What is an upholstered bed? A comprehensive guide

An upholstered bed is a padded bed frame, fully or partially covered in soft materials like fabric or leather. It is a popular style of bed that creates a stunning focal point while making a bedroom feel warm and cosy.

Unlike wooden or metal beds, which can feel uncomfortable to lean against, upholstered beds feature a cushioned headboard for support. This makes them ideal for sitting up in bed while reading or watching TV.

Types of upholstered beds

Upholstered beds are available in many beautiful designs and colours to complement traditional and modern interiors. They typically feature a padded headboard, footboard, and side panels, which can be plain or tufted.

Some upholstered beds come with additional options, such as contrast piping, decorative studs, and different leg styles, allowing you to customise the design to suit your taste.

When choosing an upholstered bed, consider the shape and style carefully. For example, if you have children, avoid beds with sharp edges. Similarly, a bed with a footboard may not suit taller individuals.

Wingback upholstered beds

Some upholstered beds have wings on either side of the headboard, giving the bed a distinctive and elegant appearance. These wings come in various shapes and styles; they can be straight, curved, scrolled, or extend the full height of the headboard. Wingback beds typically have a taller headboard, offering better head and neck support. The wings may also provide some protection from drafts.

Sleigh upholstered beds

Sleigh beds have a distinctive curved design resembling a horse-drawn sleigh. They were traditionally made from wood, but nowadays, they can also be upholstered in fabric and leather. They typically feature a curved headboard and footboard and take up more space due to their shape, making them better suited for larger bedrooms.

Ottoman upholstered beds

Ottoman beds are a popular style of bed base that have a large hidden compartment underneath the mattress, providing valuable storage space for bedding and light items. Some ottoman beds lift from the bottom, while others open from the side, which are ideal for rooms where only one side of the bed is accessible. 

Materials for upholstered beds

Upholstered beds are available in a wide range of plain or patterned materials, including cotton, linen, velvet, chenille or leather. Some upholstered beds can also be upholstered in your own custom material to blend seamlessly with your décor.

Your choice of material depends on your budget, lifestyle, and the look you want to create in your bedroom. A more delicate material may be suitable for beds used infrequently, such as in a guest bedroom or an adult-only home without pets or children, where the risks of stains or damage are lower. However, in family homes with pets and children, a more durable, easy-to-maintain material may be more appropriate to withstand heavy daily wear.  

Materials are often graded based on quality, with leather and natural fabrics, such as silk and wool, being more expensive. If you are on a budget or purchasing a bed for a spare room, a lower-grade material may be more suitable.

Cotton

Cotton is a breathable material known for its softness and comfort. It is versatile and available in various textures, colours, and finishes. Cotton can be relatively durable depending on the weave and quality. While cotton is a luxurious material, it requires more effort to maintain and may not be suitable for heavy wear. It is absorbent and more likely to stain. Cotton also tends to wrinkle and can fade over time with regular exposure to sunlight.

Leather

Leather is a timeless material known for its versatility. It comes in various colours and finishes and blends easily with fabrics, metal, and wood. Leather is durable and easy to clean and maintain. Most leathers have a protective coating, making it easier to clean marks and stains with an absorbent cloth. Leather ages naturally over time, developing a beautiful patina that adds to its charm and character.

While leather is durable, it can develop scuffs and scratches. It may not be as comfortable as fabric and can feel cold to lean against. However, since most leathers are stain-resistant and low maintenance, it is typically a good option for families with children and pets.   

Chenille

Chenille is a woven fabric known for its soft texture and durability. It can be made from various fibres, including cotton, wool, silk, and rayon. While durable, chenille is prone to stretching and shrinkage. It also absorbs liquids easily, which can make it difficult to clean.

Also, its fuzzy texture attracts and traps pet hair, which can become embedded in the loops and difficult to remove. 

Velvet

Velvet is a luxurious, soft material made from synthetic or natural fibres. It has a rich texture and a lustrous sheen, giving it an elegant and luxurious appearance.

Its smooth texture makes it easier to remove pet hairs. With no raised weaves or loops, it is less likely to snag or scratch. 

While velvet is durable, it can be prone to crushing and flattening over time. Leaning against the headboard may cause indentations, affecting its appearance and comfort. Velvet also requires regular maintenance to ensure it remains in good condition.

Microfiber

Microfiber is made from a blend of synthetic materials like polyester and polyamide (nylon) and has a soft, suede-like texture. The tight weave makes it stain-resistant and easy to clean. It also prevents dirt, dust, and allergens from becoming trapped, making it a good option for allergy sufferers.

Microfiber is generally more affordable than other materials. It is also durable and can withstand daily wear.

Linen

Linen is a luxurious fabric with a smooth, cool texture. It is breathable and durable but tends to stain and wrinkle easily, requiring more effort to maintain. Since linen cannot handle heavy wear, it is better suited for adult bedrooms or guest rooms.  

Acrylic

Acrylic is a synthetic fabric often used as an affordable alternative to wool. It is soft and lightweight, making it comfortable to lean against. Acrylic is durable and resistant to wear, fading, and wrinkling but can pill over time.  

Polyester

Polyester is a durable synthetic material, often blended with other fibres. It is resistant to sunlight, fading, wrinkles, and wear and tear, making it ideal for everyday use. Polyester is affordable, easy to maintain, and relatively stain-resistant. However, it may not feel as luxurious as cotton or velvet.

What are the pros and cons of upholstered beds?

While most people choose a bed for its aesthetic appeal, it is also important to consider other factors like comfort and maintenance. Weighing up the pros and cons of upholstered beds will help you determine if they suit your tastes and lifestyle.

Pros

Comfort

Upholstered beds provide plenty of cushioning, making them more comfortable to rest against than wood or metal frames. They are perfect for those who enjoy sitting up in bed to read, watch television, or have breakfast.

The feel of an upholstered bed depends on its design and material. Tufted or buttoned models are usually firmer, while fabric upholstery feels softer and warmer than leather.

Versatility

Upholstered beds are versatile and practical. They are available in various designs, materials, and colours to suit any bedroom décor.

Some upholstered beds are part of a bedroom collection, allowing you to purchase matching furniture such as bedside drawers, chests, bedroom chairs, and storage ottomans. 

Wood or metal can sometimes feel bland on its own, but fabric and leather add warmth and cosiness while blending seamlessly with wooden and metal bedroom furniture.

Upholstered bed materials are often graded by quality, allowing you to choose a material that suits your budget.

Soft edges

Upholstered beds have soft, padded sides and corners, making them safer for children. If they fall or have a bump, the soft material helps cushion the impact, reducing the likelihood of cuts, bruises or other injuries.

Cons

Require regular maintenance

Upholstered beds require regular cleaning to maintain their appearance. As most fabrics absorb liquids, it is vital to act quickly to prevent stains from setting. Natural oils from the hair or scalp can leave greasy marks on lighter or delicate fabrics when leaning against the headboard, which can be difficult to clean. To protect the fabric, consider using additional measures, like placing pillowcases or extra fabric behind the head.

Fabric often requires regular vacuuming to prevent dirt, dust, debris, and pet dander from accumulating on the surface.

Durability

Upholstery is generally less durable than wood or metal. Fabric can fray, pill, sag, or tear over time. Some fabrics absorb liquids easily, making them more prone to staining, and they can also fade with regular exposure to sunlight.

In contrast, most leathers have a protective coating and are more resistant to stains. However, leather can develop scuffs and scratches over time, although this can add to its charm and character.

Upholstered beds can attract dust and allergies

Upholstered beds can attract dust and allergens and may trigger allergies like coughing, sneezing, wheezing, and breathing difficulties if the bed is not cleaned regularly. 

Unpleasant odours

Upholstered beds absorb dirt, dust, sweat, food crumbs, pet dander, moisture, and odours over time, which can become trapped in the material and release an unpleasant, musty smell if the bed is not cleaned regularly.

Upholstered beds take up more bedroom space

Upholstered beds often occupy more space than other beds, as the mattress usually sits inside a frame. A bulky bedframe can overwhelm a small bedroom, so take accurate measurements to ensure the bed will fit. Also, ensure there is enough room to walk around the bed once it is in place.

Final thoughts

An upholstered bed is a stylish addition to any bedroom. However, ensure you choose a material that suits your tastes, lifestyle and budget.