Are you considering improving the interior of your bedroom? Then, you must consider including a headboard. It will create a focal point of the bedroom, avoiding the wall from scratches, and work as a good back support.
Read on to understand more about bedroom headboards.
What is a Bed Headboard?
A bed headboard is a vertical panel attached to the head of a bed, serving both functional and aesthetic purposes. Functionally, it provides support when sitting up in bed, making it more comfortable for activities like reading or watching TV. Aesthetically, headboards enhance the overall decor of a bedroom, adding style and character to the space. They come in various materials, designs, and colours, allowing for personalization that complements the room’s theme. Whether upholstered, wooden, or metal, a well-chosen headboard can transform a simple bed into a focal point in your bedroom.
Types of Bedroom Headboards by Bed Size
The headboard should always be compatible with the size of the bed. Based on the standard bed sizes, headboards also come in various dimensions; the most common options are:
Full-Size Headboard
A full-size headboard is designed to be used with a full-size mattress. A full-size mattress will measure 54 inches wide by 75 inches long. Commonly, full-size headboards range from 56 to 62 inches in width, with a slight overhang to balance the room’s overall appearance. The height of this headboard is typically around 28 inches (71 cm).
King Bed Headboard
A king-size mattress with dimensions of 76 inches wide by 80 inches long will demand respective king-size bed headboards. These headboards measure around 80 inches in width. This width will help to prevent pillows from slipping off the edges while providing a grand presence in the bedroom. This king bed headboard is commonly around 58 inches tall (147 cm).
Queen Bed Headboard
A queen bed headboard typically measures around 62 inches wide, accommodating a queen mattress that is 60 inches wide by 80 inches long. This extra 2-inch width allows for a more proportionate look, offers stability for pillows, and adds support for sitting up in bed. The height of this queen bed headboard 28 inches (71 cm).
Double Bed Headboard
The term “double bed” is often used interchangeably with “full-size bed.” However, a double bed mattress size is 27 inches by 75 inches; it can’t comfortably accommodate two adult sleepers like a full-size bed. The double bed headboard with 54 to 60 inches of width is designed to fit a double bed.
Single Bed Headboard
A single bed headboard is a panel that attaches to the top of a single bed (38 inches x 75 inches). It is usually about 41 inches wide, slightly wider than the 38-inch mattress, to create a neat look. The height of this headboard is usually about 14 inches (36 cm). This headboard is a great choice for small rooms or kids’ bedrooms.
| Bed Type | Mattress Size (W x L) | Headboard Width | Headboard Height |
| Full-Size | 54″ x 75″ | 56″ – 62″ | 28″ (71 cm) |
| King | 76″ x 80″ | 80″ | 58″ (147 cm) |
| Queen | 60″ x 80″ | 62″ | 28″ (71 cm) |
| Double | 27″ x 75″ | 54″ – 60″ | 36″ (92 cm) |
| Single | 38″ x 75″ | 41″ | 14″ (36 cm) |
Popular Headboard Design Ideas
The following are various popular headboard design ideas:
Contemporary and Modern Headboard Designs
Contemporary headboards are made by implementing current design trends. They commonly include simple, sleek lines and bold shapes. These contemporary headboard designs commonly include innovative materials such as metal and fibreglass.
Modern headboards come in different styles. They can be floating style to make the room feel bigger or flexible to change or adjust to fit personal needs. These modern headboard designs are very flexible and can match many types of home decor.
Traditional and Classic Patterns
Traditional headboards are generally designed with classical craftsmanship. The key elements are carved wooden designs, ornate mouldings, and rich fabrics. Along with practical use, they also create an attractive interior feel. Commonly, traditional headboards will be made of solid wood, such as mahogany, teak, or oak, adding durability and richness to the overall look.
Upholstered Headboard
Upholstered headboards are designed with filling foam and covered with fabric. It will give a soft surface for leaning when you sit in bed, taking its support.
They enhance comfort and style in a bedroom. This headboard comes in many styles, from simple shapes to fancy designs with soft, stitched details. There are many fabric options, like soft velvet, strong linen, or fake leather. This gives people the freedom to pick colours and patterns that match their room. Also, upholstered headboards are easy to update—changing the fabric can give the bedroom a whole new look without making large changes.
Wooden Headboard Styles
Headboards made of different types of wood will provide exceptional durability and timelessness. You can choose your favourable wood based on the style of the headboard. For example, you can use reclaimed wood for a rustic charm, and for a sophisticated look, you can use polished hardwood. Wood can enable you to include decorative features such as carving, grain patterns, and staining techniques to enhance the visual of the headboard.
Circle Headboard and Geometric Designs
You can choose circular headboards or other geometric shapes to add a creative flair to your bedroom decor. These shapes are apart from conventional rectangular patterns. When compared to a regular shape, the round or half-circle shape will create a softer appearance. You can include geometric patterns in headboard designs with wooden slats or upholstered panels arranged in striking shapes for more innovative interior design.
Storage Headboards
When you need a private space to keep your essential things, you can choose headboards with storage options. They will be designed with built-in drawers or shelves, providing extra space for books, lamps, and decorative items. They can be attached to bunk beds or platform bed frames. However, storage headboards can take up more space compared to other types.
Wall-Mounted Headboards for Bedrooms
As the name indicates, wall-mounted headboards are specially designed to directly attach to the wall, not as a part of a bed frame. They are commonly used in small bedrooms. You can customise this headboard to your specific requirements (such as the size and height to your exact design preferences). They are easy to transport with a simple removal option from the wall mounting brackets, which you can install in your new home.
DIY Headboard Projects
If you are interested in doing DIY projects to improve interior design, you can go for a DIY headboard. Even beginners can do this easily.
DIY Headboard Installation
- Before starting to fit a headboard for your room bed, measure the bed width.
- All you need is MDF or plywood, upholstery foam, fabric for covering, and basic tools like a staple gun, screws, and a drill for installation.
- Cut the plywood to a suitable size for bed measurement.
- Attach upholstery foam and wrap it with fabric, securing it with a staple gun.
- For an easy option, you can start with straight edges for more manageable projects; round designs may require careful cutting.
- You can also choose readymade and cost-effective headboard options made of reclaimed wood or inexpensive materials like cardboard and fabric remnants.
- Take safety measures like wearing goggles to cut wood and secure light fixtures during DIY headboard installation.
Special Considerations for Headboards
You need to consider several things when designing bed headboards for different cases. Such as:
- Take proper care and add safety features when you are fitting a headboard to your child’s single bed. Always include headboards with smooth, rounded edges to avoid injuries. The headboard should be strong and well-built. It is also good to add guardrails that extend beyond the mattress to prevent the child from falling.
- Divan bed headboards must fit the bed properly to stay strong and safe. Some divan beds need metal brackets to hold the headboard firmly, while others can be attached using regular bolts.
Tips for Choosing the Right Size of Headboard
Consider the following tips to choose the best size of headboard:
Measure the Bed Size: Check the dimensions of your bed frame. It will help you choose a headboard that is the right size.
Consider Room Height: If your room has a low ceiling, choose the headboard to complement the room’s proportions. Taller headboards will work well in rooms with higher ceilings.
Style and Functionality: Consider the use of a bed. Some people will use the bed for reading, watching TV, and sleeping. Choose upholstered headboards’ material and size options for sufficient support and comfort.
Choose Complementary Colours and Materials: The headboard colour should complement the appearance and wall colour of the bedroom. Consider the headboard’s colours, patterns, and materials to balance with the room’s aesthetics.
Flexibility for Future Changes: Before choosing a headboard, consider both present and future use cases. Include a little extra width to make future modifications, such as upgrading to a larger mattress without needing immediate headboard replacement.
Headboards Maintenance and Cleaning
You need to clean fabric headboards regularly to maintain them in like-new condition. By removing dust and dirt with vacuuming, you can avoid germs and bacteria build-ups. Choose the cleaning process based on the materials and fabric type. You can check the headboard care tag to learn whether the fabric can be cleaned with water, solvent, or no cleaning solution. Before you clean the headboard, do a spot test so that you can get an idea of whether the cleaning solution damages the fabric.
Bedroom headboards are not just interior decorative elements; they can significantly enhance comfort and storage options. You can find various headboard options in the market, with multiple sizes, styles, and materials. Choosing the most suitable one based on your specific needs, room size, and bed type. For an existing home, consulting an experienced architect can help you select the right option. If you’re designing a new house, a construction company like Brick & Bolt can guide you in incorporating the perfect headboard into your plans.
Mithali Konety 
Hemali Patel