes in a wide variety of shape and fabric, with Simba offering a choice of 34 different fabrics in a range of colours.
Panelled headboard. These headboards for beds are frequently made of wood, either painted or natural. They also often might correspond to specific periods in history – such as Georgian or Shaker – for a more traditional feel.
Floating or Hanger headboard. This is a custom designed headboard that is mounted on the wall at the head of your mattress instead of being attached to your bed frame. They add no stability to the bed itself but are a quick and easy way to create a special extra touch to your bedroom; you could even get busy with your tool kit and create one yourself.
So why get a headboard?
Adding comfort. If you like to watch TV or read in bed, a headboard acts as a more comfortable backrest than a wall. An upholstered headboard is best for cushioning and support, but any bed headboard will makes it easier to stack up your pillows for extra back support as you sit up.
Enhanced sleep quality. A bed headboard will keep your pillows securely on your bed and under your head during the night so you’re not waking searching for your pillows… And we know how important undisturbed sleep is to ensure a happy start to the next day.
Protecting your bedroom wall. A headboard protects your wall from damage. For example, if you toss and turn at night the edge of your bed will rub against the wall, causing dents and scratches. In addition, a bed headboard protects your walls from damage and stains. This is especially important if you are living in a rental property.
Extra cosiness. A bed headboard can provide an extra layer of insulation to help keep the cold away, particularly if your bed is against a window or external wall.
Good looks. With the wide range of options available, having a headboard is a great way to express your personal style; it’ll frame your bed making it look more inviting, and can be a stunning feature which echoes the rest of your bedroom décor.
What are the disadvantages of a headboard?
They’re lovely to have, but bed headboards can be an extra cost which isn’t ideal if your budget is tight.
On a practical note, bed headboards use up valuable floor space, making a smaller bedroom feel more cramped; they can also take up wall space that could otherwise be used for shelves, lighting, or artwork. In addition, they come with their own specific care needs; regular vacuuming is needed to prevent dust accumulating, and some fabrics like velvet may need professional cleaning.
So headboards for beds - yes or no?
On balance, a bed headboard is worth the investment, especially as part of a good sleep routine. But of course, the other key contributors to better sleep are a comfortable, supportive mattress and soothing, breathable bedding.
