The Complete Bedroom Furniture Buying Guide
Our bedroom is our sanctuary to unwind and relax, so having a clean, clutter-free space is crucial. You can create your dream bedroom with our complete bedroom furniture buying guide.
Whether you're just updating a few key pieces or starting fresh in a brand new bedroom, our guide will help you choose the perfect pieces of furniture for your peaceful haven.
For a quick rundown, watch our video guide to all things bedroom furniture, or read on for a more detailed look and product recommendations.
In This Guide at a Glance:
Here’s a look at what we’ll cover in this guide. Read on for our top tips or click through to the sections that interest you most:
Essential Bedroom Furniture Pieces to Consider
While everyone's bedroom is unique to them, there are a few basic pieces we all need to have to make the room functional and comfortable. Here are the essential bedroom furniture pieces
1. A Bed Frame
A bed frame is the basis of any bedroom, but these days, there are lots of different options available that suit different bedrooms and different needs. Here's our rundown of the most popular ones.
Divans
Divan beds are a type of bed frame that typically consists of a sturdy, upholstered base and a matching mattress.
What sets them apart is their practical and space-saving design, as many divan bases come with built-in storage options such as drawers or ottoman-style compartments.
This makes them an excellent choice for bedrooms where maximising storage is essential, allowing you to keep items like bedding, clothes, or miscellaneous belongings neatly tucked away.
Their compact design also makes them ideal for smaller bedrooms, as the bed is often no wider than the mattress, ensuring you’re not wasting any precious floor space.
Ottomans
An ottoman bed frame is a practical and stylish option that features a lift-up mechanism, allowing the entire mattress base to be raised to reveal a spacious storage compartment beneath.
Unlike divan beds with drawers, ottoman beds don’t require additional space around the sides for access, making them particularly well-suited to smaller bedrooms.
This space-efficient design means you can maximise storage while keeping the overall footprint of your bed compact, ensuring a neat and uncluttered room layout.
Adjustable Frames
Adjustable bed frames let you customise your mattress position by raising or lowering sections like the head or foot of the bed. They’re easy to use with a remote control, letting you switch to different positions for better comfort and flexibility.
These frames are especially helpful for people with mobility challenges, making it easier to get in and out of bed and find ergonomic positions that relieve pressure.
They’re also great for activities like reading or watching TV in bed, offering better support for your head and back than a flat mattress.
They can also improve circulation, reduce back pain, and even help with snoring, making them a practical yet comfortable choice for many users.
2. Bedside Tables
Bedside tables are not only a functional addition but also help to make your bedroom feel more complete and inviting. They provide a convenient spot for your nighttime essentials, such as a lamp, alarm clock, or a glass of water, while also enhancing the room’s overall aesthetic.
For a modern touch, sleek bedside tables with metallic finishes or minimalist designs are popular choices.
Alternatively, rustic wooden tables can add warmth and character to a cosy, traditional setting.
If you're looking for something versatile, mid-century styles with clean lines and neutral tones can complement a wide range of interiors. With so many options available, a well-chosen bedside table can tie a room’s décor together effortlessly.
3. Wardrobes & Chest of Drawers
Wardrobe and drawer sets are essential pieces of furniture that provide valuable storage solutions for your home.
A well-designed wardrobe offers ample space to neatly organise clothing, shoes, and accessories, helping to reduce visual clutter.
Similarly, a chest of drawers is perfect for storing smaller items such as folded clothes, linens, or personal belongings, keeping everything tidy and within easy reach.
By incorporating these practical storage options into your space, you can maintain a more organised and serene environment.
4. Dressing Tables
While dressing tables aren't a strict essential in a bedroom, they can be a wonderfully practical and elegant addition if your space allows it.
Having a dedicated area for skincare, makeup, and grooming essentials enables you to keep your bathroom free of excess clutter, creating a more streamlined and organised routine.
Beyond practicality, dressing tables with stools can add a touch of luxury and sophistication to your bedroom, serving as both a functional and decorative feature.
With the right design, they can seamlessly blend into your space, complementing your existing décor and enhancing the overall ambience.
5. Storage Benches
Storage benches or ottomans are the ideal solution for combining seating and additional storage in a stylish and practical way.
These versatile pieces of furniture allow you to maximise your space without the need to invest in larger, bulkier alternatives such as extra wardrobes. Blanket boxes provide a discreet way to store items like bedding, shoes, or seasonal clothing while offering a comfortable place to sit.
Their compact design and wide range of styles make them a seamless addition to any room, effortlessly enhancing both functionality and aesthetics.
Material Choices: What Works Best for UK Bedrooms
Before you jump into buying these staple pieces of furniture, you've got to think about the materials used and what works best in typical UK bedrooms.
Solid Wood Vs Veneer Vs MDF
| Feature | Solid Wood | Veneer | MDF (Medium-Density Fibreboard) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Description | Crafted from a single piece of timber. | A thin layer of real wood adhered to a core material like MDF or plywood. | Compressed wood fibres bonded with resin. |
| Pros | • Durable and long-lasting • Natural beauty with unique grain patterns • Premium quality |
• More affordable than solid wood • Lighter than solid wood • Resilient to warping • Achieves a high-end appearance |
• Lightweight and affordable • Easy to shape into intricate designs • Versatile finishes (paint, laminates, veneers) |
| Cons | • Heavier and more expensive • Requires maintenance to prevent warping or moisture damage |
• Not as long-lasting as solid wood | • Lacks natural grain and durability • Less resistant to moisture |
| Best For | Premium, long-lasting furniture with a natural look. | Achieving a high-end look at a lower cost. | Budget-conscious buyers and modern interiors where intricate designs are desired. |
Wood Tone Finishes
Wood tone finishes on bedroom furniture can vary widely, allowing for a personalised touch to match any interior design.
- Light wood finishes, such as oak or maple, create a softer, airy feel, making them ideal for smaller spaces or rooms aiming for a minimalist look.
- Medium wood tones, like walnut or cherry, strike a balance between warmth and richness, complementing both traditional and contemporary styles.
- For a more dramatic and luxurious aesthetic, dark wood finishes, such as mahogany or espresso, offer depth and timeless elegance.
Additionally, distressed or whitewashed finishes are perfect for rustic or farmhouse-inspired bedrooms, adding character and charm. These finishes not only define the furniture's aesthetic but also contribute to the room's overall atmosphere.
Fabric Vs Leather Upholstery
Upholstered furniture plays a significant role in bedroom design, offering both comfort and style. Items such as accent chairs, stools, and even certain bed frames often feature upholstery to create a softer, more inviting aesthetic.
When choosing between fabric and leather upholstery, it’s essential to consider practicality and durability.
| Feature | Fabric Upholstery | Leather |
|---|---|---|
| Aesthetic | A vast range of colours, patterns, and textures. Provides a cosy and warm feel. | Sleek and sophisticated appeal. |
| Best For | Relaxed, traditional, or eclectic bedroom settings. | Modern or minimalist bedrooms. |
| Maintenance | Prone to stains and requires regular maintenance. | Easy to clean and remarkably durable. |
| Comfort | It can be prone to stains and may require regular maintenance to stay fresh-looking. | It can feel cooler to the touch. |
Ultimately, choosing between fabric and leather comes down to balancing aesthetics, comfort, and the specific needs of the space.
Being Smart About Sizing
One of the most important things to think about when it comes to bedroom furniture is the size. Not only do you need to think about the size of each piece of furniture, but you need to think about how they'll fit in your space altogether.
We recommend drawing up a scale floor plan to make sure all your furniture is going to fit.
Standard UK Bed Sizes
When selecting a bed, understanding standard UK sizes is essential to ensure a perfect fit for your bedroom. Here are the most common sizes:
- Single Bed Frames: 90 cm x 190 cm (3' x 6'3")
Ideal for children, smaller rooms, or guest bedrooms. - Small Double Beds (Queen): 120 cm x 190 cm (4' x 6'3")
A great choice for those needing extra sleeping space in a compact bedroom. - Double Beds: 135 cm x 190 cm (4'6" x 6'3")
A popular size for couples or a more spacious option for single sleepers. - King Bed Frames: 150 cm x 200 cm (5' x 6'6")
Perfect for those who want additional room to stretch out while sleeping. - Super King Beds: 180 cm x 200 cm (6' x 6'6")
The largest standard UK bed size, offering luxury and ample space for two sleepers.
How to Measure for Beds, Wardrobes, & Storage
Proper measurements are essential to ensure your bedroom furniture fits perfectly and maximises the space. Here's a step-by-step guide to help with measuring:
Beds
- Measure the Space Available: Use a tape measure to determine the length and width of the area where you want to place the bed. Be sure to account for walking space around the edges.
- Consider Clearance for Features: If the bed has features like under-bed drawers, include sufficient clearance for them to open fully.
- Allow for Other Furniture: Ensure the bed size leaves enough space for other essential furniture, such as bedside tables or wardrobes.
Wardrobes
- Measure Wall Space and Ceiling Height: Begin by measuring the height, width, and depth of the wall where your wardrobe will sit. For fitted wardrobes, check the full height of the ceiling.
- Check Door Clearance: If the wardrobe has outward-hinged doors, measure the space required for them to open fully without obstruction.
- Factor in Additional Space: Allow a buffer zone for ease of cleaning and to prevent overcrowding around the wardrobe area.
Storage
- Assess the Room Layout: Identify areas where storage can fit without crowding the room, including under beds, corners, and wall-mounted solutions.
- Measure for Shelving or Cabinets: For any storage units, measure their intended placement area, accounting for the height and depth needed to accommodate your possessions.
- Plan for Accessibility: Ensure that storage remains practical and items can be retrieved easily.
By taking precise and comprehensive measurements, you can create a functional and stylish bedroom layout tailored to your needs.
Storage Solutions: Maximising Space & Minimising Clutter
As we mentioned above, your bedroom is supposed to be a sanctuary, so keeping it free from clutter is a must! If you're limited on space, you need to get smart with your storage solutions, so here are our suggestions for making the most of your bedroom space.
Storage Bed Options
Storage beds are a great way to save space and add extra storage to your bedroom. They combine practicality with style, making them a smart choice for any home.
Unlike regular beds, storage beds come with built-in compartments or drawers, giving you a simple way to keep your belongings organised and out of sight. They’re especially useful for small bedrooms or rooms with limited closet space since they make the most of the area under the mattress.
You can use them to store out-of-season clothes, extra bedding, or other items, helping you keep your room neat while still having easy access to what you need.
Plus, storage beds are available in a range of designs and finishes, so you can enjoy a clutter-free, spacious bedroom without sacrificing style.
Multifunctional Furniture
Multifunctional furniture is a brilliant solution if you're really tight on space. Pieces like ottoman benches and storage stools not only provide comfortable seating but also offer hidden compartments for storing items like blankets, books, or toys.
These versatile options are perfect for making the most of every square inch in your home, ensuring it's both practical and stylish.
By investing in furniture that serves multiple purposes, you can enjoy a clutter-free environment without sacrificing functionality or design.
Slimline Wardrobes & Mirrored Options
When floor space is at a premium, slimline wardrobes are an excellent choice for maximising storage without overwhelming the room.
Their streamlined design allows them to fit seamlessly into smaller spaces while still providing ample room for clothing and accessories.
Opting for wardrobes with mirrored doors can create the illusion of a larger, more open area. The reflective surfaces bounce light around the room, making it feel brighter and more spacious, which is particularly beneficial in compact bedrooms or dressing spaces.
Practical Features to Prioritise Over Aesthetics
Of course, not everything can be about aesthetics. Sometimes you have to look at the practical side of things too.
Drawer Runners & Internal Fittings
Choosing storage solutions with soft-close runners and mechanisms is a smart option, especially for couples with different sleep schedules.
These features ensure that drawers and doors close quietly and smoothly, reducing noise and preventing slamming, making it easier to access storage without disturbing a sleeping partner.
Easy Clean Surfaces
Opting for furniture with easy-to-clean surfaces is a practical choice for maintaining a tidy bedroom. These surfaces are designed to resist stains and can be wiped clean effortlessly, saving time and effort during cleaning routines.
Whether it's dust, spills, or fingerprints, such finishes ensure that your furniture looks fresh and well-kept, helping to create a serene and organised space with minimal hassle.
Furniture Construction Requirements
When choosing furniture, it’s essential to consider construction requirements to ensure a smooth setup.
At Fairway, we offer options to suit your needs, including furniture designed for home assembly and premium pieces that our skilled team assembles for you.
This flexibility allows you to select what best fits your lifestyle while ensuring quality and durability in every piece.
Why Choose Fairway Furniture For Your Bedroom
With our handy tips in this guide, you can confidently choose the perfect bedroom furniture from our extensive range.
Whether you're shopping online or visiting one of our stores across the South West, we’re here to help you create a bedroom that combines style, comfort, and practicality.
Start your transformation today – browse our bedroom furniture online now and find the ideal pieces to suit your home!
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