If you’re a host or property manager, one simple truth reigns supreme—guests value a restful night’s sleep above almost everything else. A comfortable bed can mean the difference between 5-star reviews and complaints. It’s not just about aesthetics; it’s about functionality and delivering on the promise of ultimate comfort. This blog will help you choose the best bed for your Airbnb, offering guidance on the most critical factors like mattress types, bed frames, durability, and budget considerations. By the end of this guide, you’ll know which bed is right for your vacation rental and how to maximize guest satisfaction.
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Why Choosing the Right Bed Matters
Your guests may have booked your property for its location, charm, or amenities. But their stay will ultimately be judged by how well they sleep. Here are three key reasons why investing in the right bed is essential for your Airbnb success story.
1. The guest experience is everything
Sleep quality defines your guest’s experience. Even if you nail the decor or provide thoughtful extras like free coffee or smart locks, bad sleep leaves a sour note. Comfortable mattresses and sturdy frames send a message to guests—you value their rest, and you’ve carefully planned their comfort.
2. Good beds lead to better reviews
Want to climb Airbnb’s rankings or earn Superhost status? Positive reviews are your golden ticket. Guests who sleep soundly are far more likely to rave about your place in their reviews. And reviews praising “cozy beds” or “extremely restful sleep” can attract more bookings.
3. Durability saves money long-term
Airbnb properties endure more wear and tear than the average home. Cheap mattresses or fragile bed frames may save money upfront, but they’ll soon need replacing. An investment in quality now can save you the hassle (and cost) of frequent replacements.
What to Look for in an Airbnb Bed
Not all beds are created equal. When selecting the best bed for your Airbnb, balance aesthetics, practicality, and comfort. Here are the main factors to consider.
1. Mattress comfort
The mattress is the most important part of the bed. Aim for a medium-firm mattress, which works best for most guests and offers good back support. Mattresses that are too soft risk being unsupportive, and overly firm beds can feel uncomfortable—strike a balance to please the majority.
Recommended Mattress Types:
- Memory Foam: Known for contouring to the sleeper’s body, memory foam provides excellent support and comfort. Additionally, it’s great for reducing motion transfer, which is perfect if you’re hosting couples.
- Hybrid: Combining memory foam and innerspring technology, hybrid mattresses offer the best of both worlds—comfort and durability.
- Latex: Eco-friendly, durable, and naturally cooling, latex is a premium choice but comes with a higher price tag.
Avoid cheap spring mattresses, as the coils are noisy and prone to sagging. A mattress with a solid 10-year warranty is a great sign of quality.
2. Durable bed frames
A rickety or noisy bed frame is a huge no-no. Not only does it scream poor quality, but it can also make your guests’ stay unenjoyable. Look for frames made from materials like solid wood or metal for maximum durability.
Key Considerations for Bed Frames:
- Platform Beds: These are sturdy, often come with built-in slats (no box spring needed), and give your room a sleek, modern look.
- Adjustable Beds: For luxury rentals, consider adjustable bed frames that allow guests to elevate their heads and feet for added comfort.
3. Practical aesthetics
Your rental’s bed frame and headboard should align with your rental’s overall decor style. A rustic cabin? Go for a wooden frame. A sleek city apartment? Opt for a minimalistic metal frame. Remember, functionality and aesthetics should go hand-in-hand.
4. Flexible bed sizes
If you’re running a small apartment rental, a queen-size bed is ideal—it’s spacious enough for couples yet practical for compact spaces. If you have a larger property with multiple bedrooms, consider offering a mix of king-size, queen-size, and twin beds to cater to varied guest needs.
Bed Size Suggestions by Room Type:
- Primary Airbnb Bedroom ⇒ King or Queen bed
- Guest Room ⇒ Queen
- Kids Room ⇒ Twin or Bunk Beds
5. Hygiene and maintenance
Don’t forget hygiene! Choose a mattress with waterproof, washable mattress protectors to defend against spills and stains. For added cleanliness, invest in hypoallergenic materials, especially if you cater to family stays.
Mattress and Frame Brands for Hosts
Here’s a list of highly-rated bed options hosts love, based on guest satisfaction and long-term performance.
Zinus Green Tea Memory Foam Mattress (Budget-Friendly)
- Comfortable, durable, and affordable.
- CertiPUR-US certified, so it’s safe and eco-friendly.
- Perfect for smaller budgets while still keeping guests happy.
Tuft & Needle Adaptive Foam Mattress (Mid-Range)
- Offers amazing comfort with cooling gels to prevent overheating.
- Medium-firm, great for a variety of sleepers.
Saatva Classic Mattress (Luxury)
- A hybrid mattress blending innerspring durability with plush pillow-top comfort.
- Comes with a 12-month trial and premium build quality.
IKEA Malm Bed Frame (Versatile Style)
- Affordable yet stylish platform bed with a sleek modern design.
- Pair it with storage drawers to maximize utility for your guests.
Zinus Suzanne Metal and Wood Platform Bed Frame (Industrial Charm)
- A sturdy platform bed combining metal framework with natural wood accents for a chic industrial look.
- Easy to assemble and no box spring needed, offering both convenience and durability.
Allewie Upholstered Platform Bed Frame (Cozy Elegance)
- A modern upholstered bed frame featuring a padded headboard for maximum comfort and style.
- Designed with sturdy wooden slats for reliable support, eliminating the need for a box spring.
- Perfect for adding a touch of elegance and warmth to any bedroom.
Extra Tips to Make Your Guests Feel at Home
Adding thoughtful touches to your Airbnb bed can elevate the guest experience even further.
Luxurious bedding
Invest in high-thread-count sheets, fluffy pillows, and cozy duvets.
Extra blankets and a duvet cover set
Keep a couple of additional blankets available in case guests need more warmth.
Bedside Storage
Provide nightstands with lamps and charging ports for added convenience.
Pillow Variety and pillow protectors
Offer a mix of soft, medium, and firm pillows to accommodate all guest preferences. A couple of throw pillows add a bit of flair to the room as well.
Final Thoughts
Your short-term rental bed is more than just a piece of furniture — it’s the foundation of a great hospitality experience. Putting thought into your choice of mattress, bed frame, and bedding can set you apart from the competition. Ultimately, your guests will remember their good night’s sleep, and their positive reviews will reflect it.
Now that you know what to look for, it’s your turn to create the ultimate sleep haven for your guests. Comfort, style, and durability aren’t just selling points — they’re how you turn first-time visitors into loyal guests. Start crafting the perfect Airbnb bed today!
Host Tools provides an automated, unified calendar for short-term rental hosts, allowing you to seamlessly list on all major channels. Start your free trial today!
