A Guide to Buying Fabric Beds

For most, the bedroom is a sanctuary, and the bed is the most important piece of furniture in the room. When designing a bedroom, the emphasis should be on comfort, as much time is spent sleeping in the room. This fabric bed buyer’s guide will help you decide which design, size and materials best suit your space, lifestyle and long-term comfort needs.

Choosing the right bed size for your room

One of the most important considerations in purchasing a fabric bed frame is determining which size bed and mattress would be best for a room. While personal comfort preferences matter, room dimensions and layout should always guide this decision.

Sizes range from single, double, king and super king size mattresses. A single or double bed may suit smaller bedrooms, guest rooms or teenage spaces, while king and super king beds are often chosen for master bedrooms where space allows for a more generous footprint.

When selecting a size, consider:

• Clearance around the bed for walking and furniture placement

• Doorways, wardrobes and window access

• Whether bedside tables will sit comfortably without crowding the space

In tighter rooms, a fabric bed with built-in storage can reduce the need for extra furniture, helping maintain a balanced layout.

Fabric bed frame styles and visual impact

Choosing the style of a fabric bed frame is entirely based on personal preference and the design of the bedroom. Since the bed is the focal point in every bedroom, the style of the bed frame sets the tone for the room. Fabric bed frame styles range from simple to elaborate. 

Minimalist designs often feature clean lines, low profiles and subtle upholstery, making them ideal for modern or Scandinavian-inspired interiors. More detailed styles may include tall headboards, vertical or channel tufting or winged edges that add structure and presence.

Some key style variations include:

• Beds with or without headboards

• Low-profile versus tall statement frames

• Designs with integrated storage or lift-up bases

• Upholstery finishes that lean soft and textured or smooth and structured

Your choice should reflect both your aesthetic preferences and how you use the space. For example, a padded headboard is ideal if you spend time sitting up in bed, while a sleeker frame may suit rooms designed for a cleaner, uncluttered look.

Materials, internal construction and support

Fabric bed frames are made from various materials, and what sits beneath the upholstery matters just as much as what you see on the surface. Most fabric bed frames are constructed from a timber base that is then covered with upholstered fabric.

Quality examples include hardwood or reinforced timber frames, which offer better long-term stability than lightweight or composite materials. Larger beds often include centre support beams and additional legs to evenly distribute weight and prevent sagging over time.

Key construction elements to look for include:

• Solid timber frames rather than particleboard

• Reinforced joints and fixings

• Central support rails for queen, king and super king sizes

• Slatted or platform mattress support suited to your mattress type

Paying attention to internal materials ensures the bed remains quiet, stable and supportive for years.

Upholstery options used in fabric beds

Fabric beds are available in a range of upholstery materials, and each option brings different visual and practical benefits. Understanding how these fabrics perform can help you choose a bed that suits both your space and lifestyle.

• Woven fabrics are one of the most common choices for fabric beds. They are durable, hold their shape well and work comfortably in everyday bedrooms. Their subtle texture adds interest without dominating the room.

• Linen and linen-blend fabrics offer a relaxed, breathable look that suits lighter, more natural interiors. These fabrics pair well with layered bedding and softer colour palettes, though they may show creasing over time.

• Velvet-style and plush fabrics create a richer, more luxurious appearance. They absorb light and add warmth, making them ideal for larger bedrooms or feature-focused designs. These fabrics often suit lower-traffic spaces where visual impact is a priority.

Cleanability and everyday maintenance

When choosing a fabric bed, cleanability is a practical consideration that should not be underestimated. A bed frame is used daily and naturally collects dust, fibres and the occasional spill.

Modern upholstered beds are designed to be low-maintenance when cared for correctly. Regular light vacuuming helps prevent dust build-up, particularly along seams, headboards and base edges. Many contemporary fabrics are selected specifically for durability, making them more resistant to everyday wear than people often expect.

For households with children or pets, tighter woven fabrics tend to be more forgiving and easier to maintain over time. Spot cleaning small marks as they occur is usually enough to keep the bed looking fresh, while avoiding harsh chemicals helps preserve the integrity of the upholstery. Choosing a fabric bed that suits your lifestyle means less upkeep and better longevity.

Choosing the right colour for longevity and flexibility

Colour choice has a significant impact on how a fabric bed performs visually over time. While trends come and go, neutral tones remain popular for their versatility and ability to adapt as bedroom décor evolves. Shades such as soft greys, warm beiges and muted charcoals allow for easy updates through bedding and accessories without needing to replace the bed itself.

Darker fabrics can add depth and contrast to a room, particularly in larger spaces, while mid-tone colours strike a balance between style and practicality. Lighter fabrics create a soft, open feel but may require more attentive care depending on use.

Discover fabric beds designed for real living at Gainsville

There are many different factors to take into account when shopping around for modern beds, and making the right choices with the help of our fabric bed buyer’s guide will help you purchase a bed that will last you for many years.

Explore the Gainsville range of fabric beds, thoughtfully designed to balance comfort with long-lasting quality. Each design is crafted to be easy to maintain and versatile enough to suit a range of settings, from contemporary interiors to more classic bedroom styles. Shop the Gainsville collection today and discover a fabric bed that supports better sleep for years to come.