Choosing a bed is an overwhelming process if you don’t understand the different types available. Without knowing bed styles, sizes, and features, you may end up with an uncomfortable or impractical bed that doesn’t fit your needs or bedroom space well.
After years of upgrading, I’ve found that learning about the full range of bed options finally helped me pick a bed that works well for me and my aesthetics. I’m explaining the different types of beds to help you find the perfect bed for a relaxing and rejuvenating sleep.
60 Types of Beds Explained
There’s an overwhelming list of types of bed styles. Here’s a quick visual of the most common bed types:
If you want a more comprehensive list but don’t feel like reading the article, I’ve created a chart that outlines each bed and a basic description of it. If you want more details on a particular bed or image examples of some of them, scan through the article.
| Types and Styles | Description |
| Platform | Bed with a flat, solid base to support just a mattress |
| Folding | Bed with a hinged frame that can fold for storage |
| Panel | Bed with headboard and footboard made of flat panels |
| Sleigh | Bed with curved foot and headboards resembling a sleigh |
| Murphy | Bed that folds into a wall or closet |
| Adjustable | Bed that can adjust to different inclined positions |
| Standard | Basic bed frame without headboard or footboard |
| Santiago | Bed with an ornamental, crown-shaped headboard |
| Daybed | Bed that doubles as a couch or seating in a common room |
| Poster | Bed with four vertical columns, one on each corner |
| Canopy | Bed with fabric draping overhead and poles on corners |
| Futon | Convertible couch/bed with flexible mattress |
| Convertible Ottoman | Ottoman that unfolds into a bed |
| Pull-Out sofa | Sofa with a mattress that pulls out horizontally |
| Convertible sofa | Sofa whose cushions convert into a bed surface |
| Storage | Bed with drawers or storage space integrated |
| Water | Bed with a water-filled mattress |
| Air | Inflatable mattress used as a temporary bed |
| Round | Circular bed |
| Divan | Bed base without headboard, with or without storage drawers |
| Half Tester | Bed with short posts at the head, partial canopy |
| Hanging | Bed suspended on chains or ropes |
| Enignum | Cocoon-shaped bed made from resistant fabric |
| Magnetic floating | Levitating bed using magnets |
| Sonic | Bed with built-in speakers and vibration features |
| Rocking | Bed mounted on a curved base to allow rocking |
| Wave | Bed with an undulating, wave-like form |
| Indoor hammock | Hammock mounted on a frame for indoor use |
| Cot | Small, portable bed used for infants or temporary sleeping |
| Open-frame | Basic bed frame without headboard or footboard |
| Loft | Bed or stack of beds with space below for storage or extra furniture |
| Orthopedic | Support bed for spign alignment and pressure relief |
| Bunk | Bed with stacked sleeping surfaces, one atop the other |
| Futon bunk | Bunk bed with a bottom futon couch conversion |
| Trundle | Low bed on casters that rolls beneath a taller bed |
| Twin | Bed measuring 39 inches x 75 inches |
| Twin XL | Bed measuring 39 inches x 80 inches |
| Double | Bed measuring 54 inches x 75 inches |
| Queen | Bed measuring 60 inches x 80 inches |
| King | Bed measuring 76 inches x 80 inches |
| California King | Bed measuring 72 inches x 84 inches |
| Contemporary | Trendy, modern style |
| Traditional | Classic, timeless style |
| Modern | Sleek, contemporary style |
| Mission | Simple geometric wood style |
| Cottage | Romantic, ornate painted style |
| Country | Rustic, rural handcrafted style |
| Vintage | Retro throwback style |
| Coastal | Relaxed, beachy style |
| Industrial | Minimalist, urban warehouse style |
| Rustic | Earthy, organic natural style |
| Scandinavian | Minimal, light wood style |
| Mid-century modern | 1950s-60s retro modern style |
| Metal frame | Frame with visible metalwork |
| Wooden frame | Ornate wooden frame |
| Rattan frame | Woven rattan or wicker frame |
| Pallet frame | Repurposed wooden frame |
| Upholstered frame | Bed frame wrapped in fabric |
| Adjustable frame | Adjustable headboard or footboard |
| Platform frame | Thick, sturdy frame with no box spring |
Bed Designs
When it comes to designs, you’ll have no shortage of options. From standard designs to ones that rock or can convert to other furniture, you can pick one that not only aligns with your design vision for the room, but that also gives you the best night’s sleep possible.
1. Platform Bed
A platform bed has a base that is made from a raised, level, horizontal solid frame. This type of raised bed often comes with a section composed of rows of flexible wooden slats, sometimes laid in a latticed structure meant to support only a mattress. The platform provides adequate, flexible support and ventilation for a mattress by itself.
2. Folding Bed
A folding bed has a hinged frame that allows the bed to be stored in a small space. These alternative beds are often used in guest bedrooms and spaces where a bed will not be used regularly. Some examples of this type of bed fold on a wheeled frame so they can be easily put in closets.
3. Panel Bed
A panel bed consists of a headboard and footboard made from flat panels of wood. The panels are framed with raised molding or grooves that mimic traditional wood paneling or wainscoting. Headboard-only panel beds are an excellent option for those with small or oddly-shaped bedrooms, as they eliminate a part of the bed that takes up space.
4. Sleigh
The sleigh bed features curved or scrolled footboards and headboards that resemble a sleigh. Often made of heavy wood, this bed style is from the French and American Empire period of the early 19th century. These types of beds often possess less exaggerated curves at the footboards and headboards.
5. Murphy (Wall) Bed
Murphy beds, aka wall beds, are designed to save space in a unique way. These types of beds save space by hinging the bed frame. I had this style back when I had a smaller bedroom, which let me tilt the bed vertically and store it in a closet or cabinet.
6. Adjustable Bed
I like reading, using devices in bed, or watching TV in bed. This bed’s capacity to adjust to various sitting or reclining positions makes lounging much more comfortable. You can take this bed type one step further and buy one with the ability to have both sides adjust independently of each other.
7. Standard Bed
A standard bed frame is usually considered one with a simple metal frame upon which a box spring and mattress can sit. A headboard can be added between the bed and the wall behind it for an elevated look that mimics a headboard-only panel bed.
8. Santiago Bed
The Santiago bed design is an old-world bed design with a decorative, crown-shaped headboard. Inspired by the Spanish colonial style from the 1600s, this gorgeous design adds texture to any bedroom by combining dark and light wood tones together.
9. Daybed
Daybeds are used for sleeping, lounging, reclining, and seating. Daybed frames can be made from wood, metal, or a combination of these materials. The shape of a daybed is a cross between a chaise lounge, a couch, and a bed.
10. Poster Bed
A poster bed, or more commonly a four-poster bed, is built with four vertical columns, one in each corner. A four-poster bed with an upper panel is similar to a canopy bed. Traditionally, these types of beds were highly ornate and made of carved oak, although they now come in a variety of materials and designs.
11. Canopy Bed
A canopy bed is a decorative bed style similar to a poster or four-poster bed. This is one of my favorite designs because of the ornate or decorative fabric draping across the upper space between the posts, creating a ceiling or canopy that covers the bed space.
12. Futon
A futon is another great space-saving bed type. With futons, sizes include small, large, and every size in between. I usually keep a futon as an emergency bed for guests, as it also provides seating when not in use as a bed.
Personally, I don’t think futons are as comfortable as sofa beds, but they are cheaper and easier to convert from a couch to bed.
13. Convertible Ottoman Bed
Yes, some ottomans turn into beds. Some of these include long ottoman benches that can be used as a bed as is, while others convert from an ottoman into a bed.
14. Pull-Out Sofa Bed
A pull-out sofa bed is a form of sleeper sofa. This type of sofa has a mattress that folds into the sofa so it can be used as a normal sofa. It’s another great space-saving option for those with smaller homes.
15. Convertible Sofa Bed
A convertible sofa is another form of sleeper sofa. Compared to a pull-out sofa bed, a convertible’s sofa seat cushion and back cushion seamlessly create the bed mattress. The sofa’s back adjusts downward, creating one flat surface area, which becomes the bed.
16. Storage Bed
Storage beds have drawers or other concealed storage beneath or surrounding the bed’s mattress. Some storage bed models even have a hinged frame, where the entire sleeping surface can be lifted to reveal the storage below it. The are two major types of storage beds: drawer storage on the side and drawer storage on the sides and the end.
17. Water Bed
As the name suggests, this bed type is filled with water. It aims to distribute body weight to relieve pressure points. This is an excellent investment if you want to reduce back and spine pain.
18. Air Bed
An air bed is an inflatable bed that you can easily store. This is a must-have for people like me who like to camp. I also keep one at home, as it can serve as an extra mattress.
19. Round Bed
A round bed follows a circular shape. Its size often follows that of a king-sized mattress. This is another good choice for an aesthetic bed for lounge or theater rooms.
20. Divan Bed
A divan bed has a specially designed wooden base encased by fabric. The base and headboard can also conceal drawers.
21. Half-Tester Bed
This was a common style back in the late 1700s. While somehow similar to poster beds, half-tester beds are very low. There are posters rising from the corners, which is why it’s called “half.”
22. Hanging Bed
Hanging beds hang from the ceiling. While it’s not something I would suggest for everyday use, it’s an aesthetically pleasing style for outdoor lounge furniture.
23. Enignum Bed
Irish designer Joseph Walsh created the enignum bed based on the style of canopy beds. The head has distinct thin pieces of wood that arch over the bed. There’s also a silk curtain that hangs over the arches, creating an enchanting, dreamy appearance.
24. Magnetic Floating Bed
This unusual bed style uses permanent magnetic material to levitate off the ground. A magnetic floating bed is more of a luxury piece of furniture.
25. Sonic Bed
Perfect for my fellow music lovers, the sonic bed has a built-in speaker system that can play music while you’re sleeping. Within a large wooden frame, the mattress goes inside the frame, letting sound surround you.
26. Rocking Bed
A rocking bed mimics the rocking motion of rocking chairs. Its motor will rock the bed back and forth in a smooth motion, lulling you to sleep.
27. Wave Bed
Shaped like a wave, a wave bed radiates a relaxed, inviting feel. I recommend this style for modern and contemporary bedrooms.
28. Indoor Hammock Bed
Like a traditional hammock, this bed uses a rope to suspend the bed in the air. This a space-saving lounging bed you can use indoors or outdoors.
29. Cot Bed
Cot beds are convenient choices when you have a small space. Most cot beds have wheels at the bottom and a foldable structure.
30. Open-Frame Bed
This minimalist bed style features a metal frame. An open-frame bed lacks upholstery, allowing you to show off a magnificent framework. This is a great design for industrial or Victorian-inspired bedrooms.
31. Loft Bed
Loft beds feature beds stacked perpendicularly over each other. This is among the most functional bed styles because you can incorporate a desk, shelves, or a chest of drawers.
32. Orthopedic Bed
Orthopedic beds have a mattress designed to contour the body’s natural alignment. These types of beds are especially helpful for people with back problems or issues with their joints. Orthopedic beds are widely touted for guaranteeing a good night’s sleep.
Different Types of Kids’ Beds
There are bed types tailored specifically for children, including fun-themed beds to delight young ones and beds with safety rails or lower access for little ones. Choosing the right kids’ bed provides security, ease of use, and lasting comfort as they grow.
33. Bunk Bed
Bunk beds are great space-saving furniture for kids sharing a room. They’re also a great option to keep an extra bed in a home without taking up too much floor space. There are many bunk beds, including l-shape, bunks with desks, bunks with stairs, loft-style bunks, dual twin and full bunks, and small models.
34. Futon Bunk Bed
A futon bunk bed consists of an upper bed and a futon below. This is a versatile option for small bedrooms or studio apartments.
35. Trundle Bed
A trundle bed features a standard bed and a pull-on bed underneath. This is a space-saving bed for kids, making them perfect for sleepovers as well. Both trundle and bunk beds are great options to include in your kid’s room.
Another category of beds I will discuss is the range of sizes in which they are made.
36. Twin Bed – 39 inches x 75 inches
Also known as a single bed, a twin bed is generally made to accommodate one child or one adult sleeper. Taller adults should consider a twin-XL bed, which adds five inches of length to the bed frame. A twin bed is a great size for smaller guest spaces, bunk beds, and daybeds.
37. Twin-XL 39 inches x 80 inches
The XL in twin XL stands for extra long, and five inches longer than the standard twin bed frame. This bed size is great for taller youth or fully grown adults. A twin XL bed frame is the same length as a standard queen or king bed.
38. Double: 54 inches x 75 inches
A double bed, also known as a full bed, was commonly used for two adults back when homes and bedrooms were built smaller. Nowadays, a double bed is a snug fit for two adults, and its frame is the same length as a twin.
39. Queen Bed – 60 inches x 80 inches
The queen-size bed is the most popular bed size sold today. This bed size is ideal for two adults who want to save living space. The queen-size bed is also popular among single adults who like to spread out when they sleep or who have animals that share the bed with them at night.
40. King Bed – 76 inches x 80 inches
A king-size bed is the same length as a queen, although it’s much wider, with an additional 16 inches in width compared to a queen-size bed. A standard king bed is the bed type that offers the most room for couples.
41. California King Bed
A California King is as big as it gets unless you have a custom bed made. At a whopping 72 inches wide by 84 inches long, sufficient space in a bedroom to fit one of these is essential. The California King bed is an excellent option for tall individuals or couples.
Bed Styles
Different styles of beds define the look and theme of a bed. Regardless of size or design, bed style will influence the furniture piece’s texture, tone, and overall feel.
42. Contemporary
Contemporary style usually means an “of the now” look. This bed style includes modern materials or shapes that were not commonly used in the past. Contemporary-style beds signify an attachment to the present.
43. Traditional
Like any traditional furniture, a bed of this style echoes the timeworn visual touches that have stayed with humans for centuries. I favor this style when I need to bring an air of timelessness, class, and luxury to a bedroom.
44. Modern
With a modern style, there can be a lot of crossover with the style of contemporary beds. The idea is that a piece of modern furniture has an up-to-date design. This means that a modern-style bed is most definitely not traditional or old-fashioned, though these styles may loosely influence it.
45. Mission
Mission style is a type of design that lets you emphasize simple horizontal and vertical lines and flat panels while accentuating the grain of the wood used to make it. The roots of the mission style can be found in the former Spanish colonies in North America, such as California, Arizona, and New Mexico.
46. Cottage
Cottage beds typically have large, sometimes even lavish, headboards. Some carving or other decorative elements can be present on these headboards, although typically, most of their decoration is painted. Cottage beds give a light, somewhat feminine look to a bedroom.
47. Country
Rich textures or traditional shapes often define country style with an American sensibility. This bed style is another that is classic and timeless, especially in the US.
48. Vintage
Vintage style encompasses the idea of throwback style. I recommend this bed style if you want to aim for a time period when a specific look is fashionable. Some examples of vintage styles include Art Deco or mid-century modern styles, as seen in the photo below.
49. Coastal
Coastal style is influenced by the materials and colors found on the coast. It’s typically found in homes near large bodies of water. This style includes the use of lighter woods and cool-toned colors.
50. Industrial
The major touchstone of the industrial style is its utilitarian look. The utilitarian aesthetic was inspired by the look of factories and centers of production. Because of this, industrial-style beds usually use clean lines and are made from metal and/or wood materials.
51. Rustic
Rustic style is defined by a sense of the homespun, old-fashioned, and outdoors. It’s another classic bed style that gives a quintessential, timeless American look.
Scandinavian furniture is characterized by its simplicity, minimalism, and functionality. These beds may come in a variety of shapes. However, they usually lack flourishes or purely aesthetic additions, making them an excellent choice for minimalists.
53. Mid-Century Modern
Mid-century style beds bring the 1950s and 60s style to a bed frame, often with streamlined headboards and gently tapered wood legs. Mid-century modern style is a refined yet comfortable traditional style.
Bed Frame Styles
Regardless of style, design, or any other considerations, your bed will be crafted from a variety of materials.
54. Metal
Metal bed frames lack the warmth and familiarity of traditional wood construction frames. However, they can be much lighter than their wood counterparts. They are also more versatile when modifying bed size, often fitting a contemporary look.
55. Wood
The most common and oldest furniture building material, wood is what most people think of first when it comes to bed frame materials. I prefer wood frames for the most ornate and handcrafted beds.
56. Wicker or Rattan
Rattan, or wicker, is a structure where material is woven into a hard surface. It can be made of plant-based or plastic materials. I often use wicker or rattan to achieve a cottage or coastal look.
57. Pallet(s)
Pallet beds can be made with or without wheels to accommodate any bed size. They can be built low to the ground or elevated. Essentially, the pallets create a platform on which a bed mattress is placed.
58. Upholstered
An upholstered bed frame is often wrapped in velvet, suede, and faux leather fabric. I used to have this frame style back when I had a boho-inspired room interior. This let me include embroidery and button studding.
59. Adjustable
An adjustable bed frame allows you to switch between different pressure-relieving positions. For instance, you can raise the feet or head until you find a comfortable position for sleeping.
60. Platform Frames
Platform bed frames have thick, sturdy bases for holding mattresses. In effect, there’s usually no need to buy a box spring. This is a good choice if you want a frame that is low to the ground.
Other Bed Features to Consider
These special features add functionality and visual appeal to beds beyond size, style, and frame materials.
Upholstered Headboard
One type of headboard I like using is upholstered headboards. They add a soft and luxurious feel and a decorative touch to the overall look of a bedroom.
Distressed Finish
When distressing, furniture finish is intentionally manipulated to look less than perfect or older than it is. I use sandpaper or paint stripper to achieve this look. A distressed finish is often used in beds in the rustic or cottage style.
Bookcase
Bookcase beds, as indicated by their name, include a bookcase. Instead of a usual headboard, I incorporate a bookcase to keep books and other small items close to the bed. These bed frames are another excellent choice for saving space, as they combine two different furniture pieces into one.
Lighted Headboard
Beds with lighted headboards can appear in a variety of shapes, styles, and materials. The prominent feature of this type of headboard is its light source. I build a light source on the headboard for easy reading or viewing of stored books or other items.
Anatomy of a Bed and Headboard
Here is a quick look into the anatomy and terminology of the beds and headboards’ structural components. This way, you can understand construction, sizing, and design when choosing new beds or headboards.
Top Brands for Different Bed Types
These are well-known brands of beds that offer quality selections of the most popular bed types, sizes, frames, and designs. Here, I’ve considered varying price points and material selection.
Thuma
Thuma is a sustainable brand that makes high-quality furniture from upcycled materials. They transform those materials into furniture that will stand the test of time. Since each bed is hand-crafted, no two beds are exactly alike.
West Elm
Even though West Elm is a furniture chain, it prides itself on its sustainable practices. They offer modern furniture, and they design most of their products in-house. West Elm works with local craftsmen to create unique designs.
Tuft & Needle
What I appreciate about Tuft & Needle is that it uses recycled materials so that they can sell beds at an affordable price. “Typically, at this price point, you would never be able to find a wood bed frame,” says Tuft & Needle designer Levi Christensen. “We were able to upcycle discarded material from other furniture products.”
Avocado
Located in Los Angeles, Avocado is one of my favorite brands for beds made from natural, non-toxic materials. The company’s mission is to become one of the most sustainable brands in the world. They offer several bed frames, like a platform frame and a mid-century modern frame.
Crate & Barrel
This furniture company started in 1962, and it’s now an international chain with more than 100 locations worldwide. Crate & Barrel makes clean, modern furniture with sturdy designs. Among the things I love about this brand is that it offers different kinds of frames made from natural oak.
Saatva
While Saatva began as a luxury mattress company, they also sell premium furniture. They have some nice options if you’re willing to invest in a handcrafted bed frame. In addition, they offer free assembly on all beds and have a 365-night home trial and a lifetime warranty.
Zinus
Zinus has gained my attention thanks to its low prices and easy assembly. “I was able to assemble my bed frame myself, which really shocked me,” says Oyin Edogi, a Zinus customer. Even though Zinus beds are available at a lower price point, their frames are still well made.
Casper
At Casper, researchers work to design mattresses and beds made for a good night’s sleep. I particularly like their adjustable bed frames that help you find the most comfortable sleeping position. They use premium materials and fabrics to make durable, long-lasting beds.
Pottery Barn
When Pottery Barn started in 1949, they sold pottery, which is where the company got its name. It now carries sturdy bed frames made from various kinds of materials. At the Pottery Barn Teen store, you can even have beds made for younger sleepers!
Burrow
This is one of my go-to brands for modular furniture at affordable prices. They offer lots of customization options and great customer service. Burrow even ships their furniture for free!
Where to Buy Various Bed Types
With so many types, sizes, and styles of beds available, where will you shop for them? Here’s a list of my go-to stores selling the best bed designs.
- Article: Since Article launched in 2013, they’ve worked with manufacturers to make affordable furniture. Article carries bed frames made from many materials, like wood, metal, and velvet. From storage beds to beds with built-in nightstands, their selection is impressive.
- Target: The store partners with major brands to offer stylish products for less. “What I love about Target is that back in the 90s, they sort of repositioned their product development conceptualization,” says interior designer Lisa Holt. “They realize that everyone wants things that look good and can function, yet are reasonably priced and accessible.”
- World Market: In the 1950s, World Market began importing furniture from across the globe. Today, they carry unique artisan furnishings you can’t find anywhere else. This is a great place to buy bed frames made from natural materials like hardwood and rattan wicker.
- Apt2b: This Los Angeles-based furniture retailer offers curated furniture and products they make in-house. Their designs take inspiration from mid-century modern decor. Most of their bed frames are hardwood, which means they’re extra sturdy!
- Amazon: You can buy almost anything on Amazon, including bed frames. They carry brands like PrimaSleep, although they also make their own furniture. Along with a huge selection, you can pay for expert assembly when you order your bed.
- Floyd: Based in Detroit, Floyd makes furniture from sustainably sourced materials. “We’re a problem-solving furniture company,” says Floyd’s co-founder, Kyle Hoff. “We came together around this idea of disposability and furniture and how we think about sustainability.”
- KD Frames: True to its name, KD Frames specializes in bed frames. They make their beds from kiln-dried hardwood, which they source from Virginia forests. This is one of the most affordable places to buy a hardwood bed.
- Ikea: Based in the Netherlands, Ikea is the world’s largest furniture retailer! They’re known for selling furniture with clean and simple designs. The brand has mattresses and bed frames in lots of styles and colors, with options at many price points.
- All Modern: At All Modern, you can find modern furniture in lots of styles. Whether you’re a fan of minimalist design or Scandinavian decor, there are lots of options. There’s a big selection of bed frames here, along with lots of headboards.
- Urban Outfitters: This popular apparel store also carries products for the home! It’s one of the best places to find trendy bed frames. You can also shop at Anthropologie if you’re a fan of Urban Outfitters yet want a wider selection of beds. This store has the same parent company as Urban and sells lots of eclectic and stylish furniture.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Are the Three Major Bed Types?
The three most common types of beds are platform beds, which have a flat, solid base to support just a mattress; canopy beds, which have fabric draping overhead and poles on the corners; and sleigh beds, which have gracefully curved headboards and footboards resembling a sleigh.
What Is the Standard Length of Beds?
The standard bed length will vary between the different bed sizes. For example, the standard length for twin and full-sized beds is 75 inches. The standard length measures 80 inches long, whereas a California King can be 84 inches long. Meanwhile, a standard-sized toddler bed will measure 52 inches in length.
Are Platform Beds Low?
Platform beds are typically low to the ground. They usually stand about 18 inches from the floor to the top of the mattress.
Are Beds With Slats a Good Bed Option?
Beds with slats are a good bed option if you need to add support underneath a box spring. While slats are an affordable option to strengthen a bed frame and are easy to install, they aren’t the most stable and can snap if there is too much weight on a bed.
Conclusion
By learning about the different bed styles, sizes, materials, and special features available, you can zero in on the ideal bed for your bedroom. Keep in mind your priorities like size, design, comfort, and budget to narrow down the options to a few beds that meet your needs.
