The two most popular styles of bed bases are divan beds and bed frames (also known as slat beds).
Which is best for you depends on whether you prefer firmness over softness, floor space over style, or storage over ventilation.
Keep reading to discover how to choose the right bed base for you.
What is the Best Type of Bed Base?
Divan beds offer more support and better storage. They have a firm base, which helps the bed and mattress last longer, and provides good lumbar support, especially for those with back pain.
Slat bed bases are lighter and more breathable. This keeps mattresses slightly cooler and makes it easier to move the frames around your bedroom. The frame is also less heavy-duty, which offers softer, more flexible back support.
When to Choose a Divan Bed?
Better for storage, small rooms, strong back support, and longevity.
Divan beds have a solid, upholstered base that sits on or just above the floor. It usually comes with drawer storage or an ottoman-style, where you can lift the mattress to access more storage.
Benefits of divan beds include:
- Firm support: Divan beds are strong and stable, which offers sleepers firmer, more even back support. The structure also reduces noise and prevents mattress sagging.
- Durable: The fixed base creates a sturdier bed frame compared to other styles. A stronger, longer-lasting frame makes divan beds a popular choice for rentals, hotels, and children’s rooms.
- Space saving: The mattress rests directly on the base (unlike other beds that sit on the slightly extended frame). This takes up less floor space, which is ideal for smaller rooms.
- Maximum storage: Divan beds are higher than slat beds (sitting around 30 inches high) to accommodate extra built-in storage, like drawers or ottoman storage.
Shop divan beds in Manchester.
When to Choose a Slat Bed?
Better for flexibility, breathability, and improved airflow beneath the mattress.
Bunk beds and bed frames are types of slat beds. They have a base of slats running under the mattress and a gap (usually around 18-25 inches) between the mattress and the floor.
Benefits of slat bed frames include:
- Better airflow: Slat beds don’t sit on the floor. This allows air to circulate beneath the mattress and prevents moisture build-up.
- Cooler feel: It depends on the style of mattress, but bed frames can feel slightly cooler compared to divan beds.
- Lightweight: Slat beds are easier to move around. The frame itself is lighter compared to a divan bed, and the overall structure makes it easier to disassemble.
- Easy to clean: Slat bed frames can be easier to clean, as you can hoover/clean under the bed without having to lift it.
Shop slat bed frames in Manchester.
FAQs
How Much is a Divan Bed Base?
Our divan bed bases start at £79 per bed frame, depending on the size, with mattresses costing as little as £79.
Can I Put Any Mattress on a Divan Base?
Yes, you can put any mattress on a divan bed base that’s the right size. Shop our high-quality, cheap mattresses in Manchester today.
Is a Solid Bed Base Better Than Slats?
It isn’t necessarily better, as it depends on what your priorities are. A solid bed base is firmer, more space-saving, and offers a better range of storage solutions. Whereas slat beds are softer, more cushioned, and offer better ventilation beneath the mattress.
Shop Cheap Beds in Manchester Today
At Floor Express, we’re proud to offer quality beds for an affordable price. Our range of bed frames, including divan beds, are often up to 50% cheaper than high-street retailers.
We offer a fast, same-day collection and two-day delivery service across Manchester for our bed and mattress range.
For affordable, quality beds that last, explore our range of divan beds or visit our bed shop in Manchester today.
