Name: GB Bedding
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09 Dec 2024
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At first look, a headboard might seem simple, but it is so much more than that. A headboard can be the statement piece of your bed, pulling the design of your bedroom together to be as stylish and cohesive as possible. Whether you choose a sleek and minimalist design, or something a little more out there, a headboard has the power to bring personality and flair to your bedroom.

The History Behind Headboards

Historically, headboards weren’t just about looks. Long before the wonders of central heating and super cozy blankets and duvets, headboards were made to provide insulation, keeping drafts out.

Made from long-lasting sturdy materials such as wood, headboards provided comfort, security and warmth. What’s more, a headboard provided a supportive surface for sitting up in bed, perfect for reading a book, and on that front, not much has changed, as you can still enjoy a book, television, or a leisurely scroll on a laptop or phone sat up against a headboard today.

How Headboards Have Evolved

Fast forward to the modern day, and headboards have evolved into a true design powerhouse. No longer just about being a practical addition, they are a major part of your bedroom design and decor.

From intricate designs and super luxurious fabrics to colours that stand out and stylish metal designs, there is a headboard perfect to match every style. We believe that a modern headboard doesn’t just complement a room, it defines it.

What Are The Benefits Of Adding A Headboard To A Bed?

Whether you’re looking to revitalise your bedroom space or simply add a cosy and functional element, a headboard offers a range of helpful benefits.

Enhancing Sleep Quality and Comfort

There is something about leaning back onto a headboard that just feels so right. Whether you are settling in with a book, or enjoying your morning coffee in bed, a well-cushioned headboard provides that much needed support.

Say goodbye to awkwardly arranging your pillows that just don’t sit up right for a makeshift place to sit up, with a well made headboard, you no longer need to worry about that palaver.

And, let's not forget, a well-designed headboard can make your bed feel more inviting and secure, creating a calming environment that helps you relax.

They Add a Stylish Focal Point to Your Bedroom

A headboard has the power to completely change the look and feel of your bedroom, acting as an anchor that blends your bedding, curtains, and bedroom décor.

Whether you prefer the look of a patterned fabric or a sleek, minimalist design, your headboard becomes a true centerpiece that sets the tone for your bedroom.

All in all, adding a headboard isn’t just about style—it’s about enhancing your overall sleeping experience and protecting your space for years to come.

They Protect Your Walls and Help Extend The Life Of Your Mattress

Over time, mattresses can begin to shift out of place, and without a well made headboard in the correct place, you are more likely to find them slipping or rubbing against the wall, potentially causing scuffs and even damage.

As a result, a headboard acts as a protective barrier, keeping your walls clean and free of marks, and your bed in place where they should be. Additionally, a headboard can help maintain your mattress’s position, reducing wear and tear and as a result even extending its lifespan. So, while you’re enjoying the aesthetic and comfort benefits, you’re also making a wise investment in the durability of your bed.

When it comes to choosing the perfect headboard, the variety of styles available means there’s something to match every bedroom and personality. Whether you love classic charm or crave a modern, sleek look, the range of headboard designs allows you to create the exact atmosphere you're aiming for. Let's explore some of the most popular options.

What Types Of Headboards Are There?

Classic to Contemporary Styles

Headboards come in a range of wonderful types and designs. From soft, and cosy upholstered finishes to strong and sturdy wooden or metal frames, the right headboard can set the tone for your entire bedroom. Here’s a breakdown of the most popular styles available:

Upholstered Headboards

Starting with Upholstered Headboards, perfect for those seeking comfort and luxury. Soft, inviting, and often tufted, these headboards provide a warm and cosy touch to your bed.

Available in a variety of wonderful fabrics, upholstered headboards come in a range of colours and patterns to suit a whole world of different bedroom aesthetics. They are also perfect for those who love leaning back to read or relax in bed, as they offer a plush, supportive surface.

Wooden Headboards

Wooden headboards provide true charm and warmth, making them a smart choice for a mix of traditional and modern spaces.

Whether made from oak, pine, or reclaimed wood, these headboards will often be found in a variety of finishes—matte, gloss, or distressed—to perfectly match your room’s vibe. From sleek, minimalist designs to more ornate, carved patterns, wooden headboards offer a grounded feel that pairs beautifully with a range of bed styles and décor.

Metal Headboards

For a more industrial or contemporary look, metal headboards stand out as a favourite choice. These headboards feature clean lines and minimalist designs that are rugged but look purposeful.

Materials like wrought iron, brass, and steel add a depth character to your bedroom, giving it a modern and conventional edge. Metal headboards are even more suitable for people that are looking for a durable and super low-maintenance option that still stands out.

Wingback Headboards

For a touch of real sophistication, wingback headboards are one of the best choices you can make. Inspired by some of the more classic designs, these headboards feature tall sides that extend past the bed, offering a style statement whilst providing all the support you have become accustomed to with top quality headboards.

You are most likely to find wingback headboards upholstered, adding comfort and visual appeal to your bedroom.

Wall-Mounted Headboards

Wall-mounted headboards are attached directly to the wall, creating a look that almost looks like it's floating in the air, adding a real wow-factor.

Wall mounted headboards are just perfect for a range of minimalist styled bedroom designs that prioritise avoiding clutter.

Which Headboard Material Should I Choose?

When choosing your next headboard, the material you decide to choose can have a very large impact on both the look and feel of your bedroom. Here is our breakdown of some of the most popular materials used for headboards:

Commonly Used Fabrics: Velvet, Linen, Leather

Velvet

We all know that velvet is synonymous with luxury. The soft and rich texture that is associated with velvet makes it a go-to choice for people looking to bring a sophisticated feel to their bedroom. Velvet headboards are commonly available in deep and powerful colours, such as emerald, navy, or burgundy, further emphasising their sophisticated feel. Ideal for creating a cozy look, velvet can be perfect for creating a traditional or romantic style.

Linen

The material linen offers a casual and relaxed design in comparison to the more powerful velvet, boasting a natural and breathable ideal for those warmer climates. Linen truly has the power to bring a light and breezy feel to your bedroom and suits well lit bedrooms that experience a healthy amount of natural light. What’s more, linen is easy to clean and maintain, which is obviously a bonus.

Leather

For a sleek, modern, or even vintage-inspired bedroom, leather headboards are a stunning choice. Available in both genuine and faux leather options, leather adds texture and sophistication while being incredibly durable. It’s easy to wipe clean and resistant to wear, making it a practical choice for long-lasting appeal. Leather also has the ability to age beautifully, developing a rich patina over time. A leather headboard can bring an edge to a more contemporary bedroom, while still offering a luxurious, refined touch.

Commonly Used Woods: Oak, Pine, Walnut

Oak

Headboards made of oak are timeless, strong, and durable. Oak, known for its grain and golden tones, gives a natural, rustic feel to a bedroom. It works nicely in both traditional and modern environments, particularly when combined with other natural materials. Oak is a durable wood that will stand the test of time for many years to come, and the wood’s rich texture allows it to meld seamlessly with a range of bedroom designs.

Pine

Pine is a softer, lighter wood that gives a more casual, rustic, or coastal look. The pale, yellowish hues and simple grain pattern of pine provide a sense of warmth. Pine is softer than oak or walnut, though it can be durable as well if you care for and maintain it properly. Pine is perfect for a more casual or country-style bedroom.

Walnut

Walnut is a nice choice for a rich, dark wood. Walnut is rich, deep brown, with a smooth texture that is uniquely sophisticated and elegant. It is more finely grained than oak, so a little more polished-looking. Walnut headboards are known for their timeless appeal and are well-suited to modern and contemporary bedrooms in particular. Walnut is a more expensive wood type but extremely durable and can last a lifetime with proper care.

Commonly Used Metals: Brass, Stainless Steel, and Iron

Iron

Iron headboards are famous for their sturdy construction and details and give a classic touch with a robust feel. They can be finished in a variety of colors, but a classic finish of black or white is popular for its versatility. For those who want a headboard that can withstand daily wear and tear while still maintaining its beauty over time, iron is the perfect material.

Brass

Brass headboards are ideal for a touch of glamour and vintage vibes. The warm golden tones of brass create a bold contrast in light and dark-hued rooms. Brass headboards are lovely in traditional or eclectic environments, where they truly stand out. Brass needs a little maintenance to maintain its shine, but it’s a durable, timeless material that adds a touch of sophistication to any bedroom.

Stainless Steel

Stainless steel headboards are sleek, chic, and extraordinarily durable for a more modern industrial look. Stainless steel is popular for its clean lines and shiny coat, making it a good complement for modern bedrooms to add metallic without being too overwhelming for the design. Stainless steel is low-maintenance and also resistant to rust, making it great for modern or minimalist aesthetics.

How Should I Choose My Headboard Size?

From single to super king size, there’s a variety of headboard sizes in the UK, and choosing the right one should reflect the size of your bedroom. Let’s run through the range of sizes available.

Single (90cm x 190cm)

A Single Headboard is perfect for children’s rooms, guest rooms, or small spaces. With its 90cm width, it is a great option for small bedrooms as the headboard does not dominate the room. Make sure to choose from lightweight fabrics or sleek wooden designs to prioritise the open feel.

Small Double (120cm x 190cm)

The Small Double is ideal for teens, solo sleepers, or smaller master bedrooms. Also a great size for tight spaces, a 120cm wide headboard is a perfect middle ground between space efficiency and added comfort.

Double (135cm x 190cm)

Double Headboards work perfectly with double beds, the most commonly chosen bed size. At 135cm wide, they slot nicely into most UK bedrooms and look absolutely fantastic.

King (150cm x 200cm)

At 150cm wide, King-Size Headboards add a touch of grandeur, making them ideal for spacious bedrooms. Great for couples needing additional space and comfort.

Super King (180cm x 200cm)

A Super King Headboard, has a width of 180cm, and these are well-suited to master bedrooms. We recommend choosing headboards in dramatic styles such as wingback or tufted that will enhance the look of the room as a whole.

What Headboard Should I Have For My Bedroom?

Small Rooms

In small bedrooms, a single or small double headboard is ideal for keeping a room open and airy. Slimline designs, or light, neutral fabrics, will help to prevent a sense of overcrowding within the space. Plus, wall-mounted headboards are a great way to save space by forgoing the bulky frame altogether.

Medium-Sized Rooms

In a medium sized bedroom, a double or king-size headboard is ideal. You can try headboards in all sorts of styles, from elemental wooden to upholstered models in bright colors or patterns, without a room feeling overstuffed.

Large Rooms

For expansive bedrooms, super king headboards make a striking statement. Larger headboards with rich materials such as velvet or leather, are perfect for adding an element of luxury. Also, make sure that the headboard is proportionate to other furniture pieces in the room, like wardrobes and bedside tables, so that there is visual symmetry.

How to Measure and Install a Headboard

Installing a headboard is a simple way to enhance the look and functionality of your bed, but getting it right requires proper measurements and careful installation. Whether you're a DIY enthusiast or just looking to save on installation costs, this guide will walk you through the process step by step.

Step-by-Step Guide for DIY Headboard Installation

1. Measure Your Bed Frame and Room

Width: Measure the width of your bed frame to ensure the headboard matches the size of your bed (e.g., single, double, king).

Height: Consider how high you want the headboard to sit above the mattress. A taller headboard makes a stronger visual statement, while a lower one creates a minimalist look.

Room Space: Check the wall space to ensure the headboard fits without crowding other furniture.

2. Choose the Right Headboard Type

Strut Headboard: Attaches directly to the bed frame via struts. These are adjustable and easy to install.

Wall-Mounted Headboard: Fixed directly to the wall, providing a sleek, floating appearance.

Floor-Standing Headboard: Sits behind the bed and can be secured to the frame for added stability.

3. Gather Your Tools

You’ll need:

A tape measure

A pencil or chalk for marking

A drill with appropriate bits

Screws and brackets (usually provided with the headboard)

A spirit level for accuracy

A screwdriver

4. Prepare the Area

Clear the space around your bed to ensure you have room to work. Remove the mattress and bedding to avoid damage or obstruction.

5. Install the Headboard

Strut Headboard:

Align the struts with the pre-drilled holes on your bed frame.
Insert screws into the holes and tighten them with a screwdriver.
Adjust the height as needed before securing completely.

Wall-Mounted Headboard:

Mark the desired position on the wall using your measurements.
Drill holes into the wall at the marked points.
Secure the mounting brackets to the wall, then attach the headboard. Use a spirit level to ensure it’s straight.

Floor-Standing Headboard:

Position the headboard behind the bed frame.
Align the screw holes and attach the headboard to the frame using bolts.
Tighten all screws or bolts to ensure stability.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Incorrect Measurements: Double-check all dimensions before drilling or attaching. A miscalculated height or width can lead to a poorly fitted headboard.

Ignoring Wall Type: If mounting on a wall, consider the wall material (plaster, drywall, brick) and use appropriate fixings. Standard screws may not hold securely in weaker materials.

Overtightening Screws: This can damage the headboard or bed frame. Tighten screws until they’re secure but not excessively tight.

Skipping the Spirit Level: Even a slight tilt can be noticeable. Always use a spirit level to ensure the headboard is straight.

Not Considering Mattress Height: A headboard that’s too low or high in relation to the mattress can look unbalanced. Measure carefully to get the right alignment.

The Power of the Perfect Headboard

A headboard is a defining focal point that has the power to transform the look and feel of your bedroom. At GB Beds, we truly believe that the perfect headboard can improve the quality of your sleep, the design of your bedroom, and in turn, your health and your happiness.

If you’re ready to find your new favourite headboard, you’re in luck. Here at GB Beds, we have a wonderful range of headboards available, in many of the styles and designs we have mentioned in this blog. All that is left to do is find your brand new headboard today!

The Ultimate Guide To Headboards