[Kristin]

By: Abe Abbas

Source: www.time4sleep.co.uk

Before you buy a bed, take some time to think of all that you need from it. A comfortable bed is the key to feeling rested, healthy and pain free. Your mattress plays a major role here, but the type of bed you choose will also affect how it behaves. As we all know that a good night's sleep can mean greater productivity throughout the day, make sure your bed contributes to that.

While comfort is the most important factor, you cannot ignore the fact that a bed is also the focal point of your bedroom. How a bed looks is just as important as how it feels. After all, since this is the last thing you see at night and the first when you wake up, your bed deserves attention.

Determine Your Bed's Size

How big a bed you should buy depends on the size of your room, and how much space you need. Sometimes you can have the bed size customized for you, but be aware that finding mattresses and sheets can be difficult for non-standard sized beds.

The most commonly available sizes are:
- Twin beds: 39" wide x 75" long
- Extra Long Twin beds: 39" wide x 80" long
- Double beds/Full beds: 54" wide x 75" long
- Queen size beds:60" wide x 80" long
- Standard King/Eastern King size beds: 76" wide x 80" long
- California King/Western King size beds: 72" wide x 84" long

What Kind of Bed?

Once you have decided on the size you want, think about how you want it to function. Today's homeowners are looking for furniture that is functional as well as comfortable and stylish.

- There are beds that provide extra storage underneath, or inside the headboard. And in today's beds that doesn't necessarily mean under the bed drawers. Take a look at the Beth Bed from American Leather that is featured here. The top lifts up to reveal a generous storage area.
- A trundle bed in a child's room or guest room provides flexibility. This is especially useful for smaller rooms.
- Bunk beds in children's rooms save space while providing an extra bed.
- The height of your bed matters too. How high or low do you want the bed to be? Some find it easier to get in and out of higher beds. Beds that are low to the ground look more modern and give the illusion of greater space. There are many choices out there.
- Do you want a bed with a box spring or slats to support your mattress? It can make a difference in the kind of support a bed provides. Box springs will have more give, while  slats provide a firmer support. Try out both to see which one is a better fit for you.
 
Pick a Style for Your Bed

The style you choose for your bed will often depend on your decorating style.

- If your style is traditional, wood is a good choice, with the bed matching the other wood pieces in the room. For a more formal look a darker finish and larger scale will work.
- For a contemporary look, try something with simple, sleek lines. A leather panel might look great in a headboard. You can go with lighter wood as well.
- Mix different materials such as metal and wood in an eclectic bedroom.
- For a rustic or country look, you can still match metal and wood, but avoid a glossy finish. Light or painted wood can also work in this setting.



Article Source: http://furniture.about.com/