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The 9 Best Headboards of 2024

Give your bedroom a refresh with one of these stylish, inviting choices

A headboard attached to a bed on a yellow background

The Spruce / Amelia Manley

If your bedroom just feels a little bit tired, it may be time to treat yourself to a new headboard. According to Beth Diana Smith, CEO and Principal Designer of Beth Diana Smith Interior Design, “Headboards are a good idea for all bedrooms for function and comfort” and are “a great way to bring color and pattern into your bedroom.” They can even support good feng shui in your sleep space.

After speaking with Smith, we used her insight to guide us as we researched numerous headboard brands and read countless product listings to find the best options available for a wide range of needs. To narrow down our picks, we looked at highly-rated headboards, focusing on those with great style, comfort, versatility, and overall value.

Our Top Picks

Best Overall

West Elm Headboard

West Elm Andes Headboard

West Elm

What We Like
  • Wide selection of fabric and color options

  • Tufted and non-tufted available

  • Durable engineered wood frame

  • Compatible with many beds

What We Don't Like
  • Longer wait times

  • No returns for made to order items

The combination of West Elm’s overall quality and the customizability of this headboard make the Andes Headboard our pick for the best overall. It features clean, simple lines and a padded engineered wood frame that’s kiln-dried to ensure it withstands the test of time.

Available in an array of sizes from twin to California king, it’s one of the most versatile options on our list in terms of size. Plus, it’s designed to work with a variety of different bed frames (including most West Elm frames!).

We love how customizable this headboard is. You can choose between a non-tufted upholstered version or a vertical tufted design. From there, you can opt for either a standard 46-inch height or a taller 58-inch version.

Lastly, West Elm offers a choice between nine different flat weave fabrics, four textured fabrics, and nine velvet fabrics in an array of hues. While the first two fabric options are more neutral colors, the velvet features more colorful choices should you want some added flair. Do note, though, that different fabrics will change the price, as will choosing the tufted design and the taller option. 

One detail to make note of is there will be longer wait times with this headboard because it’s made to order and needs to be upholstered with your chosen fabric. From there, though, white glove delivery is available to have it assembled in your room of choice.

Height: 46 and 58 inches | Sizes: Twin, full, queen, king, California king| | Mount Type: Bed frame | Adjustable Height: No | Materials: Engineered wood, polyester

Best Budget

Zipcode Design Upholstered Headboard

Zipcode Design Forest Hill Upholstered Headboard

Wayfair

What We Like
  • Adjustable height

  • Easy to install

What We Don't Like
  • Thin cushioning

  • Not the sturdiest

Sure, you could make your own headboard, but with amazing affordable options out there, why would you? At under $100, Zipcode Design’s Forest Hill Upholstered Headboard is a great option for anyone looking to add some style without breaking the bank.

It’s upholstered and designed in the style of mid-century modern, with button-tufting to add some retro flair. It’s also wonderfully versatile—you can choose from different colors, gray and warm gray, which are both very neutral and come in multiple heights. The adjustable height makes this headboard a great fit for just about any bed frame.

However, you’ll want to be aware that the cushioning is a bit thin. If you’re looking for a plush and well-cushioned upholstered headboard that’s comfortable to lean against, this may not be your best option.

But still, we who love the look of this option, and assembly seems fairly straightforward. With its affordable price and nice versatility, we think it’s a great budget-friendly upgrade for any bedroom.

Height: 45.5 inches | Sizes: Twin, full, queen, king | Mount Type: Bed frame | Adjustable Height: Yes | Materials: Solid wood, MDF, polyester, foam

Best Splurge

Pottery Barn Tufted Upholstered Tall Headboard

Pottery Barn Harper Tufted Upholstered Tall Headboard

Pottery Barn

What We Like
  • Thickly padded for cushioning

  • Over 90 fabric choices

  • Statement-making nailhead accents

  • American made

What We Don't Like
  • Longer wait time

  • Not returnable

If money is no concern, we highly recommend Pottery Barn’s Harper Tufted Upholstered Tall Headboard. The wingback design makes for a perfect place to display your pillows and relax, while the option of pewter and bronze nailheads allows you to turn your bed’s headboard into a standout statement piece. And if you prefer something more subdued, this customizable piece also offers the option of no nailheads as well. 

Made with mixed hardwoods and a kiln-dried engineered hardwood frame, this headboard offers exceptional durability. With over 90 made-to-order fabric choices available, you certainly won’t have to settle in terms of finding the perfect texture and color for your space. It also features adjustable levelers to help in the case of uneven floors, and it gets its plush padding from a fill made of polyurethane foam for added comfort. Oh, and it’s even compatible with adjustable beds!

While this headboard may be expertly made, it isn’t completely impervious to damage; Pottery Barn recommends avoiding putting it in direct sunlight. It is also made to order, so it will take a few weeks to arrive at your home, but when it does, it will be assembled with white glove delivery.

Height: 65 inches | Sizes: Full, queen, king, California king | Mount Type: Bed frame | Adjustable Height: No | Materials: Hardwoods, engineered hardwoods, polyurethane, fabric

Best Wood

Pottery Barn Livingston Headboard

Pottery Barn Livingston Headboard

Pottery Barn

What We Like
  • Made with meranti wood

  • Wood grain and texture adds visual interest

  • Compatible with adjustable mattress bases

  • White glove delivery

What We Don't Like
  • Only one color option

  • Limited sizing

If you’re looking for a wood headboard that lets the beauty of its wood do the talking, we absolutely love Pottery Barn’s Livingston Headboard. Made with meranti wood, a tropical hardwood that features an eye-catching grain, this standout piece allows the grains, knots, and patterns of the wood to shine.

It’s finished in a matte gray wash for a soft yet colorful hue that compliments bedrooms of any aesthetic. The result is a wooden headboard that’s elegant without being overly ornamental. It’s also compatible with an adjustable mattress base, giving you a bit more versatility than your typical headboard.

There are, however, some drawbacks to this option. It’s only offered in queen and king sizes, which is slightly limiting, and it’s available in a single color. Overall, though, Pottery Barn is known for its quality, so this will be a headboard that’s built to last.

Plus, we love the perks this brand offers, which include white glove delivery and assembly. If it’s longevity and real wood you’re looking for, then it’s tough to top this headboard.

Height: 53.5 inches | Sizes: Queen, king | Mount Type: Bed frame | Adjustable Height: No | Materials: Meranti, MDF, sungkai veneers

Best for Adjustable Beds

Steelside Faux Leather Headboard

Steelside Mattson Adjustable Faux Leather Headboard

Wayfair

What We Like
  • Wide range of height options

  • Faux leather

  • Hidden pouch in the back

What We Don't Like
  • Made with manufactured wood

  • Assembly required

For an elegant add-on to your adjustable bed, we love Steelside’s Mattson Adjustable Faux Leather Headboard. Built specifically to suit adjustable frames and bases, this headboard is both attractive and built to adapt to your needs.

Featuring a classical design made with faux leather, available in a range of five neutral colors, and patterned with subtle diamond tufting make it a welcome addition to a variety of styles. It’s also versatile in height—you can choose from an array of 2-inch increments for a height that perfectly suits your bed frame. This is also convenient if you're using bed risers.

We also love the details on this headboard. It’s not only tufted for some textural detail but there’s also a pouch hidden in the back, which is perfect for storing your adjustable bed’s wires. One thing to note with the Mattson headboard, however, is it’s made partially with manufactured wood, and as a result, it isn’t as sturdy as other options available. Fortunately, it is more affordable than other choices, and we like that it features a two-year warranty to keep you feeling protected.

Height: 21 inches | Sizes: Twin, full, queen, king | Mount Type: Wall mounted | Adjustable Height: Yes | Materials: Solid wood, manufactured wood, polyester

Best Wall-Mounted

Article Almelo

Article Almelo Headboard

Article

What We Like
  • Unique round design

  • Built-in shelves

  • Velvet upholstery

What We Don't Like
  • Fabric fades in the sun

  • Cumbersome to move

If your bed doesn’t accommodate a headboard, fret not: Article’s Almelo Headboard offers you a chance to add some style to your room by mounting it to the wall rather than attaching it to your bed frame. This standout curved headboard is a stunning centerpiece for any bedroom, thanks to its vibrant color choices, smart shelving, and plush polyester velvet fabric.

With a foam-filled interior and channeled upholstery, you have the option between serrano green and sumac red to really make a statement. We like the retro vibe of this headboard and how it blends convenience (the shelves are perfect for phones, books, or drinks) with style. 

This headboard secures to the wall through a French cleat mounting bracket that comes included. Just keep in mind that it’s quite heavy, so if you intend to carry it upstairs in your home, moving and installation may require two people. Additionally, the fabric can fade in the sun, so be mindful to avoid direct sunlight.

Height: 51.5 inches | Sizes: Queen, king | Mount Type: Wall-mounted | Adjustable Height: No | Materials: Plywood, foam, polyester

Best Upholstered

AllModern Upholstered Headboard

AllModern Abram Upholstered Headboard

AllModern

What We Like
  • Five color choices

  • Plushly padded

  • KIln-dried wood frame for durability

What We Don't Like
  • No warranty

  • Made with manufactured wood

If you love modern decor and furniture, the Abram Upholstered Headboard from AllModern is a great pick for your bedroom. It provides both style and comfort in one attractive piece—and it’s available in both neurally subdued colors as well as more vibrant choices to allow you to really make your bedroom pop.

AllModern will also send you free samples of these colors to help you make your choice. We love the pull tufts dotted across this headboard, along with the cushy polyester foam padding inside that almost invites you to lean back and hang out in bed. 

Unlike other options on our list, this headboard is available not only in a variety of colors but also in a variety of sizes, making it a more versatile choice. Another added benefit is it comes with free shipping and 30-day returns.

It’s important to note, though, that while it does feature kiln-dried pine for a lasting frame, the frame also includes manufactured wood, which can be somewhat weak. However, this well-rounded modern headboard should last sufficiently long.

Height: 51 inches | Sizes: Twin, full, queen, king, California king | Mount Type: Bed frame | Adjustable Height: Yes | Materials: Pine, manufactured wood, polyester blend, polyester

Best for Platform Beds

Wade Logan Alcino Headboard

Wade Logan Alcino Headboard

Wayfair

What We Like
  • Freestanding

  • Adjustable width

  • Multiple color choices

What We Don't Like
  • Hardware for attachment not included

  • Assembly can be tedious

If you’re looking to take your simple platform bed to the next level, an addition like Wage Logan’s Alcino Headboard is a great way to do it. This headboard looks like true wood yet is constructed out of lighter-weight manufactured wood painted with neutral hues. Available in white, dusty gray oak, dark gray oak, black, and knotty oak, you can easily choose a color that compliments your space.

This headboard is freestanding, which allows you to utilize it separately or attach it to your bed if you want to. It also has a nice farmhouse look and will spruce up any plain-looking bed.

It’s worth noting, though, that this option requires assembly. While the assembly process isn’t difficult, it can take some time. It also doesn’t come with the hardware necessary to attach it to your bed, so you’ll need to purchase those components separately.

Height: 41.57 inches | Sizes: Twin, full/queen | Mount Type: Free standing | Adjustable Height: No | Materials: Manufactured wood

Best Metal

Sand & Stable Headboard

Sand & Stable Menton Headboard

Wayfair

What We Like
  • Durable steel construction

  • Low profile

  • Easy to clean and maintain

What We Don't Like
  • Limited size options

  • Not height adjustable

This metal Menton Headboard from Sand & Stable is a wonderfully versatile option that works just as well with modern-style bedrooms as it does with mid-century modern and art deco decor. It features a bronze finish over steel with geometric patterns and art deco symmetrical lines. And thanks to its steel frame, this headboard is designed to be a lasting purchase.

It’s also lower in nature, measuring just 44 inches, making it a good choice for understated bedrooms where you don’t want your headboard to do too much. Plus, unlike fabric headboards, it’s a breeze to keep clean and spot- or stain-free.

While it does require assembly, this headboard seems easy to put together. It also features a one-year warranty, fast delivery, and free shipping. One thing to be aware of though is it’s not available in twin or California king sizes. However, if it suits your bed frame’s size, it’s a worthwhile investment.

Height: 44 inches | Sizes: Full/queen, king | Mount Type: Bed frame | Adjustable Height: No | Materials: Steel

Final Verdict

Our pick for the best overall headboard is West Elm’s Andes for its multiple color and fabric options, quality materials, and options to customize it. For a more affordable choice, we love our top budget pick, the Zipcode Design Forest Hill Upholstered Headboard, for its button tufting, mid-century modern design, and its two color options.

What to Look for in a Headboard

Size

When it comes to finding the proper size for your headboard, Smith tells us that “Headboards should be the same width or wider than the bed frame, never narrower than the bed frame.” She recommends the headboard “to be at least 46 inches high for a queen bed or 58 inches high for a king bed.” For a headboard that fits flush with the bed frame, we like the Alcino Headboard by Wade Logan, our best for platform beds.

Material

Headboards come in all different shapes, sizes, and materials. Smith likes both fabric and wooden headboards, preferring fabric for its softer feel. She notes that wood is obviously much harder. As a result, if you’re someone looking for a softer material to lean against, we recommend choosing a headboard with ample cushioning.

Style and Design

Much like all furniture, headboards can cater to a wide variety of different styles. If you are someone looking for more texture in their fabric, for example, boucle is available. If you’re someone who likes clean lines and mid-century modern furniture design, there is no shortage of wooden headboards that cater to that.

Installation Requirements

Smith tells us that “Headboards are held in place primarily in one of two ways. It’s connected directly to a bed frame, or it can be attached directly to the wall.” Bed frame mounting options work by having pre-drilled holes that align with the holes of your bed frame. 

Conversely, wall-mounted headboards don’t have to attach to your bed frame at all and will simply, as the name implies, mount against the wall. These are good options for someone seeking a lower profile headboard, and there are great options available, like the Article Almelo Headboard, our top wall-mounted choice.

FAQ
  • Does a headboard make a room look smaller?

    Smith tells us that headboards do not make a room look smaller. In fact, she says that “Headboards do the opposite: They make a room feel bigger, formal, and grander.” If you're looking to make your space look bigger, you may actually benefit from purchasing a taller headboard.

  • Can you attach a headboard to any bed frame?

    You cannot! While many bed frames are designed with the ability to attach a headboard, not all are. As a result, be sure to examine your type of bed frame and make sure it's compatible with the headboard you are interested in buying.

    Likewise, not all headboards are compatible with all bed frames, so you will want to take measurements to make sure everything aligns. If all else fails, you can look into a wall-mounted option to avoid this headache.

  • How do you keep a headboard in place?

    As mentioned above, headboards can either be attached to the bed frame or mounted to the wall behind the bed. To ensure they stay in place, make sure you fully screw the headboard into your bed frame or that you are attaching them to a stud in the wall. If you aren't sure how to do this, it may be worth paying for a professional to safely do it for you.

Why Trust The Spruce?

Jack Byram is a freelance writer who has written countless articles pertaining to all things sleep-related. He has spoken with numerous design experts to glean insight into how to optimize a space to make it look great. For this article, he gleaned expert insights into the benefits of a headboard and what people should look for in one. After that, he used the insight to guide him as he scoured products and customer reviews to offer his picks for the best headboards for a wide range of needs and prices.

Our Experts:

  • Beth Diana Smith, CEO and Principal Designer of Beth Diana Smith Interior Design
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