Not only do we spend a third of our lives in bed getting much needed rest and relaxation, our bedsteads are also the grand focal point of any bedroom, making choosing a bed and a headboard a very important decision. In some homes headboards act as luxurious decorative features, whereas in others their primary function is to offer comfort and support during bedtime activities, such as reading and watching television.

Whether you have a single, double or king size bed, Furniture Village are here to help you choose the best headboard for your bed. Read on to discover a range of headboard types and sizes, enabling you to choose the perfect one for you.

A freestanding headboard or attached?

Floor standing or freestanding headboards are headboards that conveniently stand behind your bed frame and are secured in place using bolts in the legs of the headboard, which then attach to your bed. A free standing headboard gives you more freedom of choice and enables you to swap the style as you please.

An attached headboard is a great choice if you want a bed frame and headboard that perfectly matches, but it’s worth remembering that you’ll have to change both the bed and the board if you desire a new look in your bedroom.

Ensure you check out the bed's fittings before you buy, as not all headboards fit all beds.

Which size headboard should I buy?

Headboards are generally designed to match the sizes of standard beds so that they can be used together. The most popular headboard sizes are:

• Single: Width 90cm x Length 190cm
• Small Double: Width 120cm x Length 190cm
• Double: Width 135cm x Length 190cm
• King Size: Width 150cm x Length 200cm
• Super King Size: Width 180cm x Length 200cm

Whilst most people tend to choose a headboard that is the same size as their bed, it is possible to choose a headboard that is wider than the bed. Using a king size headboard on a double bed adds a contemporary feel to a bedroom and emphasises the bedstead as the focal point of the room.

As well as the width of the bed, you should also consider the height of the people that will be using the headboard. Children won't require a headboard that's as high as an adult's and some headboards may not offer enough height and support for taller people.

Which material should I choose?

Wooden headboards

Wooden headboards add traditional charm and a sense of warmth to a room. Available in an array of designs from solid oak boards, to slatted or more intricate patterns, they complement wooden bedroom furniture beautifully. Choice isn’t limited by colour either, as wooden headboards often come in painted finishes, most popularly in shades of white, green and grey.

Upholstered headboards

Upholstered headboards usually have a higher degree of padding and therefore offer exceptional comfort when relaxing against them in bed. They are available in a wide array of colours and textures and suit every bed frame or bedroom décor. From sumptuous velvet headboards to real leather designs, consider choosing an upholstered headboard if you spend a significant amount of time reading or watching television in bed.

Metal headboards

Metal headboards may not offer the same level of comfort as a leather or padded headboard, however their intricate and ornate designs make a beautiful statement in any bedroom. Consider choosing a metal headboard if you are seeking to achieve a bold design feature, but do not plan on spending as much time relaxing in bed.

If you’re buying a new bed, take a look at our bed buying guide to discover more on mattress types and sizes, before choosing the perfect headboard to match.