A zip and link bed is basically two single beds that are joined together to form a super king bed. They use a special zip and link mattress, which consists of two single size mattresses joined together by a strong zipper.
This way you can have a super king size bed, but when the need arises, you can unzip and separate it to make two singles.
In this article you’ll learn everything you need to know about zip and link beds and you’ll be able to decide if they’re right for you and your family.
Are zip and link beds divans?
Yes, a zip and link bed is made up of two divan bases that are joined by secure metal or brass links at the head end and foot end of the divan. On top there are two mattresses that are also zipped together with a strong, zipped seam.
Being designed this way, zip and link beds are super easy to convert from one bed into two or two beds into one. In some cases you’ll also have the option to buy the divan bases with one or two drawers on the side, providing you extra storage space.
Also, keep in mind that you’ll need to buy two single size headboards, instead of one king or super king size.
Read all the pros and cons of having a zip and link bed in this guide.
Why buy a zip and link bed?
A zip and link bed is an excellent choice for anyone who values flexibility and space-saving design. The main reason to buy a zip and link bed is its versatility—you can use it as one large bed (such as a super king) or separate it into two singles when needed. This makes it ideal for guest rooms, holiday homes, or families who frequently host guests.
Image Credit: BedStar
Whether you’re accommodating a couple or two individuals, a zip and link bed adapts easily to suit your needs, saving both space and money.
It’s also perfect for homes with tight staircases, narrow hallways, or loft conversions, where bringing in a full-size mattress would be difficult. Since the bed comes in two separate pieces, it’s far easier to transport and install in small or awkward spaces.
Tip: Check out our guide, highlighting some smart spare bed ideas, which can provide clever alternatives to having a double guest bed in small spaces.
What are the main benefits of a zip and link bed?
Apart from their obvious versatility, there are several benefits to buying a zip and link bed, including:
1. Individual mattress preferences
As well as being attractive to people looking to save on space, zip and link beds are an ideal proposition for couples who don’t share the same sleeping preferences.
Because they’re formed of two individual mattresses, each person can order the sleep surface that is best suited to their needs, in either: “soft”, “medium”, “firm”, or “extra firm” comfort level. It’s a good compromising solution.
In the picture above you can see the Flaxby’s Natural Mattress collection by Dreams, which is also available as a zipped option in the king and super king size. This way you can choose one side to be “medium”, while the other to be “firm”.
Another example is the iGel Mattress collection from Bensons for Beds, which is also available as a zip and link option (see below).
This allows you to customise the firmness level on each side. Depending on the model you can choose between: “soft”, “medium”, or “firm”.
2. Zip and Link Mattresses are comfortable
Couples who have individual preferences on the firmness level of their mattress, will find a zip and link option to be ideal and highly comfortable for their needs. This way each person can sleep on the firmness level they prefer on their side of the bed.
There is a wide choice of zip and link mattresses, from pocket spring, memory foam, innerspring, wool, latex, gel and others. This means that you can find the type that most suits your needs.
3. Easy to convert
Zip and link beds are nice and easy to convert and change as and when the need arises. Thanks to the metal or brass links, they can be transformed in a matter of minutes, which is helpful to know if you’re short of time before your guests arrive.
4. Cost-effective
Purchasing a zip and link bed is a cost-effective solution for your spare bedroom. Instead of investing in two singles, for example, you can buy an all-in-one zip and link bed that serves multiple purposes.
They’re an ideal solution for those limited on space, who are also looking to save some money at the same time.
Link and link bed sizes and dimensions:
There are two sizes that you can buy a zip and link bed: king or super king.
- King size: 150cm wide x 200cm long (5’0” x 6’3”). It is made up of two European small single size mattresses zipped together: 75cm wide x 200cm long.
- Super king size: 180cm wide x 200cm long (6’0″ x 6’3″). It fits two European single size mattresses zipped together: 90cm wide x 200cm long.
Make sure you double check what are the exact dimensions of the bed frame, since it will be longer than 200cm due to the headboard. Also, don’t forget to measure the space you have in your bedroom so you can decide which size is better for you.
Zip and Link vs Standard Bed
Unlike a standard bed, which has a single mattress and fixed frame, a zip and link bed offers far more flexibility. It allows you to separate the bed into two singles or join them to form a king or super king, depending on your needs.
This is especially helpful in guest rooms or hotels where sleeping arrangements may change. Zip and link beds also let each person choose a mattress firmness that suits them—something not possible with a traditional shared mattress.
Conclusion
Zip and link beds are a practical, space-saving solution for anyone who needs flexibility in their sleeping arrangements. Whether you’re furnishing a guest room, preparing for regular visitors, or accommodating different comfort preferences, these beds offer both convenience and comfort.
With the option to separate or join the beds, and choose individual mattress firmness levels, zip and link beds adapt to your needs with ease. If you’re looking for a versatile alternative to a standard bed, they’re well worth considering.
