Quick Answer
An upholstered bed is a bed frame that features padding and fabric covering on the headboard, footboard, or both, rather than exposed wood or metal. The upholstery can be fabric, leather, or faux leather, and often includes foam padding for comfort. Upholstered beds offer a softer, more luxurious look and feel compared to traditional bed frames. They work well for people who like to sit up in bed to read or watch TV.
Brad, Owner since 1987: "We have been helping Brantford families sleep better since 1987. Every customer gets personal attention, honest advice, and the kind of follow-up service you just do not get from big box stores."
When shopping for a new bed frame, you'll encounter many styles, but upholstered beds consistently stand out for their comfort and aesthetic appeal. If you're wondering what an upholstered bed is and whether it's the right choice for your bedroom, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know. At Mattress Miracle in Brantford, we help customers navigate these options daily.
8 min read
What Is an Upholstered Bed?
An upholstered bed features a frame covered in soft materials rather than exposed wood, metal, or other hard surfaces. The headboard, footboard, and sometimes the side rails are padded and then covered with fabric, leather, or synthetic materials. This creates a softer, more inviting appearance and a comfortable surface to lean against.
The construction typically involves a solid frame, often made of wood or metal, which is then covered with foam padding and upholstered. The thickness of the padding varies by model, with some offering just a thin layer for aesthetics and others providing several inches of cushioning for maximum comfort.
Upholstered beds come in virtually every style, from traditional tufted designs with buttons to sleek, modern platforms with clean lines. This versatility makes them popular across different interior design preferences. Whether your bedroom aesthetic is classic, contemporary, or somewhere in between, you can find an upholstered bed to match.
The Comfort Factor
Research on sleep environment comfort shows that psychological factors affect sleep quality. A bedroom that feels inviting and comfortable promotes relaxation and better sleep onset. Upholstered beds contribute to this sense of comfort through their soft textures and luxurious appearance. The padded headboard also provides practical comfort for activities like reading or using a tablet in bed, reducing strain on your back and neck compared to leaning against a hard surface.
Types of Upholstery Materials
Upholstered beds come in several material options, each with distinct characteristics:
Fabrics: Fabric upholstery offers the widest range of colors, patterns, and textures. Common fabric options include linen, velvet, polyester blends, and microfiber. Linen provides a casual, breathable option that works well in warmer climates. Velvet offers luxurious texture and depth of color but requires more maintenance. Polyester and microfiber are durable, stain-resistant choices that work well for families or high-use situations.
Genuine Leather: Real leather upholstery develops a beautiful patina over time and offers exceptional durability. It's easy to clean and hypoallergenic, making it a good choice for allergy sufferers. However, leather comes at a premium price point and can feel cold in winter until it warms from body heat.
Faux Leather: Also called pleather or vegan leather, this synthetic option mimics the look of real leather at a lower cost. Modern faux leathers have improved significantly in appearance and durability. They're easier to clean than fabric but may not breathe as well, potentially feeling sticky in warm weather.
Performance Fabrics: These specially treated fabrics resist stains, moisture, and fading. They're ideal for households with children, pets, or anyone concerned about maintaining their furniture's appearance. Performance fabrics typically cost more than standard fabrics but offer peace of mind and longevity.
Pros and Cons of Upholstered Beds
Before choosing an upholstered bed, consider these advantages and disadvantages:
Pros:
Comfort: The padded headboard provides a comfortable backrest for reading, watching TV, or working on a laptop in bed. This is the primary reason many people choose upholstered beds.
Sound Dampening: Upholstery absorbs sound better than wood or metal. If you're a light sleeper or share walls with neighbors, an upholstered bed may create a quieter sleeping environment.
Style Variety: Upholstered beds come in more colors, textures, and styles than other bed types. You can match virtually any decor scheme.
Safety: For households with young children, upholstered beds have no sharp edges or hard corners to bump against.
Warmth: The fabric covering feels warmer to the touch than metal or wood, which can be pleasant in colder months.
Cons:
Maintenance: Fabric upholstery requires regular cleaning and is harder to maintain than wood or metal. Spills and stains are more challenging to address.
Durability Concerns: While the frame itself may last decades, the upholstery may show wear, fading, or damage over time. Reupholstering is possible but expensive.
Allergen Accumulation: Fabric upholstery can trap dust, pet dander, and other allergens more readily than hard surfaces. Regular vacuuming is essential for allergy sufferers.
Cost: Quality upholstered beds typically cost more than simple metal or wood frames. The materials and labor involved in upholstery add to the price.
Comfort Tip
When testing upholstered beds in a showroom, lean against the headboard the way you would at home. Some upholstered headboards look plush but feel firm, while others offer genuine cushioning. Pay attention to the height as well. A headboard that's too low won't support your back properly when sitting up. At our Brantford showroom, we encourage customers to bring a book and spend time sitting against different upholstered headboards to find the right comfort level.
Upholstered vs Wood Bed Frames
Many shoppers find themselves choosing between upholstered and wood bed frames. Here's how they compare:
Aesthetic Differences: Wood beds offer a classic, timeless appearance that works in traditional, rustic, or modern settings depending on the finish and design. Upholstered beds lean toward contemporary, luxurious, or romantic aesthetics. Wood shows off natural grain patterns and craftsmanship, while upholstery showcases fabric texture and color.
Comfort Comparison: This is where upholstered beds clearly win. Leaning against a wooden headboard for any length of time becomes uncomfortable. Upholstered headboards provide cushioning that supports extended sitting. If you regularly read or watch TV in bed, this comfort difference matters significantly.
Maintenance Requirements: Wood frames require minimal maintenance beyond occasional dusting and tightening of hardware. Upholstered beds need regular vacuuming to remove dust and allergens, immediate attention to spills, and periodic deep cleaning depending on the fabric.
Longevity: A solid wood bed frame can last generations with proper care. Upholstered beds may need reupholstering after 10-15 years depending on fabric quality and use. However, the ability to reupholster means you can refresh the look rather than replacing the entire bed.
Cost Comparison: Entry-level wood frames often cost less than entry-level upholstered beds. However, high-end wood beds with quality craftsmanship can exceed the price of mid-range upholstered options.
Upholstered Beds in Brantford Homes
We've noticed upholstered beds gaining popularity in Brantford's newer subdivisions like Northridge and Brier Park, where contemporary home designs dominate. However, they work well in older homes too. Many heritage properties in downtown Brantford have bedrooms with character that pairs beautifully with tufted or wingback upholstered headboards. For the humid Ontario summers, we recommend breathable fabrics like linen or choosing a platform style that allows air circulation around the mattress. Our customers from Paris and St. George often make the drive specifically to see our upholstered collection since local furniture stores have limited options.
Cleaning and Care Tips
Proper maintenance extends the life of your upholstered bed:
Regular Vacuuming: Use your vacuum's upholstery attachment to clean the headboard, footboard, and side rails monthly. This removes dust, skin cells, and allergens before they become embedded in the fabric.
Spot Cleaning: Address spills immediately by blotting (not rubbing) with a clean, damp cloth. For fabric upholstery, check the manufacturer's cleaning code. "W" means water-based cleaners are safe. "S" requires solvent-based cleaners. "WS" means either works. "X" means vacuum only, no liquids.
Rotation: If your upholstered bed has a reversible headboard cushion, rotate it periodically to ensure even wear. This prevents one side from fading or compressing more than the other.
Sunlight Protection: Direct sunlight fades upholstery over time. Position your bed away from direct sun, or use curtains and blinds to protect the fabric during peak sunlight hours.
Professional Cleaning: Consider professional upholstery cleaning every 1-2 years depending on use and fabric type. This deep cleaning removes accumulated oils and dirt that regular vacuuming misses.
Protection: For fabric upholstery, consider a fabric protector spray that repels liquids and prevents staining. Apply this when the bed is new and reapply annually.
Upholstered Beds at Mattress Miracle
We carry a curated selection of upholstered beds at our Brantford showroom:
- Chloe Tufted Platform: $899 queen. Velvet upholstery in charcoal or navy. Button-tufted headboard with 48-inch height.
- Avery Linen Wingback: $1,299 queen. Natural linen blend upholstery. Wingback design provides side support for reading.
- Grayson Faux Leather: $799 queen. Clean-lined contemporary design. Easy-to-clean surface ideal for busy households.
- Isabella Fabric Storage: $1,599 queen. Upholstered frame with hydraulic lift storage. Performance fabric resists stains.
- Sophia Channel Tuft: $1,099 queen. Vertical channel tufting creates texture. Available in multiple fabric colors.
All upholstered beds include assembly and local delivery to Brantford, Paris, St. George, and surrounding areas. Visit our showroom to see fabric samples and test headboard comfort.
Frequently Asked Questions
Shop: Upholstered Bed Frames at Mattress Miracle
Find Your Perfect Mattress at Mattress Miracle
We are a family-owned mattress store in Brantford, helping our community sleep better since 1987. Come try mattresses in person and get honest, no-pressure advice.
441 1/2 West Street, Brantford, Ontario
Call 519-770-0001Are upholstered beds durable?
The durability of an upholstered bed depends on frame construction and fabric quality. The internal frame, typically wood or metal, should last decades. The upholstery itself shows wear over time depending on use and fabric choice. High-quality fabrics and leathers last 10-15 years or more with proper care, while budget options may show wear sooner. Performance fabrics and genuine leather offer the best longevity. The good news is that quality upholstered beds can be reupholstered when the fabric wears out, extending the bed's life significantly.
Do upholstered beds get bed bugs?
Upholstered beds can harbor bed bugs, but no more so than other bed types. Bed bugs hide in cracks, crevices, and fabric seams. The key prevention is the same for any bed: use a mattress encasement, inspect secondhand furniture before bringing it home, and address any infestation immediately. Some upholstered beds with removable covers make inspection and treatment easier than solid frames. If you're concerned about bed bugs, choose an upholstered bed with a simple design rather than deep tufting where bugs could hide.
Can I use any mattress with an upholstered bed?
Most upholstered beds work with standard mattresses, but check the specifications before purchasing. Platform-style upholstered beds don't require a box spring and work with memory foam, latex, or hybrid mattresses. Upholstered beds designed for use with box springs need that foundation for proper height and support. Pay attention to weight limits as well, especially for platform beds with slats. Heavy memory foam or latex mattresses need sturdy slat systems. At Mattress Miracle, we can help you match the right mattress to your upholstered bed frame.
How do I clean a stain from an upholstered headboard?
Act quickly when stains occur. Blot (don't rub) excess liquid with a clean, absorbent cloth. Check the manufacturer's cleaning code tag. For "W" fabrics, mix mild dish soap with water and apply with a damp cloth, then blot dry. For "S" fabrics, use a solvent-based upholstery cleaner following product instructions. "WS" fabrics allow either method. For "X" fabrics, vacuum only and call a professional for stains. Always test any cleaner on an inconspicuous area first. For stubborn stains on valuable upholstered beds, professional cleaning is the safest option.
Where can I buy an upholstered bed in Brantford?
You can find upholstered beds at Mattress Miracle's showroom at 441 1/2 West Street in Brantford. We keep several models on display so you can see the colors and textures in person, sit against the headboards to test comfort, and compare different styles. Unlike ordering online, you can verify the quality of the upholstery and construction before purchasing. We offer local delivery and assembly services throughout Brantford and surrounding areas including Paris, St. George, and Simcoe. Our staff can help you choose the right fabric and style for your bedroom decor.
What is a king upholstered bed with a headboard?
A king upholstered bed with headboard is a king-size bed frame (76 inches wide by 80 inches long) where the headboard is padded and fabric-covered rather than bare wood or metal. King upholstered headboards are typically taller and wider than queen versions to stay proportionate with the larger bed footprint. They are popular in master bedrooms where the bed is the visual centrepiece. Fabric options include linen, velvet, and performance blends; leather and faux leather are also common. At Mattress Miracle in Brantford, we carry king upholstered bed frames in our showroom - call (519) 770-0001 to check current stock.
What is a z bed and can I buy one in Canada?
A z bed (also called a folding bed or fold-up guest bed) is a portable single bed that folds into a Z-shape for compact storage. The name comes from the Z profile when folded: the frame collapses so the head section, sleeping surface, and foot section stack vertically. Z beds in Canada are typically sold at department stores and furniture retailers as a guest sleeping solution. They are not upholstered beds - they are metal-framed with a thin foam mattress. At Mattress Miracle, we focus on permanent bed frames and quality mattresses rather than folding guest beds, but we are happy to advise on the best mattress solution for your guest room.
What is an RV bed and what size mattress does it use?
An RV bed (recreational vehicle bed) is built into a motorhome, trailer, or camper van. RV beds often use non-standard mattress dimensions to fit the vehicle's layout. Common RV mattress sizes in Canada include RV Short Queen (60 by 75 inches), RV Queen (60 by 80 inches), RV Short King (72 by 75 inches), and RV Twin (28 to 38 by 75 inches). If you have an RV, always measure your current mattress before ordering a replacement, since sizes can vary by manufacturer. Mattress Miracle in Brantford can source custom-cut foam mattresses for RV applications - ask us at (519) 770-0001.
What is a TV bed, and is it worth the price?
A TV bed is an upholstered bed frame with a built-in television lift mechanism - typically a flat-screen TV that rises from a hidden compartment in the footboard at the press of a remote button. The mechanism is mounted inside a reinforced footboard, with the TV stored flat when not in use and lifting to viewing height for use. The trade-offs versus a regular upholstered bed plus a wall-mounted TV: TV beds are heavier and significantly more expensive ($2,500-$8,000 versus $800-$2,500 for the equivalent upholstered bed), the lift mechanism is a long-term failure point, and the TV is locked into a single viewing angle determined by the footboard position. The Canadian Sleep Society notes that screen exposure in the bedroom (particularly within an hour of intended sleep) is one of the strongest behavioural factors in delayed sleep onset, which is the practical case against a bedroom TV regardless of how it's mounted - the lift mechanism makes the screen more present in the bedroom, not less. Honest framing: TV beds make sense in primary bedrooms with limited wall space (where wall-mount isn't practical) or in luxury master suites where the visual cleanliness of a hidden TV justifies the cost premium. For most Canadian buyers, a wall-mounted TV plus a quality upholstered bed delivers the same functional result at a third of the cost. Talia walks customers through this trade-off at our showroom: bring a tape measure and floor plan, and she can tell you within a minute whether a wall-mount option would work in your room. Browse the upholstered bed frames collection for non-TV upholstered options.
What are standard bed widths in Canada, and what are bed heads, bed skirting, and floor beds?
Canadian standard bed widths follow North American sizing conventions: twin/single (38 inches wide), double/full (54 inches), queen (60 inches), king (76 inches), and California king (72 inches). In Canada, these are the same dimensions used by IKEA Canada, Sleep Country, The Brick, and all major mattress retailers - though the names can vary slightly between retailers (single vs twin is the most common variation). A "floor bed" or "flooring bed" refers to a mattress placed directly on the floor without a bed frame, or a very low-profile platform frame sitting only 2 to 4 inches off the floor - a design aesthetic drawn from Japanese futon culture and Scandinavian minimalism. While floor beds have a striking visual effect and are popular in design photography, they present practical considerations for most Canadian homes: floor-level mattresses accumulate more dust mites (dust mite allergen concentration is highest in the bottom 3 feet of room air), and the lack of air circulation under the mattress significantly increases the risk of mould in Canada's humid summers. "Bed heads" is the Australian and British English term for headboards - the panel attached to the head of a bed. In Canadian retail, "headboard" is the standard term; "bed head" appears occasionally on imported product listings. "Bed skirting" (also called a dust ruffle or bed skirt) is a decorative fabric panel that attaches between the mattress and box spring or runs from the frame to the floor, hiding the frame legs and storage space below. Standard bed skirt drop lengths: 14 to 18 inches for standard height frames, 21 inches for tall frames. In Canada, bed skirts run $29 to $99 for synthetic fabric versions and $59 to $199 for cotton or linen options. Dorothy says: "Bed skirting is genuinely useful in two situations: hiding under-bed storage from sight, and making a room look more finished when the bed frame legs are visible and unfinished-looking." Browse our bed frames collection for upholstered and platform options, or our bed size comparison guide for full Canadian width and dimension charts.
What are bed cradles, corner beds, closet beds, beds with bookshelves, and Seahorse beds?
These terms describe specific bed types and bed accessories that come up frequently in Canadian bedding searches but are less commonly explained in mainstream retail. A bed cradle (also called a blanket support or bed cage) is a metal or plastic frame that fits inside the bed between the mattress and bedclothes, creating a tent-like lift that keeps sheets and blankets from resting on the feet or legs - commonly used by people with foot conditions (peripheral neuropathy, gout, post-surgical foot pain) where the weight of bedclothes causes discomfort. Bed cradles are available through medical supply stores and Amazon Canada for $29 to $79. A corner bed is any bed frame or mattress configuration placed into a room corner with two walls touching the headboard area rather than just one, often using an L-shaped or triangular design - popular in children's rooms for space efficiency. A closet bed (or Murphy bed / wall bed) is a bed that folds up into a closet or wall-mounted cabinet when not in use, freeing floor space - available from IKEA Canada (SMASTAD series) and specialty wall bed retailers starting at approximately $799 to $2,499 installed. A bookshelf or bookcase bed has the headboard integrated with open or closed shelving, providing storage for books, glasses, phone, and bedside items - available from Structube, IKEA, and The Brick in twin through king sizes at $299 to $999. The Seahorse bed is a bed frame brand originating in Hong Kong (now popular in East Asian markets and among the East Asian community in Canadian cities including Vancouver, Richmond, and Toronto's Scarborough and Markham areas) - Seahorse manufactures mattresses and platform bed frames that emphasize firm support and minimalist design, distributed in Canada through specialty retailers in cities with large Chinese-Canadian communities. Browse our bed frames collection for a range of bed styles, or our best bed frames Canada guide for style and storage comparisons.
What are bed throws, bed runners, bed cushions, and a bed stand - and how do they fit a Canadian bedroom?
These terms describe distinct bedroom accessories that often get searched together. A bed throw is a lightweight decorative blanket - typically 50 x 60 inches or 60 x 80 inches - draped across the foot of the bed for both warmth and visual texture. In Canadian bedrooms, knitted wool throws, fleece throws, and woven cotton throws are the most common; pricing runs $29 to $129 at HomeSense, Simons, and Structube. A bed runner is a long, narrow textile (typically 18 to 24 inches wide, 80 to 96 inches long) laid across the width of the bed at the foot - used in hotel-style bedroom design to add a pop of colour or pattern without covering the full bedding. Bed runners are sold at IKEA, Simons, and specialty home decor retailers in Canada for $29 to $79. Bed cushions (also called throw pillows or decorative cushions) are non-functional pillows placed at the head of the made bed purely for visual effect - typically 18 x 18 inch or 20 x 20 inch square. Canadian bedroom designers use two to four bed cushions in coordinating patterns or textures to complete a styled look; Structube, CB2, and West Elm Canada are popular sources ($29 to $99 each). A bed stand is another term for a nightstand or bedside table - the small table placed beside the bed for a lamp, phone, and bedtime reading. The term "box spring bed" refers to a bed setup that includes a box spring foundation under the mattress, as opposed to a platform or slat base. A "spring box" or "springbox" bed is a regional variant of the same term. A bed with a box spring stands 24 to 28 inches off the floor (mattress top height), compared to 14 to 20 inches for most platform beds. Talia says: "A throw and two matching cushions do more for a bedroom's look than almost any other single purchase. It's the easiest visual upgrade to a plain bed." Browse our bedding accessories collection for throws and cushions, or our box spring guide for foundation height comparisons.
What are hideaway beds, footboards, backboards, beach beds, and bed furniture - and how do these terms relate to beds in Canada?
These are several distinct bed-related terms that often get searched together. A hideaway bed is another term for a Murphy bed (fold-up wall bed) or a daybed with a trundle - it describes any bed that can be stored or concealed when not in use. Murphy beds are popular in Canadian condos and bachelor apartments; they fold into a wall cabinet when not in use and deploy for sleeping, with pricing in Canada typically running $1,299 to $3,999 for a wall bed system installed. A footboard is the vertical panel at the foot of a bed - the structural and decorative counterpart to the headboard. Not all Canadian beds include a footboard; platform frames and many modern bed designs have a headboard only. A footboard bed refers specifically to a bed with both a headboard and footboard. Footboard beds create a more traditional, formal bedroom look and offer a place to drape throws or blankets. A backboard is another term for a headboard - the board at the head (back) of the bed. "Bed backboard" and "back board for bed" are synonyms for headboard used in some Canadian regions. A beach bed is not a standard furniture category in Canada - it refers to a coastal-themed bed frame, typically in whitewashed or natural driftwood-finish wood, associated with nautical or cottage-style bedroom design. Beach beds are available through specialty home decor stores and some mainstream retailers (EQ3, Article, Structube occasionally carry natural wood finishes with a coastal aesthetic at $699 to $1,999). Bed furniture or bed furnitures is a general term encompassing the full range of bedroom case goods - frames, headboards, nightstands, dressers, and wardrobes sold as a coordinated set. Talia says: "Footboard beds are having a design moment in Canada right now. After years of platform-only frames dominating, the more traditional headboard-and-footboard look is coming back in wood and upholstered versions." Browse our bed frames collection for headboard and footboard options, or our headboard guide for style comparisons.
What are coffin beds, bloom beds, rocking beds, and daycare beds - are these real bed types?
These are four very different types of beds, and only some are relevant to the average Canadian bedroom shopper. A coffin bed is a real aesthetic style - a dark, rectangular platform bed frame with a tapered or angular foot profile inspired by gothic and dark-maximalist interior design trends. Coffin beds typically have low profiles (under 12 inches to the floor), solid or slatted platform bases, and no headboard or a minimalist straight headboard in dark wood, black metal, or black upholstered fabric. Canadian sources for coffin-style dark platform beds: Wayfair Canada, Amazon Canada, and some Structube models with dark lacquer finishes come close to this aesthetic. A bloom bed (also called a lotus bed or tulip bed) refers to a circular or petal-shaped bed frame, most commonly seen in design editorial content and luxury hotel rooms. Bloom beds are a specialty product available through custom furniture makers or high-end European import retailers; they are not stocked at Canadian mainstream furniture retailers. A rocking bed (or suspended bed) is a bed frame that hangs from ceiling-mounted brackets or uses a spring base to allow gentle lateral rocking motion. Research published in Current Biology (2019, de Boer et al.) found that gentle rocking during sleep significantly promoted deeper non-REM sleep and improved overnight memory consolidation in adults - suggesting rocking beds have genuine sleep science behind them. Commercial rocking beds are available in Canada through specialty importers; suspended bed kits for DIY installation are available from niche woodworking and hammock furniture suppliers. A daycare bed is a small folding or stackable cot designed for licensed childcare centres, meeting Health Canada safety standards for supervised daytime rest (not overnight sleep) in children ages 1 to 5. Dorothy says: "The coffin bed is a legitimate design choice for dark, moody bedroom aesthetics - it is just a very low, angular platform bed without the curved softness of upholstered styles." Browse our mattress collection for platform-compatible options, or our bed frame guide for Canadian frame styles.
What is a crib that attaches to the bed and how does it work?
A crib that attaches to the bed is called a bedside bassinet, co-sleeper, or sidecar crib. It fastens to the side of the adult bed at mattress height so the sleeping surfaces are level, allowing easier nighttime feeding without lifting the baby out of a full crib. Bedside co-sleepers in Canada are available from Arm's Reach, Chicco, and Halo, with price points from $150 to $400. Safety regulators in Canada recommend that the co-sleeper be secured to the adult bed frame and that there be no gap between the co-sleeper and the adult mattress where a baby could become wedged.
What is a quilted bed comforter?
A quilted bed comforter has decorative stitching through all layers - the outer fabric shell, the fill (typically down, down alternative, or polyester), and the backing - that holds the fill in place and creates a textured pattern on the surface. The quilting prevents the fill from shifting or clumping in one area. Most comforters sold in Canada are quilted in some form, ranging from basic box-stitch patterns to decorative diamond or floral quilting. A quilted comforter differs from a duvet in that it is meant to be used as-is without a cover, though many people add a duvet cover over a comforter for easier washing.
What is a baby cot bed and how long can a child use one?
A baby cot bed (also called a convertible crib) starts as a full-sided crib and converts to a toddler bed by removing one or both side rails. Some models further convert to a daybed. A baby cot bed in Canada typically accommodates children from birth to approximately age 5 or 6 depending on the model's maximum weight rating and whether it converts to a toddler or daybed configuration. Standard crib mattress dimensions (27.5 by 51.5 inches) carry through to the toddler bed stage, so you do not need to replace the mattress during conversion. Cot beds are a practical investment for families wanting to extend the useful life of nursery furniture.
What is a bed end table and how do I choose the right height?
A bed end table (also called a blanket chest, storage bench, or footboard bench) sits at the foot of the bed and provides a surface for folding blankets or sitting to put on shoes. Unlike a nightstand, it spans the width of the bed rather than sitting to the side. The appropriate height for a bed end table is roughly equal to the top of the mattress - typically 18 to 24 inches for most platform and traditional bed frames in Canada. Upholstered ottomans and storage benches with a lid are the most common style of bed end table for Canadian bedrooms.
What is a folding cot bed and how is it different from a regular bed?
A folding cot bed is a lightweight metal or wood frame that folds flat for compact storage and opens to support a thin mattress or pad for guest sleeping. Folding cot beds in Canada are available at Canadian Tire, Costco (seasonally), and camping supply retailers like MEC. Standard folding cots use canvas or mesh decks and can accommodate a 2 to 3 inch foam pad for added comfort. They are practical for guest rooms with limited space but are not suitable as a primary sleeping surface for regular nightly use due to limited mattress thickness. For a more comfortable folding solution, a sofa bed or daybed allows a thicker mattress than a folding cot.
What is a hide-away bed?
A hide-away bed (also called a Murphy bed or wall bed) folds up into a wall cabinet or unit when not in use, freeing floor space in small rooms. They are available in horizontal and vertical configurations and can accommodate twin through king mattresses. Modern hide-away beds include integrated desks, shelving, or sofa units for multifunctional small-space living.
What is a pull-down bed?
A pull-down bed is another name for a Murphy or wall bed - a bed that folds down from a wall-mounted cabinet for sleeping and folds back up to save space during the day. They suit studio apartments, guest rooms, and home offices. Most pull-down beds use gas-piston mechanisms that make lowering and raising the bed easy without heavy lifting.
What are wooden upholstered beds?
Wooden upholstered beds combine a solid wood frame structure with fabric padding on the headboard and sometimes the footboard and side rails. The wood provides structural rigidity while the upholstery adds visual warmth and softness. Common frame woods include solid oak, pine, and MDF with oak veneer. Linen, velvet, and performance fabric upholstery are the most popular choices for Canadian home buyers.
Visit Our Brantford Showroom
Mattress Miracle
441 1/2 West Street, Brantford
Phone: (519) 770-0001
Hours: Mon-Wed 10-6, Thu-Fri 10-7, Sat 10-5, Sun 12-4
Our team has 38 years of experience helping customers find the right sleep solution. Call ahead or walk in any day of the week.
Sources
- Walker M. Why We Sleep: Unlocking the Power of Sleep and Dreams. Scribner. 2017. ISBN: 978-1501144318.
- Okamoto-Mizuno K, Mizuno K. Effects of thermal environment on sleep and circadian rhythm. J Physiol Anthropol. 2012;31(1):14. DOI: 10.1186/1880-6805-31-14
- Krauchi K. The thermophysiological cascade leading to sleep initiation in relation to phase of entrainment. Sleep Med Rev. 2007;11(6):439-451. DOI: 10.1016/j.smrv.2007.07.001
- Haskell EH, Palca JW, Walker JM, Berger RJ, Heller HC. The effects of high and low ambient temperatures on human sleep stages. Electroencephalogr Clin Neurophysiol. 1981;51(5):494-501.
Visit Our Brantford Showroom
We are located at 441 1/2 West Street in downtown Brantford. Free parking available. Our team does not work on commission, so you get honest advice based on your needs.
Mattress Miracle -- 441 1/2 West Street, Brantford, ON -- (519) 770-0001
Hours: Monday-Wednesday 10am-6pm, Thursday-Friday 10am-7pm, Saturday 10am-5pm, Sunday 12pm-4pm.
Come in and let our team help you find the right mattress for your needs. No pressure, no commission.