What Is a Bed?

A bed is a piece of furniture used to sleep or rest in. It is usually made of a mattress or bedclothes, and it may be topped with a headboard or footboard and side rails. Most beds also have a box spring, or inner-sprung base, for additional support and suspension. Some beds also include a canopy frame, which can be draped with curtains or other decorative materials to complement the décor of the room. The term can also refer to a specific position in a sleep or resting position, such as lying on the back or stomach.

The best bed for you will depend on your sleeping position, body weight and firmness preferences. Luckily, top mattress brands offer a wide range of universally appealing firmness levels and generous trial periods.

If you tend to overheat in the night, look for a mattress with cooling components such as an aerated composition or phase change material. A cooling layer helps regulate temperature and prevents moisture from building up in the foam, resulting in overheating.

Memory foam mattresses have become the most popular type of mattress for good reason. Their contouring design relieves pressure points, while also minimizing motion transfer, making them ideal for couples who share the bed. Foam mattresses are also very durable, and many last for seven to eight years before showing signs of sagging.

All-foam mattresses are another great option for those who want the support of a traditional innerspring with the plushness of a memory foam mattress. These mattresses are often the most affordable, but they can feel less resilient than other mattress types.

For those who want a little more zing to their sleep, a Sonic bed is engineered with built-in speakers to play soothing music while you slumber. These beds are available from some mattress companies and are perfect for those who want to wake up to their favorite song or podcast.