Fabric Bed Buying Guide: Upholstery, Headboards and Bases

Buying a fabric bed is easier when you break it into three parts: the upholstery, the headboard and the base. This guide takes each in turn so you can compare designs with confidence rather than relying on photographs alone. We explain how plain weaves, velvet, linen, bouclé and cord behave in everyday use, what fabric composition and rub ratings can tell you, and how to choose a colour that will still look good after years of use. We then look at headboard styles, from plain panels and vertical channels to buttoned, winged and curved designs, along with sensible heights for different ceilings and the padding you need if you like to sit up in bed. Finally, we cover frame construction, centre rails, slat types and spacing, ottoman and drawer storage, feet and overall bed height. A short checklist at the end brings everything together, making it simple to shortlist a bed that suits your room and your routine....