Guide · Beds & bed sizes
Upholstered beds: velvet, bouclé & fabric explained
Upholstered beds are soft to lean against, quieter than metal frames, and come in far more colours than wood. The fabric you choose changes the look, the feel and the care.
The main fabrics
| Fabric | Look and feel | Good to know |
|---|---|---|
| Velvet (incl. plush velvet) | Soft, short pile with a rich sheen | Shows "pressure marks" where the pile is crushed; these usually brush out |
| Bouclé | Looped, textured yarn; cosy and tactile | Loops can snag on pet claws or jewellery |
| Chenille | Soft, slightly fuzzy woven fabric | A softer alternative to flat-weave fabric |
| Flat-weave / linen-look fabric | Smooth, matt, understated | Easy to keep looking tidy |
Velvet beds
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SOLACE+COSOLACE+CO Emilie Ribbed Ottoman BedFrom €509.99
Free delivery
Save €60Flair FurnishingsFlair Artemis Kingsize Ottoman Bed with Cushioned Button Headboard Black Velvet€489.99
€549.99Free delivery
Flair FurnishingsFlair Alice Hotel Ottoman Bed Brown ChenilleFrom €881.99
Free delivery
Flair FurnishingsFlair Alice Hotel Ottoman Bed with USB Gold Lights Beige VelvetFrom €809.99
Free delivery
Bouclé beds
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SOLACE+COSOLACE+CO Emilie Ribbed Ottoman BedFrom €509.99
Free delivery
Save €90Flair FurnishingsFlair Ava Single Fabric Ottoman BedFrom €399.99
€489.99Free delivery
Save €30Flair FurnishingsFlair Alba Single Ottoman Storage BedFrom €419.99
€449.99Free delivery
Flair FurnishingsFlair Megane Side Lift TV Ottoman Bed Beige BoucleFrom €949.99
Free delivery
Looking after an upholstered bed
- Vacuum regularly with a soft brush attachment.
- Blot spills straight away with a clean, dry cloth; don't rub.
- Always follow the care instructions supplied with the bed, and test any cleaner on a hidden area first.
- Keep it out of strong direct sunlight, which can fade fabric over time.
Headboard height
A tall headboard is a statement piece and comfortable for reading in bed, but check it clears any window sill, shelf or sloped ceiling behind the bed. The overall bed height is on each product page.
Common questions
Are velvet beds hard to keep clean?
Not usually. Vacuum with a soft brush, blot spills quickly, and brush out any pressure marks in the pile. Always follow the care instructions that come with the bed.
Is bouclé good for a bed with pets?
Bouclé is made from looped yarn, which can snag on claws, so a smooth flat-weave or velvet fabric may be a better choice if pets get on the bed.
Keep reading
All guides & quizzes- Beds & bed sizesBed sizes in Ireland: UK vs EU sizes in cmWhat single, double, king and super king mean in Ireland, in cm and feet, with UK vs EU (continental) mattress sizes compared, so your mattress fits.
- Beds & bed sizesOttoman storage beds for small homes & apartmentsHow ottoman storage beds work, end-lift vs side-lift, what fits inside, and how to choose one for a small bedroom, apartment or rental in Ireland.
- Beds & bed sizesChoosing a bed for a box roomPractical ideas for a bed in a box room: what size fits, high and mid sleepers, ottoman storage, day beds and trundles, and how to measure properly.
- Quiz & toolFind your perfect bed: a 5-question quizAnswer 5 quick questions about your room, storage and budget and we will suggest a bed size and type, with matching beds in stock for Ireland.
- Quiz & toolWhich mattress suits you? Take the quizAnswer a few quick questions about how you sleep and we will suggest a mattress firmness and type, with matching mattresses in stock for Ireland.
- Quiz & toolKids' bed finder: by age & room sizeTell us your child's age, the room size and what you need (storage, desk, sleepovers) and we'll suggest suitable kids' beds in stock for Ireland.
Free delivery on orders of €250 or more to the Republic of Ireland.