Introduction:
To choose the right double bed, you don’t need to choose a bed. We’ve prepared a detailed guide in which we explain why it’s important to first understand why you need to change your old bed and what you need from a new one. Advice on how to choose a mattress by weight, recommendations on how to place a bed in a bedroom, and diagrams on how to measure a bed for yourself are included.
Start with ergonomics in the bedroom
The starting point for choosing a bed is the room where it will be located. First, think about why you decided to change the bed. Start from the problem and the task that needs to be solved. For example, the bed is too big and you need to free up space for an additional functional area – a desk. In this case, the solution would be a sofa bed or a transformable bed. Sometimes you can do with rearranging it altogether. If it is a matter of design or novelty – this is a different motivation. However, whatever the motivation for changing the bed, there are rules that will keep your little fingers out of the ubiquitous corners.
A comfortable distance from the edge of the bed to the wall or any other furniture is 70 cm. This is enough to make the bed without bumping elbows. Ideally, such passages should be on both sides of the double bed. If the shape of the room does not allow this, place the double bed with one of the sides against the wall. In this case, it is important that the passage is at the foot of the bed, so that the person at the wall does not have to climb over their partner every time.
As for the question of how to place the bed in the room, the ideal place is near the window and away from the door. For example, to the right/left of the window and diagonally from the door. What is definitely not allowed is to place the bed in a line between the window and the door, because drafts are drawn from the windows to the doors.
Decide on the type and size of the double bed – keep the layout in mind
Having thought over the layout, you can proceed to choosing a double bed based on its size and type. Here, too, it is better to adhere to the principle ― problem-task-solution. The main difference between the types of double beds from each other is the size grid taking into account the manufacturer.
Rectangular bed and its dimensions
- The size of a double bed from a European manufacturer is 193-198 cm wide and 203.2 cm long. This type of bed is called an oriental bed.
- The size of a double bed from an American manufacturer is 182.9 cm wide and 213.36 cm long. American beds are called royal, Olympic and Californian.
- The size of a double bed from domestic manufacturers (GOST 13025.2-85) is width 120-180, length 186-205.
Judging by the sizes, it is clear that beds from European manufacturers are wider – for those who like to sleep spread out, and beds from American manufacturers are longer, suitable for tall people.
However, there are also standard sizes of double beds that suit most people – length 200, width 150. But it is better not to trust the standards, but to measure the bed for yourself (see point 3).
IMPORTANT: Bed dimensions refer to the width and length of the mattress placed on the base, not the entire bed (frame, headboard, footboard, etc.).
Oval and round bed and its dimensions
Along with classic rectangular bed models, there are also oval and round options. Such a bed will look good in the corner of the room, the so-called ” dead zone ” . It is important to remember that round beds ” eat up ” space, because their diameter is from 220 to 240 centimeters, and it is not easy to find bed linen.
Measure the width, length and height of a double bed to suit you
Width of a double bed
To correctly determine the width of the bed for both spouses, lie down on the bed and spread your elbows wide so that your index fingers touch each other at chest level. If the elbows of both partners do not touch or touch only slightly, then the width will be enough to not touch each other at all. However, when choosing the width, take into account personal preferences. For example, sleeping on your side requires less space than sleeping on your back. In this case, the standard 150 cm may be enough.
Length of a double bed
A clever method for choosing the length of the bed is to add 10-20 cm to the height of the taller partner. When choosing the length of the bed, also proceed from habits. For example, for those who like to sleep on their stomach, it is better to immediately add 20 cm to their height, because their legs often hang off the bed when sleeping like this.
Height of a double bed
First, let’s define what is considered the height of a bed. This is the distance from the floor to the bed frame with the mattress.
Today there are three world standards for bed height.
- The Asian standard is a bed height of 20-30 cm. Low beds are traditionally chosen in Eastern countries. However, platform bed designs (a mattress on a wooden platform) are also popular here. Especially in minimalist interiors.
IMPORTANT: Do not choose a low bed if there are drafts in the room. This happens more often if the bed is located on the same line between the windows and the door.
- The European standard is 50 cm. This standard is considered the average temperature around the world and the most comfortable option for people of any height and age. In addition, such a bed will fit into any interior.
INTERESTING: To come to a conclusion about the most comfortable bed height, scientists analyzed the average human height, measuring the distance from the sole of the foot to the knee.
- American standard – from 80 to 100 centimeters. American style in the interior is famous for its volumes and scope, the height of the bed is appropriate, hence the name. Such a bed will protect from drafts in large houses that are difficult to heat. However, for older people, you should not choose such a high bed.
Choose a material for your bed frame
Any material has its advantages and disadvantages. Thus, chipboard is the cheapest, solid wood is the most environmentally friendly, and beds with a metal frame have no weight restrictions.
Bed made of chipboard and laminated chipboard – cheap and cheerful
- Chipboard is a board pressed from wood chips. The main advantage of such beds is their low cost and relative strength. The disadvantages include the use of resins (formaldehydes) that are harmful to health and are released under the influence of heat and humidity. However, the amount of harmful substances is controlled by GOST and the higher the class of the board, the less formaldehyde is released. Thus, furniture is made from E1 class chipboard, but not from E2 class board. In fact, a bed made of chipboard has a smooth texture and will fit especially well into simple and minimalist interiors.
- Laminated chipboard is the same material, only varnished (varnished chipboard). Unlike regular laminated chipboard, this material is covered with a special polymer film that is not afraid of water and scratches. It looks like wood texture. However, beds made of chipboard and laminated chipboard do not like frequent dismantling and rearrangement, especially the places where parts are attached become loose.
MDF bed – like wood, but cheaper
MDF is the same wood chipboard as chipboard, but it is completely safe and environmentally friendly. Also, compared to chipboard, MDF beds look more expensive, and the texture resembles real solid wood.
Solid wood bed – eco-friendly and expensive
Beds with natural wooden frames can rightfully be called durable, over time they creak and loosen less. And scratches, chips and other damage on the wooden texture are either not noticeable or add even more charm. The most important thing is to decide on the type of wood. For example, soft varieties, such as pine, are moisture-resistant, and due to the natural resins in their composition, they are not susceptible to the effects of insects. Oak is a hard type of wood, it is as durable as birch, but oak beds are massive and heavy. It is better to install such a bed on a flat surface. But ash is the most affordable type of wood for a bed, although it is not inferior in strength to oak. Beds made of any solid wood will perfectly fit into the rustic style, country and loft.
INTERESTING: It is believed that the very first beds were made of birch, and ash beds protected the house from evil spirits.
Metal bed – durable
Beds with a metal frame are cheaper, but their properties are not inferior to wooden models. And they tolerate temperature changes and humidity even better. In addition, they have no weight restrictions. Of the minuses – rigidity. For this option, the ergonomics of the room is very important, otherwise bruises cannot be avoided. Metal beds fit into any interior: a simple metal frame will take root in modern interiors, and a bed with forged details will suit Provence and retro styles. Forged details look especially good in combination with a canopy.
Bed made of metal and wood – durable and strong
Beds made of two materials at once are durability multiplied by strength. The frame in such models is made of two materials at once. For example, forged parts are framed by carved wooden legs. Usually, such interpretations of beds are chosen for classic interiors with large areas.
Consider a bed base for your mattress
The mattress base determines the mattress itself. With a poor-quality base, even the most comfortable mattress will not reveal its useful properties. Bases are divided into two types: flat from chipboard boards and slatted orthopedic.
Flat base – no weight limit
The flat base is the most controversial of all. First of all, because when resting on a flat base, the mattress sags, forming depressions. Such a mattress does not bring any orthopedic benefits. In addition, it shortens the life of the mattress due to poor ventilation under the flat bottom. However, there are also advantages – such a design takes up little space, in size it is no larger than the mattress itself. You can also buy a bed with a mattress included. The main advantage of a rigid base is that it is the most stable, so it can withstand 150 kg+. In the interior, a flat base is often used on low podium beds.
Slatted base for people with low weight
Slatted or otherwise lamella bases look like a frame (metal or wood) along the entire perimeter, to which slats (lamellas) are attached on plastic holders with gaps between each other. Such a base comes in two types: a rigid slatted base (without shock absorbers) and a slatted base with shock absorbers. Both bases are considered orthopedic, the only difference is in the load that can be applied to them.
TIP: The slatted base is more mobile than the solid one. It is easy to disassemble and assemble independently. It is especially suitable for frequent moves.
A rigid slatted base is affordable and can be replaced and installed independently if desired. One of the disadvantages is that a base with rigid slats does not bend. Therefore, a mattress without springs on such a bottom will fall between the slats and its bottom side will deform over time. In this case, it is recommended to turn the mattress over every 3 months (but this will not solve the problem completely) or choose a mattress with springs. Also, a slatted base without shock absorbers has a weight limit of up to 150 kg.
- Slatted base with shock absorbers
Such a base still has weight restrictions, but due to the shock absorbers, the load on the mattress is distributed evenly, so it does not deform. A bottom made of slats with shock absorbers lasts longer than without them. Often in beds with an adjustable slatted bottom, you can adjust the rigidity of the base by changing the position of the slats (all or just the upper and lower slats).
IMPORTANT: If the sleeping person weighs more than 90 kg, choose narrow slats, while wide ones are suitable for people with less weight.
Decide on a mattress for a double bed
Once you have decided on the frame and base of the bed, you can choose a mattress .
Spring or springless mattress
Orthopedic mattresses are divided into spring and springless. Mattresses with springs follow the contours of the body and create a trampoline effect. Such mattresses are usually high. Mattresses without springs, on the contrary, are denser due to the absence of springs and a larger amount of filler. Visually, they are thinner and lower.
Spring mattresses are also divided into dependent spring mechanisms – in which all the springs are fastened together, which is why when one of them is compressed, the neighboring ones are compressed too. On such a mattress, a hammock effect is created. There are also mattresses with independent spring blocks, where each spring has its own fabric cover, so they work independently of each other. On such a mattress, the weight is distributed evenly, it adapts to the shape of the body as much as possible without the hammock effect. A mattress with a dependent spring mechanism is cheaper, but the anatomical effect is better in a mattress with an independent spring mechanism, which is why it is more expensive.
Mattress height: thin or thick
The thinnest are springless models (from 2-3 cm). They are well suited for sofas or as an additional mattress for a podium bed. Such a mattress can be rolled up.
The standard height of a mattress is 18-22 cm with one spring block and 1-2 layers of filler on both sides.
Mattress firmness: high, medium or soft
Regardless of spring and springless mattresses, their firmness can be high, medium and low.
Hard mattresses made of hard cocnut fiber are considered the best for healthy sleep. Medium-hard mattresses are a universal option that everyone likes. Soft mattresses are considered the least useful from an orthopedic point of view.
Consider adding an extra feature to your double bed
In addition to its main function, a double bed can be an additional storage space or serve as a bright accent due to a designer headboard. It all depends on the task that needs to be solved, for example, a transformable bed and built-in storage systems will save space.
Bed with storage system if space is limited
A bed with an additional storage system is a great option for those who do not have a full-fledged closet in their room.
Bed with a lifting mechanism to hide unnecessary things
A double bed with a lifting mechanism frees up valuable space in the closet and hides things that are not often needed in the household. For example, an extra set of blankets and pillows.
Transformer bed for a studio apartment
The transforming bed serves both as a sleeping place and a recreation area in the living room. In a matter of seconds, the bed can be transformed into a sofa.
Headboard of a double bed as a bright accent
The headboard is called the first back of the bed (at the head), and the footboard is the second (at the feet). Both the first and second backs can be of any height and size, wooden, covered with leather, openwork, forged, etc. The backs can be separate from each other or solid. The design depends on the interior.
- Soft headboard for cozy interiors
A textile headboard can easily be matched to the color of the curtains, bedspreads, upholstery of the furniture in the room, etc. It is more comfortable to lean on than a wooden or metal one. A budget soft headboard can be made of velor and microfiber, and a premium headboard can be made of suede. Such a headboard is suitable for cozy and soft interiors (rustic, country, French Provence, etc.).
- Leather headboard for brutal interiors
A discreet leather headboard is suitable for loft-style apartments, as well as in interiors with many natural textures: glass, wood, concrete, brick, etc. A budget option for such a headboard is eco-leather, and a premium material is genuine leather.
- Hard headboard made of tiles, carpets and screen
This headboard is not functional, leaning on it will not be comfortable, but as a bright element in the room it looks great. Such creativity will fit into eclecticism and oriental styles.
TIP: Before choosing a soft or hard headboard, think about your habits. If you can’t go a day without a book before bed, it’s better to choose a soft headboard.
- Wooden headboard for a summer house
Wooden headboards look especially cozy in country houses and summer cottages. These can be just boards, barn doors, or even an oak tabletop. And you can add softness with pillows and textiles.
Summary: A Step-by-Step Guide to Choosing a Double Bed
- Start by asking yourself why you are replacing your old bed and what you want from the new model.
- Think about the ergonomics in the bedroom (what else is in the room besides the bed and what kind of bed would be comfortable for a particular room: size, shape, etc.)
- Choose the material for the bed frame and the base for it
- Once you have decided on the base, choose a mattress
- Think about whether the bed needs an additional function and what exactly (lifting mechanism, drawers, etc.)
- Decide on the design of the bed based on the interior of the room and personal preferences
- Purchase a bed based on the characteristics given in the answers to the questions above.
