Whilst your choice of bed frame will contribute to the design and aesthetics of your bedroom; its key function is to provide a sturdy and supportive base for your mattress. A divan bed is essentially an upholstered box-shaped frame with a solid bed base forming a platform for your mattress, with a large, hollow interior that usually provides storage space.
Divan beds are often described as having two parts: the base and corresponding mattress. It is possible to buy a divan base on its own; however, you’ll find that many brands sell divan beds as a base and mattress set. These beds are the most popular choice of bed in the UK, and they’re available in all sorts of shapes and sizes. In addition to creating a clean and minimalist aesthetic and being an excellent option for extra storage space, these beds can include several functional and aesthetic extras such as wheels or castors for mobility, legs to stand, a footboard, or a headboard.
We have put together a list of potentially 'good buy' divan bed sets and discussed a few factors you may want to consider when looking for the perfect divan bed. Please note that the listed beds contain no or the least available storage space in the range. Storage size and configurations are dependent on the size of bed you choose and range from no storage, one or two drawers, up to full ottoman storage space.
(Important Facts, Studies, Advice, Considerations & FAQs In Conclusion)
| DIVAN BED | TYPE | WARRANTY | PRICE |
|---|---|---|---|
| Giltedge Beds Chatsworth Divan Bed | Platform Top with Pocket Spring Mattress | 1 Year | £289 |
| Silentnight Eco Comfort Divan Bed | Platform Top with Mirapocket Spring Mattress | 5 Years | £560 |
| Sealy Appleton Divan Bed | Platform top with Latex and Pocket Spring Mattress | 5 Years | £759 |
| Silentnight Sleep Soundly Miracoil Comfort Divan Base and Mattress Set | Platform top with Open Spring Miracoil Mattress | 5 Years | £339 |
| Giltedge Beds Tuscany 1000 Divan Bed | Platform top with Pocket Spring Mattress | 1 Year | £369 |
| Vispring Plymouth Supreme Premier Divan Base Set | Sprung Top with Steel Pocket Spring Mattress | 30 Years | £1744 |
1. Giltedge Beds Chatsworth Divan Bed
| HIGHLIGHTS | SUITABILITY |
|---|---|
| • Hardwood timber structure • Chrome glides • 1-year warranty | • Those seeking a platform top • Individuals who enjoy a medium feel • People who want to buy British |
The Giltedge Beds Chatsworth Divan Bed available from Bedstar is a solid platform top divan bed constructed with a hardwood timber structure. There are a range of base fabrics to choose from and the base feet are chrome glides (lightweight flat feet/discs) - ideal for carpet or laminate floors. Storage options include no drawer, one full-length sliding side drawer, or two drawers (one on each side).
The medium tension mattress is made up of 1000 pocket springs and a Belgian damask cover with a hand-tufted finish. It is turnable on both sides and comes with attached handles and vents. This divan bed comes with the option of an additional headboard - in a choice of designs. Giltedge Beds is a UK-made brand, and they offer a 1-year warranty on this product. Overall customers rate this divan bed highly and seem satisfied with their purchase.
2. Silentnight Eco Comfort Pocket 1200 Divan Bed
| HIGHLIGHTS | SUITABILITY |
|---|---|
| • Eco Comfort Fibres™ • Mirapocketspring mattress • 5-year warranty | • Those with allergies • People seeking a platform top • Individuals seeking customised options |
The Silentnight Eco Comfort Pocket 1200 Divan Bed has a platform top and most come with a wide selection of fabric choices - in both modern and traditional designs. There are several different under-bed storage options, and it is also possible to choose a deeper base that touches the floor, to a shorter slimline-style base (note, the slimline comes with fewer storage options). There is the option of two different styles of leg - the wider 'lime oak' or more traditional, slimmer 'beech'. The hypoallergenic Mirapocketspring mattress provides medium/firm zoned support, edge to edge support, pressure relief, and contains breathable Eco Comfort Fibres™.
Headboards are not included but are available to purchase separately. Silentnight offers free delivery and assembly service upon purchase of this divan bed, as well as a 5-year warranty. Customers highly rate this divan bed - many commenting that although firm and supportive, it is still very comfortable. Worth noting that a few shorter people mentioned that it might be a little too high for some.
3. Sealy Appleton Divan Bed
| HIGHLIGHTS | SUITABILITY |
|---|---|
| • Platform solid wooden top • Tencel fibres • 5-year warranty | • Hot sleepers • Those with allergies • Individuals preferring a medium firmness |
The Sealy Appleton Divan Bed available from Land of Beds might be a good option if you're looking for a divan set with no storage, or choice of storage depending on the size of the bed (2-drawer storage for a single bed and up to full ottoman storage for a king size). This platform top divan bed features a solid wooden top - providing support to the mattress, and is upholstered in fabric. There is a choice of fabric colour, and the option to include a headboard at an additional cost. The base depth is 34cm excluding the castors.
The 1400 pocket spring mattress manages noise and movement to prevent partner disturbance and has cooling latex facilitating pressure relief as well as a cool and comfortable sleep. In addition, this medium-firmness mattress is hypoallergenic and moisture-reducing eco-friendly Tencel fibres. Customers are offered a 5-year warranty upon purchase of this product and generally highly review this divan set. Many people have commented on the bed's comfort and firmness. Worth noting that others have mentioned that it is a little firmer than they had expected.
4. Silentnight Sleep Soundly Miracoil Comfort Divan Base and Mattress Set
| HIGHLIGHTS | SUITABILITY |
|---|---|
| • FSC accreditation • EcoComfort fibre • 5-year guarantee | • Hot sleepers • Those seeking side storage • Sleepers preferring a firm feel |
The Silentnight Sleep Soundly Miracoil Comfort Divan Base and Mattress Set is available exclusively from John Lewis & Partners and is a good potential option if you are looking for a divan bed with storage. This divan base offers two side drawers for easy access, a drawer depth of 45cm, and is fitted with wheels.
Whitewood (Picea Abies) and chipboard have been used to construct the frame, and all materials are FSC- certified - this ensures that all materials used have been obtained from well-managed forests and/or recycled sources. The base has an upholstered finish, and a headboard is not included but can be purchased separately.
The mattress is made with a Miracoil spring support system and offers a firm feel. Silentnight has used polyester and EcoComfort fibre as filling in this mattress, the latter made from recycled plastic bottles. Not only is this material sustainable, but it is also breathable - making it a good potential option for hot sleepers. This brand is made in the UK, and customers are offered a 5-year guarantee on this product. Customer reviews are very positive - many people comment on the excellent quality and value for money.
5. Giltedge Beds Tuscany 1000 Divan Bed
| HIGHLIGHTS | SUITABILITY |
|---|---|
| • Tencel fibre • Chrome glides • 1-year guarantee | • People who prefer a medium/soft feel • Hot sleepers • Those who like to buy British |
The Giltedge Beds Tuscany 1000 Divan Bed available from Bedstar is a platform top divan constructed from a hardwood timber frame providing a supportive and solid surface for the mattress. Multiple colours are available for the padded upholstery, and the base sits on chrome glides - ideal for carpet and laminate floors. Different styles of matching headboards are available at an additional cost. Storage is possible - sizes and configurations depend on the size of the bed.
The mattress is made of 1000 pocket springs and offers a medium/soft feel. The multilayered Tencel fibre infused filling allows for moisture-wicking and could be a good option for those with sensitive skin. The fabric is knitted and surface tufted making this mattress comfortable and durable. This brand is made in the UK, and manufacturers offer a 1-year guarantee on this divan set. Customer reviews are positive, with many people highlighting excellent service received.
6. Vispring Plymouth Supreme Premier Divan Base Set
| HIGHLIGHTS | SUITABILITY |
|---|---|
| • Sprung top Scandanavian wood base • Mattress handmade in the UK • 30-year guarantee | • Those with a high budget • Eco-conscious individuals • People seeking high-end materials |
The Vispring Plymouth Supreme Premier Divan Base Set available exclusively from John Lewis & Partners is a potentially good option for those with a very flexible budget. This sprung-top divan base provides a supportive and durable foundation for your mattress and is made from slow-grown Scandinavian softwood and hardwood. These high-quality materials are FSC-certified, which ensures that all the wood used has been obtained from well-managed forests and/or recycled sources.
The pocket springs are constructed in an edge-to-edge format in order to maintain the structure of the base and keep your body weight evenly distributed, and the natural fibres maintain effective ventilation. The upholstered base is available in several different colours, and it is possible to purchase an additional headboard from the store. The fabric is composed of 65% viscose, 20% linen, and 15% polyester, and the base is fitted with wheels for easy manoeuvrability.
The Plymouth Supreme 1200 Mattress is handmade in the UK, offers a medium firmness, and consists of a steel pocket spring system and layers of natural materials. This mattress has insulating New Zealand wool and breathable cotton that help to maintain an effective airflow throughout the night, as well as alpaca fleece and bamboo ensuring a luxury feel. In addition, this mattress is finished with an exclusive M-PURE cover which is chemical-free and flame retardant. Manufacturers offer a 30-year guarantee on this product.
The History Of Divan Beds
Modern-day divans evolved from long seats used in the Middle East, particularly in the Ottoman Empire. This traditional seating arrangement consisted of a mattress, either on the floor or on a raised structure, with cushions to lean against. The name “divan” came about because these couch-like structures were found along the Middle Eastern council chambers walls called divan or diwan.
In the sense of a sofa, the divan then made its way into the English language in the 1700s. It became well known in Europe in the mid-1800s, and by the late 1800s, divan beds started to resemble today’s divan beds.
Fun fact!
Sigmund Freud’s famous psychoanalytic couch✓, which has now become an essential component when portraying psychoanalysis on film and television, is indeed a divan.
Types Of Divan Beds
Divan bed bases come with different support systems which work together with the mattress contributing to the overall support, firmness and comfort of the bed. There are two main types of support options available for your divan base:
Sprung Top Divan Bed
These timber-framed divan bases are finished with a built-in layer of open coil or pocket springs running edge to edge. They offer a more flexible and softer feel and are essentially a second thin mattress - ideal for those who prefer a more cushioned comfort. These sprung top divan beds are generally the more expensive option - some manufacturers may also offer a choice of depth of the spring layer.
Platform Divan Bed
A platform top divan bed is constructed from a timber frame finished with a solid panel top (also sometimes referred to as a “non-sprung panel top” or “hardtop”) upholstered with a fabric cover. These platform tops provide firm, even support and a sturdy base for your mattress. This type tends to be more economical than the sprung top option.
The Difference Between An Ottoman And A Divan Bed
Both Divan beds and ottoman beds provide good practical storage options; however, there are slight differences between the two.
- Headboard: Ottoman beds typically have headboards, and divan beds do not; however, some companies offer a headboard as an extra. If you'd prefer to buy one separately, your easiest option is to go for a free-standing headboard. These headboards stand between the bed frame and the wall and don't need any attachment. Should you wish to attach a headboard, this is also possible. Some manufacturers drill holes into the bed base for you - if so, you may find them under the fabric. This attachment can be done relatively simply, and there is plenty of online help in the form of articles or videos should you need it.
- Quantity of storage: Divan beds typically have storage space in the form of separated drawers underneath, whereas ottoman beds have access to the entire bed base as storage - providing more storage space. Which one is best will be dependent on what you'd like to store - what you plan on storing and how much.
- Access to storage: Divan bed storage is usually accessible from the sides in the form of drawers, and ottomans have access from the top by lifting the mattress. There are a few factors to consider here, like the height of your ceiling, what you want to store, the size of your room, and ease of access.
Did you know?
Nowadays, an ottoman often refers to furniture with no back or arms that may be used, amongst other things, as a footstool - also known as a pouffe or tuffet. Does anyone remember "Little Miss Muffet"?
Divan Bed Storage
One of the things that make divan beds so popular is the easy-to-access storage space. This helps keep bedrooms tidy and organised and is especially useful in small bedrooms or bedrooms with limited cupboard space.
Different brands and models have divan beds with drawers of different shapes and sizes, and some can even be customised to your needs. Below we have tabulated some of the most commonly found options, each with advantages and disadvantages depending entirely on your needs and preferences.
| Storage Space | Configuration |
|---|---|
| ☐ Two drawers | ○ One drawer on each side of the bed, or both on the same side for a single bed. |
| ☐ Four drawers | ○ Two drawers on each side of the bed. |
| ☐ Two full and two half drawers | ○ Two larger drawers at the bottom of each side of the bed, and two smaller drawers at the top end to ensure accessibility if you have a bedside table. |
| ☐ End drawer | ○ One drawer at the bottom end of the bed - ideal if space is limited on either, or both, sides of the bed. |
| ☐ Full ottoman | ○ Storage using the entire underneath of the bed - access either from the bottom or the one side. |
Divan Beds Pros & Cons
As with all bedding products, divan beds come with certain advantages and disadvantages, and this will most often be dependent on a person's needs and personal preference. As the pros outweigh the cons, it's easy to see why this bed is so popular among customers. Nevertheless, below are a few factors you may want to consider before making your decision.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✓ Built-in storage - the big hollow base provides excellent potential storage space. | ✗ Higher price - divan beds are made up of more components and are seen as multipurpose due to the storage facility. They can also often only be bought as a set with a paired mattress, upping the price tag. |
| ✓ Take up less space - these beds are compact and neat, and only as wide as the mattress they support. | ✗ Aesthetics - although some people may prefer the minimalist look of a divan, others may prefer a bed frame for decorative reasons. |
| ✓ Choice of support system - a sprung top option may be a good option for those who prefer a more flexible softer feel, and a platform top is a better option for those who prefer firmer support. | ✗ Difficult cleaning - as you can't get underneath, some people may find cleaning a challenge. |
| ✓ Supportive - the flat top provides a solid base for your mattress. This is also helpful for giving older mattresses a bit more firmness, as well as a sturdier base for denser mattresses, like memory foam mattresses. | |
| ✓ Customisable - many manufacturers offer customisable divans with a choice of upholstery, sizes, and added extras such as headboards. | |
| ✓ Easy to move - divans often come with wheels making them easy to move. |
Frequently Asked Questions
What are divan beds?
A divan bed is essentially an upholstered box-shaped frame with a solid bed base forming a platform for your mattress, with a large, hollow interior that usually provides storage space. The divan base can be bought on its own; however, you'll often find them sold as a base and mattress set.
Where to buy divan beds?
Most furniture manufacturers and companies stock divan beds. If not in stores, there is a wide selection online, on brand websites and Amazon.
Which is the best divan bed?
The best divan bed will be entirely dependent on a person's needs and preferences. Certain factors to consider include a person's choice of support system, bedroom size and aesthetics, and of course, budget.
