Adeline headboard with pink fabric duvet and side table, goodhomesmagazine.com

Headboards: the ultimate guide

5 March 2022

Headboards are often overlooked in favour of the bed frame and mattress. While these elements are of course important, a headboard makes a real statement and can provide a focal point to your bedroom. Good Homes asks the experts what to look out for when choosing a headboard…

Why is a headboard so important?

‘A headboard is not only the finishing touch to your bed, it also helps to keep your pillows in place for maximum comfort,’ says Pam Johnson, head of buying at Bensons for Beds.

‘Depending on the style of headboard you choose, it can also offer comfort whilst you spend time in bed, as well as preventing unwanted markings on your walls which in time will spoil the overall look of your bed,’ she continues.

Couple lounging in bed drinking tea and reading magazines, goodhomesmagazine.com

Image: SilentNight

How do I know which headboard will be best for me?

Preferences differ depending on the style of your bed frame and the look of your bedroom but it’s crucial to make the right choice for you.

‘The key things to consider when buying a headboard are whether it will suit your needs, if it will look good with the other furniture within your bedroom, and if the style will still appeal to you several years down the line,’ says Pam.

‘Upholstered headboards are increasingly popular at the moment, as they can be specially selected to match your divan base. You can also make a real statement with your fabric choice, the height of it, and choice of styling.

‘We are also seeing a real resurgence in buttoned headboards in recent years because they transition from very modern, with single or double rows of buttons, to a more traditional, classic diamond buttoned pattern. Likewise, studs are growing in popularity, likely also due to that modern, classic vibe many of us are opting for in our bedrooms.

‘Metal headboards are another option that can really make a statement in your bedroom. The designs can create a timeless look, from something classic to a more modern design, perhaps with brushed metal finishes. We are also seeing lots of buyers choosing a rose gold metal frame, which is a new twist on the look,’ says Pam.

Silent Night headboard selection in a range of bright colours and fabrics, goodhomesmagazine.com

Image: SilentNight

How can I measure headboard height accurately?

It’s important to know how tall or short you’d like the headboard to be before ordering or browsing, so you know the kind of styles and options available to you. Measuring for anything can be tricky if you’re not sure how to do it though.

‘The way you measure for a headboard depends on the type of headboard you’re getting,’ says Pam. ‘If you select a floorstanding headboard, you’ll need to measure from your bedroom floor, to the height of the headboard you purchase as that is usually where the height finishes.

‘On the other hand, if you opt for a strutted headboard (with two wooden struts to affix to the back of your base), you need to measure from the floor to the top of your mattress, and add the height of the headboard you are purchasing. The sum of the two figures will give you the finished height the top of your headboard will reach.’

Obviously, this is only important if you’re purchasing a headboard separately. If you’re ordering a bed frame and mattress with a headboard, the work will be done for you by the supplier usually.