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A headboard seems like a simple piece of furniture, right? So buying a headboard should be a pretty straightforward exercise. Walk into shop. Choose an affordable headboard that matches your curtains. Whip out your credit card. Done deal.

But, in reality…Not so simple.

Like so many other seemingly ‘simple’ furniture purchases, this one comes with its own special set of questions. Like when your partner starts asking, is a headboard really necessary? Or when you’re wondering should I buy a freestanding or wall-mounted headboard? Or when the salesman asks you what headboard dimensions you’re looking for, even though you thought there were just the standard sizes…

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Indeed, headboard designs have exploded with possibilities, giving all of us home-lovers thousands of options to choose from. Which is great news. But it also requires a little more homework if you want to walk away with a headboard that hits all the right notes for you and your space in terms of aesthetics, comfort, practicality and durability.

Fortunately, you’ve come to the right place to put any headboard headaches to rest (sure, we had to throw in at least one headboard pun).  

Whether you opt to shop in-store, or search for your ideal headboard on sale from the comfort of your couch, we’ve got you covered with all the practical guidelines and tips you need to make the best choice in choosing a headboard.

Is a Headboard Necessary?

So why go through all this trouble in the first place? Is a headboard really necessary? Well, the honest answer is that you can obviously get by without a headboard. But then, you could also get by without a couch, right? It’s all a matter of perspective.

The point is that, just like couches, headboards have some really great benefits that will up your quality of life.

And let’s be clear—it’s not just about looks.

Headboards also have some key practical benefits when it comes to creating a more comfortable and liveable space that helps you get relaxed and in the right head zone for a better night’s sleep.

5 Top Reasons to Buy a Headboard

So let’s get down to details. Here are our top five reasons why a headboard is a great idea.

1. Anchors your bed and creates a balanced focal point

Sometimes it’s hard to know what’s missing in a room. This is not the case with a headboard!

A bed without a headboard tends to stand out—but not in a good way. That’s because a bed is the natural focal point of your bedroom. (After all, it’s a bedroom, and there’s usually not space for much else in there!) But because a bed is a low piece of furniture that takes up more space horizontally, it can make the room feel visually flat when there’s no vertical component to it.

By adding a headboard to your bed, you’re giving it a vertical anchor which helps draw the eye upward and closes that large, awkward gap between the bed and the ceiling.

The overall effect? You’ll have a more balanced focal point for your room, a greater sense of space (since the headboard draws the eye upward rather than simply across the room), and a better visual flow that will make the space feel more harmonious and inviting.

2. It’s the easiest way to upgrade your bedroom aesthetic

Have you had the same furniture, bedding and curtains in your bedroom for years? Dying for something new but don’t have the budget for a full bedroom makeover? You might be surprised how big of an effect adding a headboard or replacing it with a different style can have on the overall look of your bedroom.

Want to go more rustic? Try a chunky, rustic-finished wooden headboard. Longing for a more luxurious look? Add a suede or velvet upholstered headboard to add texture and a dose of ‘come hither’ comfort.

Again, since your bed is the natural focal point of the room, adding a new headboard will really draw attention, and the style you choose will set the whole visual tone for the room. Which is why a headboard is probably the best place to start your bedroom makeover. Even if you can only focus on this one item now, it will inspire you and guide your style choices when it’s finally time to replace those bedside tables and add a rug or two!

3. Offers support, comfort & protection

Of course, aesthetics aren’t the be-all and end-all for everyone. If we go back to the reason headboards were invented in the first place, it was all about the practicalities.

Headboards were originally designed to add a layer of protection for your sleeping skull, and provide some insulation from the cold in the days before indoor heating. (Which is still relevant for many of us in this country, especially with load-shedding in the mix!).

Having the protection of a padded headboard is also a big plus when it comes to kids’ beds and their wriggling, wrestling occupants. Headboards also have the overlooked benefit of helping to keep bedding and pillows where they’re supposed to be, while also protecting them from getting dirty or even snagging on a wooden or face-brick wall.

Aside from those practicalities, a lot of people’s number one reason for buying a headboard is for the support and comfort it provides. No one relishes leaning against a hard, cold wall when you want to enjoy a good book or your favourite Netflix fix!

4. Adds warmth & cosiness to your bed

Talking about adding warmth, headboards don’t only add literal insulation from the cold wall behind your bed, they also add a very real sense of visual warmth.

Upholstered headboards tend to have the upper hand in this sense. But even the most minimalist headboard style can immediately make your bed seem cosier and more inviting by separating it visually from the hard wall, and making your bed feel more enclosed.

5. Puts you in a safer, calmer headspace

The accumulative effect of all the above benefits is that having a headboard on your bed truly puts you in a calmer, happier, more secure headspace when it’s time to head to your sleep sanctuary.

With a well-chosen headboard, you’ll be walking into a balanced, inviting space where you can feel yourself relaxing, drawn to a cosy, warm, protected space where you can wind down and put the worries of the day behind you.

And who can really put a price on that?

Hopefully by now you’re convinced of at least one or two great reasons why it’s worth buying a headboard (or at least have some useful ammunition to shoot back at your partner when they start grilling you!).

Now let’s look at some of the practical questions and concerns that come with choosing and buying a headboard.

Can You Buy a Headboard Without a Bed Frame?

Many people have standard bed base and mattress sets that don’t include a bed frame or headboard. So the question is, can you just get a headboard without buying a bed frame?

The simple answer is, yes! You absolutely have the option to buy a headboard separately from a bed frame, or use a headboard without a bed frame altogether. Headboards can either be fixed to the bed, wall mounted, or freestanding. The most important thing is to make sure that whatever headboard you choose, the size is compatible with your existing bed, and your available space.

Here’s a closer look at the three main types of headboard installations, and their various pros and cons, to help you figure out what option will be best for you.

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1. What is an attached or fixed headboard?

These are headboards that are either already built into a bed frame, or which are designed to be attached to an existing bed frame or bed base using brackets, hooks or screws.

Advantages:

• The main advantage of buying a complete bedframe with a built-in headboard is that it’s a one and done deal. No extra installation, no deciding which headboard to match with your bed—you’ve got everything in place with a unified look

Disadvantages:

• The main drawback to this design is that it’s not really an option (or at least not easy) to replace the bed base or the headboard separately if you decide to make a change to your décor, or buy a new bed. For instance, you might decide to switch from a spring to a foam or hybrid mattress, which may require a different base. (In case you’re wondering, here’s how to choose the best base for your mattress)

Note: If you decide to buy a fixed headboard to add to your existing bed frame, make sure that your bed frame can properly accommodate the headboard. You’ll need to check dimensions, looking especially at the width to make sure you’ll be able to attach the headboard struts with their relevant brackets, hooks or screws at secure points. Also check that the bed frame is sturdy enough to support the headboard.

2. What is a wall mounted headboard?

Wall-mounted headboards have no legs and are installed directly onto the wall behind the bed with screws. The headboard is not directly attached to the bed at all.

Advantages:

• The wall-mounted headboard is very versatile. You can use it with just about any bed

• You won’t have any issues installing the headboard at the correct height for your bed

• The headboard doesn’t have to match the exact size of your bed, as long as it’s at least the same width (don’t go for a headboard that’s narrower than your bed as this will look super awkward!)

• You won’t have any worries about the headboard wobbling or moving around as it’s firmly fixed to the wall.

• Wall-mounted headboards are the best option if you want to create a multifunctional headboard with storage, mounted lights or other accessories

• It’s the most suitable option to use with an adjustable bed. The headboard will fulfill a more decorative function and won’t get in the way of your bed when you want to make adjustments

Disadvantages:

• The wall-mounted design requires a bit more effort and expertise to install correctly, and will leave you with holes to fill if the bed is moved (which might be a problem if you’re renting)

3. What is a Freestanding headboard?

The freestanding headboard design is fully self-contained and self-supported so that it can stand upright on the floor behind the bed without additional attachments or supports. In some cases, you can choose to attach the freestanding headboard to your bed frame if you wish.

Advantages:

• Freestanding headboards are the simplest headboards to use since they require no setup or installation

• Can be used with almost any kind of bed or bed frame

• Easy to switch to a different location or replace if you upgrade to a bigger bed

Disadvantages:

• Because the headboard is not secured to the bed, the bed may need to be repositioned and pushed back flush against the headboard from time to time if you don’t have a carpeted or non-slip floor

Note: Some headboard models can be installed in more than one way, so be sure to check the specs before you buy.

Does a Headboard Need to Match the Bed Frame?

There is no universal law that says a headboard needs to perfectly match the bed frame.

Back in the day, bed sets with built-in headboards were the ‘done thing,’ but these days we have lots more options. It’s quite common to have a simple bed and box-spring combo with no bed frame at all. If you do want to add a headboard to a separate bed frame, aim to choose one that at least complements it without creating a visual clash.

For example, pairing a wrought iron headboard with a pine bed frame is going to look a little strange. Whereas you could comfortably pair a traditional or modern upholstered headboard with a simple wooden or metal bed frame.

In other words, there’s no reason you can’t mix and match, as long as you’ve got some visual harmony. As a rule of thumb, try to make sure there’s at least one unifying element between the headboard and the bed frame, whether it’s a common colour, texture, material, or the overall style (ornate, modern, rustic, etc).

What Size Should My Headboard Be?

With headboards, getting the size right is probably the most crucial aspect when it comes to aesthetics. Both the width and the height of the headboard are important for creating a balanced look, but if you’re going to get one thing right, make sure it’s the width.

In most cases, the width of the headboard should match the width of your bed, with a few extra centimetres on either side to nicely frame your bed, while also accounting for the bulk of your bedding.

If you’re going for the standard headboard width, the headboard can be up to 10 or 15cm wider than the mattress on either side without looking weird.

Can a headboard be wider than the bed?

Using a headboard that’s significantly wider than the bed can be done to great effect. It’s certainly a bold way to draw attention to your bed and make it the clear centrepiece of the room.

Multifunctional headboards that include storage will naturally be wider than the bed. You may also want to have your headboard be the entire width of your bed plus the bedside pedestals for a strong framing effect.

It’s just important that your bedroom is actually spacious enough to accommodate this large statement piece. Otherwise it will end up dwarfing the rest of the room and making your space feel cramped and unbalanced. If you want to make your bed a strong focal point without overcrowding a more modest space, it’s best to go with extra height rather than width on your headboard.

What is a good height for a headboard?

As a general rule, the wider the bed, the taller the headboard needs to be. The height of a standard single-size headboard will be around 35cm (from the top of the mattress to the top of the headboard), 71cm for Double and Queen size, and 147cm for King size.

However, this is a very general guide as you’ll certainly find shorter and taller versions of all the standard sizes. A shorter headboard makes for a more subdued or minimalist look, while a tall headboard will clearly make a more eye-catching and dramatic statement.

Whatever look you prefer, don’t forget to check that the headboard will be tall enough for the tallest person using the bed. And if you use a lot of scatter cushions on your bed, ensure the headboard is high enough that it doesn’t get lost behind your pillow fortress!

What is the Best Material for a Headboard?

Headboards today come in an impressive variety of materials including metal, wood, rattan, as well as a wide range of upholstery materials, from leather to velvet.

Choosing your ideal headboard material comes down to what’s most important to you – be it comfort, budget, durability or pure aesthetics.

For most people it’s about finding the perfect blend of all those factors. But it’s best to decide early on which of those aspects is most important to you—the one you wouldn’t be willing to compromise on. When you have this guiding factor, it’s easier to start filtering your choices.

Knowing the general characteristics of different materials is a great place to begin since different materials will tend to score higher on general comfort, practicality or durability. When it comes to budget it’s more of a mixed bag, although various materials are certainly pricier than others.

If you’re choosing a headboard mainly based on the aesthetic experience, the material of the headboard will certainly be a factor, but it’s just as much about the design. (We talk through some of the more traditional, common and popular headboard designs further below to help you navigate your choices).

For now, let’s look at some general features and pros and cons of the main types of headboard materials.

Wooden headboards

Pros: Versatile, durable, cost-effective

Cons: Not inherently comfortable

Wooden headboards are versatile and timeless, lending a warm, natural look to your bedroom. They’re also easy to keep clean and, with good quality wood, will last for decades. Plus, you don’t have to be pegged into any particular style. Whether you’re going for a traditional, contemporary, or beach house look, or you’re in love with all things rustic or farmhouse, you’ll be able to find it in wood.

The only downside to wooden headboards is that while they do offer insulation, they’re not always comfortable to lean against on their own, so you’ll need to prop up a few pillows to get in your comfort zone.

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Metal headboards

Pros: Durable, cost-effective

Cons: Cold and uncomfortable to lean against, require some maintenance

Metal headboards can be made from steel, chrome, aluminium, wrought iron or even brass. They tend to go best with more traditional, vintage or urban-industrial style homes, but certain metals and designs will also blend beautifully with chic, contemporary, modern or minimalist décor.

Because they tend to have a more open design with gaps in between, they’re great for creating a greater sense of light and space in smaller bedrooms (though beware you may find your pillows getting jammed in the gaps!). You’ll also find them in white and other painted varieties that look fantastic in kids’ rooms.

Metal headboards are cost-effective and generally very strong and durable, but will often require a bit of maintenance. While stainless steel and chrome won’t need much attention, a brass or wrought iron headboard will need regular cleaning and oiling to avoid rust.

The main drawback of metal headboards is the lack of warmth and comfort they offer. While they will give you a bit of extra support with a few pillows behind you, these headboards are definitely more for aesthetics than functionality.

Upholstered headboards

Pros: Comfortable, add warmth and elegance, wide array of styles & colours to choose from

Cons: Slightly less durable & higher maintenance (depending on the upholstery material)

An upholstered headboard will add texture, warmth, and a greater sense of luxury to any bedroom. If bedtime comfort is what you’re after, a padded upholstered headboard is the closest thing to adding a couch-back to your bed.

Upholstered headboards also offer the widest range of designs, colours and materials, from luxe microfibre suede and velvet polyester to cool linens or the smooth touch of leather. Panelled or wingback, sleigh-back, arched or square, heavily padded or tufted for a plush and elegant look, you’ll be able to find or customise a look to perfectly suit or enhance your bedroom décor.

Just remember that the material you go for will not only impact aesthetics but the practicality and durability of your headboard. If you want a low-maintenance headboard that’s likely to last for years, stick with synthetics like high grade polyester or real leather. Natural fabrics like cotton and linen will require more cleaning and maintenance, and may be more prone to snags and tears.

Rattan headboards & other natural materials

Pros: Fairly comfortable, offer a unique look, more affordable

Cons: Usually less durable than other materials

Rattan or wicker, cane, bamboo, and other organic materials are usually combined with a wood frame to create headboards that feature unique textures and aesthetics, while also offering a more cost-effective alternative.

While these headboards don’t offer the same durability of metal or wooden headboards, they offer decent comfort and insulation, and can be a wonderful way to freshen up a room. Unsurprisingly, they’re a popular choice for guest houses, holiday homes and cottages.

How Do I Choose a Headboard Style For My Room?

So, you’ve figured out your main priorities and the practical qualities you want in a headboard. Maybe you’ve decided on your budget and have one or two top materials in mind. But there’s still the big question of how to choose from the thousands of headboard designs out there.

While it’s impossible to create an exhaustive list, we’re going to walk through the five most common and popular styles of headboards you’re likely to find. If you find one or two ‘personalities’ that you connect with, you’ll have a clearer idea which ones you’d be happy getting to know a little better!

1. Traditional headboards

Traditional headboards are instantly recognisable—rich, deep hues, beautiful carvings, polished curves, you’ll know when you see one of these classic beauties. Usually made from high quality wood, traditional headboards are timeless and voted most likely to end up in your grandparents’ will.

If you’re loving those ornate, old-school vibes you’d find in a European period home (or your gran’s spare room), a traditional headboard may just be your cup of strong tea.

2. Panel headboards

These modern style headboards feature—you guessed it—panels that either run vertically or horizontally. The size of the panels can vary from many narrow strips to three or four larger panels. In horizontal designs, you’ll often find a wider centre panel flanked by two narrower side panels, creating a balanced look.

The effect of panelled headboard is similar to striped clothing – vertical panels can help the space feel more elongated, while horizontal panels draw the eye to the sides of the room, also helping to create a sense of space. Either way, they’re great for helping create the illusion of more space in smaller bedrooms, while offering a versatile and modern aesthetic for any room!

3. Wingback headboards

The wingback headboard design can feature a solid or tufted back with slightly extended edges that add an extra touch of drama and elegance to the headboard and the room. The ‘winged’ effect also enhances that sense of feeling ‘enclosed’ in the private space of your bed, helping you feel that extra bit cosy and secure.

With their elegant lines, these headboards are well-suited to traditional style décor, but are also perfect as a statement piece, or simply adding a more luxurious feel to a contemporary style space.

4. Tufted headboards

Tufted headboards are well-padded upholstered headboards that feature regular-spaced depressions in the material which are usually pinned with a button (also referred to as button-tufted headboards). This can be done in a either a square arrangement for a more contemporary look, or a diamond arrangement (diamond tufted) which gives a slightly more traditional look.

While tufted headboards certainly have a more refined and elegant sensibility, they have by no means lost their popularity in modern design, and can also have a very chic or glamorous look.

5. Contemporary headboards

Contemporary headboards span a wide range of designs in wood, metal and upholstered varieties, but generally tend to feature sleek, clean lines and smooth or matte finishes. If your space is home to plenty of natural wood tones, neutral colours and glass or wooden surfaces, a contemporary headboard is probably right up your alley.

How to Pick the Best Headboard For a Long-term Investment

If you’re going to all this trouble to pick the right headboard, you want one that will serve you well for more than just the next three or four years. In fact, a high-quality headboard should last you about as long as a good mattress—if not longer. Here are our top three tips for buying a headboard that will prove to be a great long-term investment.

1. Size it right—with an eye to the future

Choosing the right size headboard is the first thing you want to get right, as it’s going to affect the functionality and aesthetics of your bed. Use our headboard size chart above to ensure you’re buying one with at least the minimum dimensions required for the size of your bed—but also consider whether you’re likely to upgrade to a larger size bed in the near future.

If you currently have a Double bed and you think you might upgrade to a Queen in the next few years, there’s no harm in buying a Queen size headboard now, as it will look fine with a Double bed. You could even go for a super wide headboard if you’re considering upgrading to a King size bed in future—in the meantime your oversized headboard could look great as a backdrop for your bed and bedside tables.

2. Pick practical, high-quality materials

If you’re looking for a headboard that you want to be able to pass down to the kids one day, wood and metal headboards are the most likely to stand the test of time, especially if you take care of them well. That’s not to say an upholstered headboard can’t be a long-term investment—just stick to high-quality, low maintenance fabrics like leather or high-grade polyester which are hardy enough to stand up to everyday use.

3. Choose a versatile design

One of the main reasons headboards lose their longevity is simply that the style becomes outdated, or your décor and tastes have simply changed in a few years’ time. To help avoid this ‘tired’ headboard syndrome, avoid going with the trends of the year and pick a headboard style and design that has more classic, timeless qualities. Neutral colours, low-maintenance materials, and a simpler, cleaner design are always the ‘safer’ options. But of course, be sure to choose something that truly appeals to you!

How To Buy A Headboard Online In South Africa: 5 Pro Tips

1. Make sure you’ve measured your space

As with any online furniture purchase, it’s always important to carefully measure your available space so you can clearly map out how and where your headboard will fit in. Make sure it won’t obstruct any windows, dresser or cupboard doors, and check that you’ll still have access to any plug points you use in your bedroom.

2. Double-check the headboard dimensions

As we mentioned above, standard headboard sizes can differ in both width and height dimensions, so don’t just click on Double or Queen without double-checking those dimensions. Except in the case of wall-mounted headboards, you’ll also need to check the height of your bed to ensure that the bottom of the headboard will sit comfortably just above the top of your mattress.

3. Make sure you’re happy with the colour

Product colours can vary significantly depending on the photography, lighting, and the screen you’re viewing it on. If you’re worried about getting the exact colour right, request a colour swatch from the retailer or check the product out in store to avoid disappointment.

4. Read the fine print

Online shopping is fun, but it can also be very impulsive. Before you click ‘buy’ be sure you’ve read the retailer’s warranty and return policies, including any shipping costs you’ll be liable for if you need to return or replace your purchase.

5. Be on the lookout for good deals

As South Africans we’re certainly no strangers to bargain-hunting! If you’re on a tight budget and want to nab yourself a stylish and great quality headboard, be patient and look out for good deals.

Furniture stores usually discount old stock to make way for new summer and winter ranges, which means you’re more likely to find good deals around February/March and September/October. Black Friday is obviously one of the most popular times to find great discounts, just be sure you’re early in the queue!

At Cielo, we frequently have top-of-the-range headboards on sale, so be sure to check in regularly on our Headboard Clearance and Priced to Go products online.

We hope this guide has given you some great tips and answered some of those tricky questions to give you peace of mind when shopping for your perfect headboard.

Now it’s time to check out all those awesome possibilities and find a great deal!

Check out our amazing selection of high-quality headboards online or head to your nearest Cielo showroom to find the best deal on headboards in South Africa today.

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