An king size upholstered bed can do more than just complete your bedroom—it can transform it into a haven of comfort and style. With its generous size and luxurious design, it becomes the focal point of your space. But when shopping online, it’s easy to be swept away by good looks alone.
Before clicking that ‘Buy Now’ button, it’s important to look beyond the aesthetic. You’ll want to double-check the bed’s dimensions to ensure it fits your room comfortably, with enough space to walk around. Fabric choice is another big factor—while velvet adds a plush finish, linen offers breathability and a lighter feel. Consider the maintenance involved, too. Some fabrics stain more easily than others or attract dust and pet hair.
Then, there’s the question of frame quality, storage options, and assembly details. Is it a gas-lift storage model? Are tools included for setup? Does it come with a warranty?
A king-size bed is a long-term investment. Taking time to review materials, construction, and return policies will save you from regrets later. Let’s walk through the essentials to help you choose confidently and sleep better, knowing your decision was a smart one.
1. Measure Twice, Order Once
One of the most common mistakes? Getting the size wrong. A king bed takes up a fair bit of space, and an upholstered one, with a wide headboard or plush footboard, often demands even more room.
- Measure your room: Leave enough space to walk around comfortably on all sides.
- Don’t forget the extras: Account for bedside tables, wardrobes and foot traffic areas.
- Double-check bed measurements: Websites often include both mattress and full-frame sizes.
A bed that overwhelms the space won’t feel luxurious—it’ll feel cramped.
2. Know Your Storage Needs
king size upholstered beds often come with clever storage features, like ottoman lifts or drawers. These are especially handy if you live in a flat or a home with limited wardrobe space.
- Ottoman-style bases offer deep storage, ideal for duvets, blankets, or out-of-season clothes.
- Drawer bases are more accessible but might require additional clearance.
Choose the storage type that works best with your room layout and how often you’ll need access.
3. Pick the Right Upholstery Fabric
This is where form meets function. The upholstery is what you’ll see and touch every day, so choose something you love that also suits your lifestyle.
- Velvet: Luxe and soft but may show marks or attract dust.
- Linen: Light and breathable, but may wrinkle over time.
- Faux leather: Easy to clean, durable, and a bit more modern.
If you have pets or kids, consider performance fabrics or darker tones that hide stains and wear better.
4. Look at the Frame, Not Just the Finish
A beautiful bed needs a strong backbone. Make sure the internal structure is robust and built to last.
- Solid wood frames tend to be the most durable.
- Metal frames are lighter and easier to move but might squeak over time.
- Check slat spacing: Closely spaced slats offer better mattress support and durability.
You want something that looks elegant but doesn’t wobble after six months.
5. Check the Assembly Requirements
When buying online, most beds will arrive flat-packed. So, what’s the deal with the setup?
- Self-assembly: Read reviews to check if the instructions are easy to follow.
- Delivery & installation options: Some retailers offer professional assembly for an added fee.
Make sure you’ve got the tools—and the patience—or budget for help if needed.
6. Match It to Your Mattress
Buying a new frame and keeping your old mattress? Or going all-in with both? Either way, compatibility is key.
- Check mattress depth compatibility: Some upholstered beds have higher sides that can hide a thick mattress.
- Slatted or solid base? Slatted bases give a different kind of mattress support than flat platforms.
And if you’re upgrading to memory foam or hybrid, make sure your new bed frame can accommodate the weight.
7. Style Matters, But So Does Versatility
A king size upholstered bed is a big commitment—literally. So make sure it’ll work with your style now and five years from now.
- Neutral tones like beige, grey, or cream are timeless and easy to dress up.
- Bold colours can make a statement but might limit your decor flexibility.
Think beyond current trends and pick something that works with different bedding and decor styles.
8. Pay Attention to Headboard Design
The headboard is the visual anchor of the bed, and it affects both aesthetics and comfort.
- Tall, tufted headboards add drama and comfort for sitting up in bed.
- Sleek, low-profile designs work better in smaller rooms or modern setups.
Check if the headboard is padded, how it’s attached, and whether it aligns with your room’s vibe.
9. Mind the Delivery Details
You don’t want to fall in love with a bed only to realise it won’t fit through your front door.
- Check packaging dimensions: Make sure it’ll go up the stairs or around tight corners.
- Delivery services: Curbside delivery means you might need an extra hand to carry it inside.
- Assembly add-ons: Worth considering if the bed is particularly heavy or intricate.
Plan ahead so the big day isn’t a big hassle.
10. Read the Return Policy (and Reviews)
Always check what happens if you change your mind—or if something arrives damaged.
- Return period: Some brands offer 30-day returns; others may be final sales.
- Refund or store credit? Make sure you know what you’ll get back.
- Customer reviews: Look for consistent complaints or praise. Photos from real buyers can be especially helpful.
A strong return policy is peace of mind when buying such a large piece online.
11. Budget Wisely—But Look Beyond Price Tags
Not all king beds are priced equally, and you do get what you pay for in many cases.
- Entry-level models might save money upfront but may lack durability.
- Mid-range to premium beds often offer sturdier frames, better upholstery, and smarter storage.
Factor in delivery, assembly, and potential upgrades (like a matching bench or nightstands).
12. Check for Extras and Add-ons
Some online retailers offer helpful perks that can improve your buying experience. Free delivery and returns are common, saving you time and effort. Some even send extra fabric swatches so you can feel confident about the colour and texture before buying. A few brands go further by including matching bedding or accessories to complete the look. While these extras may not be the deciding factor, they do add value. If you’re comparing similar beds across websites, these little bonuses can tip the scale and make your online shopping feel a bit more thoughtful—and a lot more convenient.
Final Thought: Invest Where You Sleep
You spend nearly a third of your life in bed. An king size upholstered bed is more than furniture—it’s your daily retreat. Taking the time to make the right choice online means you will love how it looks and feels.
So don’t rush. Bookmark your options, ask questions, and reread those specs. Your dream bed is just a few clicks away—as long as you know what to look for.