Headboards: The 6 Most Asked Bed Headboard Questions Answered

Headboards are crucial pieces of furniture in most modern bedrooms. And because it is such an essential bedroom piece, there are a lot of questions about bed headboards out there. So we decided to ask one of The Mattress Warehouse’s bedroom decoration guru’s to answer six of the most frequently asked headboard questions for us. Therefore, if you are on the lookout for a new headboard, but you have some questions, this post is for you.

1. What type of headboard is best?

It depends entirely on your own preference and how you decorate your room. However, various types of headboards can look (and feel) appealing. Moreover, the size of the headboard must never be smaller than the size of your bed. Here’s a list of headboard types to help you choose the right one for your bedroom.

• Leather headboards: Luxe and sleek. For bedrooms that show off the accomplishments of their owners.
• Metal headboards: Clean lines or wrought iron. These headboards go well with industrial or chic themed bedrooms.
• Rattan headboards: Light and full of texture. The popular choice for seaside cabins and rooms with large windows and/or balconies.
• Upholstered headboards: Majestic, elegant and practical. If you like sitting up in bed to read a book or watch series, a padded and upholstered headboard is perfect. Furthermore, it can add a sense of royalty to the bedroom.
• Wooden headboards: Timeless and natural. Wooden headboards have been around for a very long time. They go well in farmhouse and eco-modern bedrooms.

2. Which fabric is best for a headboard?

If you choose to go for upholstered headboards, it is prudent to compare different headboard fabrics before making a final choice. Some fabrics (like linen) are hypoallergenic, whereas others (like leather) make a lasting impression. This list of commonly used headboard fabrics should help you to narrow down your choices:

• Leather fabrics: If you want to go for a grand, sophisticated look, choose leather. It exudes success, ages well, and is easy to clean. Behold the Nottingham Leather Headboard – grand, eh?
• Natural fabrics: Many headboards are made from cotton or linen, which have anti-allergenic properties. Furthermore, these fabrics come in a variety of colours to suit any bedroom.
• Synthetic fabrics: Generally more stain-resistant than natural fabrics, synthetics also tend to be more durable. What’s more, it is also quite soft and is super comfy to sit against.
• Velvet: Stylish, soft and supportive. Velvet headboards give a room an air of luxury. Moreover, it is also a strong and lasting fabric. If you want a classy headboard, this is it.

3. Can you put a headboard on any type of bed?

Technically, you cannot put a headboard on any type of bed. However, almost any type of bed can go with a headboard. Confusing? Our bedroom decor guru explains:

Different kinds of headboards are mounted (or installed) differently. You get wall-mounted, bedframe-mounted and standalone headboards. Likewise, some bed frames can accommodate headboards while others, like bunk beds, can’t.

In general, metal and wooden bed frames can support a headboard. Whereas more modern, fabric-covered divan bed bases do not always have that option. Make sure your bed supports your headboard of choice by checking (and measuring) the back of the bed for bolts or screw holes. If there aren’t any of the above, go for the wall-mounted or standalone option.

4. Should a headboard touch the floor?

Only if it is a full-length floor-standing headboard should it touch the ground. If you install a bed-mounted headboard, screw or bolt the headboard struts onto the bed so that the back of the headboard starts right above the mattress. Likewise, wall-mounted headboards should be installed so that the bottom of the headboard is level with the top of the mattress. Note that neither of the last two options will touch the floor.

Tip: If you install your own headboard, use a spirit level to make sure that the top of the headboard is parallel with the top of the mattress.

5. Does a headboard have to be against the wall?

Unless you have a massive bedroom, yes, your headboard will look better against a wall. With big bedrooms, you have the option of putting a four-poster bed in the middle of the room. However, if your room is normal it just looks better if your bed, and by extension, your headboard is against the wall. Moreover, if you have a wall-mounted headboard, you can’t go and put it in the middle of the room, now can you? Try not to put your headboard in front of a window, as it will ruin the easthetic and block incoming sunlight.

6. Is it OK not to have a headboard?

You can have a bed without a headboard. But let’s be honest, it is not easy to pull that look off. Furthermore, it is often not extremely comfortable. Without a headboard, pillows have a nasty way of falling in between the bed and the wall. And besides, if you want to sit and read or binge your favourite Netflix show in bed, you’ll have to prop yourself up against the cold wall. Having said that, if you are on a budget, you can paint a headboard on the wall to create some atmosphere. Or you can build your own.

Shop headboards for sale at The Mattress Warehouse

Now that we’ve answered the most pressing headboard related questions, you are ready to get one for yourself. At The Mattress Warehouse, you will find a wide variety of headboards for sale. If you aren’t completely sure of what kind of headboard you want to get, don’t stress. Go check out our collection. You will definitely find something that you like!