A headboard is an instant upgrade to any bed frame. A headboard is the most visible part of your bed and instantly upgrades the style and design of your space. Headboards also help support your back, keep your pillows from falling, and protect your walls.
If you’re unsure how to navigate the materials, styles, and installation types, follow our headboard buying guide.
A combination of function and aesthetics, headboards provide benefits to the bedroom:
- An elevated design appeal
- Protection for your bedroom walls
- Extended comfort for sitting upright in bed
- Secures your pillows from slipping off the bed
Headboards come in many designs and shapes, from flashy detailing to subtle neutrality. Here are a few of the most common design types you will find:
Panel Headboards
Panel headboards are made of a solid panel of material, such as wood, upholstery, or metal. They have a traditional design and suit many design and aesthetic applications.
Slat Headboards
Slat headboards consist of vertical or horizontal slats encompassed by an outer frame. They’re often made of wood or metal and suit rustic and
contemporary styles.
Sleigh Headboards
Often a statement piece, sleigh headboards have a curved and grand appearance. Curving away from the mattress, they can be large and ornate or minimalistic and modern.
Bookcase Headboards
Bookcase or storage headboards provide shelves and nooks perfect for books, water bottles, or other storage needs. Shelves may be on the front of the headboard or along each side.
Common Headboard Materials
Metal
A metal headboard provides a modern upgrade to your bed. Lightweight and low maintenance, these styles are a perfect showstopper.
Wood
From rustic charm to warm contemporary, a wooden headboard adds warmth and style to your bed frame.
Fabric/Upholstery
The best in comfort and relaxation, an upholstered headboard provides a soft quilted look for a luxurious sleeping experience.
Natural Fibers
Headboards made from fibers like rattan or wicker shine with natural beauty. These materials are often woven into a mat-like appearance.
Installation Types
There are three common ways of installing your headboard so that it meets your preferences and sits perfectly aligned with your bed frame:
1.
Freestanding
A freestanding headboard stands directly on the floor behind the bed frame, but it can be attached to the bed frame or wall for more stability and support.
2.
Mounted
A bed frame-mounted headboard attaches directly to the back of an existing bed frame using brackets on the legs. They can be attached to any frame if they’re size compatible.
3.
Wall-Mounted
A wall-mounted headboard, also known as a hanging headboard, is designed to be hung on the wall rather than attached to the bed itself. This allows you to install the headboard at any height, creating a custom look for your room.
How Tall Should My Headboard Be?
There are no fixed sizes when it comes to the height of your headboard, though most common measurements extend from 40” to 50” above the mattress. Headboard heights should be determined based on your preferences.
If you prefer a bold statement and a spot to lean back, look for a 50” or taller headboard. For a conservative, streamlined look, opt for a lower headboard height.
How Wide Should My Headboard Be?
The width of your headboard should be directly proportional to the size of your bed and mattress. Headboard and bed frame sizes are based on standard bed sizes. If you have a full-sized bed, you need a full-sized headboard.
Do not size up or down when choosing your headboard, as many designs extend a bit wider than the mattress on either side.
Do I Need To Pair My Headboard With a Footboard?
A headboard and footboard set naturally define the boundaries of your bed; however, footboards aren't always necessary. Many design preferences lean toward opting out of the footboard to help open the room.
1.
Size
Your headboard and bed frame must be size compatible. For example, if you have a Queen bed, ensure that the headboard you choose is sized for a Queen.
2.
Installation Type
Would you prefer a wall-mounted headboard that can be customized to your height preferences? Or a freestanding or bed frame-mounted headboard that easily attaches to the bed? Consider the installation type that best suits your needs.
3.
Materials & Design
Headboards come in a variety of styles, from industrial metal to colorful tufted upholstery. If you have an existing bed frame, match the design and material to your new headboard purchase. If you are considering upgrading to a new set, consider your design and aesthetic preferences.
Whether you are looking for an ornate statement piece to show off your bed, or a streamlined contemporary appeal, we’re here to help you build out your bedroom with the perfect headboard. Search our curated collection of quality headboards at furntiure.com to find your fit.