A person strives to decorate his home with comfort, while maintaining maximum free space. Alas, modern small-sized apartments cannot boast of large bedrooms; in such rooms every square meter counts. The rule here is: minimum furniture, maximum practicality. For the bedroom, choose a bed with a lifting mechanism, so as not to clutter up the already cramped room with bulky things. The freed up space can be rationally used at your discretion.
Product benefits
The model is equipped with a special mechanism, thanks to which you can easily raise the sleeping place and put bed linen, blankets and pillows in a niche. The bed box is made whole or divided into several compartments. In the second case, the free space is used to store clothes or shoes. The mechanism is fixed, so these models are safe for adults and children. Furniture has advantages and disadvantages that affect the quality of use.
| Advantages | Flaws |
| The model is suitable for storing things. | It is difficult to choose a mattress on your own; you will have to seek help from a consultant. |
| Space saving. | — |
| The lifting bed can be installed either in the center of the room or against the wall. | — |
| Typically, orthopedic beds with a lifting mechanism do not have legs; they lie flat to the floor. This means that there will be fewer places for dust to accumulate in the bedroom. | — |
| Things in the box are protected from dust and dirt. | — |
Pros and cons of convertible folding beds
A transforming wardrobe-bed is simultaneously a piece of furniture, a design object, and a technological design. Therefore, both advantages and limitations can be found in its use.
The advantages of this solution for rooms are obvious:
- Space saving. When folded, the width of such a cabinet is 40-60 cm (compare with a two-meter bed).
- A healthy sleep on a full-fledged orthopedic mattress, which distinguishes such a piece of furniture from the usual folding sofas.
- The ability to simultaneously get a comfortable sleeping place and a convenient storage system for bedding and other things.
- Ease of use. The mechanism is designed in such a way that even a teenager can handle it if there is a thin mattress.
However, when choosing such transformable furniture, you should pay attention to a number of limitations:
- the presence of an expensive transformation mechanism and individual production increase the cost of this piece of furniture compared to a standard sofa;
- if repairs or adjustments are necessary, a qualified technician will be required, more time and financial costs;
- Some models require daily making because pillows and blankets will be stored separately.
Model options
Manufacturers produce a wide variety of products of this format. They differ in the type of lifting mechanism, size, and design. The material of the frame and upholstery may also vary.
By design
Models come in the following types:
- Basic version with a box frame. In this case, there will be more free space for things under the base.
- Product with legs. In such a bed with a lifting mechanism there is a lot of space for things, and there is free space between the furniture and the floor. This allows for complete wet cleaning of the entire area of the room.
In addition to standard stationary models, transformers are available. They are suitable for one-room and small-sized apartments. A vertical lifting bed, for example, is disguised as a closet or built into the wall. The model is lowered only during sleep. In a folding bed, the mattress is attached to the frame, and the façade is designed to match the style of the interior. Wall-mounted lifting products appeal to consumers due to the following advantages:
- take up little space when raised and look aesthetically pleasing;
- Even a child can fold or unfold such furniture;
- there is no need to make the bed every morning, assembling the structure takes no more than 5 minutes;
- It’s easier to clean your room because you don’t have to crawl under the furniture to get rid of dust.
Folding beds with a side lift mechanism free up space at the top of a closet or wall, filling it with shelves and drawers.
Bed with box frame
On legs
Transformer
By size
Manufacturers produce single and double models. The first option is often chosen for children's rooms or guest rooms. Product sizes vary:
- 160 x 200 cm;
- 180 x 200 cm;
- 140 x 200 cm (one and a half);
- 90 x 200 cm.
Functionality and model range of massage beds, indications for use
Furniture manufacturers also offer a very convenient option for a two-tier transformable model. When folded out, as a rule, you get two single beds of standard sizes.
Single
One and a half
Double
Based on frame materials
When choosing suitable furniture, special attention is paid to the frame: the strength of the structure and service life depend on its quality. For the production of products, materials such as fiberboard, chipboard, MDF, natural wood, and metal are used. Wooden beds are preferable; they will last a long time and retain their aesthetic appearance.
| Material | Peculiarities |
| Fiberboard | Made from wood fibers, water and polymers. The material is thinner than chipboard. It has thermal insulation properties and good strength. Afraid of moisture. |
| MDF | The material contains sawdust, paraffin, and lignin. Environmentally friendly raw materials are used in the manufacture of furniture for kitchens and children's rooms. Dense material is often used for cladding the headset. The disadvantage is that the slabs weigh a lot, so the furniture is only supplemented with this component. It is often used to create a bed with a side headboard. |
| Chipboard | Made from sawdust and shavings with the addition of formaldehyde resin. This practical material is not recommended for use in rooms with high humidity. It is usually used to make the frame and bottom. |
| Solid wood | Natural material that will last a long time. It is easy to process, so designer models are often created from solid wood. It is expensive, this is its main disadvantage. |
| Metal | Metal beds with a lifting mechanism are highly durable and suitable for modern interiors. Disadvantages: monotonous design, massiveness. |
A bed with a lifting mechanism made of solid birch has beautiful natural textures and strength comparable in parameters to beech. Manufacturers also use the following types of wood: oak, walnut, pine.
Fiberboard
MDF
Chipboard
Solid wood
Metal
Material
A double bed with a lifting mechanism is made from the following materials:
- Chipboard and MDF have a minimal service life, quickly lose their appearance and fail. These beds are inexpensive.
- Natural wood is a strong, durable, environmentally friendly material without drawbacks, which is always in fashion and looks very aesthetically pleasing. Mainly used: pine, alder, birch, beech, oak.
- The metal is distinguished by high levels of strength, reliability, and practicality, but this does not affect its low popularity. It is difficult to fit such a model into an existing interior; most often the overall appearance of the room is matched to metal. The structure is difficult to lift to high floors; it does not always fit easily into the openings.
Furniture made from natural wood is very stylish and always relevant
Particular attention should be paid to the upholstery. Today the most elite is Arpatek. This is an innovative invention that surpasses natural leather in technical characteristics. The material consists of fibers of natural origin, looks as expensive as possible, is pleasant to the touch, thin, strong, durable, soft. Arpatek does not lose its original appearance for a long time.
Arpatek lasts a long time and looks very expensive
Also used for upholstery of double beds with a lifting mechanism:
- Relax – not prone to deformation, high strength, easy to clean from dirt.
- Jacquard is a dense patterned fabric made from cotton threads. The material has high strength. It is smooth, dense, but at the same time allows air to pass through well.
- Chenille is a soft fabric that is pleasant to the touch, half consisting of synthetic components. The material does not wrinkle, does not rot and does not conduct fire well.
- Flock is a natural, synthetic fiber glued to a sticky material. Non-woven material is inexpensive and has very little service life.
- Velor is a fabric made from a combination of five threads that has a pile. With prolonged use, the material wears out a lot and lasts a fairly short amount of time.
- Tapestry is a durable fabric without the use of cotton. The fabric is not susceptible to mechanical stress.
- Artificial leather and suede.
Suede upholstery is soft and pleasant to the touch
Types of mechanisms
The products are complemented with different mechanisms: spring, manual or with a shock absorber. Gas lifts on lifting beds are the most convenient option, which can be used even by children. The manual mechanism is considered the most reliable.
| Mechanism type | Peculiarities |
| Spring | The main part is metal springs. The mechanism can withstand 20–30 thousand lifting and lowering. A short-lived option: after a while the springs begin to creak, rust and stretch. |
| Manual | The mechanism consists of hinges that allow lifting and lowering. The entire process is supervised by a person, so you will have to spend effort to choose the desired position. More suitable for horizontal lift beds. |
| With gas lift | The shock absorber controls the functioning of the bed with a lifting mechanism. There is air inside the cylinder. To raise the mattress, just gently push the base up. The gas elevator can withstand a load of more than 100 kg, and the number of cycles reaches 90 thousand. The main disadvantage is the high cost of products equipped with this mechanism. |
Products are available with direct or side lift. Single models most often recline horizontally, while double models recline vertically. The first version of the mechanism works on the “book” principle; in the second case, the lifting bed opens towards the head of the bed.
Spring
Manual
With gas lift
What are the different types of models?
The folding transforming bed is equipped with a twisted spring or gas transformation mechanism to facilitate lifting the bed, the weight of which with a wide orthopedic mattress can reach 30 kg.
The first option has a built-in separate spring or ready-made spring blocks, which, compressing and stretching, provide movement in the housing. The springs are then adjusted and tightened depending on the weight of the structure. This model is considered more reliable and durable, as it allows you to take into account the load on the bed and avoid deformation of the body.
Inside the gas elevator there is a gas that provides pressure on the piston. When the berth begins to lower or rise, the mechanism is quickly activated due to the pressure created inside, facilitating movement. This design is easier to handle, does not require periodic adjustment, has a greater margin of safety, and runs smoothly. However, it is highly expensive.
Push transformation mechanisms are available, in which you just need to press a button, and the entire structure, along with pillows, blankets and bed linen, will be hidden in the closet. The most budget options are created on the basis of hinges with manual lifting.
Design and color
Furniture is decorated with soft or hard materials. Often the headboard and side areas are decorated with textiles and eco-leather. The materials are harmless, have good strength, and beautiful appearance. The advantages of such models: they look original and match the rest of the textiles in the room. The soft headboard also protects against accidental impacts on a hard structure. This model is comfortable to read while sitting, without the use of additional pillows.
Advantages of forged beds, features of combination with the interior
In order not to spoil the appearance of leather beds with a lifting mechanism, it is enough to wipe the surface with a damp cloth 2 times a week. Textiles must be vacuumed or covered with special covers for protection. The sides can be completely sheathed with soft material or only slightly supplemented with velor, satin, or leather.
The shape of the headboards is selected according to the interior design. Rounded details will look beautiful next to a classic table, and straight lines and geometric shapes will fit into the high-tech style. A bed option with a lifting mechanism on a metal frame is suitable for a minimalist bedroom.
| Interior style | Peculiarities |
| Minimalism | The style is characterized by simplicity, regular lines and a minimum of unnecessary details. Mostly light or dark colors are used. The bed with a lifting mechanism in this interior is low, without a headboard, pretentious elements or bright inserts. |
| Retro | A freedom-loving, independent and slightly romantic direction. A bedroom in this style can have incompatible furniture; the main rule is convenience. Materials used: wood or metal, bright colors, without restrictions in combinations of shades. White glossy beds with a lifting mechanism look impressive. |
| Country | To decorate the premises, simple furniture made from natural materials is used. In a country-style room, the sleeping place is the main detail. A massive bed with a headboard made of wood or metal will do. |
| High tech | The main thing here is functionality. Artificial materials are selected for decoration: metal and glass. Textiles are practically not used. Lifting beds with a metal frame in classic white or black will fit into this interior. |
| Classic | Harmony, symmetry and simple lines are characteristic. From furniture in the bedroom there should be only the most necessary items: a bed, a wardrobe, a nightstand. The headboard is selected without sharp corners and complemented with decorative carvings. Classic beds with a lifting mechanism with both hard and soft decor are suitable. Suitable shades: white, beige, cream, brown. |
| Provence | The direction is distinguished by refined forms and exquisite furniture with echoes of antiquity. A Provence style bed with a lifting mechanism is the detail around which the whole picture is built. Such furniture should have a large wooden headboard decorated with patterns. The sides are complemented with decorative elements, and the legs are gracefully curved. |
A modern manufacturer takes into account the different needs of the consumer, providing him with a large selection of beds with lifting mechanisms. If desired, the product can be made to order according to an individual design. This will cost more than purchasing a ready-made structure.
Minimalism
Retro
Country
High tech
Classic
Provence
Ways to save space when placing beds
When living conditions are cramped due to the size of the living space, a variety of designs come to the rescue, making it possible to unload the space as much as possible.
Built-in bed
If there is a shortage of free space, two-tier systems can be a great help for a family with children. In some cases, it is appropriate to install beds that slide into podiums.
Podium bed
Folding structures are very functional.
The most common models of transforming beds:
- sofa beds;
- tables-beds;
- beds built into wardrobes.
Furniture manufacturers offer many interesting and functional solutions. In one-room apartments, it is often simply impossible to do without installing a sleeping place that can be stored in a closet.
Bed built into wardrobe
Advantages of built-in beds
If previously the assortment of folding beds did not pamper the consumer, and the reliability of the designs did not always live up to expectations, today there are practically no complaints about the performance characteristics of the products.
The structure itself is simple. It consists of only two elements: a wardrobe, which, when the sleeping place is assembled, is no different in appearance from ordinary wardrobe models, and the sleeping place itself. The latter consists of a frame and a lamella support system for the mattress. Also an integral part (one of the most important) is a lifting mechanism, with the help of which the bed can be easily tilted out of the closet and put back after use. Mattresses are usually ordered separately. They should not be thicker than 25 cm so that the piece of furniture can be freely retracted into the niche intended for it. The width of the cabinet corresponds to the size of the bed (if additional compartments for organizing storage systems are not installed). Some models have bed legs.
Model with legs
Often the support is the base part of the structure. Lighting is usually installed inside the cabinets (to make it possible to read before bedtime).
Why built-in structures are interesting:
- they significantly save space;
- with the help of such interior items it is possible to zone the room;
- laying out the bed is very simple; both girls and the younger generation can easily cope with this process;
The bed lifts up easily to free up space
- depending on the model of the structure, storage space can be organized in the closet;
- folded furniture does not interfere with cleaning the room (washing the floor under standing sofas and beds is not an easy task);
- the process of transforming a sleeping place takes a minimum of time (there is no need to lay out or remove bedding, which is secured with special belts);
- The materials and fittings used in the production of products allow bed-wardrobes to harmoniously fit into most residential interiors.
Folding beds built into the closet are indispensable in small apartments
Saving space occupied by furniture is one of the most significant advantages of transformers. During the daytime, the folded sleeping place does not take up space. It is stored in a closet with a depth of only 35...45 cm. In this case, the bedroom can be used as a living room.
The most important advantage of built-in structures is their ergonomics
Many are skeptical about folding structures due to their seeming unreliability. It is safe to say that the mechanisms and materials used in transforming systems make it possible to operate structures without problems for a long time.
A folding bed can be as comfortable as possible. Most often it is equipped with a comfortable orthopedic mattress that guarantees excellent sleep.
An extensive assortment allows you to choose the optimal sleeping option for both adults and children
Installing built-in models helps organize both the main sleeping area for family members and an additional one for guests.
Transformable beds are installed in different rooms. They are used to organize sleeping places in children's rooms and offices (in case the work process is delayed and you have to spend the night there). But mostly they are installed in small bedrooms or in one-room apartments, where it is otherwise impossible to distribute the living space for different purposes. Sometimes such structures can be mounted in halls or loggias (for rare use).
Wardrobe bed on the loggia
If necessary (most often due to the size of the family), you can install not one, but two folding structures along the wall. A rather rare option, but one that has the right to life, is the installation of two horizontal folding structures on top of each other. When unfolded, such a system is a two-tier structure.
Bunk bed
The disadvantages of beds include high requirements for the base to which the structure is attached. There may also be problems with lifting mechanisms caused by manufacturing defects, as well as violation of the rules for using products. The cost of the product also does not relate to its advantages.
Currently reading: Bed in a suitcase two models video
Types of folding bed designs
Today, consumers are offered several options for beds that differ in design. Most often, the bottom surface of the product is the front of the cabinet when folded. There are also models of cabinets that are equipped with folding, sliding or hinged doors.
The bed is built into a wardrobe with hinged doors
In this case, there are no design requirements for the design of the lower part of the bed.
Models are also produced whose height of the unfolded bed allows them to be installed above sofas, which are used for their intended purpose during the day.
Folding bed over the sofa
This design of beds fully helps to combine the use of the room as a bedroom and living room.
Wardrobe beds can be made from solid wood or materials containing wood (MDF and laminated chipboard). The first option has the highest performance characteristics, but at the same time it costs quite a lot. Laminated chipboard is inexpensive, but over time there is a high probability of loosening of the fastening points.
What is the difference between MDF and laminated chipboard?
Important! Manufacturers do not recommend using 1.6 cm thick chipboard panels to make folding beds.
Specialized medical beds
People after operations and injuries need not only care, but also medical beds for the disabled and bedridden patients. Such models are supplemented with special mechanisms. They are necessary so that the patient can lie comfortably in a certain position or independently change the angle of inclination.
When making furniture, manufacturers are guided by the recommendations of doctors.
A bed for the disabled makes it easier to care for the patient. It will be easier to approach it, it is possible to connect additional devices and carry out procedures. The convenient design will protect against bedsores. A bed for bedridden patients is selected according to the type of drive. You can adjust the position manually or using buttons and a remote control. The choice depends on the condition of the patient and whether he can move on his own.
Tips for owners on what to do if a cat shits on the bed or sofa
An orthopedic bed with a lifting function consists of a certain number of adjustable sections. In this case, a person is able to select the desired angle of inclination. The patient can be carefully seated or laid on such furniture, tilted to the right or left.
Useful tips for selection and operation
When selecting, installing and using products, take into account the following nuances:
- bedroom dimensions and interior;
- type of lifting mechanism, for what purpose it is needed;
- placement of other furniture;
- base lift side;
- the presence of additional blockers for the lifting mechanism;
- bed frame material with lifting mechanism;
- possibility of using an orthopedic mattress.
During the inspection, the operation of the lifting mechanism is checked. A high-quality base rises easily, without squeaking, noise or jamming. The lower and upper parts fit tightly to each other.
Also pay attention to the box under the base. This can be a single box or a space divided into several parts. Blankets and pillows, bed linen, clothes, shoes, books, and sports equipment are stored in solid wood beds with a lifting mechanism. Items are placed in boxes, containers or baskets. It is not recommended to store various small items without a bag or packaging, as well as wrinkled clothes and items that are used every day.
Bedroom dimensions and interior
Type of lifting mechanism
Base lift side
Frame material
Possibility of using an orthopedic mattress
Installing a built-in bed
Instructions for assembling a factory-made folding bed are provided.
Important! With self-assembly, which allows you to save on installation, there is a high probability of losing the manufacturer’s warranty on the supplied products.
The lifting mechanism installed on the structure is shown in the photo.
Currently reading: Multifunctional furniture, what it is and what it is like
Lifting mechanism
Installation technology for a built-in bed.
Step 1.
The cabinet frame is assembled. To do this, the sidewalls, upper and lower parts are connected using confirmations. The mounting holes are already made by the manufacturer. Euro screws can be tightened with the appropriate key or a screwdriver with a suitable bit (this method is much faster).
Cabinet parts laid out before assembly
Euroscrew and hexagon for assembling the structure
Assembling the “box”
Frame assembly
Step 2.
The upper and lower stops, as well as a narrow shelf, are fixed to the frame with confirmations. It is designed to accommodate necessary items: creams, alarm clock, etc.
Top stop (rear wall)
The shelf is fixed with confirmations at two ends
Bottom stop or bottom back wall, fastening
Step 3.
The cabinet box is rigidly fixed to the load-bearing wall.
Step 4.
The bed is being assembled. Metal corners connect the main drawer with two sidewalls. An orthopedic frame is attached to the sidewalls. The leg (front panel of the bed) with an installed support bar for fixing the orthopedic base is attached to the mounted structure with corners.
Assembling the bed
Fastening the end of the bed
Another photo of the bed base
Step 5.
The front of the cabinet (with a handle for tilting the structure) is fixed to the bed using furniture corners (with self-tapping screws 13 - 16 mm long).
Fastening the cabinet front
Step 6.
The lifting mechanism is attached to the bed frame with screws. First, the parts (left and right) with a movable joint are mounted.
Mounting the lifting mechanism
Step 7.
The sleeping place is placed next to the closet. Metal mechanism strips are attached to its side walls.
The lifting mechanism bars are attached to the cabinet
Step 8.
Straps are screwed to the sides of the bed to hold the mattress and bedding.
Straps to hold the mattress
Step 9.
Gas lifts are attached. One end of the mechanism is fixed with a screw connection on the bed, the other - on a movable connection bar fixed on the side of the cabinet.
Gas lift
Gas lift mounting
Step 10
Visible fastener installation locations are masked with decorative plugs.
Step 11.
The mattress and necessary accessories are placed on the base of slats.
Bed in open and closed positions
Opening the wardrobe bed
The bed is ready for use.
To optimize the use of available living space, folding beds built into wardrobes are one of the best options. Having installed such a structure, all that remains is to choose the right mattress, pillows and bed linen. Operation of the facilities is very simple and convenient.
Arrangement of small-sized housing is always difficult. The owners want to ensure maximum functionality of the premises, comfort while staying at home, as well as the aesthetic appeal of the room design. It is especially difficult to decorate one-room apartments or studio apartments. When planning the placement of interior items, the recommendations outlined in our article can help.
Reliable manufacturers
So that there is no doubt about the quality, beds with a lifting mechanism from proven domestic and foreign brands are selected for the bedroom. These include Ikea, Askona, Geha Möbelwerke and others. Italian manufacturers deserve special attention.
| Brand | Peculiarities |
| Askona | Products from this manufacturer are purchased annually by about 2 million people around the world. When developing models, they focus on comfort and apply innovation. Options are available for different interior styles: classic beds with a lifting mechanism and discreet minimalist models. The manufacturer has its own collection of furniture from an Italian designer. Over 25 years, the team has not only developed a large assortment, but also expanded the list of services: on the company’s official website you can create your own model and see how it will look in the interior. |
| IKEA | The company works to improve the quality of the client's daily life. The furniture combines functionality, environmental friendliness, and convenience. The beds are complemented with such little things as a drawer with a lifting mechanism for storing linen, for example. Product design does not fit established patterns and goes beyond the boundaries of the usual. |
| Geha Mobelwerke | The company has been operating on the market for over 80 years. He uses expensive materials in his work and thinks through individual designs. The team improves products based on people’s feedback and market trends. The main goal is to provide maximum comfort to the consumer. |
Beds with a lifting mechanism fit perfectly into modern modest-sized apartments and spacious houses. They save useful space and complement the interior with their “character”. When choosing, you need to pay attention to the design, evaluate quality parameters, and focus on trusted manufacturers.
Askona
IKEA
Geha Mobelwerke
