Furniture with dual functionality has always been in consumer demand. For example, a stylish chair, complemented by a transformation mechanism, is an excellent opportunity to increase the number of beds without compromising the design and presentability of the room. Many owners of small-sized homes choose an original chair-bed for children's rooms, living rooms, hallways and even loggias. The compact design helps to save free space and provide the room with a cozy corner for relaxation; the main thing is to choose the right model, taking into account many important nuances.
Pros and cons of the product
Most often, a chair-bed is chosen to decorate a living room or bedroom in a small apartment. This is a universal upholstered furniture that can perform the functions of two items. In the unfolded position, the product is used as a main or additional sleeping place; if you fold it, you get a traditional cozy chair. There is a variety of such folding structures on the furniture market - it is not difficult to choose the right option for specific consumer needs.
The advantages of the chair-bed include:
- ergonomics;
- functionality;
- mobility;
- ease of operation;
- stylish appearance.
This type of furniture has few disadvantages, all of them are subjective. For example, a folding chair is not always equipped with a linen box or an orthopedic mattress. In some cases, such furniture consists of several sections; when unfolded, gaps form between them, creating discomfort during sleep.
A low seat height can be a significant disadvantage for older people.
Features of the design and operation of the chair-bed
All chair-beds have their own folding mechanism. Thanks to its use, upholstered furniture intended for sitting is folded out and a place for an adult to sleep is obtained.
A chair-bed is one of the most common types of transformers.
You need to understand that the chair-bed is not intended for daily unfolding into a sleeping place and folding back. This will lead to the transformation mechanism quickly wearing out.
The crib chair has a unique design.
The soft part will also wear out; in some models, as a result of intensive use, gaps may appear between individual fragments of the berth.
Popular models
Furniture design solutions are constantly evolving. Today there are several popular options for chair-beds. Knowing the features of each of them, the consumer will be able to choose the model that best suits his needs.
Without armrests
Externally, the product looks like a large chair with soft upholstery. A good example is office-type chair-beds. Structurally, such models are divided into subtypes:
- roll-out;
- with drawers;
- "accordion".
The advantages of a chair without armrests include:
- fast, easy layout;
- wide berth;
- Stylish appearance that matches modern interior styles.
The main drawback of such furniture is that the mechanism breaks down very quickly. In models with armrests, arm rests strengthen the design.
Orthopedic
Models with an orthopedic mattress are also in great demand. It should be understood that such furniture is still not suitable for daily use, especially by children under 10 years old. Structurally, the model is not much different from similar products that are not equipped with a special mattress. Most often, such products are structurally composed of three or more sections, which, when unfolded, do not form joints due to the presence of a rigid frame.
A separate segment is chair-beds for bedridden patients. With their support, treatment and rehabilitation are more successful and faster. Some varieties are an integrated wheelchair with a sanitary area. Manufacturers often offer a transformable bed with a turning function and a toilet. Orthopedic furniture for patients with limited mobility can be mechanically or electronically controlled. In the first case, it will be possible to unfold the chair only with the participation of a stranger; the second option allows the patient to be more independent.
With linen box
Such models are often used as the main bed. Chair-beds with a linen box are most often produced with the following folding mechanisms:
- Accordion. The dimensions of the internal compartment are small, but they are enough to store bedding. The presence of such a niche is typical for models with a width of 85–90 cm.
- Roll-out mechanism. Here the box is assumed by the structure itself. It can extend with the seat or be located in the central element of the frame, thereby adding rigidity to it.
- Eurobook. The storage compartment is located under the seat. When the structure extends, the niche is open. To get a sleeping place, you need to lay the back of the chair on it.
- Click-clack. This mechanism began to be used for chairs relatively recently. The linen box acts as a supporting element. During the transformation process, a backrest and seat are placed on the compartment.
Due to the design features, such models look bulky. An alternative would be chairs with narrow armrests, which will save space.
Accordion
Eurobook
Click-clack
Children's
Often parents have to place two children in one room. For each, it is necessary to provide several functional areas: for storing things, relaxing and studying. Therefore, folding or roll-out chair-beds are one of the best solutions for rational distribution of space.
It is recommended to choose a wooden or metal structure. Upholstery materials must be safe. The ideal option is if the furniture is covered with a cover that can be easily removed and washed. A children's chair-bed can have slats at the base; they regulate the degree of rigidity of the structure.
An orthopedic mattress helps to properly distribute the load on the spine. But still, doctors do not recommend considering a chair-bed as a permanent place for a child to sleep.
In fact, children's models differ from the adult version in design. They are often stylized as toy animals, cars, castles; for older children, chairs with bright, abstract prints are suitable.
Pros and cons of a transformable wardrobe-sofa-bed, construction and design
Double
According to accepted production standards, a product is called a two-seater sofa if the width of its seat exceeds 140 cm. The maximum parameter for a chair is 120 cm. For a comfortable rest for two people, it is better to choose a model without armrests - when folded out, you will get a sleeping place 110 cm wide. Used for daily use chair-beds are usually equipped with mechanisms such as “Accordion” and “Click-Clack”. In this case, there are no unpleasant joints on the unfolded furniture that interfere with proper rest.
Chair-beds with the Dolphin mechanism cannot be wider than 95 cm when unfolded.
Angular
The best choice for a room of modest dimensions would be corner models. They only have a back, and the armrests are either completely absent or cover only one side. Folding mechanisms - “Eurobook” or roll-out. Rollers or legs act as support.
Folding models can have a rounded seat or a trapezoid shape. The modern version is a semi-chair, its distinctive features are a high back and only one side with an armrest. Most often, this model is used as an additional element to increase the length of the sofa. In some cases, it can act as independent furniture, especially if it is supplemented with a roll-out transformation mechanism.
Inflatable
In the modern world, mobility is highly valued. An inflatable chair-bed is suitable for accommodating rare guests, going on picnics, or going to the dacha. Its assembled weight does not exceed 3 kg. Models with reinforced bottoms have been developed for the street. During operation, avoid contact with sharp objects. The disadvantages include instability to most liquids, especially if they contain alkali.
A transformable inflatable chair-bed is a model in which the sections are fused, with only a thin partition between them. There are also options consisting of individual elements. To form a chair, the parts are simply stacked on top of each other, or, as an option, they are placed in the shape of a lounger to create sleeping places.
Advertiser
In fact, this is a chair without a sleeping place, and the “bed” prefix is present here only because the product makes it possible to rest on it for several hours. Such models are often installed in offices, but they are also suitable for placement in apartments and private houses. There is always a function for adjusting the angle of the backrest; for user comfort, there is a footrest that can be raised or lowered. Chair-beds with a pouf look original; it can also be used as an independent seating area. Products can be controlled manually or using a remote control.
Frameless
The model consists of two poufs connected to each other with straps or a zipper. There is no frame, hence the name. Such furniture can be placed in the kitchen, and if you combine several identical products, you will get a comfortable soft corner. Frameless chair beds are not suitable for daily use. Due to the lack of armrests and backrest, a person will feel uncomfortable and will be afraid of falling in his sleep. In addition, the internal filling of poufs does not provide full support for the spine.
How to choose
Before choosing a chair-bed, you need to understand the basic criteria. There are several of them.
Transformation option
Manufacturers are constantly looking for new ways to transform furniture. There are several classic options. They are time-tested and deserve recognition:
- An armchair-bed with a pouf is the simplest transformation option. It is a deep, massive product without armrests that folds out like a book. To lengthen the sleeping area, place a pouf at the foot of the bed. This option is convenient when guests are often received in the house. There are two spacious seats and a comfortable guest bed;
- Chair-beds equipped with a special mechanism. This includes all types of structures discussed above;
- The most complex mechanism is a chair-bed for bedridden patients. Materials of the highest category are used in production. With the help of many clamps, it turns into a chair. The set includes an add-on that can be used as a dining table or work table. Such beds are usually equipped with wheels. Sometimes it is possible to place a duck. The sale of such furniture is carried out not only to bedridden patients. The designs are popular among older people who spend a lot of time in bed.
Frame material and type
Material for the frame of chair-beds:
- Plywood or wood sheets (fibreboard and chipboard) - the first group of materials ensures lightness of the structure. Wood sheets are impregnated with antiseptic compounds, dried well and varnished. They are used in budget models;
- Wood – the use of wood increases the reliability of the frame and extends its service life. At the same time, the weight of the chair and its price increase. The most economical and lightweight option in this category is a folding bed made of pine. Wood is an environmentally friendly material. It is chosen for rooms where children live. The natural frame requires careful use. It is not recommended to choose such furniture for rooms where there are temperature changes or high humidity;
- Metal - a chair-bed with a metal frame holds the record for durability. Previously, such models were very heavy and difficult to unfold. Now manufacturers offer metal aluminum frames and use modern high-tech alloys. They allow you to combine durability and ease of use.
Models and frame types differ. For daily use, it is better to choose chair-beds that unfold quickly and are light in weight.
Metal
Plywood
Wood
At the same time, the reliability of the structure is important. A collapsible guest chair should be equipped with a convenient storage container. Main types of frames:
- The chair-bed with a spring block is ideal for daily use. It is this option that orthopedists recognize as the most appropriate for a night's rest. Independent springs and several layers of filler ensure a comfortable position for the body. The load is distributed evenly, which allows you to relax as much as possible. The service life of the product is extended. After all, point loading is prevented, leading to punching in some places;
- French folding bed is the name given to chair-beds equipped with the sedaflex system. This type of frame is justified for models with a wide sleeping area. The reinforced base is made of steel pipe with a diameter of 3 cm. Stability is provided by 2 cast folding legs. One is located in the middle, the other at the foot. The basis of the berth is a wide rubber belt. The Sedaflex system is recommended by orthopedists. Sleeping on such a bed will replenish your strength and relieve stress from the spine;
- Modern chair-beds are presented in options without a frame at all - inflatable chairs. In terms of strength, they are not inferior to their classical counterparts. Their advantages are lightness and mobility. Such products will make it easier to move into a summer house or create comfort while traveling.
Sometimes it is difficult to classify a transformable chair-bed as a specific type. The fruit of the designer’s whimsical imagination can be rolled into a tube, forming a place to relax with a book. When it unfolds, the back rests in a small niche, forming a large, even rectangle.
Spring
French folding bed
Inflatable
Upholstery
When choosing upholstery, you should be guided not only by appearance, but also by practicality. If there is a cat or dog in the house, leather furniture can quickly become unusable. With a small child, this surface is very comfortable. For upholstery of chair-beds use:
- Textiles – they can be natural or synthetic. The first ones are environmentally friendly, allow air to pass through well, and are comfortable for humans. The latter are highly durable and less likely to get dirty. Ideal fabrics are those that combine artificial and natural fibers in various proportions. They allow you to combine the best characteristics of these materials. Fabric upholstery includes artificial suede, velor, tapestries;
- Leather – a leather chair has traditionally been considered an indicator of wealth. It is an indispensable attribute of a business person’s office. If you had to work late, you can relax without leaving your office. It is recommended to pre-cover a leather chair-bed with a blanket to prevent the linen from slipping during sleep. This material is pleasant to touch, it is safe, strong and durable. A significant drawback is the high price. Information about the characteristics of the upholstery is indicated in the accompanying certificate.
- Eco-leather – the fight for animal rights has been gaining momentum in recent decades. Even branded chair-beds from Italy are increasingly made from synthetic materials such as eco-leather and faux fur. Modern technologies make it possible to achieve absolute similarity. Leatherette is not inferior in quality to natural coating, and sometimes surpasses it in practicality. A brown eco-leather chair-bed made in classic shades will look luxurious in the office of an important executive.
Table comparing the properties of upholstery made of natural and artificial leather.
Properties of materials | Genuine Leather | High-quality eco-leather |
Air permeability and vapor permeability | 5 | 4 |
Wear resistance | 5 | 5 |
Softness and drape | 5 | 5 |
Comfort, thermal conductivity | 4 | 5 |
Ability to recover from a sprain | 5 | 5 |
Leather
Eco leather
Textile
Internal filling
Reliable support is the key to durability. Equally important is the careful selection of filler for upholstered furniture. The service life and comfort during sleep depend on it. All parts of the folding structure must withstand the load. Materials suitable for the manufacture of transformable chair-beds can be divided into 2 groups:
- Foam rubber and synthetic winterizer are not the most elastic and durable materials. They are more suitable for guest models. The main advantage is the affordable price. If the choice falls on a chair with such filling, preference should be given to a dense and thicker layer. Sintepon and foam rubber accumulate moisture well. A chair with a mattress made from these fillings should not be placed in a room where there is a large aquarium or many indoor plants;
- Latex, durafil, holofiber are technological fillers with increased elasticity. They are hypoallergenic and comfortable to use. There is no risk of parasites and harmful bacteria breeding in synthetic fibers. Such materials are more expensive. But a folding bed with a latex bed is much more comfortable than a foam mattress.
A folding chair-bed is an item that will take its rightful place in any home. There is a stereotype that small-sized upholstered furniture, combining several functions, is useful in apartments with a modest square footage. Residents of luxury houses also receive guests. Italian chair-beds in a classic style can add sophistication even to a room furnished with sophisticated antiques.
Latex
Sintepon
Foam rubber
Dimensions
The range of chair-beds is presented in several standard sizes. The minimum width is 60 cm. Such parameters are most often typical for children's options and small rooms. The average is from 70 to 80 cm, and the maximum is 120 cm. Length is from 190 to 210 cm. The standard for inflatable chairs is 70 cm in width and about 1 m in height. When unfolded, the length increases to 2–2.2 m.
The dimensions of a folded piece of furniture depend on the features of its design. For a chair-bed with wooden armrests, the difference between the width of the product and the seat itself can vary within 25 cm or even higher. The seat depth of the folded product is 50–70 cm, its height is 35–38 cm, and the back height is 70–120 cm. The last parameter is not measured only for frameless models.
Purposes of use and locations of chair beds
The variety of manufacturers of upholstered furniture and the assortment they offer is so great that currently there are no restrictions or difficulties in choosing the style, color, texture, external and internal designs of chair-beds.
In this case, only your wishes matter, and we will help you understand the available variety and choose a chair-bed that suits you.
First, decide how often you will use this piece of furniture. If a chair-bed is necessary for daily use, then you should carefully select the mattress filling parameters, and also make sure of the reliability and durability of the structure. If the chair will be a backup option for comfortable seating of guests from time to time, then you can consider more budget-friendly design options.
Secondly, think about where you would like to install the chair: living room, children's room, bedroom, kitchen, or maybe even a balcony. The appearance and dimensions of the chair-bed significantly depend on this. That piece of furniture that will look luxurious in the living room may become an awkward element in the kitchen or children's room, or simply will not fit the size of your loggia.
Thirdly, evaluate the size of the room, the possibility of folding out the chair, etc. Where it is possible to allocate space for a chair, there is not always space for its functional use in the form of a bed. Most chair-beds have dimensions of 80-90 cm/190-200 cm when unfolded. Take these dimensions into account if you are just thinking about buying this piece of furniture.
And also think about whether it is necessary to have a box for storing bed linen. Some transformation mechanisms are designed in such a way that installing a storage box there is impossible.
The further choice of the model of a piece of furniture depends on these main points.
Materials for the manufacture of structural elements
The main elements of a classic chair-bed are a frame and a fabric-covered mattress attached to it. The quality of the materials used directly affects the service life.
Frame
For the manufacture of this element the following are used:
- plywood, chipboard;
- wooden beam;
- metal.
The first option belongs to the budget category. When choosing, pay attention to the quality of processing. The frame made of wooden beams can last a long time and can withstand daily use. The market offers models made from coniferous wood, characterized by an affordable price and high quality, and luxury products made from expensive lumber. The wooden frame is not very resistant to high humidity, so it is better not to create kitchen ensembles with such chairs.
Chair-beds with a metal frame provide a large margin of safety if the structure has been pre-treated with a special compound to prevent corrosion and mechanical damage. It is metal-based models that should be chosen for everyday use.
Wooden beam
Plywood
Chipboard
Metal
Upholstery
Upholstery material must be resistant to fading, wear and abrasion. In inflatable models, the main layer is formed from PVC. Then, to improve consumer properties, they are sprayed with flock, velor, and velvet. For all other types of chairs, fabrics and different types of leather are used as upholstery:
- Jacquard holds its shape well and is 50% natural. It is not subject to wet cleaning, therefore it is not recommended for families with children and pets.
- Chenille is easy to care for, the material is budget-friendly and suitable for daily use.
- The tapestry is durable and affordable.
- Flock is pleasant to the touch and easy to care for.
- Velor gives the product an impressive appearance, the material is durable, but it is not recommended for furniture that is often used.
- A leather chair is the most expensive of all types of upholstery, but the material has high performance properties.
- Eco-leather is characterized by the same advantages as its natural counterpart, but its cost is much more affordable.
Advantages and main features of sofa beds, design options
When selecting upholstery material, many factors are taken into account. None of them can be ignored, otherwise the furniture will not last long.
Jacquard
Chenille
Tapestry
Flock
Velours
Leather
Eco leather
Base and mattress
The range of transformable furniture is represented by various types of base:
- Regular base. Foam rubber is attached to the frame, which is then covered with fabric. Suitable for occasional use as a guest bed. Found in frameless models.
- Topper. Thin removable mattress with orthopedic properties. Purchased to improve comfort. Indispensable if the chair-bed is used as a folding bed. Its thickness does not exceed 10 cm.
- Orthopedic mattress. It is based on a springless or spring block. The best orthopedic properties are achieved if the springs are independent, that is, they have their own cover. Their optimal quantity is 256 pieces per 1 m2.
- Springs. Armchair beds with a spring block are an ideal solution for daily use. It is better to give preference to the option with independent springs.
The correct selection of base and mattress affects the service life and health of the consumer. Some products are not initially designed by the manufacturer for frequent unfolding: if this feature is neglected, the parts can quickly fail.
Regular base
Topper Orthopedic mattress
Springs
Usage
Most often, a chair-bed is used when furnishing children's rooms when the child reaches adolescence. Often, parents who do not have the opportunity to improve their living conditions use these models as a regular chair during the day, and at night, unfolding them, they place the child on it.
Most “children’s” products are equipped with safe transformation mechanisms. The most functional specimens have a width of 70.0...90.0 centimeters, and in the night version they transform into a sleeping place up to 2.0 meters long.
Children's samples are brightly colored, decorated with drawings or ornaments, and their upholstery has anti-vandal properties. In this case, the drapery can also be decorated with thematic or plot designs. In addition, there are samples in which a small child can be placed on a one-and-a-half-chair without unfolding it, and when the baby grows up, provide him with an unfolded version for sleeping at night.
No less often, transformable chairs are used for overnight rest of one person. This type of purchase is most common among young people studying in other cities or coming to work and renting housing. The cost of this type of furniture is lower than a full-fledged sofa, and in case of moving there is less hassle.
On a note!
In the production of any types of chair-beds, special attention is paid to ensuring tactile invisibility of the junction of the backrest and the seat when unfolded. Absolute invisibility cannot be achieved, so many residents of city apartments who use furniture for permanent overnight stays supplement it with the purchase of an orthopedic mattress.
Mechanisms of transformation
These elements are selected with an eye to the degree of reliability and ease of use. Among the most popular options:
- "Accordion". After laying out, a surface is formed that is best suited for a good night's sleep due to the absence of gaps. Models without armrests have a wide sleeping area. The product is assembled “accordion-style”: the middle and headboard are folded together, the footboard takes a horizontal position. Disadvantages include the massiveness of the backrest and possible creaking of metal parts.
- Roll-out mechanism. To unfold the chair, the base is pulled up and towards you, with additional sections “moving out” behind it. Obvious disadvantages: gaps between the parts of the mattress, as well as the low height of the bed - 25–30 cm.
- "Dolphin". This is a model with a berth that extends from under the seat. A distinctive feature of the chair-bed with the Dolphin mechanism is the absence of a storage box. There are gaps between the parts.
- "Tick-tock." To unfold the Eurobook chair-bed, first pull out the seat and then place the backrest in the empty space. A topper is required for regular use.
- Folding bed or sedaflex. The berth is located under the seat. It is based on a frame with lamellas. Among the disadvantages are the lack of a drawer for bed linen, and the material on the back quickly wears out.
- “Click-clack.” The mattress consists of four parts that fold at three points, forming improvised armrests and a backrest. The sleeping place is no more than 140 x 140 cm.
All mechanisms have disadvantages and advantages. It is important to decide on the purpose of using upholstered furniture. Thanks to proper use, it will be possible to maintain the integrity of the parts for a long time.
"Accordion"
Roll-out mechanism
"Dolphin"
"Tick-tock"
Sedaflex
"Click-clack"
Design and color
There are no strict rules or restrictions when it comes to choosing the color scheme for a chair-bed. The consumer must decide on the functionality of this furniture in the interior: whether the product will be a bright, eye-catching accent or will become a harmonious addition to the overall design, as if dissolving into the decor of the room.
Trendy colors today are green and all shades of blue: they perfectly calm and relax. These colors can be recommended for children's and adult bedrooms.
The classic palette - white, beige, gray, brown - can fit into any interior design. Such furniture will not stand out against the general background and will form a fashionable, original design.
Features of beds in the wall, types and sizes of structures
Provence style presupposes the presence of the most simple and laconic furniture. The chair-bed must also comply with the principles of the chosen direction. Examples include models with carvings, geometric and floral prints on the upholstery. Pastel colors also have a place.
For rooms in a classic style, furniture upholstered in jacquard is preferred. The chair itself should be massive, with armrests. The legs are characterized by a noble bend.
Models with smooth geometric shapes and lines will fit into a modernist or loft interior. This feature should also be present in the upholstery print. The massiveness of the structure and forged legs are other mandatory features.
Advertisers and other modern models are suitable for high-tech style. A minimum of decor, its simplicity - these are the requirements for furnishing elements. The more futuristic the chair looks, the better.
Provence
Classic style
Loft
Modern
High tech
Armrests
Products with armrests are made in two variations.
- Rigid hand rests are usually made of wood. They look beautiful and elegant. Their disadvantage is their low degree of comfort.
- The second type is more common: with upholstery and a small layer of soft filling.
The sizes and shapes of the armrests are quite varied. Their appearance depends on the overall design of the model.
A chair bed without armrests has smaller dimensions and weight, and its stylish appearance will easily fit into any modern interior. However, this design also has disadvantages. The absence of side elements can lead to falling out of bed during a night's rest (especially for children), or to the bed linen moving off.
Additional equipment
Most models of chair beds are available with standard legs. This significantly limits the mobility of furniture, so they are replaced with wheels. This addition is especially relevant for frameless models. They are often put together to form sofa ensembles.
To give the chair an original look and to protect the upholstery from dirt and abrasion, removable covers are used. The material from which they are made is selected taking into account the area where the chair is located and the frequency of its use. If this is a permanent place to sleep, it is better to choose chenille or flock. For children's furniture, the cover is made from hypoallergenic fabrics. To give it decorative properties, the lower part can be decorated with flounces. Such elements will organically fit into a traditional, classic interior. Capes for high-tech style should have laconic forms. Covers can be purchased or sewn yourself. If desired, several removable coverings of different colors are selected.
Wheels
Removable covers
Types of structures
Based on the dimensions and design features, several types are distinguished.
- Classic. The most popular option among parents whose children are already on the verge of school. Such beds can be supplemented with removable fences: they will protect the child from a possible fall during sleep, and give parents peace of mind. Over time, the sides can be removed, and the bed will become quite “adult”.
- Two-tier. Suitable for a family with two children of approximately the same age. In a small room, this saves space. However, the upper tier must be equipped with a high protective side, and the stairs to the second floor must be non-slip with wide, even steps.
- Transformers. The most practical option. You can choose a modification and increase the dimensions, up to two meters in length. There are several ways: tilting, lifting or rolling out. Pull-out beds eliminate the issue of lack of free space: one bed can easily be converted into two full beds.
- "Attic". Non-standard solution. Able to teach a child to keep the children's room in order. The lower tier is a “business” area with a table, wardrobe, and other necessary things. Once upstairs, the child can immediately go to bed. However, safety comes first, so the “attic” must have high side sides, and the staircase is equipped with non-slip, comfortable steps and railings.
For children from three years old
A bunk model is definitely contraindicated as a children's bed for children aged 3 years and older. No matter how the child asks, parents should not follow the lead, because even high sides do not guarantee complete safety. This is an excellent solution for families with older children.
For children from five years old
This age is a transitional age between the need for parental care and the desire for independence. And children's beds from 5 years old can also be considered an intermediate modification: no longer a cradle, but not yet a full-fledged adult bed.
There are two options on the market of different lengths:
- up to one and a half meters, narrower than standard;
- up to two meters standard width.
Each type has advantages and disadvantages. Advantages of a shorter bed:
- compact, able to fit into a small children's room;
- cozy;
- leaves more space for games;
- performed in a bright, interesting design;
- cheaper than standard analogues.
The downside is the limited period of use. The child grows quickly, and even a strong bed will be too small for him, so if you don’t want to pay twice, it’s better to immediately buy a full-fledged model up to two meters long.
When choosing a bed or chair-bed for a child, remember that regardless of the dimensions, structure, design, they must have a durable frame, an orthopedic mattress and be made from environmentally friendly materials. Always check the certificates included with the model you choose. The health and safety of the child depends on this. When purchasing a chair, if possible, take into account the wishes of the children, at least in terms of external design.
Tips for choosing
When choosing this type of upholstered furniture, pay attention to the following aspects:
- the upholstery should not show signs of damage, especially in the seam area;
- there can be no extraneous sounds when unfolding and folding;
- It is desirable to have a removable cover - it greatly facilitates the care of the product.
If furniture is purchased in a showroom, the consumer can try out the selected model by sitting on it. The width and depth of the planting must correspond to individual proportions. Having risen from the chair, estimate the amount of time it takes for the filler to return to its original form. When choosing a model for a child, it is important to make sure that the covering material is hypoallergenic. Children over 10 years old can be asked to unfold and fold the chair themselves: if no difficulties arise, the mechanism is suitable.
When a chair-bed is purchased as the main place of rest, it is important to make sure that you have an orthopedic mattress and a reliable base, which guarantees not only the functionality of the furniture, but also comfort during its use.
The upholstery should not show signs of damage
There can be no extraneous sounds when unfolding and folding
The width and depth of the planting must correspond to individual proportions
Features of internal filling
Very often, chair-beds are filled with polyurethane or foam rubber, as this is a fairly cheap filler. The main thing is that the filler is solid so that the seat does not sag and retains its beauty.
Latex and Periotec are more rigid. Their main advantage is restoration of shape.
There is also a filling made from special spring blocks, which is used for the orthopedic version.
Popular manufacturers
The quality of a folding chair largely depends on the manufacturer. Taking into account the pricing policy, there are several companies that offer consumers reliable furniture at an affordable cost:
- "Pinskdrev" is a well-known Belarusian manufacturer. The company was founded in 1880. This brand produces over 2,000 varieties of upholstered and cabinet furniture. There are classic and modern models that differ in a variety of designs, sizes, and colors. The chair-beds are made of high-quality materials, they are durable and practical.
- Rival is the largest Russian manufacturer. The range is represented by upholstered furniture with a metal frame (transformable models, modular, as well as couches, ottomans, mattresses, toppers). Chair-beds are produced with covers, which can be purchased separately.
- Ascona is a company producing mattresses and sleep products since 1990. We also produce comfortable chair-beds in different variations. The factory produces products with various spring blocks and models without springs. Our own development is a special “spring-in-spring” technology that provides ideal rest during sleep.
- IKEA - the company's products are made of hypoallergenic materials. The frame is durable metal with a coating that protects against corrosion. The base includes orthopedic lamellas made of natural materials. All models come with removable covers. The chairs have no armrests (except for the Baccabru model), and the design is minimalist.
- Mebel-Holding produces chair-beds with durable fittings and high-quality upholstery. Only environmentally friendly materials are used in the manufacture of furniture. Products can be made to order to suit your taste. Interesting versions of transformable children's chairs are produced.
The range of these manufacturers is varied. It includes upholstered furniture made from natural materials in different designs. The choice of transformation mechanisms is also wide, which allows the consumer to find an option that ideally meets his needs. You can purchase models with a wooden or metal frame. Most manufacturers offer an extended kit that already includes an additional removable cover. In some cases, the buyer has the opportunity to independently choose an additional accessory from the produced assortment or order an individual chair according to the parameters.
"Pinskdrev"
Rival
Ascona
IKEA
"Mebel-Holding"
Design samples
A designer chair-bed differs from an ordinary piece not only in design or finishing, but also in unusual decoration, the use of exclusive materials and equipment with the most unpredictable functionality.
Of course, the cost of designer products is sometimes several times higher than the price of even “premium”-class products, but their unusual appearance can make cost disadvantages insignificant. Let's consider the most original models that are quite accessible to the average buyer today.
The transformation mechanism of the “Farla” model line is a set of Velcro, with which various specimens are fixed in assembled and disassembled positions.
Various copies are mainly intended for children and teenagers. The sleeping place is a mattress with a thick layer of filling, sewn in the shape of a semicircle. When assembled, the edges are pulled up, secured with Velcro, and the entire structure turns into some kind of chair.
When storing and transporting, “Farla” is easily rolled up and has small dimensions and light weight.
The Chilte product must be seen, as it is quite difficult to describe it in words.
- The chair frame does not have armrests.
- The stand serves as both a pouf and a coffee table.
- The mattress is made of polyethylene foam in the form of two strips with a length to width ratio of 3:1 and has a protective coating.
In the form of a chair, mattress strips intersect, are attached to the frame and act as a backrest. To reformat this instance into a sleeping place, you need to tear off the Velcro fastenings of the mattress strips and place them on the shifted stand and frame. Thanks to the elasticity of the mattress, it easily stretches, forming a perfectly flat, but at the same time quite elastic and soft surface.
Recently, a series of transformable chairs “LEA2” appeared on the market, one of the options is given below. At first glance, it is difficult to classify this piece of furniture as an armchair, sofa or bed.
These are separate modules, made in the form of three ottomans, which can be combined in various ways. To fasten individual elements, belts with fasteners are used.