The Wooden Bed Guide

Traditional Wooden Beds

Traditional wooden beds feature classic craftsmanship with detailed headboards, turned posts, and elegant finials. Often crafted from oak, pine, or mahogany, these frames bring warmth and character to period properties or country-style bedrooms. Look for features like panelled headboards, curved edges, and rich wood tones that create a homely, timeless feel.

Best for: Period properties, cottage-style homes, and classic interiors.

Contemporary and Minimalist Wooden Beds

These types of wooden beds are created with clean lines, low-profile frames, and simple silhouettes. Focusing on natural grain and understated elegance, they often feature platform bases and minimal decorative detail. Light woods like ash or birch work particularly well in these modern frames.

Best for: Modern bedrooms, Scandi-inspired spaces, and minimalist interiors.

Rustic Wooden Beds

Rustic wooden beds embrace natural imperfections with chunky frames, reclaimed wood, and weathered finishes. These beds bring character and warmth, often featuring visible knots, rough-hewn textures, and sturdy construction that suits country-style or industrial-farmhouse bedrooms.

Best for: Farmhouse interiors, country homes, and rustic-inspired spaces.

Four Poster Wooden Beds

Four-poster wooden beds create a stunning focal point with tall posts at each corner, perfect for adding height and elegance to larger bedrooms. These statement pieces work beautifully in both traditional and contemporary settings, depending on the wood finish and post design.

Best for: Master bedrooms, larger guest rooms, and statement interiors.

Wooden Sleigh Beds

Sleigh beds feature distinctive curved headboards and footboards that resemble a traditional sleigh. Typically crafted from solid wood with a deep, rich finish, these elegant frames add a touch of luxury and work beautifully in traditional or transitional bedrooms.

Best for: Classic bedrooms, transitional spaces, and anyone wanting a standout centrepiece.

Pine

Pine is one of the most popular choices for wooden beds, valued for its affordability and light, natural appearance. It's a softwood that's easy to work with, making it ideal for painted or stained finishes. Pine develops a beautiful honey tone over time and suits both traditional and contemporary styles.

Pros: Affordable, lightweight, readily available, takes stain and paint well.

Cons: Softer than hardwoods, can dent or scratch more easily, may show wear over time.

Oak

Oak is a premium hardwood known for its exceptional strength and distinctive grain pattern. It's significantly more durable than pine and ages beautifully, developing a rich finish over the years. Oak beds are a worthwhile investment, often lasting for decades with proper care.

Pros: Extremely durable, stunning grain, ages beautifully, long-lasting.

Cons: More expensive, heavier, limited natural colour options.

Ash

Ash is a strong, flexible hardwood with a light, creamy colour and attractive grain. It's comparable to oak in strength but offers a subtler appearance, making it popular in contemporary and Scandi-inspired designs. Ash takes stain well and provides excellent value for a hardwood option.

Pros: Strong and durable, attractive grain, light colour, good value for hardwood.

Cons: Can be pricier than pine, less common than oak.

Birch

Birch is a light-coloured hardwood with a smooth, fine grain that works beautifully in modern, minimalist designs. It's strong and stable, resisting warping and shrinking better than some softwoods. Birch offers a clean, contemporary look at a mid-range price point.

Pros: Stable and strong, fine grain, modern aesthetic.

Cons: Less distinctive grain, mid-range price, can be harder to source.

Walnut

Walnut is a luxury hardwood prized for its rich, dark colour and striking grain patterns. It's incredibly durable and brings sophistication to any bedroom, though it’s often higher in price. Walnut beds are investment pieces that make a real statement.

Pros: Luxurious dark tones, beautiful grain, extremely durable.

Cons: Expensive, heavy, limited availability.

Rubberwood

Rubberwood comes from rubber trees at the end of their latex-producing life, making it an eco-friendly choice. It's a dense, durable hardwood with a light colour and tight grain. Rubberwood offers excellent value, providing hardwood quality at a more accessible price point.

Pros: Eco-friendly, affordable hardwood, durable, takes stain well.

Cons: Plainer grain than premium woods, requires proper treatment to resist moisture.

Engineered Wood and MDF

Engineered wood and MDF (Medium Density Fibreboard) aren't solid wood but are commonly used in budget-friendly bed frames, often with a wood veneer finish. These materials are affordable and allow for smooth painted finishes, though they're less durable than solid wood and more prone to damage from moisture or heavy impact.

Pros: Very affordable, lightweight, smooth finish.

Cons: Less durable, can swell with moisture, not as strong as solid wood.

Durability and Longevity

A well-made wooden bed frame is a true long-term investment, built to stay strong and stable for decades with the right care. Hardwoods like oak, ash, and walnut offer outstanding durability, while solid wood construction ensures lasting strength and stability. Thicker timber posts and side rails add extra support, especially for larger sizes or heavier mattresses. With regular maintenance and the occasional tightening of fittings, a wooden bed can provide comfort and reliability for generations to come.

Timeless Natural Beauty

Wood brings a natural warmth and character that no man-made material can match. Every wooden bed frame is unique, with individual grain patterns, knots, and colour variations that make it truly one of a kind. It also ages incredibly well, developing a rich, lived-in finish that adds depth and charm. Its timeless appeal means a wooden bed complements any interior style, effortlessly adapting as your décor and bedding change.

Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Choice

Wooden beds are a naturally sustainable choice, made from a renewable resource with a much lower carbon footprint than metal or plastic alternatives. Opt for FSC-certified timber or eco-friendly options like rubberwood, which repurpose trees at the end of their latex-producing life. Wood also stores carbon and can be recycled or biodegraded at the end of its lifespan, making it kinder to the planet.

Excellent Mattress Compatibility

Wooden bed frames are a great base for all mattress types, providing stable, even support that helps your mattress perform at its best. The natural flexibility of wood, particularly in sprung slatted systems, offers gentle give that enhances comfort without compromising support.

• Memory Foam and Latex Mattresses: Pair best with slatted wooden bases spaced no more than 7cm apart. This allows for proper airflow whilst supporting the mattress evenly.
• Pocket Sprung and Hybrid Mattresses: Thrive on sprung wooden slats that flex with the mattress, enhancing comfort and prolonging its lifespan.
• Open Coil and Orthopaedic Mattresses: Work well with either solid wooden slat bases or closely spaced slats for firm, consistent support.

Need help choosing the right mattress to pair with your new wooden bed? Our mattress guide has everything you need to know.

Hypoallergenic and Easy to Clean

Wooden bed frames are naturally hypoallergenic, making them an excellent choice for allergy sufferers. Unlike upholstered beds, wood doesn't trap dust mites, pet dander, or pollen in fabric fibres. The smooth, solid surface is easy to wipe clean with a damp cloth, keeping your sleeping environment fresh and allergen-free.

Wood also doesn't harbour moisture in the same way fabric can, reducing the risk of mould or mildew developing around the bed frame. This makes wooden beds particularly suitable for anyone with asthma, eczema, or respiratory sensitivities.

How Many People Will It Sleep and How Much Room Do You Have?

Wooden bed frames come in all standard UK sizes. The right one depends on your space and who’ll be sleeping in it. A small double wooden bed (120cm x 190cm) offers extra comfort for solo sleepers without overwhelming smaller spaces. Whereas, a standard double (135cm x 190cm) is a more suitable choice for couples, sleeping two people more comfortably. For bigger rooms measuring over 3.5m by 4m, a super king (180cm x 200cm) offers maximum space and luxury.

Always measure your room carefully, allowing around 60cm of clearance on each side of the bed for easy movement. Remember that some traditional wooden frames with ornate headboards or posts can extend beyond the mattress dimensions, so check the full frame measurements before buying. For help choosing the right size, visit our UK bed sizes guide.

Do You Need Storage Space?

If storage is a priority, consider how your wooden bed can help you make the most of your bedroom. Many wooden frames offer generous under-bed clearance, perfect for storage boxes, baskets, or vacuum-packed bedding.

Some designs incorporate built-in storage solutions like drawers integrated into the base or ottoman-style lift-up mechanisms that reveal large storage compartments beneath the mattress. These are particularly useful in smaller bedrooms or for storing seasonal bedding, extra pillows, and bulky items.

Before buying, check the under-bed height to ensure storage solutions will fit comfortably underneath. If opting for a bed with built-in storage, consider how easy the mechanism is to operate and whether you have space for full extension in your room.

Explore our full range of storage beds for more space-saving options.

What Colour and Finish Do You Want?

The finish of your wooden bed affects its overall look and how it complements your bedroom décor. Some popular styles include:

• Natural Wood Finishes – Showcase the wood's grain and character, from light pine and ash to rich walnut and oak. These work beautifully in traditional, rustic, or Scandi interiors.
• White – Bright and fresh, white wooden beds open up smaller spaces and suit coastal, shabby chic, or children's bedrooms. Painted white pine is particularly popular.
• Grey – A versatile neutral that ranges from soft dove grey to deep charcoal. Grey wooden beds feel contemporary and sophisticated, working across modern or transitional styles.
• Black – Bold and dramatic, black wooden beds create a striking focal point in modern or industrial bedrooms. Matte finishes feel contemporary, whilst gloss adds traditional elegance.
• Painted Colours – From sage green to navy blue, painted wooden beds add personality and colour. These work well in eclectic, country, or children's rooms where you want a bespoke touch.
• Waxed and Oiled Finishes – Enhance the natural grain whilst protecting the wood. These low-sheen finishes feel organic and tactile, perfect for rustic or farmhouse styles.

Type of Construction

The quality of construction determines how long your wooden bed will last and how stable it feels. Look for these key features when choosing a frame:

• Solid Wood vs Veneered – Solid wood throughout offers superior strength and longevity. Veneered beds (a thin layer of real wood over engineered wood) cost less but won't be as durable.
• Joint Types – Dovetail, mortise-and-tenon, or dowel joints are far stronger than simple screwed connections. Quality frames use traditional joinery techniques that withstand years of use.
• Slat System – Check whether slats are included and how they're supported. Sprung wooden slats offer better comfort and mattress support than basic flat slats. Slats should be spaced no more than 7cm apart.
• Centre Support Rail – For double beds and larger, a centre support rail with an additional leg prevents sagging and extends the bed's lifespan.

How to Care for and Maintain a Wooden Bed

Wooden beds are easy to maintain and will reward you with decades of use when cared for properly. Follow these simple steps to keep your frame looking beautiful and structurally sound.

• Regular Dusting and Cleaning – Wipe the frame weekly with a soft, dry cloth to remove dust. For deeper cleaning, use a barely damp cloth with a drop of mild wood soap, then dry immediately to prevent moisture damage.
• Protect the Finish – Avoid harsh chemical cleaners, abrasive sponges, or excessive water, all of which can damage the wood or finish. For painted beds, touch up any chips promptly to prevent moisture getting into the wood beneath.
• Treat Natural Wood – If your bed has a natural, waxed, or oiled finish, reapply wood wax or oil every 6–12 months to nourish the timber and maintain its protective layer. This keeps the wood looking rich and prevents it drying out.
• Tighten Fittings Regularly – Check bolts, screws, and joints every few months, tightening any that have loosened through regular use. This prevents creaking and keeps the frame stable.
• Avoid Direct Sunlight and Heat – Position your bed away from radiators and direct sunlight where possible. Prolonged exposure can fade finishes and cause wood to dry out or crack over time.
• Use Mattress Protectors – Protect your bed frame from accidental spills by using a good quality mattress protector. This prevents moisture seeping into the wooden slats or base.
• Lift, Don't Drag – When moving your bed, always lift it rather than dragging it across the floor. This prevents damage to both the frame joints and your flooring.

How to Stop a Wooden Bed from Squeaking

A squeaky wooden bed can disrupt your sleep and become very annoying, but it's usually straightforward to fix.

• Locate the source – Gently move around the bed to identify where the noise is coming from. Squeaking usually stems from around joints, slats, or where wood meets metal fittings.
• Tighten all fixings – Use a screwdriver or Allen key to tighten every bolt, screw, and fitting. Don't overtighten - just ensure everything feels snug and secure.
• Lubricate joints – Apply a small amount of wax, or wood-safe lubricant to joints where wood rubs against wood. Avoid oil-based products that can damage finishes.
• Add washers – Place rubber or felt washers between wooden parts and metal fixings to reduce friction and absorb movement.
• Cushion the slats – If slats are creaking, place thin cork strips, felt pads, or rubber grips between the slats and the frame to stop them shifting.
• Check for gaps – Inspect joints for any gaps that might allow movement. Small wooden shims can fill these spaces and stabilise loose connections.
• Replace worn parts – If slats are cracked or joints are damaged, replace them before they cause further issues. Contact the manufacturer for spare parts where possible.

How Much Weight Can a Wooden Bed Frame Hold?

The weight capacity of a wooden bed frame depends on its size, construction, and the type of wood used. Most solid wood single beds hold around 120–150kg, while well-built hardwood kings can support 250–350kg or more when reinforced with centre rails and extra legs. Hardwoods like oak and ash offer greater strength than softer woods such as pine, and thicker timber with traditional joinery provides added stability. Always check the manufacturer’s weight limit, and if you’re close to the maximum, choose a frame with extra centre support to protect your bed and ensure long-lasting comfort.

How to Assemble a Wooden Bed Frame

Assembling a wooden bed frame is straightforward and typically takes 30 minutes to an hour with basic tools. Follow these steps for a sturdy, long-lasting result.

• Prepare your space – Clear a large area with soft flooring protection (blankets or cardboard) to prevent scratches. Gather your tools, including a screwdriver, Allen key, and possibly a rubber mallet.
• Check all parts – Lay out all components and compare against the instruction manual. Ensure all fixings, slats, and parts are included before you start.
• Assemble the frame – Attach the side rails to the headboard and footboard following the instructions. Don't fully tighten bolts, yet—leave them slightly loose until everything is aligned.
• Add centre support – If included, install the centre support rail and any additional legs. This is crucial for double beds and larger.
• Install slat holders – Fix any slat holders or support strips to the side rails, ensuring they're level and evenly spaced.
• Position the slats – Lay slats across the frame, spacing them evenly (usually around 5–7cm apart). Some beds have numbered or curved slats—follow the instructions for correct placement.
• Final tightening – Once everything is correctly positioned, tighten all bolts and screws firmly. Work systematically around the frame.
• Check stability – Stand the bed upright and test for wobbles. Adjust any fittings if needed.

Ready to find your perfect wooden bed? Explore our full range of wooden bed frames and discover styles to suit every bedroom.