Should You Get A Bed With A Footboard?

The day you feared has arrived…

It’s time for you to buy a new bed.

Whether you’re moving or you’ve broken the old one, you now find yourself in an ocean of bed-related information.

You’ve never had a bed with a footboard before and all of a sudden you find yourself looking into the bathroom mirror as you brush your teeth asking are footboards in style? and are they actually useful in any way?

You begin to suffer from Analysis Paralysis – there’s so much choice that it becomes impossible to make a decision.

Who knew there was so much to talk about on beds?

We’re going to give you a list of pros and cons on the humble footboard and at the end I’ll provide my own short opinion on whether you should buy a bed with a footboard or not.

Sound excellent?

Great!

What is a bed footboard?

First off, you’ll need to make sure you know what a bed’s footboard is before understanding the pros and cons.

It’s typically constructed as part of the bed frame but isn’t a mandatory requirement.

In fact, they’re seen as a decorative element to the bed.

Footboards might be annoying if you’re taller than average and your feet stick over the end of your bed.

Instead of hanging feet, you’re have feet that scrunch up against the footboard and will need to bend your legs to fit everything in comfortably.

Lastly, if you have a small bedroom, footboards might make the room feel smaller with less free space available.

Are Footboards Out of Style?

Of course, this depends on personal preference.

However, it’s fair to say that if you buy a footboard with minimal ornamentation, it has a timeless feel to it that wouldn’t look out of place in any decade.

Many prefer footboards because it provides a complete look.

They don’t get a sense of completion to the bed frame if the footboard is missing – is this you?

If it is then then don’t feel ashamed about buying a bed with a footboard.

Pros of having a footboard

• They don’t go out of fashion as such, it’s a personal preference based on a traditional aesthetic
• Helps to hold covers and blankets in place for magazine-ready photographs
• Add decorations to them if you need somewhere to put your never-worn scarves
• Prevents the mattress from slipping, although I’ve never found myself with this problem

Cons of having a footboard

• Banging your shins when you try to straighten your legs (a good alarm clock to be fair)
• You’ll feel your blood boiling with rage if you can’t stretch your legs out
• If you have a tall footboard and the bed is facing the doorway, you can’t show off the bed linen. One of life’s great tragedies.

Can I Use a Footboard as a Headboard?

Yes it is possible.

Most beds come with a headboard bracket even if they don’t include the headboard to go with it.

Read through this step-by-step guide on how to fix your footboard to your headboard.

To Conclude: Footboard or No Footboard

Footboards are used to box the top of the mattress within the bed frame.

They’re not essential to the construction of the bed and most are decorative, improving the aesthetics of the rest of your bedroom.

Why buy a footboard?

They are the timeless qualities that don’t go out of fashion and larger ones can be used as open shelving to keep items such as plant pots and books.

Why wouldn’t you want one?

It’s quite simple.

Are you a tall human?

If the answer is yes, reconsider getting a footboard so you don’t feel crushed.

If you have a small bedroom, it may contribute to the bedroom feeling even smaller which is the opposite of what you want.