A good-quality bed doesn’t have to cost a fortune. With smart shopping, well-made options are available for under £400.
Your choices range from classic metal frames to practical divan bases with built-in storage, each offering different benefits for your bedroom.
Join us below for our top shopping tips.
Choose divan bases for maximum value
Divan bases offer excellent value as they come without a headboard, making them significantly cheaper than standard bed frames. You can always add a headboard later to suit your style and budget.
Basic divan bases provide a sturdy foundation for your mattress, with storage drawers available as an optional upgrade on some models.
These versatile beds often include castors for easy movement around your bedroom, making them an excellent choice when you enjoy refreshing your room’s layout regularly.
Pictured: Giltedge Beds Divan Base, Available in a choice of colours and fabrics, priced £223 from Bedstar Online.
Compare similar styles
Higher-end bed frames often have budget-friendly lookalikes that capture the same aesthetic for less money, especially in popular styles like sleigh beds and ottoman designs.
Look for beds that mimic expensive design features like deep buttoning or carved details but use cost-effective materials and more straightforward construction methods to achieve similar looks.
Consider metal bed frames
Metal bed frames offer the perfect mix of style and savings, with prices often starting around £200 for a double. You’ll get classic designs that suit any bedroom decor.
Choose frames with solid construction and a durable powder-coated finish. Black and chrome beds age particularly well and maintain their looks.
Bundle your bed and mattress
Buy your bed frame and mattress together to kill two birds with one stone. Retailers typically reward this smart shopping approach with substantial package discounts.
Look for bundle deals that include free delivery and assembly services alongside your bed and mattress combo to squeeze even more value from your purchase.
Time your purchase perfectly
Traditional sales periods like Black Friday and Boxing Day bring the deepest discounts on beds and mattresses, while unexpected flash sales pop up throughout the year.
Sign up for retailer newsletters to receive advance notice of upcoming sales and exclusive discount codes. This will help you time your purchase for maximum savings opportunities.
Pictured: Birlea Atlas Metal Bed Frame – Cream. Available from Bedstar online, priced £200
Explore payment options
Most bed retailers now offer flexible payment plans that let you spread costs over several months, helping you access premium options beyond your immediate budget.
Look for interest-free payment options that let you split your purchase into manageable monthly instalments without paying extra for the convenience of spreading payments.
Look for display models
Ex-display beds often sell for up to half the regular price, and while they may show slight wear from showroom use, they typically include full warranties.
During your showroom visits, ask stores about available ex-display stock, especially during end-of-season clearances when retailers make space for new bedroom collections.
Don’t overlook storage solutions
Ottoman storage beds might cost more initially, but they save money long-term by eliminating the need for extra bedroom furniture. They effectively combine your bed and storage needs.
Choose side-opening designs for rooms with low ceilings or end-opening options for centrally positioned beds, potentially saving hundreds on additional furniture purchases.
Pictured: Timberland Wooden Ottoman Bed – White, priced £299 available from Bedstar online.
Watch for hidden costs
When comparing retailers, factor in delivery and assembly fees, as some advertise attractive base prices but hide significant extra charges behind seemingly good deals.
Search for sellers offering complimentary delivery and assembly services, and check whether they include old bed removal or offer it as a budget-friendly additional option.
Sell your old bed
Your existing bed could help fund your new purchase, as there’s strong demand for second-hand beds in good condition with their original fire safety labels.
List your bed on local marketplaces with clear photos and measurements. Even older beds in usable condition can fetch £50-100.
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