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It’s no secret, Upholstered Beds and Wooden Beds are the most popular bed frames these days, and have been for years. Both of these fantastic beds have their own unique features and benefits and lay the foundation for countless nights of fantastic sleep. But what is it that makes them both so special, and which type suits your bedroom style better? Let’s break it down.
Upholstered Beds vs Wooden Beds: The Key Info
Before we really delve into the key differences of these two beds, let’s get a quick overview of them both.
Upholstered Beds vs Wooden Beds: Quick Overview
| Feature | Upholstered Beds | Wooden Beds |
|---|---|---|
Style & Appearance | Soft, padded fabric or leather designs that add warmth and texture. | Classic, sturdy frames with a natural or painted wood finish. |
Comfort | Extra cushioning makes them cosy and comfortable for sitting up in bed. | Solid and supportive but without the softness of upholstery. |
Durability | Good durability, but fabric can wear over time and may need occasional reupholstering. | Extremely durable and long-lasting with minimal wear over time. |
Maintenance | Needs more care to keep clean, especially with lighter fabrics. | Easy to clean and maintain with occasional dusting and polishing. |
Storage Options | Often available with built-in storage drawers or ottoman-style lifting bases. | Limited built-in storage, though some designs may include drawers. |
Price Range | Varies based on fabric and design, generally mid to high range. | Ranges from budget-friendly to high-end depending on wood type. |
Best For | Anyone looking for a plush, inviting feel or a stylish statement piece. | Those who prefer a timeless, solid structure with a natural look. |
What Are The Benefits Of An Upholstered Bed?
Plush, cosy and luxurious, Upholstered Beds grow in popularity every year. With millions ordered every year, it’s no wonder they’re loved by so many. So, what makes them great?
1) They’re Sumptuously Soft
If you love the comforting feel of a soft, cosy bed, an Upholstered Bed could be perfect for you. Instead of the more rigid shape a wooden bed frame portrays, an Upholstered Bed Frame provides the softest possible surface for your mattress to be laid upon.
Ideal for sitting up and leaning on a lazy weekend, Upholstered Beds with Headboards offer a place to rest and recharge with a morning coffee and your favourite TV show or latest Netflix binge watch.
2) They’re Customisable in a Range of Vibrant Colours
Upholstered Beds come in a range of wonderful colours, instead of the more limited palette of a Wooden Bed Frame. Whether you prefer rich velvet, classic linen, or a sleek faux leather finish, there’s an option to match your aesthetic perfectly.
With so many designs, fabrics, and colours to choose from, an upholstered bed lets you create a space that feels completely your own. Whether you want a bold centrepiece that stands out or a neutral shade that blends effortlessly with your décor, you can find the perfect combination to suit your taste.
3) They Help Regulate the Temperature
Unlike wooden bed frames, which can feel cool to the touch, upholstered beds naturally retain a bit more warmth, making them a great choice if you prefer a cosy sleeping environment. The fabric and padding help to create a softer, more insulated feel, which can be especially comforting in colder months.
At the same time, many modern upholstered beds are designed with breathable materials that prevent overheating. Fabrics like linen and cotton allow air to circulate more freely, helping to keep you cool in warmer weather. If you tend to wake up feeling too hot or too cold, choosing the right upholstery material can make all the difference in creating a comfortable sleeping temperature all year round.
Disadvantages Of Upholstered Beds
1) They Require More Maintenance
Unlike wooden beds, which can be wiped clean easily, upholstered frames need a little more care. Dust, pet hair, and spills can cling to fabric, meaning regular vacuuming or spot cleaning might be necessary to keep your bed looking fresh. If you opt for a lighter fabric, stains can be more noticeable, so choosing a darker or stain-resistant material may be a better option if maintenance is a concern.
2) Fabric Can Wear Over Time
While wooden frames tend to stay the same for years, upholstered beds may show signs of wear sooner, especially if the fabric is frequently rubbed against. Over time, the material may fade or fray, particularly in high-contact areas like the headboard. Opting for a high-quality, durable fabric can help extend its lifespan, but it’s something to keep in mind if you’re looking for a long-term investment.
3) Less Breathable Than Wood
Although modern upholstered beds use breathable fabrics, they don’t have the same open structure as wooden bed frames, which allow for natural airflow. This means that, in some cases, upholstered beds may trap more heat, especially if the fabric isn’t breathable. If staying cool at night is a priority, choosing a fabric like linen or cotton can help regulate temperature more effectively.
Benefits Of Wooden Bed Frames
1) They’re Incredibly Robust
Wooden Bed Frames are made to last, especially those made from Pine and Oak Wood. While this doesn’t mean Upholstered Bed Frames aren't built to last.
Wooden Bed Frames provide a supportive and stable surface for your mattress that can last for decades if properly looked after.
2) Super Easy to Maintain
Keeping a wooden bed frame in top condition is simple. Unlike Upholstered Frames that may require vacuuming or stain removal, Wooden Frames can be wiped clean with a damp cloth.
Occasional polishing can also keep the surface looking fresh and well-maintained, making them an option that requires little maintenance.
3) They Offer Timeless Style
Wooden beds have a classic look that fits seamlessly into any bedroom. Whether you prefer a natural wood finish for a warm, rustic feel or a painted frame for a modern touch, there’s a design to suit every style.
Unlike trends that come and go, wooden frames maintain their appeal over time.
Disadvantages of Wooden Bed Frames
1) They’re Heavier and Harder to Move
Wooden bed frames are built to last, but that durability comes with weight. Unlike upholstered or metal frames, which can be easier to lift and reposition, solid wood beds can be a challenge to move. If you like rearranging your bedroom or need to shift your bed for cleaning, you might find yourself struggling to budge it without an extra pair of hands.
Moving house? That’s when the weight really becomes noticeable. Dismantling and reassembling a wooden bed frame isn’t always as simple as clicking a few parts together. Some designs require tools, time, and patience to take apart and put back together properly. If you’re someone who moves frequently, a wooden bed might not be the most practical choice.
That said, once it’s in place, it’s not going anywhere. A wooden frame stays solid and stable, with no squeaking or shifting over time. So, if you’re not planning on moving it often, the weight can actually be a benefit rather than a downside.
2) They’re Often Much More Expensive
As Wooden Bed Frames are made from Wood, instead of upholstery, they come with a higher price tag. The type of wood plays a big role in pricing, with Oak and Walnut sitting at the premium end, while Pine and engineered wood options offer a more affordable alternative. However, their durability means they’re often a long-term investment that pays off over time.
3) Prone to Scratches and Wear Over Time
Wooden bed frames are strong and built to last, but they aren’t completely immune to everyday wear and tear. Over time, small scratches, dents, and scuffs can start to appear, especially if the frame is regularly knocked or bumped. This is more noticeable on lighter wood finishes, where even minor marks can stand out. If you have pets or move furniture around often, you might find that your wooden bed frame starts to show signs of wear sooner than you’d like.
Which One is Right for You?
Both upholstered and wooden bed frames have their own unique advantages, so the right choice comes down to what matters most to you. If comfort, style, and a cosy, padded headboard sound appealing, an upholstered bed could be the perfect fit. If you prefer something timeless, low-maintenance, and built to last, a wooden bed might be the better option.
There’s no wrong decision, just the one that works best for your space, your sleep, and your style. Whether you go for the plush feel of an upholstered bed or the solid structure of a wooden frame, the most important thing is finding a bed that helps you sleep well and wake up refreshed.