What is a transforming bed?
In the modern world, transformable beds are becoming increasingly popular, which are pieces of furniture that can provide a child with a full-fledged sleeping place, areas for games, sports or study.
In order to make life easier, modern manufacturers are developing many solutions for the design and functionality of cribs.
In addition, a transformable children's bed, due to its great functionality, can offer additional shelves and drawers for the child's things and toys. Moreover, as he gets older and grows, the bed can also increase in size. Such models become especially indispensable in conditions of limited space in a children's room.
One of the simplest and at the same time ingenious inventions of our time is the transformable crib, already known to many and appreciated.
Features of Transformers
The transformable bed consists of a cradle, a bedside table, and a lower drawer. After the child grows up, the cradle is removed, the chest of drawers is placed next to the bed, and the lower part becomes an adult bed, where you need to buy a new mattress.
pros
The swing mechanism is pendulum. This mechanism comes in handy when you put your baby to sleep in a crib and he wakes up slightly - in some cases you can rock the baby to sleep.
When the child begins to get up and actively move in the crib, you can use a special part to fix the pendulum.
The transformable crib fits organically into the interior of the children's room
Possibility to install the mattress on two different levels. There are special holes on which the mattress rests. It is much more convenient to put the baby to sleep when you don’t have to bend over too much and abruptly tear him away from you.
Of course, when the child begins to sit and stand up, it becomes necessary to move the mattress lower. Having two tiers in the crib is very convenient.
The height of the railings in the crib can be adjusted, depending on the model.
Overall, these cribs look very attractive. The appearance allows you to choose the color scheme to match the design of the newborn’s room.
The drawers of the transforming crib are spacious . You can place things here in advance, even before the baby is born. The capacity of the drawers allows you to pack things for the first six months of life.
Advantages and disadvantages of transformable beds
Transforming beds have a number of advantages over classic options:
- functionality and practicality;
- saving room space;
- modern and beautiful design.
In addition, such models will save money from the family budget, since there is no need to purchase additional furniture.
A transforming bed is such a wise and creative move as combining several items into one.
However, the transformer also has serious disadvantages:
- high price compared to a regular bed;
- the need for daily transformation of the bed in the morning and evening;
- bulkiness;
- risk of injury during folding and unfolding procedures;
- transformation mechanisms that are not very durable.
Also, in the manufacture of such furniture, simpler and cheaper materials are often used than for classic beds.
Transformable bed for newborn children in the interior - photo
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In general, the designs of children's beds today are simply amazing. Numerous modules and transformation mechanisms allow you to extend the life of furniture. The main thing is that you need to choose a crib taking into account the quality of the materials, giving preference to natural solid wood.
Types of transformation mechanisms
All mechanisms for transforming beds can be divided into 4 groups:
- spring;
- retractable;
- folding;
- gas lift.
Spring mechanisms are durable, but require the use of great force, so the children's version of transforming beds is practically not equipped with such mechanisms.
As a lift, such mechanisms use coiled springs, which take on part of the load.
The retractable mechanism is the easiest to use and does not require much force. However, the range of such furniture is very modest - most often it is used in bunk beds.
Pull-out beds for children belong to the category of transformers, as they can change their functional purpose and take on different forms.
Folding beds are a very good solution. When assembled, the sleeping place is usually secured with some kind of special lock, which, when opened, unfolds the bed. Here you have to be very careful not to hurt your arm or leg. In addition, such beds must be attached to solid walls, and interior partitions will not fit, so the options for placing the bed in the room are immediately limited.
This bed is an excellent choice for a small-sized home, because at night it is a full-fledged sleeping place, and during the day it is a compact wardrobe.
Gas lift mechanisms are the most convenient, safe and easy to use. But they also have disadvantages - their high cost and fragility.
A gas lift for a bed is a very important device that allows you to easily transform this furniture.
Let's take a closer look at some types of transformers.
Wardrobe bed or chest of drawers
A transformable children's bed with a chest of drawers or a wardrobe will help save room space and is a good option for a small apartment. This model provides the child with the opportunity to sleep on a large and comfortable bed at night, and during the day it acts as a wardrobe or chest of drawers for children's things. Also, on the sides of the bed there are usually additional drawers, shelves and niches. As a rule, this furniture is equipped with gas lift mechanisms, so the child can fold and unfold the bed himself.
This model is often purchased for a child’s room.
For newborns
Transformable beds for newborns are a composite structure, which, in addition to the crib itself, usually also includes drawers, shelves and a changing table. As the child grows up, the entire structure is disassembled and transformed into a full-fledged bed with an attached bedside table and hanging shelves. It is worth noting that in such models, although the length of the bed increases, its width remains unchanged, so not all children will be comfortable sleeping on such a bed. In addition, in its initial form the design is quite cumbersome and will look awkward in a small room.
Transformable beds for newborns can be a real godsend in terms of saving money, time and free space in the apartment.
There is quite a large selection of colors for such models on the market, so you can, for example, even find options in pink for a newborn girl.
With a pendulum
A transforming bed for a newborn baby can be equipped with a pendulum mechanism that allows you to lull the child to sleep. The pendulum starts easily with a simple push. Some models can even be triggered by a child's crying.
A transformable children's bed with a pendulum will allow you to rock your child to sleep without additional effort.
Important! Choose a transformable children's bed with a pendulum on bearings, as a pendulum on wooden slats may begin to creak over time.
Loft bed
The sleeping place for this model is located above the floor at a height of 1 to 1.5 meters, and under it there is an area for games, for sports activities or a table for studying. This bed is equipped with sides on the sides to prevent the child from falling while sleeping. It is worth noting that such a bed is quite large, but it will allow the child to organize his own personal corner in the room.
A loft bed is a compact two-story structure with a sleeping area on the second floor.
Table-bed
This model is ideal for a schoolchild's room. The design combines a full-fledged single bed with a desk, which, as a rule, meets all requirements and standards.
The table-bed is quite comfortable and compact, does not take up much living space, but can provide ample opportunities.
There are several options for making such beds:
- the tabletop is located under the bed at night, and moves out from under it during the day;
- two-tier option, where the top tier is a bed and the bottom is a table;
- the table top rises up, freeing up the sleeping area;
- option with a folding bed-wardrobe, during the transformation of which the bed is hidden in the closet, and the table takes a horizontal position.
Oval
An interesting option for young children. As a rule, in such cribs the bed is located quite high, so it is convenient for the mother to pick up the child. Also, such cribs are characterized by low weight. With this model, when you move the base of the bed down, you get a spacious playpen for your child to play with. More transformations are often available, such as cradle, changing table, table and chair. Moreover, manufacturers offer to purchase additional parts that will expand the transformation capabilities.
Oval-shaped transformable beds occupy leading positions in terms of sales results.
The best cribs for children under 2-3 years old
The most popular option for children under 2-3 years old remains classic rectangular beds. They are made of wood and can also have a pendulum mechanism or runners for rocking the baby.
Red Star “Elisha” C717 – the most spacious
5.0
★★★★★
editorial assessment
96%
buyers recommend this product
“Elisha” C717 is a classic rectangular crib with openwork carvings on the sides. The decor of rhinestones gives it additional charm. The manufacturer offers 4 colors to choose from: white, vanilla, ivory and chocolate, so the model is suitable for both boys and girls. The frame is made of birch and coated with environmentally friendly water-based paints. A soft longitudinal pendulum is provided for rocking the baby.
The bottom height is adjustable and has 2 lockable positions. The front wall is lowered or removed to be attached to the parent's bed. Below the crib there is a spacious drawer for storing diapers, diapers and other small items. This model will fit any standard mattress 120x60 cm.
Pros:
- smooth pendulum;
- high quality workmanship;
- large box;
- silicone pads;
- all fasteners included;
- removable side wall.
Minuses:
- confused assembly;
- the wall descends rather tightly;
- no mattress included.
Buyers note that it is difficult for them to figure out how to assemble the bed themselves. In the instructions, all the pictures are small, and the installation of the rail under the drawer is not shown. So it’s better for dads to watch a detailed video on the manufacturer’s website in advance.
Baby Expert Abbracci By Trudi – stylish designer crib
5.0
★★★★★
editorial assessment
93%
buyers recommend this product
Baby Expert Abbracci By Trudi is made in light beige shades. It is given special tenderness by rounded smooth lines and a removable teddy bear located on the side. The frame is made of natural beech, coated with hypoallergenic paint. The distance between the slats is 7 cm. This means that the baby’s arms and legs will not get stuck between them.
The crib can be used on soft rubber wheels with stoppers or as a rocking chair on runners. Optionally, the model comes with a designer canopy and other cute accessories that need to be purchased separately. But the under-bed box is included.
The basis of Baby Expert Abbracci By Trudi is orthopedic - for the correct formation of the child’s posture. The bottom is height adjustable. Assembling the crib yourself is not difficult - you don’t even need additional tools. The size of the bed is 90x125 cm.
Pros:
- Beautiful design;
- orthopedic slats;
- a wide range of designer accessories to match the crib;
- height adjustment;
- certificate confirming the non-toxicity of the materials used;
- There is a place to store things.
Minuses:
- high price;
- mattress not included.
A crib from the Italian brand Baby Expert Abbracci By Trudi is suitable for fashionable parents who are looking for European-style, stylish and high-quality furniture for a newborn. The only thing that can stop you from such a purchase is its prohibitive cost.
Feretti Majesty Brillante FMS - the best crib for girls
4.8
★★★★★
editorial assessment
87%
buyers recommend this product
The Feretti Majesty Brillante FMS soft bed is pleasant to the touch thanks to the flocking decoration. The design is complemented with embroidered textile appliqués and shining rhinestones. The model comes in 2 colors – snow-white and cream. Everything here is thought out for the safety of the baby: no sharp corners in the design, protective linings on the sides made of silicone, a viewing window made of safety plexiglass.
The frame is made of veneered beech; the orthopedic bottom promotes the correct position of the baby's spine. Self-centering wheels with stoppers are removable, and the model can be used as a rocking chair. The design also includes a proprietary longitudinal pendulum, which repeats the mother’s movements and swings the baby from head to feet.
Mattress size – 125x65 cm. The bed is designed for children up to 5 years old.
Pros:
- long service life;
- removable wheels;
- natural materials;
- observation window;
- unusual and delicate design;
- exclusive smooth pendulum.
Minuses:
- the front wall does not fall down;
- high price;
- inconvenient pendulum locking.
Feretti Majesty Brillante FMS – a crib for little princesses. This is the choice of parents who care not only about the appearance of the furniture purchased for their child, but also about its safety.
Briciola-8 – practical parents will like it
4.6
★★★★★
editorial assessment
80%
buyers recommend this product
Briciola-8 is a classic wooden crib at an affordable price. The manufacturer offers a choice of 5 colors: white, blue, black, as well as light and dark wood. All of them are made of birch and covered with safe paint and varnish.
The design is durable and reliable, suitable for active kids. The bottom drops as the child grows. The transverse pendulum operates silently and does not become loose over time. The under-bed box will accommodate all the baby's things.
Pros:
- affordable price;
- silent pendulum;
- adjustable mattress height;
- spacious box;
- removable front wall.
Minuses:
- in the first days you may smell paint;
- unclear instructions.
Buyers note that they often have to spend several hours on assembly, so they recommend stocking up on tools and studying the video instructions on the stages of installing the crib. We would like to add that it is better to prepare the bed in advance and leave it somewhere in a ventilated area so that the smell of paint completely disappears.
What materials are transforming beds made of?
The range of materials used in the manufacture of transformable children's beds is absolutely the same as in the production of adult furniture:
- tree;
- Chipboard and fibreboard;
- metal;
- plastic.
Wood is the most suitable material for children's furniture, as it is easy to process, quite durable, and does not pose any threat to the child's health.
Furniture made from natural materials has always been popular not only in the interiors of rooms for adult households.
Beds made of chipboard or fibreboard are short-lived, prone to rotting and are very susceptible to moisture.
Metal beds, despite their reliability and longevity, have such disadvantages as a small range, heavy weight and risk of injury.
A metal children's bed will create a unique atmosphere for your child.
Plastic furniture is lightweight and has a bright design, but mechanical stress often leaves scratches and stains.
How to choose the right bed and mattress
When choosing a bed, you need to take into account the size of the children's room, the height and age of the child. Make sure that the materials used are safe from a health point of view and anti-allergenic.
Important! The base of a children's bed should be made of slats (planks), which will provide useful and comfortable sleeping conditions.
A transforming bed is versatile and durable; this furniture can significantly save space in an apartment or small room.
For very young children, experts recommend purchasing hard orthopedic mattresses made of coconut fiber or latex, and for schoolchildren, a good option would be a mattress with an independent spring block, which will ensure the correct formation of the spine.
This bed allows you to significantly save your family budget.
Nuances of choosing by age
Transformable children's beds should be selected taking into account the age, weight and build of the child. Children under 7 years old are suitable for products with a width of no more than 60 cm. In order to provide enough space for a schoolchild to sleep, 80 cm will be needed. The width of a bed for a teenager is 90 cm or more.
To correctly calculate the length of the bed, you need to use a special formula:
- Add 20-30 cm to the child’s height;
- The resulting figure will become an indicator of the length of the berth necessary for proper rest.
Transformable playpens, beds with pendulums and round structures are intended for newborn children. They can be used for up to 1-3 years. When choosing a suitable design, it is important to pay attention to the handrails. Growing children tend to try everything “by tooth”, which is why products must be protected with special plastic profiles (rodents). If this part is missing, the risk of injury or splinters increases. The legs of the transformer must be fixed as firmly as possible. If the crib has built-in wheels, they should be movable and have rubberized inserts that ensure silent movement indoors.
Two-tier products are traditionally chosen for older children - over three years old. Other models of transformers (beds with a chest of drawers, wardrobe, table, attic, 6-in-1 designs) can be used for much longer, until the child reaches 12-16 years of age. At school age, models equipped with chests of drawers with wide and short drawers, rather than narrow and long ones, will be useful. If you have enough space, you should opt for this type of transformer.
An important point is the correct selection of a mattress for a transformable children's bed. For newborns, orthopedic models are recommended, consisting of natural materials and having increased rigidity. For older children and teenagers, an independent spring block would be a good solution; it is especially useful for disorders of the musculoskeletal system.
Rating of the best manufacturers
On the Internet you can find many ratings of manufacturers of children's beds, the most often included in them are the following:
- domestic: Red Star, Lel, SKV, Briciola, Antel, Papaloni;
- foreign: Pali, Wundermöbel, Bambolina, Valle.
A crib, changing table, chest of drawers for linen and baby care products purchased separately are much more expensive than one transforming crib, which simultaneously combines all these items.
It is worth noting that domestic manufacturers have long learned to make high-quality furniture, so their models very often top ratings and tops in terms of price-quality ratio.
The versatility of a transforming bed will undoubtedly increase the comfort of a child’s room, making efficient use of space. Thanks to the wide range, among the presented models it is easy to find exactly what suits your child.
The main advantages during operation are the lightness and noiselessness of the moving parts.
Popular designs
When choosing a transforming bed for a small apartment, you should decide on all the characteristics described above. In addition to the desired appearance, functionality and age of the child, you need to consider how much space the structure will take up when disassembled, whether it is intended for one or two children.
With playpen
A playpen bed is not only a multifunctional, but also a safe product for a baby. Depending on the design features, the furniture can be intended only for newborns or can also be used by older children. Configuration options:
- Chest of drawers designed for storing children's things.
- A large drawer where you can place not only clothes, but also care products.
- A pendulum mechanism that allows you to rock a baby.
- A changing table is indispensable for quickly changing a diaper and changing clothes.
- Sofa - when the child grows up, it will become a guest area, a place to relax.
- A desk is necessary for schoolchildren.
The advantages of such products: absence of sharp corners, mobility, simple operation, bottom height adjustment. High-quality models made from expensive materials have no drawbacks. Cheap furniture has the same features as expensive furniture, but it is less durable.
With a sofa
A transformable sofa bed is a convenient piece of furniture that serves not only for sleep and relaxation. During the day, you can gather with friends on it to watch a movie, play checkers, and more. The shape of such furniture can be the most unexpected, for example, in the form of a car or some kind of animal. In addition, the sofa can be straight or corner. The latter is much more compact, as it uses the corner of the room.
Beds combined with a sofa are ideal for small rooms. Many models are equipped with an orthopedic base, which is a plus. The only disadvantages include the need for daily assembly of the structure, which accelerates the wear of the fittings.
Folding
Another multifunctional children's option is a folding transforming bed. It can be combined with a chest of drawers, a wardrobe and/or a table. There are two types of such structures:
- horizontal, which are attached to the side;
- vertical, fixed in the headboard.
If there are two children in the family, you can choose a bunk folding bed, but in this case it will be horizontal. Additional niches and cabinets for storing all kinds of things are often built into such products. In addition to its versatility, children's furniture (transformable bed-table or wardrobe) takes up little space in the room. To eliminate the presence of shortcomings in the selected model, you need to give preference to products from reliable manufacturers.
Matryoshka
This is the best option for two children when you need to save not only space, but also money. When folded, the structure consists of 2 beds placed one above the other at a minimum distance. Using a roll-out mechanism, the lower tier extends to form a sleeping area. The nesting doll is much lower and cheaper than conventional two-tier structures; it does not have a ladder. The only drawback is the relatively rapid wear of the fittings. To extend its service life, it is necessary to regularly clean the guides from dirt and dust.
Bunk
Transformable bunk beds are indispensable for families with two children, when it is necessary to rationally arrange furniture in a small apartment. Here, two beds occupy an area intended for one. You can choose the best option from the following modifications:
- Composite - the legs of the upper bed are fixed on the back of the lower one.
- Folding, built into the cabinet, representing two separate horizontal products.
- Pull-out designs are the most compact, since one bed is located very low above the other. The latter moves forward if necessary.
- Sofa beds - easily converted into a place to sleep or relax during the day.
- Transformable bed-table. It can be in two versions: a stationary bed at the top + a folding table at the bottom or a pull-out bed that hides the table in the body.
Design of children's beds with sides, types of limiters
Such designs are endowed with all the advantages inherent in any transformable furniture. But they still have a drawback. Even if there is a side, a child can fall from the second floor and get injured.
Making the bed from above is very inconvenient, so getting children to fully tidy the room can be difficult.
Composite
Folding
Retractable
Sofa beds
Transformable bed-table
