A new bed is something to look forward to, and the last thing anyone wants is a delivery that won't fit up the stairs. This guide explains how to measure your room and the route into it, so your handmade bed, headboard or sofa bed arrives without a hitch.

Step one: measure the room

Start with the space the bed will stand in. Measure the width and length of the room, and note the position of radiators, windows, sockets and doors. Check the overall bed dimensions on the product page, not just the mattress size, as frames and headboards add width and length.

Leave room to walk around the bed comfortably. Around 60–70cm on each side and 75cm or more at the foot works well in most bedrooms. Our guide to bigger beds has more on planning space for larger sizes.

Step two: check the headboard height

Tall statement headboards look wonderful, but check what's on the wall behind the bed. Measure up from the floor to the bottom of any window sill, picture rail or wall light, and compare it with the headboard height listed for your size.

Remember that the height of your mattress also affects how much headboard you see above the pillows. A deeper mattress shows less of a headboard than a slimmer one.

Step three: measure the route in

This is the step most often missed. Walk the route from your front door to the bedroom and measure every pinch point:

• Door widths: the narrowest point, measured with the door open (handles and hinges included).
• Hallway widths and any tight turns.
• Staircase width, the height of the ceiling above the stairs, and any turns or half-landings.
• Bannisters and radiators that stick out into the route.

Our furniture access guide explains in detail how to take each of these measurements.

Not sure a full bed will fit? A new upholstered headboard can transform an existing bed with far less to measure. Our post on what headboards are used for explains the benefits.

Why upholstered beds are easier to deliver

Upholstered beds arrive in sections: the headboard, side rails, foot end and base are joined together in the room. That makes even large beds far easier to get up a staircase than a one-piece divan.

Sofa beds and corner sofa beds need a little more planning, so check the boxed dimensions on the product page. If you're unsure about a tricky staircase, contact our team before you order. Delivery details are on our delivery and returns page.

Your measuring checklist

Your questions, answered

How do I know if a bed will fit up my stairs?

Measure the stair width, the ceiling height above the stairs and any turns, then compare these with the largest component of the bed. Upholstered beds arrive in sections, which makes this much easier.

How much space should I leave around a bed?

Around 60–70cm on each side and 75cm or more at the foot is a good guide for walking around and making the bed comfortably.

Do your beds come in one piece?

No. Our upholstered beds arrive in sections, with a separate headboard, side rails, foot end and base, and are assembled in the room.

What if my bed won't fit?

Please measure carefully before ordering, and contact us if you're unsure. Our delivery and returns page has full details.

Handmade in Manchester, designed to fit your home.