Headboards for All Bed Sizes.
A headboard is arguably the most visually dominant element of any bed, and yet it is also one of the most underestimated when people are furnishing a bedroom. The right headboard can pull together an entire room's aesthetic, provide practical back support for sitting up in bed, and even influence how comfortable your sleeping setup feels on a nightly basis.
At ZORA Beds, our headboard collection has been designed to complement our full range of beds while also standing on its own as a standalone upgrade. Whether you are refreshing an existing divan base, replacing a tired headboard, or building a bed from scratch, we offer sizes and styles to suit every UK standard bed dimension.
Headboard Types and Fitting Styles
Understanding the two main fitting categories helps narrow your options quickly and ensures the headboard you choose will actually work with your existing bed base.
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Standard strutted headboards attach to the bed base using two wooden struts that bolt into pre-drilled holes. They are straightforward to fit, lightweight, and easy to remove if you move house or redecorate. A double bed headboard with strutted fitting is the most common configuration for UK double divans and slatted frames.
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Floor-standing headboards extend all the way to the floor and are fixed to the bed base from behind. They feel more substantial, eliminate any visible gap between headboard and base, and are ideal if you want a tall, commanding design. A floor-standing headboard for a double bed creates a hotel-quality look that instantly elevates the room.
Choosing a Headboard by Bed Size
Getting the size right is essential. A headboard that is too narrow looks awkward, while one that is too wide overhangs unattractively. UK bed sizes follow standardised dimensions, and our headboards are manufactured to match them precisely.
If you are shopping for a small double headboard, the width should correspond to the four-foot measurement of a small double mattress and base. This size has become increasingly popular as more people opt for slightly more generous sleeping space than a single offers without committing to a full double. The headboard options in this size include both buttoned traditional designs and sleek contemporary panels.
For larger bedrooms, a superking headboard makes a statement. At six feet wide, a superking headboard demands to be noticed and works best in rooms where the bed can be positioned centrally with adequate wall space on either side. We offer floor-standing options in this size that reach impressive heights, creating a truly luxurious feel.
Design Styles to Suit Your Bedroom
The design of your headboard sets the decorative tone for the entire bed. Buttoned or deep-tufted designs have a classic, tailored appearance that works well in traditionally styled rooms. The buttoning creates a sense of depth and craftsmanship that plain panels cannot replicate, and these designs tend to age gracefully.
Contemporary panel headboards with clean, unadorned lines suit modern and minimalist interiors. They look particularly effective in neutral fabrics like grey or oatmeal, where the simplicity of the design speaks for itself. Some of our contemporary options include subtle vertical or horizontal stitching that adds visual interest without the formality of full buttoning.
For a more dramatic look, winged headboards feature side panels that extend beyond the main body of the headboard. These create a sense of enclosure and grandeur, and they work beautifully in bedrooms with tall ceilings where the extra height does not crowd the space.
Materials and Upholstery Quality
All of our headboards are upholstered in carefully selected fabrics that balance appearance with durability. The padding beneath the fabric uses high-density foam that holds its shape over time, so your headboard continues to look plump and well-maintained rather than flattening after a few months of use.
The internal frame is constructed from sturdy timber, which provides a solid mounting surface and prevents the headboard from flexing or wobbling when leaned against. This structural quality is particularly important for floor-standing designs, where the headboard's height creates additional leverage forces.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will any headboard fit my existing bed?
It depends on the fitting style and size of your bed base. Standard strutted headboards fit most UK divan bases and slatted frames that have pre-drilled headboard fixing points. Floor-standing headboards also require compatible fixing points. The key is matching the width of the headboard to your bed size exactly. If you are unsure, check your bed base for headboard bolts or consult our size guide.
What is the difference between a strutted and a floor-standing headboard?
A strutted headboard attaches via two wooden legs that bolt to the bed base, leaving a small gap between the bottom of the headboard and the floor. A floor-standing headboard rests directly on the floor and is braced against the bed base from behind. Floor-standing designs are taller, more substantial, and eliminate the gap beneath the headboard, giving a seamless built-in appearance.
Can I use a king size headboard on a superking bed?
No, the widths are different and the headboard will not align properly with your bed base. A UK king size headboard measures five feet wide, while a superking headboard measures six feet. Using the wrong size would leave visible gaps on either side. Always match the headboard width to your exact bed size for the best visual result.
How do I clean an upholstered headboard?
Routine maintenance involves gentle vacuuming with an upholstery brush to remove dust. For spot cleaning, use a slightly damp cloth with a small amount of mild fabric cleaner, working in the direction of the fabric's nap. Avoid soaking the fabric or using harsh chemicals. For velvet headboards, a soft dry brush is preferable to water-based cleaning to prevent watermarks.
Do headboards come with fixings included?
Yes, all ZORA Beds headboards include the necessary bolts and fixings for attachment to a compatible bed base. If you are fitting to a divan base, the bolts thread directly into the pre-existing fixing points. For slatted frames, the fitting method varies by manufacturer, so check that your frame accepts standard UK headboard bolts before ordering.