Divan Bed Buying Guide

What is a Divan Bed?

A divan bed consists of a wooden frame upholstered in fabric, usually delivered in two parts for easy assembly. Most divan beds feature built-in storage options, such as drawers, and can be paired with headboards in a matching fabric/colour.

Divan vs. Ottoman Bed: What's the Difference?

While both divan and ottoman beds offer storage, they differ in design. Divan beds typically feature drawers that open from the sides, whereas ottoman beds lift up from the bottom or side, providing a larger, more open storage space underneath the mattress.

Benefits of a Divan Bed

• Storage: Available with various under-bed storage configurations.
• Compact Design: A divan’s structure ensures the mattress fits perfectly, minimizing space usage.
• Customization: Choose from a variety of fabrics, colors, and styles. 
• Support: The sturdy base provides a strong foundation for your mattress.
• Easy Assembly: Divan beds come in just two parts, making setup simple.
• Mobility: Add wheels or glides for easy movement. 

Types of Divan Beds

Divan Bases

Our divan bases, crafted from timber and upholstered in various styles, allow you to create a personalized look. Consider your storage needs and whether you prefer wheels or castors when choosing a base.

Headboards

Enhance the look of your divan bed with a stylish headboard, providing both aesthetic appeal and a comfortable surface for sitting up in bed.

Ottoman Beds

Ottoman beds offer a larger storage space by lifting the mattress with the help of hydraulic springs or gas pistons, making them a great alternative to divan beds with drawers.

Divan Bed Storage Options

Divan beds have a variety of storage options:

• No Storage Divans: Ideal for a minimalist look, divans with legs leave space underneath for small items.
• Ottoman Beds: Offer the largest storage area, as the entire bed base lifts up.
• Two Drawer Divans: Includes one drawer on each side or at the foot of the bed.
• Four Drawer Divans: Typically features two drawers on either side of the bed.
• 2+2 Drawer Divans: Two full-size drawers at the foot and two smaller drawers near the head.

Choosing the Right Size

Divan beds come in standard UK sizes, ensuring that your mattress will fit perfectly. Here’s a quick guide to the available sizes:

Bed/Mattress Size	Dimensions (Metric)	Dimensions (Imperial)
Small Single	75 x 190 cm	2’6” x 6’3”
Standard Single	90 x 190 cm	3’0” x 6’3”
Small Double	120 x 190 cm	4’0” x 6’3”
Standard Double	135 x 190 cm	4’6” x 6’3”
King Size	150 x 200 cm	5’0” x 6’6”
Super King Size	180 x 200 cm	6’0” x 6’6”

Storage Space Considerations

If your divan bed includes drawers, ensure you have enough room to open them fully—typically, drawers will extend 32 cm. You’ll want to leave about 60 cm of space on either side of the bed for easy access.

Types of Divan Bases

• Platform Base: Offers a firmer feel with more storage space, thanks to its solid construction.
• Pocket-Sprung Base: Incorporates springs for added comfort and mattress responsiveness, available in either ‘sprung edge’ or ‘firm edge’ designs.
• Reinforced Base: Built to support heavier weights, this base is extra sturdy and durable.

Choosing Divan Bed Feet

• Castors: Ideal for easy movement on carpeted floors.
• Glides: Sturdy feet that allow for slight movement while keeping the bed stable.
• Legs: Offer maximum stability but sacrifice under-bed storage space.

Assembly and Maintenance

Divan beds are straightforward to assemble, usually arriving in two parts. You can easily attach a headboard. Here at The Bay Bed Company we are happy to assemble your new divan base free of charge as part of our delivery service. This assumes that your room of choice has space for us to do so and safe access to the room. 

When to Replace Your Divan Bed

A well-maintained divan bed should last around 10 years. Signs it’s time for a replacement include:

• Poor sleep quality
• Creaking or visible damage
• Excessive dipping of the platform top.