Choosing between a floorstanding and strutted headboard is one of the most common questions when buying a new headboard for a UK divan bed.
Both styles offer different advantages in terms of appearance, stability, height and fitting methods. This guide explains the key differences between floorstanding and strutted headboards to help you choose the best option for your bedroom.
What Is A Strutted Headboard?
A strutted headboard attaches directly to the divan base using wooden or metal fixing struts positioned at the back of the bed.
This is the most traditional UK headboard fitting method and is commonly used for wooden, metal and standard upholstered headboards.
Strutted headboards are height adjustable and are designed to sit above the mattress rather than extending fully to the floor.
Advantages Of Strutted Headboards
- Easier to move and install
- Height adjustable
- Usually lighter in weight
- Suitable for most standard UK divan beds
- Often more affordable than floorstanding designs
What Is A Floorstanding Headboard?
A floorstanding headboard extends from the floor to the top of the headboard, creating a taller and more luxurious appearance behind the bed.
Most floorstanding headboards still attach to the divan base using standard fixing bolts, but the weight of the headboard is partially supported by the floor.
Floorstanding upholstered headboards are especially popular in modern bedrooms and hotel-style interiors.
Advantages Of Floorstanding Headboards
- Taller and more dramatic appearance
- Greater visual impact
- Often more stable and rigid
- Popular for luxury and hotel-style bedrooms
- Available in oversized upholstered designs
Which Headboard Style Is Better?
Neither option is necessarily better — the right choice depends on your bedroom style, budget and the appearance you want to create.
Strutted headboards are practical, adjustable and ideal for traditional bedroom layouts, while floorstanding headboards are often chosen for a more contemporary and luxurious look.
| Feature | Strutted Headboards | Floorstanding Headboards |
|---|---|---|
| Fitting Style | Attaches to the divan base using wooden or metal struts. | Extends to the floor and attaches to the divan base using standard fixing bolts. |
| Height | Usually sits above the mattress top seam. | Extends from the floor to create a taller appearance. |
| Appearance | Traditional and practical look. | More luxurious and hotel-style appearance. |
| Adjustability | Height adjustable. | Normally fixed height. |
| Weight | Generally lighter and easier to move. | Usually heavier and more substantial. |
| Stability | Stable when correctly fitted. | Often feels more rigid due to floor support. |
| Best For | Traditional bedrooms and practical everyday use. | Modern bedrooms and statement interiors. |
| Popular Materials | Wood, metal and standard upholstered designs. | Mainly wood or metal and oversized upholstered designs. |
| Divan Compatibility | Fits most standard UK divan beds. | Fits most standard UK divan beds. |
| Price Range | Often more affordable. | Usually more premium in price. |
Do Floorstanding Headboards Fit Standard UK Divan Beds?
Yes. Most floorstanding headboards are designed to fit standard UK divan beds using normal UK fixing bolt positions.
For full UK bed dimensions and fixing measurements, see our UK Headboard Size Guide
However, because floorstanding headboards are taller and heavier than standard strutted headboards, it is important to check dimensions and compatibility before ordering.