Key Insights to Consider Before Finalising Your Choice
The pandemic significantly altered how we shop for home essentials, with online searches for beds soaring by an impressive 45%, one of the UK’s leading furniture retailers. However, as physical stores reopened, interest in online bed shopping saw a decline, suggesting lingering apprehensions about purchasing this essential item digitally.
While the pandemic forced consumers to rely on online shopping entirely, many eagerly returned to their favourite brick-and-mortar stores when they reopened in 2021. Consequently, search engines recorded an 18% decrease in online searches for beds compared to the previous year.
This decline, however, is not surprising. Tom St Quintin, Bed Buyer at Furniture Village, highlights the challenges faced by consumers: “Buying a bed online requires customers to navigate their concerns about digital shopping. The inability to see and test the bed in person, along with limited access to in-store expertise, leaves many hesitant about making substantial purchases online.”
Retailers have recognised these challenges and are enhancing their digital storefronts to attract customers. Innovations include online chat features for quick expert advice, a wider range of products than what’s available in physical stores, and user-friendly filters to simplify decision-making.
Ten Considerations for Online Bed Shopping
When it comes to selecting the right bed online, Tom St Quintin outlines ten essential factors to consider:
- What is your budget? Establishing a budget at the outset helps narrow your options. Aim for ‘value for money’ rather than just ‘cheap’ to ensure a satisfying purchase.
- What is the right bed size? Beds are typically available in five standard sizes: single, small double, double, king, and super-king. Consider whether you want to replicate your current size or opt for an upgrade.
- How much room do you have? Ensure your bedroom has sufficient space for your furniture and movement. A super-king bed may be your dream, but it could feel cramped in a small room.
- What type of bed do you like? Options range from divan beds with sprung or platform tops to ottomans with integrated storage. Ottoman beds topped the Google searches while divan beds saw a more than 50% increase in popularity last year.
- What about the right mattress? It’s advisable to purchase your bed and mattress simultaneously, as the bed frame can significantly affect mattress comfort.
- What headboards match your room best? A headboard can enhance your room’s character, with various designs available in beautiful colours and materials, including upholstered, metal, and wood.
- What bed frames complement your interior design? Consider styles that fit your decor, from sleek metallic frames to rustic wood options. A pull-out bed is an excellent choice for maximising small spaces.
- What height should the bed frame have? Ideal bed height varies by age and personal preference. You should comfortably sit on the edge of the bed with your feet flat on the floor.
- What about storage? Ottoman beds provide ample storage for blankets, pillows, or off-season clothing, making them perfect for small bedrooms.
- What assembly options and delivery do you prefer? Always review delivery options. Ideally, your bed should arrive safely in the room of your choice and be assembled for you.
Trends in Bed Style Preferences
Searches for Scandi, traditional, and mid-century designs increased, with modern beds being the most popular choice, experiencing the largest surge in interest.
Whether you choose to purchase your bed in-store or prefer the convenience of online shopping, following these tips will simplify the process of finding your dream bed.
