Oak, Painted & Pine Bed Materials Guide

Materials chosen for your bed

Our beds are made in different timbers and finishes. Use the individual product details or your order confirmation to check the specification of the bed you choose. This guide explains the materials used across our range; it does not mean every bed contains every timber listed here.

“Here’s a beautiful oak boule that’s just arrived at Abowed, waiting to be brought into our workshop. Chris will hand-select the oak boards, deciding how best to use each one. His expert eye sees the potential in the timber in its pure, natural form, and a lifetime of experience shines through in your finished bed.”

Solid oak four-poster beds

Our solid oak four-poster beds are made using prime kiln-dried oak, selected and machined by hand. Oak's natural grain and tone vary, giving each bed its own unique character. Check the product details for the finish and configuration of the bed you are ordering. Our solid oak beds come with a hardwearing oiled finish requiring minimal aftercare. Dust periodically and when necessary wipe over using a gentle wood care wipe. For spills, use a dry cloth to clean up the spill followed by a wood wipe.

Character oak simple plank beds

For simple plank beds, we occasionally use character oak where the product details specify it or where a customer requests it. Having more varied grain with knots creates a rustic appearance. If you want character oak, please confirm that choice when ordering rather than assuming it is standard on every plank bed. Character oak beds have a hard wearing oiled finish that requires minimal aftercare. Our solid oak plank beds come with a hardwearing oiled finish requiring minimal aftercare. Dust periodically and when necessary wipe over using a gentle wood care wipe. For spills, use a dry cloth to clean up the spill followed by a wood wipe.

Painted four-poster beds

Our painted four-poster beds are made from kiln-dried tulipwood (poplar), a hardwood we use to create a smooth painted finish. Painted describes the surface finish, while tulipwood describes the timber beneath it, the painted finish consists of primer, undercoat and a few fine coats of hand painting. We provide you with the paint colour so any future accidents or dents can be touched up with advice if needed.

Solid pine beds

Our pine beds are made using solid pine. Its natural grain and knots can vary, and the final appearance depends on the finish selected for the product. We apply a wax finish that may fade over time thus needing a re-coat of coloured wax to maintain the colour or a coat of clear wax to add ongoing further protection. 

Everyday care

Dust with a soft, dry cloth. If you use a lightly damp cloth ideally a wood care wipe to remove a mark, dry the area straight away. Spills should be wiped up promptly off the surface using a dry cloth. Avoid prolonged exposure to standing water or direct heat. Before applying oil, wax or polish, check the finish on your specific bed and ask us for suitable care advice. Follow the assembly and aftercare instructions supplied with your order for any checks or adjustments. For any accidental dents or damage, phone us straight away for advice and if you need anything, we can always send you something in the post.

Not sure which material or finish is right for you? Contact Abowed with the product name and we'll help you confirm its specification.