The 11 Best Upholstered Headboards of 2023

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Best Upholstered Headboards for Your Bedroom

The Spruce / Marcus Millan

When it comes to your bedroom decor, adding an upholstered headboard can have a host of benefits. From tweed fabric to pony hair or suede, many options are available in a variety of fabrics and styles to add more visual interest to your space. But it doesn’t stop there—“they offer functional purposes as well,” says Angela Hamwey, founder of Mackenzie & Co. Design Studio. The tall upholstered back offers cushioned support perfect for watching TV or reading in bed.”

To help you find the best upholstered headboard for your space, we researched available options, considering overall value, materials, size, design, and more.

Our Top Picks

Joss & Main Tilly Upholstered Headboard

Joss & Main Tilly Upholstered Headboard

Joss & Main

Pros
  • Updated take on a classic style

  • Available in many colors and fabrics

  • Easily connects to headboard

Cons
  • Prices vary greatly by fabric/color

  • Some found the colors didn’t match expectations

The well-reviewed Tilly Upholstered Headboard is available in many colors (including solids, stripes, and ombre) as well as several different fabric varieties, from linen to velvet. Be aware that the price varies based not only on the size of the bed but on the fabric. 

This modernized wingback attaches directly to the bed. While reviewers generally found assembling the headboard easy, many noted it was a two-person task. The headboard is not compatible with adjustable beds, but some reviewers got around that issue by attaching the headboard to the wall instead of to the bed frame. 

We recommend ordering a sample—or several samples—of the color and fabric you want for your headboard, since some buyers found that the color was not as they anticipated. A sample can help ensure that the headboard fits well in your bedroom decor. This attractive option is a good match for many design aesthetics from coastal to hotel chic and more.

Price at publish: $640 and up

Sizes: Twin, Full, Queen, King, California King | Height: 55 inches | Materials: Foam, Polyester, Manufactured Wood, Solid Wood, Variety of Fabrics (Cotton, Velvet, Linen, Polyester, Polyester Blend) | Colors: 42

Skyline Furniture Empire Linen Upholstered Headboard

Skyline Furniture Empire Linen Upholstered Headboard

Target

Pros
  • Can be mounted to wall (with additional wall mount kit) or bed frame, and works with some adjustable beds

  • High quality construction

  • Easy assembly

Cons
  • Additional parts may be necessary for assembly

  • Color options vary by bed size

Despite linen being namechecked, the Empire Linen Upholstered Headboard is made with a linen-polyester blend. That’s a good thing when it comes to the headboard’s clean-up and longevity. Polyester is a performance fabric, which is naturally stain resistant. 

This headboard features a simple design—no tufting, curves, or other design flourishes. This simplicity means it can live in your bedroom for years without becoming stale. The headboard is available for all sizes of beds, and in a variety of colors, with free fabric swatches available so you can see the color and feel the texture before committing. 

It can attach to any metal bed frame, and assembly is speedy and straightforward. Some reviewers note that additional nuts and bolts were needed and did not come with the packaging, but these are relatively easily acquired at any hardware store.   Reviewers praise the sturdy construction of this headboard, and note that it looks more high-end than the budget-friendly price might imply.

Price at publish: $375 (price varies by bed size and fabric)

Sizes: Twin, Full, Queen, King, California King | Height: 51 inches | Materials: Polyester/Linen Blend Fabric, Polyester Fill, Pine | Colors: 9

Sleep Number Contemporary Camelback Upholstered Headboard

Sleep Number Contemporary Camelback Upholstered Headboard

Sleep Number

Pros
  • Upholstered in the front and back

  • Works with both standard and adjustable beds

  • Assembly included

Cons
  • Not available for full beds

  • Headboard brackets required and purchased separately

  • You’ll need to confirm compatibility with non-Sleep Number beds.

Sleep Number offers several headboards, and ones in their signature line—like this camelback headboard—are not only delivered but also assembled for you. This headboard had a modern look, with sleek lines and a slightly curved top. It’s available in several fabrics, all in neutral tones, with swatches available for free in case you’d like to review options before making a purchase. 

This headboard is ideal for people aiming for a simple, modern look in their bedroom—reviewers praise it for the aesthetic as well as the quality and solid, strong construction. Note that it is upholstered in the front as well as the not-so-visible back. That’s a pro, according to Molly McGinness, an award-winning residential interior designer. “[Headboards should be] fully upholstered, front and back," she says. "Even if the back is a lesser fabric, it should be finished off nicely."

Be aware that this headboard won’t work with all beds—it’s not available for full/double-sized beds or sleigh beds, and if you don’t have a Sleep Number bed, it’s wise to check first if your bed will be compatible. Plus, while someone will handle the installation process, you’ll need to purchase headboard brackets (which is a relatively minor expense at $39.99, but given the overall price of the headboard, it does seem like these brackets could be included).

Price at publish: $1,500

Sizes: Queen, King, and Cal King | Height: 54 inches | Materials: fabric, nailhead trim, padding | Colors: 7 

Everly Quinn Colvard Upholstered Headboard

Everly Quinn Colvard Upholstered Headboard

Wayfair

Pros
  • Adjustable height

  • Budget-friendly

  • Easy assembly

Cons
  • Not compatible with adjustable beds

  • Some find colors do not match expectations

  • Can be difficult to attach to bed due to sizing

If you want a modern headboard that makes a bit of a statement, the Colvard upholstered headboard, with its chevron pattern, rich colors, and luxurious texture, fits this bill. While the aesthetics are noteworthy, there’s no stinting on practical details: that super soft, velvet fabric is stain-resistant. And the foam padding leads to a cozy bedroom experience when you’re sitting up to read or watch TV. This headboard is available in five colors, but some reviewers found that the colors were not accurate to the website visuals. 

Plus, the height is customizable, with three positions available. This can make it easy to suit your current bedframe and desired height. Just keep in mind that some reviewers found that it didn’t attach properly to standard-sized bed frames. Given the budget-friendly price of this classy-looking headboard—and the easy workaround of using zip ties—we found this acceptable.

Price at publish: $171

Sizes: Twin, Full/Queen, King/California King | Height: 43.5 inches | Materials: Solid Wood, Manufactured Wood, Foam, Polyester, Velvet | Colors: 5

West Elm Grid Tufted Wall Mounted Headboard

West Elm Grid Tufted Wall Mounted Headboard

West Elm

Pros
  • Modern design with a luxurious appeal

  • Available in several heights

  • Easy to clean

Cons
  • Not available for California King

  • You’ll need to mount it on the wall (even with white glove service)

A leather headboard is a classic look, and this option from West Elm is modernized thanks to being made with vegan leather and oversized squares. It’s available in three heights (low, standard, and tall, which range from 38 inches to 61.5 inches)  so you can accommodate a range of ceiling heights along with your personal aesthetics. And, it’s available in a variety of colors. 

Caring for this vegan leather is easy—use your vacuum to get at the crevices where dust and crumbs may gather, then spot-clean any damage with a damp cloth. Be aware: If you love to keep the shades and blinds open during the day, and have a sunny bedroom, this might not be the best fit, since the fabric will fade due to the sunshine exposure. Other than the need to avoid light, leather is typically a more durable choice when it comes to headboards. 

All West Elm headboards—this one included—attach to a metal bed frame.

Price at publish: $659-$899

Sizes: Full, Queen, King | Height: 38, 52.2, or 61.5 inches | Materials: Vegan leather and plywood | Colors: 4

Nathan James Harlow Wall Mount Headboard

Nathan James Harlow Wall Mount Headboard

Amazon

Pros
  • Quick assemble

  • Limited lifetime warranty

  • Can be used as a backdrop for other home areas

Cons
  • Only mounts to walls

  • No fabric swatches available

This modern and chic headboard comes with two panels for full-, queen-, California king- and king-sized beds. A single panel is used for twin beds. It’s available in a soft vegan leather or linen-polyester blend fabric. Because this headboard mounts on the wall (as opposed to attaching to the bed frame) the height is adjustable. That can be handy if you have an adjustable base or a very high (or low) bed. 

The headboard comes with an optional bar that can be used to attach the lightweight panels. Some fabric options also come with faux leather straps. As well as being used as a headboard, it can also be used as a decor accent in other areas of your home. 

The company prides itself on ease of assembly, and reviews bear that out, with many reviewers commenting on how fast they managed the process, and noting the clear instructions.

Price at publish: $150 (price varies by size and color)

Sizes: Twin, Queen, King | Height: Adjustable | Materials: Vegan leather or linen-polyester fabric; metal | Colors: 10

Casper Drift Attachable Headboard

Casper Drift Attachable Headboard

Nordstrom

Pros
  • Suits a minimalist aesthetic

  • Easy assembly

  • Can be used with some adjustable bases

  • Removable covers

Cons
  • Limited colorways

  • Only available for king and queen beds

We recommend the Caster Drift Headboard for lovers of modern and minimalist design. While it’s only available in three colors, and solely in a pebble-weave fabric, these neutral options will go with just about any bedding or other design accents in your space. 

Installing the headboard is simple (although two people always make the task easier) and unlike many headboards, this one can attach to adjustable bases as well as standard metal bed frames. If you don't have a Casper adjustable base, just make sure to confirm that the headboard specs are a match for your base before making your purchase.

While you can’t throw it in the laundry, the removable slipcover can be dry-cleaned or spot cleaned. That said, you cannot simply order a new slipcover to swap out colors. And, bear in mind that this headboard is only available for two sizes of beds: queen and king, so it’s off-limits if you have a twin, full, or California king bed frame.

Price at publish: $445

Sizes: Queen, King | Height: 64.17 or 79.1 inches | Materials: Plywood, foam, metal, polyester, and acrylic Fabric | Colors: 3

Rosdorf Park Candice Upholstered Wingback Button Tufted Headboard

Rosdorf Park Candice Upholstered Wingback Button Tufted Headboard

Wayfair

Pros
  • Eye-catching design that acts as a focal point

  • Adjustable height

  • Easy to assemble

Cons
  • Only available for some sizes

  • Material isn’t soft

With this winged upholstered headboard from Rosdorf Park you get an elegant option that can tie the room together, featuring a tufted button design, with a double row of nailhead trim on the wings. 

Putting together this headboard is a relatively simple task, although two people are required to complete the task. The headboard’s height is adjustable so you can accommodate the height of your bed, bed frame, and ceiling. Note that this headboard only attaches to the bed frame, and not to the wall. 

Reviewers praise the appearance of this headboard along with the quality of the construction and fabric. While it’s comfortable to lean against, the fabric is not soft, which could be a dealbreaker for some.

Price at publish: $429 (varies based on size and color)

Sizes: Queen, King | Height: 60.75 | Materials: Manufactured Wood, Plywood, Polyester Blend, Foam | Colors: 4

Lulu and Georgia Adara Headboard

Lulu and Georgia Adara Headboard

Lulu and Georgia

Pros
  • Stylish

  • Variety of colors available

  • Easy assembly

Cons
  • Not available for twin-sized beds

  • Will fade in sunlight

This winged headboard from Lulu and Georgia is available in a variety of colors and fabrics, from smooth linen to textured boucle. Free swatches are available, to help you ensure you pick the right color and fabric. The wings have a trim footprint, extending out just 11 inches, but are big enough to provide you with a cocoon effect when you’re in bed. Sitting up against it is quite comfortable. 

Reviewers love the stylish design, as well as the fabric choices. You’ll need to assemble and install this headboard yourself—it attaches to metal bed frames (not to the wall)—but assembly is easy and straightforward.

Price at publish: $798 and up

Sizes: Full, Queen, King, Cal King | Height: 55 inches | Materials: Pine, Polyester | Colors: 18

Kelly Clarkson Home Mcafee Upholstered Headboard

Kelly Clarkson Home Mcafee Upholstered Headboard

Wayfair

Pros
  • Available in all bed sizes

  • A strong focal point, without being overwhelming

  • Several color options

Cons
  • Headboard cannot be wall mounted

  • Headboard height is not adjustable

Try a bold shape with this headboard from Kelly Clarkson Home, which features swooping curves, and is available in a variety of colors. The fabric for all colors is polyester velvet, so it’ll feel soft and pleasant to the touch while also being stain-resistant.

This headboard is available for all bed sizes, with the price increasing for larger sizes. Reviewers find it visually appealing, and while some felt the price was too high, most agreed that this was a well-made piece. We think this headboard would work particularly well for teenagers and children, although it would also be equally at home in an adult’s bedroom. At 58 inches, the headboard is on the taller side and is not adjustable, so this likely isn’t appropriate for low-ceiled rooms. 

Assembly is simple, with mounting hardware provided. Note this headboard only attaches to a bed frame, and not to walls. It should work with all metal bed frames, including some adjustable bases.

Price at publish: $530

Sizes: Twin, Full, Queen, King, California King | Height: 58 inches | Materials: Solid Wood, Manufactured Wood, Foam, Polyester | Colors: 13

Article Almelo Headboard

Article Almelo Headboard

Article

Pros
  • Elegant, eye-catching design

  • Includes built-in shelves

  • Sturdy and well made

Cons
  • Limited size and color options

  • Only secures to wall (not bed frame)

This Scandinavian-style headboard is a stunner. Made with velvet fabric, it’s available in two colors and comes with two shelves for either side of the bed, which can be used to stash a book or phone or a morning cup of coffee. It has the appearance of a half-moon. 

Playful shapes can be part of the appeal of an upholstered headboard. "If you really want an eye-catching piece for the bedroom, an upholstered headboard can fill that wish," McGinness says. 

This headboard attaches to the walls, which means that you can place it at your desired height. Since the headboard is quite heavy (weighing in at 70 pounds) and very sturdy, several reviewers note they simply leaned it against the wall rather than going to the effort to mount it. Note that this is against the manufacturer’s safety recommendation. 

The colors of this headboard will fade with sun exposure. The dry-clean only velvet is polyester, making it naturally stain-resistant.

Price at publish: $699-$799

Sizes: Queen, King | Height: 51.5 inches | Materials: Plywood, Foam, Velvet (Polyester) | Colors: 2

Final Verdict

For an eye-catching headboard that acts as a focal point in the room, go for the Almelo, with its vibrant color and handy built-in shelves,  or the more budget-friendly Colvard Upholstered Headboard, which offers far more colors and sizes, with a downside of a somewhat more challenging assembly process. Or, go for the Tilly Upholstered Headboard, which is available in a large variety of colors and fabric styles. Finally, if ease of installation is your priority, and a wall-mounted option works for your space, the Nathan James Harlow Wall Mount Upholstered Headboard is ideal, with the manufacturer providing simple-to-follow and execute instructions. Always consider the installation process, ability to order swatches, and compatibility with your bed and bedroom space when considering a headboard purchase.

What to Look for in an Upholstered Headboard

Size 

“When considering an upholstered headboard make sure to note the size of your space as well the size of your bed,” Hamwey says. If your space is small, a too-large upholstered headboard can reduce walking space and overwhelm the room visually, she says. “In this instance, we’d recommend using a soft, neutral color and a shorter headboard to minimize the visual impact.” Think: the Casper Drift Attachable Headboard, which has a low height and is available in solely neutral shades. 

The size of your ceiling, windows, and bed frame itself are also important. “ If you have a king size bed, you want to have a headboard that is proportionally high so it doesn’t look dwarfed by the mattress,” McGinness says. Proportions are key, she says, adding, “when in doubt, go higher.” For those looking for height, the Grid Tufted Wall Mounted Headboard , available in three heights, one a towering 61.5 inches, is a good match. 

Material

Two main materials are available for an upholstered headboard: leather (real or vegan), fabric (textured or smooth). When choosing, “consider your specific lifestyle needs and preferences such as your sleep routine, if you own pets, the size of your space, and the visual impact you are looking to create,” Hamwey says. 

The Grid Tufted Wall Mounted Headboard is great for pet owners, for instance, since the faux leather won’t attract pet hair and can be easily wiped down. And if you’re looking for a visual punch, think about utilizing vibrant colors, like the ones available in the Adara Headboard

Consider how you’ll clean the headboard, too. “[Performance] fabrics are able to withstand extensive wear and tear and are stain resistant, therefore lasting for many years to come,” Hamwey says. 

All sorts of trims are also available for upholstered headboards, including fringe, buttons, nailheads, wood, and so on, McGinness says. The Contemporary Camelback Upholstered Headboard, for instance, features nailhead trim. 

Mounting Options

“If the headboard is freestanding, it can be supported by either mounting it to a bed frame or attaching it to the wall,” Hamway says. Of those two options, Hamwey recommends attaching to the frame if possible. Doing so will “create a complete set and create a more aesthetically pleasing composition,” she says. Headboards that attach to the bed include the Tilly Upholstered Headboard, Empire Linen Upholstered Headboard, and Candice Upholstered Wingback Button Tufted Headboard

That said, mounting to the frame may not always be possible, particularly if you have a DIY bed frame made from wood or an adjustable bed. In that case, look for options that attach to the wall, such as the Nathan James Harlow Wall Mount Upholstered Headboard

Aim to attach the headboard to something, whether it’s the wall or bed itself, rather than leaning it against the wall. Not only is this important for safety reasons, but it’s also key for headboard feng shui

Style and Design

“There are an endless amount of options when it comes to upholstered headboards,” Untener says—that means you don’t need to go the route of a DIY headboard to get what you want (although, of course, you can if that’s your preference). 

“You can choose from different styles, shapes, colors, patterns, and materials. You can include details like tufting, channeling, straps, and more to create the bed of your dreams,” Untener adds. Consider your own aesthetic when making a choice—minimalists can opt for the Casper Drift Attachable Headboard, while if you want a luxurious option with a touchable fabric, you’ll want something more like the Queen Mcafee Upholstered Headboard, which is made with velvet fabric.

You’ll always want to look for solid construction, McGinness says.  A great headboard is going to be thick and heavy due to a wood frame and lots of foam and fiber wrapping so it’s densely cushioned,” she says.

FAQ
  • What is the best material for an upholstered headboard?

    There’s no single answer to this question “The best material is whatever works best for the client’s lifestyle and design of the room,” McGinness says. That said, your habits and lifestyle can be a good guide— if you plan to lean against the headboard, a fabric that’s pleasing to the touch might be your top priority. “Ideally the material won’t be too precious that the user will feel comfortable leaning up against the headboard with some pillows while reading in bed,” McGinness says.

  • How tall should my headboard be?

    There’s a range here, and it depends somewhat on the height of your bed—a bed with a boxspring and elevated bed frame will need to be taller, McGinness points out. When it comes to size, think about what’s visible above the mattress. “A headboard should be between 24-32 inches above the mattress allowing plenty of support to rest your back against it without touching the wall,” Hamwey says. The length of your bed matters too. “[Generally,] make sure the height of the headboard is shorter than the length of the bed,” Untener says.

  • Can a headboard be wider than the bed?

    Absolutely! You can opt for “one super wide headboard that goes way beyond the mattress or matching headboard panels on either side of the headboard, ideally framing each nightstand,” McGinness says. While Hamwey agrees a headboard that extends past the bed is an option, she notes: “we tend to recommend that the headboard be the same size as the bed or a few inches wider.”

Why Trust The Spruce?

This article was written by Madeleine Burry, a freelance writer who has written product reviews for The Spruce since 2019 and has a long history of home and garden coverage at Via Magazine. In curating this list, Burry looked for beautiful options in a variety of styles and price points at the most popular retailers. Share carefully vetted each product, examining specs closely as well as reading reviews. Three interior designers—Brianna Untener, owner of Brianna Scott Interiors, Angela Hamwey, founder of Mackenzie & Co., and Molly McGinness, owner of Molly McGinness Interior Design—also shared insights and guidance that shaped these recommendations, including the need to consider construction, fabrics, and ease of installation.

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