Divan Bed Buying Guide

Divan beds make the perfect addition to any bedroom. Whether you need extra storage space, or want a stylish upholstered bed to form an elegant centrepiece, there’s a divan bed for you. In this guide we’ll take you through exactly what a divan bed is, the types of divan beds available, and how to choose the right one for your needs.

What is a divan bed?

A divan bed is a bed constructed of a wooden frame, upholstered in fabric or similar material. Usually arriving in two parts, divan beds are easily assembled and usually come with storage drawers underneath.

You can also find headboards, footboards and even wheels to attach to your divan bed for enhanced practicality.

What's the difference between an ottoman bed and a divan bed?

An ottoman bed is a type of storage bed like a divan. They use hydraulic springs or gas pistons to open from either the sides or bottom to reveal storage space in the entire section below the mattress. While a divan bed features drawers that open from either side, an ottoman bed provides a much larger storage area.

What are the benefits of a divan bed?

• Storage space - choose from a variety of under-bed storage options

• Compact design - designed to take up less space, your mattress will fit perfectly atop a divan bed

• Customisable options - choose from a variety of fabrics, colours and styles, as well as feet, bases, headboards and footboards

• Supportive base - a stable platform for your mattress, a divan bed provides a strong foundation for your mattress

• Easy to assemble - made of just two parts, divan beds are easy to assemble. Headboards and footboards are also easily attached

• Easily manoeuvred - opt for a divan bed with wheels to easily move it around your room - don’t worry, they lock in place

Divan storage options

One of the key advantages of a divan bed is that it can come with a variety of drawers to suit any storage need. You can, of course, choose a divan bed without storage, or an ottoman, which lifts up to reveal an entire surface of storage space.

What size divan bed do I need?

The dimensions of our divan beds are the same as standard UK mattresses, so that your mattress will sit snugly atop the divan without taking up excess space. Divan beds are designed to fit your mattress perfectly. Simply choose the same size divan as your mattress for a perfect fit.

How big is a small single divan bed?

A small single divan bed size is 2’6” x 6’3 (75 x 190 cm), making it ideal for rooms with limited space. These beds are best suited to children, but they can be used by adults, although space will be more limited. Two small single beds are often included in guest bedrooms to give guests their own sleeping space while maximising a room’s dimensions.

How big is a standard single divan bed?

A standard single divan bed is 3’0” x 6’3” (90 x 190 cm), and is a great choice for most people, whether adults, teenagers, or children. They’re also perfect if you have limited space or sleep alone and prefer a cosier feel from your bed.

How big is a small double divan bed?

A small double divan bed measures 4’0” x 6’3” (120 x 190 cm). If you have limited space, have teenagers, or sleep alone and like a bit more room, this would be a suitable bed size for you. Small double divan beds can also be used by couples who like to sleep closer together. They are a popular choice for guest bedrooms, especially those with handy built-in storage.

How big is a standard double divan bed?

The standard double divan bed is 4’6” x 6’3” (135 x 190 cm), offering more space than the previous options. It is ideal for couples who want a little more space while still sharing a bed, or for single sleepers who like to stretch out.

How big is a king-size divan bed?

The king size divan bed is 5’0” x 6’6” (150 x 200 cm). It is suited to couples who want even more space, taller people, or people with a bigger build. King size beds are also a popular choice for parents who have young children join them during the night. Our guide on co-sleeping with children will give you some tips on how to do this safely.

How big is a super-king divan bed?

Of all UK bed sizes, the super king divan bed is the biggest of them all, at 6’0” x 6’6” (180 x 200 cm). It offers the most in terms of comfort and space and creates a real focal point in any bedroom.

How much space do I need for a divan bed with drawers?

Generally, divan drawers will open 32cm on either side. You’ll also need to make sure you’ve got room to sit or stand to access the drawer, so we’d recommend leaving a total of 60cm either side of your divan bed.

At the bottom end of your bed, you’ll want around 55cm of space to be able to move around and make your bed comfortably. Of course, you can place a single divan bed along the wall, and opt to only have drawers on one side to increase floor space in your bedroom.

For more information on bed sizes, read our Ultimate UK Bed & Mattress Size Guide.

What are the different types of divan base?

How to choose divan bed feet

How easy is it to put a divan bed together?

Divan beds generally arrive to you as two separate components that you attach together. You don’t need a versed DIY’er to assemble a divan bed – just a couple of household tools and maybe someone to give you a helping hand.

You can also attach two single divan beds together to create a double. Attaching a headboard and footboard are also very straightforward.

For a complete guide to putting your divan bed together, read our Divan Bed Assembly Guide.

How to know when your divan bed needs replacing

A divan bed should last around 10 years, so long as you look after it properly. Some signs that you need a new divan bed are:

You're getting a poor night's sleep

If your sleep is suffering, your bed is sagging or your body is aching, it’s probably time to upgrade your bed. Keep in mind that your mattress plays a part in this too, so consider how long you’ve had your mattress to see if it also needs replacing.

The wood creaks or the base is damaged

Creaking or visible damage is a sign that there are structural issues with your divan bed. This can lead to the bed caving as the frame starts to crack or split.

The interior slating becomes weak

If the interior slating starts to collapse, or the bed base starts to bow, it could be due to an excessive weight load. This could also be because the base is too old to hold the weight it used to. The base can break or become impractical to sleep on.

Need some inspiration first? Take a look at our Best Divan Beds 2024 to find your favourite.

Not found the answer to your question? Check our frequently asked questions below