13 Most Popular Types Of Beds Today – Buying Guide

As always in the world of furniture, there is no one-size-fits-all solution. Different types of beds will make sleeping more or less comfortable, but it's always a good idea to know what kind of bed you're getting into before you buy or make it!

Today, we'll be looking at some most popular types of beds; how they're made, what features they have, and the pros and cons of each.

1. Airbeds

Airbeds are the most common type of bed in modern homes. They're cheap, portable, easy to maintain and make sleeping more comfortable for many people. But despite all their upsides, airbeds are not perfect – they can only be used on a hard flat surface (or at least a surface without any large obstacles), often require to be reinflated at night to avoid waking up on the floor, and are susceptible to punctures.

On the other hand, they're inexpensive and convenient – an airbed can be bought for as little as $20, last more than a decade if properly maintained (only two or three sheets will need to be changed during that time), and be stored very compactly when not in use.

Modern air beds are divided into two subtypes: self-inflating  and manual . The latter is the oldest type, while the former was invented in the 1930's after a famous disaster on a luxury ocean liner (the Titanic) where too few lifeboats were available and many passengers died as a result.

2. Futons

Futons are a traditional Japanese type of bed, but they're popular in many other countries as well.  Futon covers typically consist of a blanket (futon), a smaller folded mattress underneath ( shikibuton ) and a thin futon mat on top. Some variants also have an extra layer for making the top more comfortable.

Futons are very economical – their mattresses and covers can be folded up and stored under a bed (or in a closet), while they take up much less space than an actual bed. They're also not susceptible to punctures like airbeds, but this comes at the cost of making them less comfortable.

3. Padded mats

They're not technically beds, but many people sleep on them and call them beds. Padded mats are thin cushions (usually made from foam or memory foam) that can be used to simply elevate a person onto the floor, or inside a sleeping bag. What they have in common with regular beds is their portability – padded mats can be folded, stored and brought with a person wherever they go.

Padded mats are not a luxury item. Not only can they make sleeping more pleasant and comfortable for many people, but they also help those who sleep on the floor avoid back pain (or even develop scoliosis).

4. Convertible Ottoman Bed

This is a bed with an ottoman that can be used as one or be converted into a full-length one. The ottoman lifts up and allows people to climb in from the side, while it makes sleeping more comfortable for many people (especially those who like to lie on their backs).

Convertible Ottoman Beds are very convenient and well-made, but their design can also be considered unsafe. It is possible to roll out of them without being able to lift the ottoman back up again, which can lead to serious injury or even death if an emergency happens (such as a fire).

5. Waterbeds

Waterbeds consist of a mattress filled with water, not air. Water is much denser than air, so a waterbed mattress contains more fluid than an airbed of the same volume. This means that a waterbed is much heavier and less portable than either of its rivals (an average queen-size waterbed weighs about 350 lbs), but it also provides much more comfort.

The added weight does not put as much strain on a person's back as a heavier airbed, and the ability to be heated to different temperatures makes waterbeds more desirable for people with moderate or severe back pain. Unfortunately, waterbeds are also more expensive than other types of beds.

While a traditional queen-size waterbed costs about $800, a high-end model with an electrically heated underlining can easily cost $5000 or more.

6. Platform beds

Platform beds are bed frames without mattresses – it's up to the owner to supply their own mattress (or just use padded mats). This gives a number of benefits:

Platform beds are typically much cheaper than other types of bed, especially if they're made from wood.

The absence of a mattress means platform beds can support heavier weights – some models have been known to support over 600 lbs (though this should not be done with a regular bed). This makes them ideal for older people and those who are particularly overweight.

The ability to use custom-sized mattresses means that people who need extra support can sleep on a mattress that's specifically designed for their needs. Most of these are priced similarly to regular beds, but they often come with some sort of warranty (or at least a satisfaction guarantee).

7. Pull-Out Sofa Bed

A pull-out sofa bed is a chair that turns into an airbed by pulling out a drawer that contains an electric pump. The pump inflates the airbed, which makes it easier for the user to use and more comfortable as well.

These are relatively expensive (a cheap model costs about $139) but many insurance companies will reimburse their users for these purchases (provided they're prescribed as treatment). These beds are often used by people who have issues with their backs and need a very soft type of bed, but they can also be useful for obese patients as well.

8. Bunk bed

Bunk bed mattresses are meant to be used in bunk beds, but they can also be used in other places where space is limited. They can be easily folded (and unfolded) and even fit inside furniture with a little bit of extra effort.

Their main disadvantage is that they tend to be hard; as such, they're not ideal for people with bad backs. However, if you don't have any problems sleeping on hard surfaces (or are willing to add a pillowtop mattress), then bunk bed mattresses can be quite comfortable, especially if treated with special waterproofing ointment before use.

9. Diving board bed

The diving board bed is a type of bed which has a diving board (diving platform) attached to it. Diving boards are usually found in swimming pools and may be used for performing acrobatics but they can also be used as beds, especially if the user is willing to fall down from great heights in order to get into his/her bed.

The advantage of this type of bed is that it provides more comfort than ordinary beds. Divers usually lie on their backs and the head of this type of bed is higher than an ordinary bed, so a user can rest his/her head without any problem. The most popular models have adjustable height, which means that they can be placed at any desired height.

The disadvantage of these beds is that there are not many models available, compared to ordinary beds. Also, they are quite expensive (at least $1,200 for a single bed), so only rich people can afford them.

10. Daybed

Daybeds are usually used as extra beds or chairs. They are often found in houses where there is not enough space and a daybed can be placed next to an ordinary bed for the storage of clothes. In this way, they provide a lot more comfort than ordinary chairs.

Daybeds usually have two levels: one level with wide/deep cushions and the other one with a lower/narrower cushion. The upper level is used for sleeping while the lower one is usually occupied by a chair or even another bed.

Daybeds are not expensive, mainly because they are simple and made of wood (a single bed can cost up to $200). There are many models available (even with light colors), so people of all ages can find one that suits their taste.

The main disadvantage of daybeds is that most users do not like them. Their low/narrow cushions are often too small to provide a comfortable rest, so they can be used only when extra space or extra beds are needed.

11. Multi level beds

Multi-level beds are designed to offer more comfort than ordinary single-level or two-level beds. A multi-level bed may have 3, 4, 5 or even 9 levels of cushions! Each level has a smaller/narrower cushion than the preceding one so that the user can enjoy a more flexible sleeping experience.

Multi-level beds are often used in bedrooms (to provide extra space for clothes), but they are also popular as office chairs or even loungers by the pool and on the beach.

The main advantage of these beds is that they can be folded quite easily in order to provide extra space, when needed (they are usually folded just like single-level beds). Most multi-level beds have a handle which can be used to fold them or even move them.

Disadvantage of multi-level beds is the high price, compared to ordinary beds. Even if they provide much more comfort than an ordinary bed, most users prefer an ordinary bed because it costs only a quarter of what a multi-level bed costs.

12. Pogo stick bed

Pogo stick beds are designed for children and people who enjoy jumping from great heights. Pogo stick bed springs have a diameter of 700mm and the height can be adjusted using an ordinary crank.

The user buys one or more pogo sticks (they are usually sold separately) and has fun bouncing on his bed, while enjoying the comfort of a mattress. The user can jump as high as he wants, but most users recommend jumping with caution.

The main advantage of Pogo Stick Beds is that they offer a lot more comfort than ordinary... Well, let's say that pogo stick beds have no competitors because there are no other types of beds which can be compared to them. Pogo stick beds are more than just beds: they also provide entertainment for people of all ages.

The disadvantage is that pogo sticks are not sold separately, so a user must buy them together with the bed. A single pogo stick costs $150 (but most users recommend buying two or three to have fun jumping), while the pogo bed costs approximately $900.

13. Canopy bed

Canopy beds are designed to provide extra comfort for people who like sleeping under the stars. Canopy Beds use a fiberglass construction which is covered with some kind of textile (usually polyester). The fiberglass structure can be easily controlled by cranks, so that the user can enjoy some privacy or even a swinging sensation while he sleeps.

Canopy beds are perfect for kids because they are simple, durable and cheap. Most models of canopy beds can be folded when not used. The main disadvantage is that the fiberglass structure is cold during the winter (and hot during the summer). Despite this limitation, most users prefer canopy beds to ordinary ones.

The cheapest canopy bed costs $250 and the most expensive costs nearly $2000.

FAQs

What is the best type of bed for bad backs?

People who suffer from back problems should choose a firm mattress; one that has no springs and is at least three inches thick. The best mattresses for bad backs are made of latex or memory foam, instead of innerspring coils.

Innerspring mattresses tend to have a more 'bouncy' quality which can aggravate back pain. A mattress topper can help provide more support and cushioning, which will also aid in relieving back pain.

What is the best type of bed for people with arthritis?

Most people who suffer from arthritis prefer a soft bed that has plenty of padding. Because this condition affects the joints, floppiness and flexibility make lying down and getting up easier. Because it is common for arthritis sufferers to have pain in their joints, a soft bed provides extra support where it's needed most.

What is the best type of bed for overweight people?

The best kind of bed for an overweight person will help relieve back problems, as well as provide plenty of cushioning and support. There are many types of beds that can assist in this area, including waterbeds and futons which provide plenty of support for the back.

Conclusion

There are many other types of beds, such as waterbeds and floor beds (or futons), but these can't be compared to the ones described above. While most people find it difficult to change their sleeping habits, one simple switch may make a huge difference in their lives.

No matter what type you choose, there is no doubt that a good night's rest is the best way to start your day. There are many reasons for picking one type over another, but everyone agrees that you need a bed that suits your needs and comforts you when it matters most.