What Are The Different Types of Bed Bases?

What is a bed base?

Bed bases are supportive foundations that sit beneath a mattress. They provide support and stability for the mattress, preventing sagging and ensuring an even sleep surface. A solid bed base can offer better comfort, weight distribution, and durability of the bed and mattress.

Types of bed bases

There are several different types of bed bases, and each one can influence the comfort and support of your sleep:

1. Divan base

Divan bed bases consist of a solid wooden box covered in fabric. They are usually flush with the mattress and often have added storage, such as built-in drawers. These bed bases are compact, ideal for smaller rooms, and offer a supportive and stable surface for any mattress.

Divan bed bases are further divided into different types, including platform-top and sprung-edge bases. Platform-top divans offer firmer support, whereas sprung divans provide more cushion and a softer sleep surface with a top layer of springs running edge to edge.

Shop divan bed bases

2. Platform base

Also known as a platform top, it is a strong, sturdy bed base made from a timber frame and a solid panel top. Typically found in divans or ottomans, beds with this base are very supportive and ideal for firmer mattresses, as they offer better support.

3. Ottoman base

Ottoman storage bases feature a hinged lifting lid that reveals an extensive storage space beneath the mattress. These bed bases are constructed with a wooden frame and are available in either side- or end-opening ottomans. Like divans, ottoman bed bases have various base types, including a supportive platform top, solid or sprung slats, or an adjustable base.

Shop ottoman beds

4. Slatted base

Slatted beds are one of the most common types of bases. They are made of wooden slats that support the mattress, either solid or sprung, which have their benefits:

• Solid slats - Timber slats that run across the full width of the bed for a firmer foundation for your mattress.
• Sprung slats - Slightly curved slats placed in multiple columns, offering more shock absorption with cushioned support.

Slatted bed bases allow good airflow for the mattress and add a degree of flexibility and bounce, especially in sprung slats. Most bed types, including ottomans, wood, metal, or upholstered frames, use slatted bases.

5. Adjustable base

Adjustable bases allow you to raise or lower your position with a motorised base. These bed bases cater to those with mobility issues who need help getting in and out of bed or those who need relief from pain. Adjust your neck, head, upper body, legs, or feet for customised comfort.

Shop our range of adjustable beds; they’re only compatible with our Sleepmotion mattresses, which flex with the base movement.

6. Tech bed bases

Perfect for a modern bedroom, tech bases offer built-in features such as USB ports, speakers, LED lights, or even a TV at the foot of the bed. These are built with sprung or solid slatted bases, offering a solid foundation and added cushion for your mattress.

Shop TV and tech beds

7. Bed frames

Bed frames, also known as bedsteads, typically have a headboard and feature thinner side panels than other bases. You can find decorative or plain frames in a wide choice of materials, such as wood, metal, or upholstered fabric bases, which support a mattress with a slatted base. Often, bed frames include a headboard and footboard, making them great statement pieces in your bedroom.

Which bed base is best for me?

Choosing the right bed base depends on your lifestyle, space, sleeping habits, and more. The right one will provide the best support and comfort and protect your mattress for years. Don’t worry, we can help you decide which bed base is right for you:

1. Your comfort and sleep needs

Finding a comfortable bed base makes getting a good night’s rest easier.

• If you like a firm sleep surface, aim for a platform top or solid slats for stable support.
• If you like a softer, cushioned feel, a sprung slatted base or sprung divan would be best.
• If you need flexible positioning or have back pain or mobility issues, an adjustable base could help you sleep better.

2. Mattress compatibility

Bed bases must be compatible with your mattress type. Most mattresses will work on any bed base, but some, like memory foam, need specific bases for the best comfort. Those with back pain who use a firm mattress may also benefit from a firmer base to improve support.

Here’s a quick guide to some mattresses that would benefit from specific bases:

3. Consider storage and space

Whether you have a smaller bedroom or have accumulated extra bits and bobs in your home over the years, a divan or ottoman bed base can give you additional storage space. Great for staying organised, both have space to place clothing, bedding, or anything your heart desires.

Bed bases with drawers, such as divans, offer limited space, as you only have the space within the drawers. But ottomans offer a lift-up mattress, meaning you get the entire space underneath the bed to use. Just note that you’ll need to account for the length of the drawers and the height of the mattress to ensure it fits your space.

If neither fits your space but you need the extra storage, don’t worry. Any bed frame will do. While additional storage isn’t included, there is space under the mattress where you can place items.

View more types of storage beds.

Bed bases at Dreams

While each bed base type has unique benefits, choosing one or even knowing how each feels can be hard. That’s why we always recommend visiting a Dreams store near you to see our bed bases in person. We can show you the firmness of the base and any storage within the base. Plus, our friendly colleagues can answer all your questions.

For more, why not take a look at our bed buying guide? Or if you’ve found the bed of your dreams, buying from us means accessing our assembly service. We’ll deliver your bed base to your bedroom and assemble it for you, making it completely hassle-free.