With modern adjustable beds, you don’t have to choose between form and function. Not only are many adjustable beds designed with premium furniture finishes, but they’re also compatible with headboards. You may need to make a few adjustments in some cases, but there’s no reason you can’t create a cohesive bedroom aesthetic with a matching headboard.
There are three different ways to use a headboard with your adjustable bed. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the details of each method and help you decide which option is the right choice for your setup.
Benefits of Headboards for Adjustable Beds
A headboard is simply a piece of furniture that can be mounted at the head of a bed. Historically, bed frames consisted of a headboard, footboard, and two side rails that were joined together with rope or wooden slats between the rails to support the mattress. Modern beds come in a wide range of styles but headboards continue to offer both practical and aesthetic benefits.
Here are some of the key benefits of adding a headboard to your adjustable bed:
- Serves as a decorative focal point in the room and can be used to create a cohesive style between the bed and other bedroom furniture.
- Provides a supportive and comfortable surface to lean against when sitting up to read or watch TV in bed.
- Keeps your pillows from slipping down between the bed and the wall as you move in your sleep.
- Creates a layer of insulation between the bed and wall to help protect against drafts or poorly insulated walls.
- Protects the wall from damage that might otherwise occur when the bed frame shifts as you get into and out of bed.
If you’ve recently upgraded to an adjustable bed but feel like your bedroom setup still doesn’t look complete, adding a headboard could help. In some cases, the right headboard can help you fully utilize the benefits of your adjustable bed or offer completely new features.
What Kind of Headboard Can Be Used with an Adjustable Bed?
While there’s no reason you can’t use a headboard with your adjustable bed, it’s important to verify compatibility. Most adjustable beds are compatible with headboards but you’ll need to make sure you have the right hardware to attach it. There are also headboards that attach directly to the wall or function as a freestanding piece of furniture.
Let’s take a closer look at the three most common methods for using a headboard with an adjustable bed:
- Frame Mounting - A method of attaching the headboard directly to the bed frame using specialized brackets to create a unified piece of furniture.
- Wall Mounting - The headboard is anchored directly to the wall studs and the bed is placed in front of it but not attached to it.
- Freestanding - A freestanding headboard reaches all the way to the floor and rests against the wall. You anchor it in place by pushing the frame right up against it, so there’s no holes to drill or hardware to attach.
Any of these three options is equally suited to use with an adjustable bed, it just depends on your preferences for style and placement. A frame-mounted headboard creates a classic, cohesive aesthetic and enables you to move the whole bed structure as one piece.
Wall-mounted headboards offer complete customization for height and placement, and there’s no risk that your headboard will disrupt the bed’s articulation. Freestanding headboards are self-supporting, so there’s no installation involved. The bed needs to be heavy enough to anchor it in place, but this generally isn’t a problem with adjustable bases.
Can I Keep My Current Headboard?
Yes, you can most likely keep your current headboard to use with an adjustable base. There are, however, a few things to keep in mind. First and foremost, you need to leave at least 1 to 2 inches of space between the headboard and the moving parts of your adjustable bed.
Not only does this prevent accidental damage to the headboard, but it ensures the bed can articulate properly. Many modern adjustable bases feature wall-hugging designs that roll the mattress back and forth on a rolling chassis. When you elevate the head of the bed, the frame glides backward to maintain the ideal distance from the wall (this feature also helps keep your nightstand within easy reach).
If your headboard has a frame-mounted design, you might just need to swap out the brackets for installation. For wall-mounted headboards, you need only place the adjustable base where desired, maintaining the recommended amount of distance.
For a headboard that’s part of a complete wooden bed frame, you may need to separate the headboard, footboard, and side rails then reconnect them around the adjustable base once you’ve installed it in the desired location.
How to Measure for a Headboard
Taking accurate measurements is the key to smooth installation when it comes to using a headboard with your adjustable bed. While headboards are generally sized according to standard bed frame dimensions, it’s always a good idea to double-check. Here are the three key measurements you’ll need to take:
- Headboard Height: When using a wall-mounted headboard, the bottom edge should sit just above the surface of the mattress. Make sure the bed can articulate without getting stuck on the headboard.
- Bed Width: Measure from one side of the bed to the other and make sure your headboard is at least that wide. For certain styles (like upholstered headboards), a few extra inches of width can help ensure visual balance.
- Bracket Mounting Holes: Find the predrilled holes in the bed frame and measure the horizontal distance between them as well as the vertical distance from the floor to the center of each hole. Make sure the legs of your headboard align with these measurements.
Before you drill any holes in your wall or headboard, mark them out and check them again. It’s also a good idea to decide exactly where you’ll place the bed before making any permanent changes (especially if you’re using a wall-mounted headboard). Once you’ve installed the headboard, test the bed to make sure it can articulate fully without running into the headboard.
Final Thoughts
If you want to achieve a cohesive look with your sleep setup, consider shopping specifically for an adjustable bed with a complementary headboard. In addition to ensuring a cohesive aesthetic, this ensures that the dimensions of the headboard match the frame for hassle-free installation. Just double-check whether headboard brackets are included or if they need to be purchased separately.
Already have a headboard you love? Pick up a set of universal headboard brackets for adjustable beds on ErgoMotion.