Best Headboards: Which One to Buy

For most bedrooms, an upholstered headboard is the best all-round pick for comfort when sitting up in bed, a wood or metal headboard suits buyers who want durability and easy cleaning, and a wall-mounted or panel headboard suits small rooms and renters who want a clean look. Match the headboard to your bed frame’s mounting points and the width of your mattress before anything else.

Our top picks

Top pickLefurture Queen Headboard Only with Storage

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Also greatLiiwepo Queen Size Headboard Only-No Assembly Required

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Also greatHearth & Harbor Wall Mounted Queen Headboard

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At a glance: headboard types and example makers

Collections change, so check each maker’s current page for exact widths, heights and mounting details.

Start with compatibility

Headboards fall into two main families: those that bolt to a bed frame and those that mount to the wall or stand freely behind the bed. Many frames include pre-drilled holes or brackets with a standard spacing, but it is not universal. A headboard must match both the mattress size and the frame’s attachment method. Check the maker’s stated bolt pattern or compatibility list, and measure the width and height before you order. A queen headboard on a full frame, or one that leaves a visible gap above the mattress, spoils the look.

Size and height

Standard sizes follow mattress widths: twin, full, queen, king and California king. Headboards usually sit a little wider than the mattress. Height depends on how you use the bed. If you sit up to read or watch screens, a taller, padded headboard supports your back; if you want a minimal look, a low panel does the job. Tall headboards also hide the wall, which helps if the wall behind is marked or uneven. Check that the headboard clears windows, sconces and wall switches behind the bed.

Materials and finishes

Upholstered

Upholstery adds softness and noise absorption. Common coverings include polyester fabric, linen blends, velvet and faux leather. Faux leather wipes clean, while fabric offers more texture but can trap dust. Look for removable covers or maker-supplied cleaning instructions.

Wood

Wood suits traditional and rustic looks. Solid wood is typically sturdier but heavier and sits higher in the budget range; veneers and engineered woods keep costs down. Check the finish for scratch resistance if the headboard touches the wall.

Metal

Metal is light and simple. Powder-coated finishes resist chips better than basic paint. Metal headboards can make noise if they touch the wall, so look for rubber feet or add felt pads.

Rattan, cane and woven styles

Natural-fibre headboards add texture and suit relaxed, coastal or bohemian rooms. They can snag fabric and attract dust, so follow the maker’s cleaning advice.

Mounting and safety

• Follow the maker’s assembly instructions and use all supplied hardware.
• Wall-mounted headboards should be anchored into studs or with anchors rated for the load. If unsure, hire a qualified installer.
• Check that the headboard does not tilt when you lean back, since a loose headboard can move against the wall or drop onto the bed.
• Do not hang shelves or lamps on a headboard unless the maker states it is designed to hold them.
• Keep fabric headboards away from heat sources and follow any fire-related guidance on the label.
• In rooms with children, avoid heavy ornamental headboards that can tip forward if not securely fixed.

Budget tiers explained

Budget headboards use lighter frames, thinner padding and simpler fabrics, and are suited to guest rooms, rentals and first apartments. Mid-range options bring better padding, stronger frames, a wider range of colours, and extras like tufting or built-in shelves. Premium headboards add solid-wood or fine-grade frames, high-quality fabric, custom sizes and detailed finishing; they are a long-term purchase for a main bedroom.

Style notes

A headboard sets the tone for the room. Tufted or channeled panels suit classic and glam looks, simple flat panels suit modern or minimalist rooms, and slatted wood suits Scandinavian interiors. Neutral tones such as grey, beige and navy blend with changing bedding, while a bold colour or pattern turns the headboard into a focal point. Choose a headboard that works with your side tables: very wide or winged headboards can crowd bedside space, whereas a slimmer panel leaves more room.

Noise, comfort and wall protection

Many shoppers overlook how a headboard behaves at night. A loose metal or wood headboard can knock against the wall, so look for rubber bumpers or wall-mounting options. Padded headboards soften contact with the wall and reduce noise. If you often sit up, check the depth of padding and the angle of the backrest. For wall protection in a rental, a freestanding or frame-attached model is better than one that needs drilling.

Pick X if…

Alternatives to consider

• Painted or wallpapered headboard wall: a mural, panel or painted arch can replace a physical headboard for a budget-friendly look.
• Fabric wall panels: upholstered wall panels give a soft look at a custom width without a frame.
• Reclaimed or DIY headboards: a wood plank or salvaged door can add character if you are comfortable with tools and anchoring.

Care

Vacuum fabric with an upholstery brush and spot-clean following the maker’s code. Wipe wood and metal with a soft damp cloth, avoiding harsh chemicals. Check bolts and brackets every few months, and re-tighten if the headboard moves.

Buying checklist before you order

Begin with the bed: measure the mattress width, the frame width and the distance from the top of the frame to the floor. Decide whether the headboard must bolt on, stand freely or hang on the wall. Check the maker’s stated width, height and thickness, and compare them against bedside tables, lamps and window sills. If the bed sits against a radiator or vent, choose a material that tolerates warm air. Think about how you use the bed: if you sit up to read, look for reviews that mention comfort and padding; if the headboard is mainly decorative, a slimmer panel may do.

Finally, look at delivery and assembly. Some headboards are tall and ship flat but need two people to lift. Read the instructions for the maker’s required fixing method, and keep the hardware bag until you are sure everything fits. If you move often, choose a style that comes apart without damage. Independent reviewers frequently remark that headboards with clear fitting instructions and sturdy brackets cause fewer problems than those that look more elaborate in photos.

Frequently Asked Questions

How wide should a headboard be?

It should match or slightly exceed the mattress width. Always check the maker’s stated width and your bed frame’s compatibility.

Do all headboards fit all bed frames?

No. Attachment points and bolt patterns differ, so check the maker’s compatibility details or choose a freestanding or wall-mounted style.

How tall should a headboard be?

Choose based on how you use the bed. A taller, padded headboard supports sitting up, while a lower panel suits a minimal look.

Can I attach a headboard without drilling into the wall?

Yes, if it bolts to the frame or stands freely, though a freestanding model should be stable. Wall-mounted types require drilling and anchors.

How do I clean a fabric headboard?

Vacuum with a soft brush and follow the maker’s cleaning code for spot treatment. Test any cleaner on a hidden area first.

Is a headboard necessary?

Not strictly, but it protects the wall, supports pillows and gives the bed a finished look. Many people also like it for comfort when sitting up.