Peculiarities
Ottoman is the Persian name for a large, wide sofa without a back, brought to Europe in the 18th century; the Turks called it an ottoman. The modern ottoman is much smaller; it combines the functions of a sofa and a bed, but is still more of a bed than a transforming sofa, since its main task is to provide a comfortable sleep.
In addition, such sofas are prone to transformation and in a certain way increase their sleeping space. The product often contains a drawer for linen, and if it rolls out on rollers, the baby has the opportunity to use it for his toys. What distinguishes an ottoman from a full-fledged sofa is a wider and lower sleeping surface. The article will focus on children's models; they have special requirements, they must be:
- environmentally friendly;
- safe;
- durable;
- they need to have anatomical properties;
- match the age and gender of the child;
- be interesting, beautiful and suit the environment.
Design and size options
Sofas with carriage screed: features, models and choice
The design of the bed largely depends on the age of the girl. You shouldn’t bore a teenager with pink frills if she has already outgrown it, but a preschool-age baby will be delighted with an ottoman in the form of:
- Castle. A distinctive feature of this design is the back, which is made in the shape of a real princess palace (with towers, massive walls, fences). As a rule, the outlines of the castle are asymmetrical, and the color is selected in accordance with the overall interior.
- Animal. Animalistic design is a favorite theme in the children's furniture segment. An ottoman bed for girls is no exception. Just as in the previous version, the back is modified. It is performed in the shape of your favorite animals: it can be the big head of a cute kitten, a funny tiger, a baby elephant, a bear cub, a bunny or a dog.
- Sailboat. A bed with real sails and a steering wheel is the dream of every child, both boys and girls. Girlish options are played out in a more romantic style using white and pink colors.
For an adult girl over 12 years old, you can consider something more strict, but no less stylish. Furniture with asymmetrical elements, for example, a carved back with leather upholstery, will look beautiful in a children's room. You can experiment with different decor, playing with colored pillows, blankets, child’s toys, his hobbies and more. The main thing is that the ottoman matches the interior.
As for the dimensions, a sleeping place for a girl can vary from 70x190 cm to 90x200 cm. The selection of a model depends on the age and height of the child, as well as on his preferences. For some, a standard ottoman is enough, for others they want more free space while sleeping. In addition, you should take into account the parameters of the children's room.
Dimensions
Depending on the purpose and age of the child, you can choose an ottoman of certain sizes and shapes. The product can be single or double, corner. The choice of model largely depends on the child’s sleeping habits: some want more free space, while others need a standard size. Manufacturers produce ottomans in the following sizes: 70*190, 80*190, 90*190, 100*190, 70*200, 80*200, 90*200, 100*200 cm.
The height of the product largely depends on the design. If the ottoman is folding, then when folded the height is much higher due to the thickness of the mattress. When unfolded, it becomes much lower, but wider.
Since children's models are usually made in artistic images, decorative details can significantly increase the dimensions of the product. This must be taken into account when planning a space for a new piece of furniture. Moreover, the increase in size can be both in length and width, and in height. This is important to consider if the room has wall shelves.
Transformation mechanism
Children's room in white: combinations, choice of style, finishing, furniture and decor
In furniture stores you can find an ottoman bed with a variety of transformation options:
- "Click-clack." This is a universal solution. Such a sofa can take several different positions according to the “book” principle, but requires some space between the back and the wall.
- Roll-out mechanism. The front part of the ottoman is pulled out by the loops, but the back does not move. It is easy to unfold, but it is difficult to break such a mechanism. However, the wheels can scratch the flooring and it can be difficult for a child to pull out the sofa section.
- Cot. The French one unfolds like this: the seat is lifted by the handle, after which it becomes horizontal and unfolds. The operating principle of the mechanism of the American and Italian clamshells is slightly different, but in any case this is not the most reliable and durable solution. Suitable only for rare occasions and short-term recreation.
- Dolphin. A hidden section with a lifting mechanism extends out from under the seat and becomes flush with the seat. One of the most reliable options. In fact, it has no “expiration date” and lasts almost forever.
- Accordion. The seat moves forward, and the backrest extends with it. The result is a comfortable surface for healthy sleep. Such a mechanism lasts a very long time and, as a rule, does not break down.
- Book. The backrest leans back, creating additional space for relaxation. The mechanism is simple, but not the most reliable. Children, as a rule, find it inconvenient to lay out such sofa beds.
- Puma. The principle of operation of this mechanism is as follows: the seat needs to be smoothly raised and then pulled towards you, the second part of the sofa, located under the seat, is lifted up. In terms of reliability and service life, this is one of the best solutions.
- Pantograph. To extend the seat, you need to lift it and then pull it. The principle of operation is simple, but may not be clear to a child. On the other hand, it is a very reliable mechanism that will last for many years.
- Eurobook. This ottoman model is another durable solution. To unfold it, the seat rolls forward and the backrest lowers.
The child’s parents will decide which mechanism for the ottoman is best, but in terms of durability and reliability, only a few are considered optimal solutions. This is a puma, a eurobook, a pantograph and an accordion
In addition, it is very important to pay attention to the manufacturer, because only time-tested brands will be able to provide the proper level of comfort and durability of furniture
Children's sofas
Let’s say right away that making the right choice is not so easy, because this piece of furniture is subject to inflated demands. You need to choose a sofa that would fit organically into the overall design of the room and would be to the child’s liking.
It is also important to remember about convenience and comfort, as well as practicality and reliability, because this is a thing that is purchased for more than one year. So, let's determine the main points that you need to pay attention to when choosing a children's sofa.
Frame and additional elements of a children's sofa
Pay attention to the material from which the frame and all the main elements of the sofa are made. This is necessary in order to determine the quality and reliability of upholstered furniture, as well as its safety for your child’s health. A good frame is made from solid wood, for example, beech, pine, oak, birch, etc.
But, basically, furniture companies make frames from metal, plywood and furniture boards - chipboard (the most inexpensive and less durable), MDF (a more durable and high-quality material than chipboard). Since the furniture is for children, all materials should not undergo chemical treatment and should be environmentally friendly. This may be evidenced by documents that must be kept by the seller.
Upholstery of a children's sofa
An important element of the sofa is the fabric with which it is covered. Today, both natural materials - silk, linen, tapestry, wool, cotton, and artificial (synthetic) - flock, microfiber are widely used. It is clear that the fabric on a children's sofa should be strong, wear-resistant, and not require painstaking care.
On the modern market you can now find Teflon-coated fabric, which is ideal for a children's sofa. The Teflon coating on the fabric provides it with protection against stains and easy removal in case of contamination. This fabric looks beautiful, and thanks to its velvety surface it is pleasant to the skin.
As an alternative to Teflon-coated fabric, which, it is worth noting, is somewhat expensive, you can sew an original replacement cover for the sofa. The cover can be made in different colors and in different designs, and then, when changing one cover for another, the whole room will take on a completely new look. Also, the covers are easy to wash and maintain.
Modification of a children's sofa
When choosing the type of sofa, pay attention to models that have a more compact appearance, especially if the children's room is small. This way you will save a lot of space, and the child will have the opportunity not only to relax, but also to play. However, compactness does not mean that you should choose a sofa with a small sleeping area.
For proper sleep, it is important that the child feels as comfortable as possible. The sofa should have a good mattress with an orthopedic base. This is simply necessary for the still weak children's spine.
Children's sofa mechanism
When choosing a sofa mechanism, it is better to choose those models where it is light and safe. There are several models - a book, a folding bed and a pull-out sofa. For a children's sofa, the latter option is most often used, since it does not require much additional space and is the most comfortable. It’s good if the sofa has drawers for storing the child’s things and toys.
Design and colors of a children's sofa
A children's room is a riot of colors and colors, so when choosing a model, you can give your preference to different colors. It is only important to take into account that the chosen color scheme should not stand out from the overall design of the room and not irritate the eyes. Please note that the design should please the child.
By paying attention to all these nuances, you can choose a high-quality, reliable and safe sofa for your child’s health.
Advantages and disadvantages
Choosing a hanger with a bedside table for the hallway for shoes, existing models
Often an ottoman in a children's room looks like a toy - a car or an animal; it decorates the room and attracts children. In addition, the sofa has many more advantages:
it belongs to a multifunctional type of furniture (two in one): during the day it is used as a sofa, at night as a bed; it is compact; for small rooms you can choose sliding options; equipped with a spacious drawer; the design is very simple, there is simply nothing to break; the low sofa is comfortable for the little ones to climb on; soft rounded corners of the furniture are safe for children; in most cases, the ottoman has a solid, wide sleeping area, which is important for the formation of a healthy back for the baby; for the same purposes, you can choose models with orthopedic filling or an additional mattress; a large selection of models that can be used to occupy both a corner and any section of the wall; it is easy to select a product to suit the required environment; loyal price.
How to fit into the interior
For a classic nursery, a light-colored ottoman with storage drawers and a traditional hard back or slats would be a good option. Models that resemble a garden sofa will also fit well into the interior. For modern room design, products with a metal frame or made in the form of a car, ship, carriage or toy are suitable. In a teenager's room it would be appropriate to place a classic ottoman with contrasting upholstery.
Design options for a pull-out bed for two children, assembly order
Popular colors for children are light, as well as practical, non-staining ones - beige and brown. When decorating a room, you should choose furniture in the same tone with carpeting and curtains. You can also purchase a bright, contrasting ottoman to create an accent color.
Tips for choosing
Comfortable sleep and the state of the child’s posture depend on the correct sleeping place. If the baby is uncomfortable and does not get enough sleep, capricious notes will appear in his character, and the nervous system will suffer (and the mother’s too)
So, when choosing an ottoman, you need to pay attention not only to the delightful appearance, but also to other criteria:
the harder the sofa, the better for health, but the baby may not appreciate the care, so it’s better to stay with a medium-hard model; The ideal solution would be to choose a product with orthopedic properties;
if the ottoman contains chipboard, you should read the certificate to understand the degree of danger to the child;
the upholstery material must be able to “breathe”, otherwise the baby will be stuffy and uncomfortable;
It is better to choose a bed with your son or daughter, taking into account their opinion, but if technical characteristics and safety are important, which the child is not yet able to judge, you need to gently insist on your decision;
during the purchase, you should check the operation of the transforming mechanism, invite the child to unfold the ottoman himself, and any difficulty or tension should alert and become a reason to consider another option;
A small child should not take the model to “grow”; it may be too high for him and may not have safety sides.
Dimensions
An ottoman for a child can be used from 3 years old. But there is a special type of structures that are used from a year onwards; they are protected on all sides, which allows the baby not to fall while sleeping. Sofas come in a variety of sizes, just like the children themselves. They come in dimensions close to an armchair (with a folding mechanism) or with a full-fledged seamless wide berth (80x160 cm).
The parameters of the ottoman, taking into account the age of the children, are noticeably different, but there is also furniture that “grows” with the child, adding each section. For a teenager, you can choose a large but lightweight product with a comfortable sleeping place: 100-120 cm wide and 170-190 cm long. Unlike a full-sized sofa, a large ottoman will not look bulky.
Current colors
Adults come up with fashionable colors, children have their favorite shades, they choose them for their clothes, toys and even furniture. Most children prefer a bright, cheerful palette that is playful and uplifting. To please every child, the furniture industry uses the most incredible shades. By the way, it was noticed that the girls’ children’s rooms are decorated with delicate colors. Boys prefer active and rich tones. Let's look at examples of color solutions in the interior of a children's room.
The Alice ottoman, despite the soothing green tone, turned out to be colorful and energetic.
Interesting design solutions for children's sofas with photos in the interior
In one review it is difficult to tell and show all the models of sofas and beds for children under 3 years of age and older. We have prepared for you a small selection of photographs of various types of sleeping places for children in the interior of children's rooms. We hope this will help you in choosing a suitable design.
1 of 14
Which sofa did you choose for your baby? Share your impressions of your choice in the comments.
Advantages and disadvantages of the model
Unlike a classic bed, an ottoman does not have a removable mattress, but it cannot be called a sofa either. This is a fairly low piece of furniture, which has a thin back (usually upholstered in fabric), has no armrests, but often has a transformation mechanism, and is equipped with a drawer for linen. The shape of such products is often asymmetrical and the sizes are small.
An ottoman is a piece of furniture originally from Asia. Initially, it looked like a low sofa without armrests and a back, did not fold out, and did not have pull-out elements. When they began to produce it in Europe, it underwent changes and acquired a back, which is often located on one or more sides.
Advantages:
- Compactness. It takes up a minimum of space, but with a transformation mechanism, it forms a spacious sleeping place for a child of any age and body size.
- Variety of shapes and designs. Installing an ottoman in a children's bedroom will add an unusual touch to the interior of the room.
- Versatility. The ottoman serves as a bed for sleeping, and a sofa on which to sit and play comfortably.
- No removable mattress. This allows you to save significantly.
- Safety. The height of the product eliminates the risk of falling.
- Functionality. Modern models of ottoman-type beds are equipped with everything necessary, including convenient drawers for storing linen and toys.
- Aesthetics. This piece of furniture will become a real highlight of the room, harmoniously complementing any interior.
If we talk about disadvantages, then this is the lack of armrests. In this regard, the ottoman is somewhat inferior to the sofa (the child has nothing to lean on while sitting). Another disadvantage is the operating features of folding models. The manual type of transformation often affects the weight of the product, which significantly complicates the process of unfolding/folding the sofa.
Model features
An ottoman can be called a middle option between a bed and a sofa, as it combines the features of both designs. It is similar to a bed with a soft, comfortable mattress, and similar to a sofa is the presence of a back, sides, and sometimes decorative pillows. Such furniture is equally comfortable to sleep at night and spend time during the day. To save space, a children's ottoman can be equipped with a folding mechanism or storage drawers at the bottom of the furniture.
Main characteristic features of the model:
- comfortable sleeping width for sleeping;
- presence of a backrest;
- non-removable mattress;
- soft upholstery over the entire surface.
Sidewalls, armrests, and additional mechanisms are not used in all ottoman models.
The main advantages of an ottoman are its versatility and attractive appearance. Such furniture can be matched to any interior, folded into a compact sofa during the day, and unfolded to its full width at night. The sleeping area is always soft and smooth, without seams. Manufacturers produce many models for all ages - from babies who have just left the cradle to teenagers.
This furniture also has a serious drawback - the inability to clean the mattress separately from the bed (especially important for very young children). In addition, the lifting or sliding mechanism can quickly fail, and the ottoman will lose a significant part of its functionality.
Important parameters of a teenage bed, current models, styles, colors
Current colors and materials
A children's ottoman bed can be made of various types of materials. Natural wood is usually used as the basis for the frame. The array does not emit harmful resins when heated, therefore it is considered safe for the health of the child. Moreover, this material is very durable and practical: wooden beds can last 10 years or more.
The filler of the soft elements of the ottoman can be polyurethane foam or a spring block. The second option is considered somewhat outdated, since, despite all its advantages (good orthopedic properties, comfort and durability), over time the springs stretch, and the sleeping place “sags,” not to mention the possible creaking and accumulation of dust between the metal elements of the block. From this point of view, polyurethane foam is a more practical solution. It retains its original shape longer, provides good air circulation, and has hypoallergenic and environmentally friendly properties.
The upholstery of the ottoman can be fabric or leather. The second option looks very elegant and expensive, although leather undoubtedly has its drawbacks. Firstly, it will be cold in a cool room, and for a children's bed this is not the best solution. Secondly, leather upholstery will play a role in pricing: such furniture always costs more. Therefore, it is advisable to still focus on fabrics. The most practical, durable upholstery materials are flock (artificial velvet) and jacquard.
Popular varieties
Manufacturers produce several varieties of this furniture, which differ in many characteristics. A children's ottoman bed can have different shapes and designs. The choice will depend only on personal preferences.
By shape
The most common model is with a corner back. This traditional option is more compact and suitable for a small room. The ottoman ensures healthy sleep and easily fits into the interior of a child's or teenager's room.
Manufacturers also offer the following configurations:
- With armrests. A non-standard model, which is a cross between an ottoman and a sofa. It is comfortable and stylish, but is not suitable for every interior and requires more space than the previous one.
- With orthopedic headboard. The sleeping place follows the correct position of the head and neck, which ensures a healthy sleep for the child. The disadvantage is the high cost.
- On legs. Outwardly it looks larger than other models, it resembles a bed. Comfortable for sleeping, compact, it easily fits into any interior. Below the ottoman there is enough space for a box of toys.
- With one or more storage drawers. You can put away bed linen or other things in them, which saves space in the room.
Tips for choosing a children's bed made of solid wood from professionals
Any type of ottoman is equipped with a flat sleeping area, necessary for a healthy sleep. The design of this furniture is varied. But if you do not plan to change it frequently, then it is better to choose classic models.
Legged Orthopedic
With armrests
With a corner back
By design and functionality
Children's furniture is often equipped with a design with drawers for storing the bed; they can be folding or pull-out. There are models without them. There are also “matryoshka” options with an additional roll-out bed, which allows you to get two beds from one ottoman.
The opening mechanism is used in several types:
- Manual is an outdated, but very reliable option when you need to lift the ottoman mattress yourself. Not every child can handle it.
- Spring - very easy to use, and does not affect the cost of the product in any way. Does not withstand such heavy loads as gas.
- Gas lift is the most modern and sophisticated option, which allows you to effortlessly lift the mattress and gain access to the drawer. The cost of furniture with such a system is much higher.
- Roll-out - the drawer moves forward using rollers. A simple and convenient option for a children's ottoman.
Any of these systems from a reliable manufacturer will be of high quality and durable. The main criterion when choosing it is ease of use. A lifting mechanism for children of high school age and teenagers should be chosen together with them.
With drawers
Matryoshka bed
With lifting mattress
Retractable element
By design
The design of an ottoman for a children's room can be not only classic, but also reminiscent of a bed, car or sofa. The latest model is equipped with soft or hard armrests. The legs and hard (and in the children's version soft) headboard give it a resemblance to a bed.
Particularly popular is the ottoman bed in the shape of a car or a boat. Children really like these products and fit perfectly into a child's room. For younger girls, models stylized as a “princess bed” are produced.
Based on frame materials
In most cases, the frame of the ottoman is made of wood, the advantage of which can be called strength and naturalness, but the disadvantage is its high cost. An economical option would be metal, which is more often used in products for teenagers. It breaks less often, is fire-resistant, but very heavy, which is a significant disadvantage when moving. In cheap models, the base can be made of chipboard or laminated chipboard, but this is an undesirable option for children's furniture, since although it looks good, it is not an environmentally friendly material.
The headboard, like the back of the ottoman, can be soft or hard. In the latter, the structure can be covered with fabric upholstery or, if it is lattice, left open. Soft backrests use foam rubber or polyurethane foam. Sometimes, to maintain its shape, the inner base is made of wood.
Models with soft sides and a headboard are considered safer for children, since hard ones are more dangerous, especially for very young children.
When choosing, it is worth considering that synthetic materials are short-lived and can cause allergies. Wooden products are more optimal in this regard. Metal is also considered a good option for the frame.
Wooden
Chipboard
laminated chipboard
With soft headboard
With a hard headboard and backrest
By size
The children's ottoman with a soft or hard back is available in several sizes. The width varies from 70 to 120 cm, and the length from 120 cm to 190 cm. The minimum size (70 x 120) is intended for babies aged 1 year and older, since they will not feel protected on a larger bed. If the child is small, such furniture can last up to 4-5 years of age.
Types of children's built-in beds, advice for parents on choosing
The width of an ottoman for children from 3 to 7 years old should be at least 80 cm, length - from 140 cm. It is more practical to purchase a model with dimensions of 90 cm by 160 cm. Such furniture, if it is of high quality, will last much longer.
Teenagers need a bed with a width of 90 cm and a length of 180 cm. They can also purchase adult furniture for sleeping. When choosing an ottoman, you need to be guided by the child’s growth. For large children, a larger sleeping place will be required than is accepted by standards.
Experts advise choosing a sleeping place in such a way that the length margin is 20–30 cm.
Teenage Standard
For younger children
According to the side configuration
There are different types of sides in ottomans for children. Soft ones are considered the safest option. The only drawback is that they slightly increase the width of the product. Solid sides are a classic option. They are covered with fabric, and if it is wood, then varnished. According to their configuration, they are divided into several types:
- Jumpers - the sides and headboard are made of wooden planks. Such furniture looks attractive and cozy, but due to its rigidity it is considered somewhat dangerous.
- Solid - found most often, they represent a flat wall and headboard. The main advantage is safety. There is no risk that a child will be injured by getting his hand or foot into the gap.
- Carved ones are a beautiful option that gives the ottoman a special appeal. For small children, such a bed is not the best solution, since there is a possibility that the child will be injured by falling into the slot.
A bed with a soft backrest for a child is the best option. It is also worth considering that the sides of the ottoman should not have sharp corners. If they do exist, they can be protected using special pads.
Soft back
With jumpers
carved
Solid
Manufacturers
Products for a children's room have special characteristics; they must be durable, reliable, safe, and made from environmentally friendly materials. The products of companies producing children's furniture are carefully checked. Therefore, it is worth purchasing an ottoman from well-known factories that meets all the requirements.
IKEA
This is a Dutch company founded in Sweden. Her simple, inexpensive, but durable and functional furniture is now known throughout the world. Along with the ottoman, you can purchase the rest of the furnishings for the children's room, using ready-made interiors from the company's designers.
Signal
The Polish manufacturer of children's furniture produces beautiful sofas of European quality. Its products satisfy the demand from the youngest users to teenagers.
CIA International
The Italian brand produces delightful, bright, high-end sofas for school-age children.
The company pays great attention to the latest developments, aesthetic and technical characteristics of models. The products correspond to European quality, but their cost is high
Cilek
Children's furniture from the Turkish manufacturer Cilek is in great demand in 30 countries around the world. In addition to the ottoman, the company can offer a completely finished interior for a children's room; in this regard, the brand has more than 700 thousand designs. Sofa models for children have streamlined, rounded shapes and are equipped with safe sides.
Paidi
The German children's furniture factory Paidi produces cribs for newborns, all kinds of sofas, including an ottoman, and bunk play beds. Their products are equipped with all kinds of boxes and look attractive.
Manufacturing materials
An ottoman consists of a frame, filling and upholstery, that is, each part of the product contains a different material. Therefore, they need to be considered separately.
Frames
The best frame is made from solid wood of dense species, such as oak, larch, walnut, maple, and beech. Non-porous, durable and reliable, it will last for generations of children. A wooden base made of pine will help reduce the cost of the product, and even cheaper you can buy a model that includes pressed plywood.
Unfortunately, another budget material is used for frames - particle boards. They are made from large shavings and glued with toxic compounds, which, when the air temperature rises, release toxic fumes into the external environment. Therefore, chipboard can be considered the most unsuitable option for children's rooms.
Fillers
The durability of the ottoman and the comfort of staying on it depend on them. Modern industry has developed many materials for filling upholstered furniture; they have different compositions, densities and costs.
Polyurethane foam is the most popular material; it is used in half of upholstered furniture products. It is hypoallergenic, inexpensive, practical, durable, and has an average level of hardness.