Divan Beds & Divan Bed Bases

What is a divan bed?

Put simply, a divan bed is a bed frame that has additional storage under the mattress. A divan bed base incorporates a solid frame base with built-in storage drawers. These can be in various configurations, ranging from a single drawer or twin drawers on one side, a combination of divan drawers and an ottoman storage area, or four drawers that are accessed from either side of the bed. 

What sizes of divans are there?

We offer a wide range of different styles and size of a divan bed, these include small single divan beds, single divan beds, small double divan beds, double divan beds, king size divan beds and super king divan beds.

What are the different types of divans? 

There are two main types of divan beds – ottomans and divans. Ottomans have storage that uses the entire underside of the bed and is accessed by lifting the top of the bed (including the mattress) from either the side or the bottom. Full ottomans often have assisted lifting, so it’s easy to lift the top half of the bed to access the storage area. Half ottomans have a storage area at the bottom half of the bed and typically open from the foot of the bed, rather than the side. Divans have drawers and can have various configurations depending on the size or style. These range from two drawers to four drawers, or an end drawer. Slide stores are also available, giving you a perfect place to keep seasonal clothes, extra blankets and sheets, or other items. 

How easy are divan beds to assemble?

Divan beds are the easiest kind of bed to assemble, you will not need any help from professionals to get set up quickly. Normally, a divan bed will arrive with two separate base halves, although this will be one whole piece if have selected a single-sized divan bed. These parts will come complete with a headboard (if you’ve opted for one) and divan legs. To assemble your divan bed, follow these simple instructions:

1. Turn the two separate base halves upside down and attach the legs of the divan.
2. Turn the bases over again and push them together, ensuring they are secured with special locking clips on both sides.
3. If you’ve opted for a headboard, attach it using the headboard sockets that will have been pre-drilled. These can be found at both bed ends for ease of use.
4. Sit back, relax and enjoy your new divan bed!

How sturdy are divan beds?

Divan beds are incredibly strong and robust. They are easy to put together, and once assembled will last for years with minimal maintenance. Because they have a solid base, they are heavier than other types of bed frames, but usually come fitted with casters so they’re easy to move. And don’t forget – with MattressNextDay you get fast, free delivery across the UK mainland, and our special mattress recycling service too. 

What mattress can I use with a divan bed?

If you are opting for a base-only divan bed as you want to have the freedom to select a mattress that best suits you, you’re in luck. Divan beds are built in all sizes ranging from small single to super king. So as long as you find a mattress to match the size of your divan bed base, you won’t have a problem finding the perfect match. Select a mattress from our range of orthopaedic, standard sprung, pocket sprung, memory foam, latex and more.

Divan base vs slats - which is better?

Divan beds not only look great, but they’re incredibly practical too. Those additional storage drawers make a huge difference if you don’t have a lot of cupboard or wardrobe space. They can help minimise clutter too, making them a great choice for kids’ rooms. Slatted beds may be lighter, but they don’t give you that extra practicality. While you can store items underneath a slatted bed, the openness of the design means that they’re more susceptible to trapping dust than a divan. They do, however, allow the air to flow freely around the bed. So if you want practical storage, go for a divan. If you like your sleeping area to be cool, choose a slatted base. 

Which divan base is best?

Divan beds are a practical solution if you’re desperate for some additional storage space. Available in a range of sizes and configurations, the most common double divans have four drawers that can be accessed from the sides. For single divans, you’ll usually have two spacious drawers to store those winter woollies and blankets. If space is even tighter then an ottoman that opens from the side or the base is a better option. The best divan base for you will depend on the size of your bedroom and your personal style. We love the Premium Side Opening Ottoman Divan Base, with a range of colour options and upholstered with the best quality fabric. For a divan bed with contemporary appeal, the Sleepeezee PocketGel Immerse 2200 Divan Bed Set has everything you need for a great night’s sleep including Sleepeezee’s luxury Pocketgel Immerse mattress and 14-inch platform top divan base with customisable storage options and an incredible range of 35 different colourways. You’ll also benefit from free delivery on all our divan bases and divan beds.