Daybeds Are Back and They're Here to Stay

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If the concept of a daybed conjures up furniture in a therapist's office or centuries-old libraries, you're not wrong, but know that the best daybeds nowadays can easily become a stylish staple for the home. Daybeds have a long and layered history, starting in ancient Egypt and growing in popularity in 19th-century Europe, when they were often called fainting couches. (Their sole purpose was to give women a place to rest and catch their breath throughout long days suffering in a tightly knotted corset). Sadly, the exact origins of daybeds are unknown, but we do know that they've been around for a long, long time.

Luckily for anyone who likes to infuse their home with a nod to some of design's most historically significant moments, daybeds are still a good piece to snag for your home. These days, there are so many options in tons of styles, so you'll definitely find something that suits you and your space. What's more, we chatted with two interior designers—Nina Lichtenstein and Lauren Stern—to get their expert insights on all things daybeds.

The Montauk Daybed

Hennadzy Daybed

Neva Round Daybed

Upholstered Daybed with Trundle

Broderick Daybed

Metal Frame Daybed

What Is a Daybed?

As its name implies, a daybed is a type of bed that is designed to be used during the day. We'll get into the history of why daybeds are not used at night, and primary beds are not used during the day, but for now, we'll keep it simple: Daybeds are meant for enjoying between the hours of waking and sleeping. "A daybed is a multifunctional piece of furniture that serves as a sofa or seating during the day and can be easily converted into a bed for lounging or sleeping," Lichtenstein explains. "It typically features a backrest along one side and may include arms on either side or none at all."

Similar to a bed frame, a daybed serves one purpose but can come in a bunch of different shapes. Unlike a bed frame, though, daybeds typically come in only one size. They're not meant to be shared or take up too much space, so they're usually no bigger than a twin bed. They also don't include a mattress. Think of a daybed as the halfway point between a bed and a sofa. "In the interior design world, few pieces of furniture possess the versatility and allure of the daybed. From its humble beginnings to its modern-day resurgence, the daybed has captured the imagination of designers and homeowners alike, offering a perfect blend of functionality and style," Lichtenstein adds.

Are Daybeds and Chaises the Same Thing?

Put simply: No, daybeds and chaises are not the same, though they do share a similar shape. Where chaises almost always feature a gentle incline—like a pool chaise lounge—daybeds are flat, kind of like a bench but with an arm and cushion on either end. Stern says, "A chaise does not have proper padding for sleeping. It is often smaller than a daybed, with a traditional sofa back and often only one arm." Chaises are similar to fainting couches in this way.

Where Should You Use a Daybed?

Hundreds of years ago, daybeds were typically in rooms designed for relaxing, like libraries and bedrooms. Now, the daybed can go anywhere in the house where you think it will look and serve its function best. "However, they are particularly well-suited for spaces where seating, lounging, or sleeping needs to be maximized," Lichtenstein explains. "Common areas for daybeds include living rooms, home offices, guest rooms, playrooms, and even outdoor spaces such as patios or sunrooms." Yes, there are plenty of outdoor-specific daybeds, so if you want to make your patio a bit cozier for al fresco fêtes, you can't go wrong with a daybed. "One popular option is to place a daybed in a multipurpose room that transitions from a workspace during the day to a cozy retreat for relaxation in the evening," she continues.

How to Style a Daybed

When it comes to styling a daybed, there aren't a ton of options beyond throw pillows and blankets, but there's nothing wrong with making your piece a bit more comfortable. That said, because daybeds aren't enormous, there's no need to fill empty space with pillows that will potentially end up on the floor. Stern says, "I love a daybed with a fitted bedcover and a pair of matching, tightly upholstered bolster pillows. This gives a very clean appearance and hides the seat cushion well." Lichtenstein, on the other hand, suggests going all in on the decor and styling the room around the daybed. "Don't be afraid to mix and match styles to create a unique and personalized look that reflects your taste and personality," she says.

Should You Buy an Antique, Vintage, or New Daybed?

Because daybeds have been around for a few centuries, there are a lot out there, so if you are looking for something as authentically historic as possible or are in the mood to shop sustainably, buying an antique or vintage daybed is a good move. Stern notes, "Always go vintage! Vintage offers soul and character, and it's better for the earth." She's not wrong. Even today's most talented artisans can't recreate the look and feel of a piece of antique furniture.

On the other hand, Lichtenstein says, there are quite a few benefits contemporary daybeds have over their older counterparts. "New daybeds offer the advantage of modern construction and materials, often with customizable options to suit individual preferences. Whether you opt for a vintage or new daybed, the timeless appeal of this versatile piece of furniture is sure to elevate any space with comfort and style."

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