Choosing a bed

A person spends a third of his life in a dream and it is on the bed that half of the success of night recuperation depends. In addition, this piece of furniture is central to the interior of the bedroom. Therefore, it is so important to choose the right bed in order to make your stay the most effective, and the design of the room is harmonious.

The bed is a structure consisting of a frame (two backs and side panels) and a frame for the mattress. Despite this simplicity of construction, various variations of execution and design are possible. Due to this, there are a large number of types of beds.

The very first classification concerns the type of supporting structure. There are three options in total:

• the frame is hung on the backrests at the headboard and legs, thus, they are the basis of the product;
• the frame is a load-bearing support, and the backrests are subsequently superimposed on it. It may have legs or a solid surface directly on the floor;
• the support is the base on the legs, and the frame is not connected to it. In fact, it is only a "case", an outer shell.

There are also different types of the base itself, on which the mattress is then laid:

• metal armor mesh... Of its advantages, a long service life should be highlighted. However, due to the fact that the structure itself does not have a large indicator of rigidity, it eventually begins to bend under the weight of a person;
• wooden planks or the so-called lamella base... They have sufficient rigidity, and therefore we can say that beds with such a base are orthopedic. The more rails and the smaller the distance between them, the stronger the structure and the greater the load it can withstand;
• sheet panel. Most often it is made of plywood, MDF or chipboard. Among the advantages of such a base is the low price. Among the disadvantages - such sheet materials are unstable to heavy loads.

Different variations are possible in the basic elements of the bed structure - at the headboard and at the footboard. For starters, the headboard can be present or completely absent. Its presence makes the bed more comfortable, since you can easily sit on it half-sitting, and the pillows do not fall on the floor. If the headboard is missing, then a wall can replace it. In addition, it can either be an integral part of the structure, or be a separate element. In this case, the headboard is most often attached to the wall and the bed is already moving up to it.

The headboard itself can be low or high, different in shape, decorative design. It is made from the same material as the frame, or any other material is used - from textile upholstery to mirror panels.

In modern, especially minimalist models, the foot is often absent. It is predominantly smaller and less noticeable than the headboard. It can be either a single panel or a forged product with patterns. On some models, instead of a footboard, you can find a headboard connected to a side panel. Such a bed can be placed in the very corner, while it will turn out to lean against any of the walls and not freeze.

Round and oval beds are a non-standard, original option. An unusual bed model can become the main decoration of the interior, however, it is difficult to place it in a room, especially a small one. Despite the fact that such beds are most often large, with a diameter of up to two meters, it is not as comfortable to fit on it together as on a classic rectangular one.

The types of beds can be divided according to their functionality. First of all, any of them is a place to rest and sleep. However, there are models with shelves and drawers for storing bed linen. Storage space can be either built-in or attached.

Often, beds are sold with a mattress included, which significantly saves time and effort, because you don't have to go shopping in addition. In total, there are several main types used for a berth:

• wadded mattress. Its undoubted plus is its low cost. Among the disadvantages is the gradual rolling of the material, which leads to bumps on the surface. Such a defect is palpable, so over time it becomes uncomfortable to sleep;
• mattress based on foam rubber and its analogues. Despite the softness of the initial material, it is from them that rather rigid orthopedic models are made. Among the disadvantages is a short service life;
• spring mattress, which are both connected and independent from each other. Depending on the design, they can be of different degrees of rigidity. Box-spring beds will be a good purchase for those who have back problems;
• water mattress. Water or liquids based on it are used as a filler. This type is not often used, since it is rather difficult to operate, cumbersome and has the effect of sleeping on waves, that is, it significantly strains the vestibular apparatus.

In addition to classic beds, in modern times there are unusual models: transforming or equipped with the latest technology. Moreover, the former are not limited to the option with an opening lid. So, there is a cot "6 in 1", which, with the help of simple manipulations, can be: a round or oval bed, a changing table, a sofa, a playpen, a table with chairs. A bed like this saves both money and space in the bedroom.

There are beds with remote controls. Motors are attached to the frame of such models, which set the head and leg zones in motion, raise them and lower them. Sometimes there is a mechanism that can create a massage effect. With the help of such a bed, you can adjust the height of the zones, taking into account preferences and physical characteristics. Among the disadvantages is the need to bring an outlet or adapter to the bed.

Smart beds are still not widely used, which is associated, first of all, with the high cost. Such "smart" models read information from a person directly during his sleep, changing the shape of the mattress depending on the change in body position. Some can adjust the temperature of the cover, making it more comfortable, and raise the head area on their own in case of snoring of the sleeper.

Finally, the types of beds can be classified even by the decor: its presence or absence. This category includes not only the design of the visible elements - the headboard, footboard and side panels, which can be wood, metal, upholstered with fabric. The accessories also include, for example, the canopy. Such models are bulky and appropriate in large bedrooms, however, they create a special luxurious atmosphere.

Children's beds are especially original, which often take quite guessed forms of toys, cartoon characters and other objects. For example, a model in the form of a racing car is popular. There are also soft, without mattresses, reminiscent of huge pillows, such as a Pokemon bed.But for babies, most often there are simple, as safe and comfortable as possible, with high sides, for example, a bed "Mishutka".

There is a cradle bed for newborns. She not only has high sides so that the child does not fall, but also has several modes - stationary and swinging. Some models are automated, so you don't need to spend your own time rocking your baby before bed. Of course, mechanical programs are smooth running and have a small range of motion.

A profitable purchase will be a transforming bed, which can turn from a cradle into a changing table or playpen. There are models that include even more functions. They meet all the necessary criteria for a baby cradle, while saving free space in the bedroom.

For twins in their first months of life, one bed for two is quite suitable, however, over time, the question of an extra bed will still arise. You can look at a model that is larger than usual, and in the middle is divided by a soft roller. In this case, each baby will have their own place, and they will not interfere with each other.

If space permits, then you can immediately purchase two separate or twin beds. The advantage of doubles is that they are cheaper than two separate ones, and many are also equipped with a swing mechanism. But the disadvantage is that even in the case of quarantine, it will be problematic to separate the children into different rooms, since it is impossible to separate one bed from another.

In total, there are two main types of sliding models:

• from 0 to 10 years old. Initially, it looks like a crib for a newborn, often complete with a changing table and chest of drawers. Over time, the cradle can be transformed - remove some of the fences, lower the bottom, add the necessary centimeters in length with a curbstone and a table. In its original form, the dimensions of such a model are 120x60cm, and the maximum after all the modifications is 160x70cm;
• from 3 to 15 years old. This is a full bed with a sliding mechanism. As the child grows, the transforming part is put forward more and more. The initial width of such a bed is greater than that of the previous model - 80-90 cm. Some models are equipped with additional storage boxes, removable and stationary sides. Thus, this model is suitable both for a toddler who is just learning everything, and for a schoolboy and teenager.

For children, themed beds are often found, which will not only decorate the interior, but also help express their individuality. For girls and boys, they make beds in the form of cars, animals, ships. Over time, such a model will lose its relevance, but for some time it will become not only a place to sleep, but also come in handy for playing.

For small spaces, the ergonomic solution is wardrobe bed, folding against the wall. Such a model works with the help of a lifting spring mechanism. There are all basic sizes - from small cribs to double beds. When the bed is retracted into the wall, decorative cabinet doors remain on the outside. Most often it is impossible to open them, and their presence is due to the disguise of the sleeping place.

There are several types of built-in beds:

• horizontal, lateral adjacent to the wall;
• vertical, headboard in contact with the wall.

Some manufacturers complicate the design by equipping the wall-bed with a table, mirror, sofa, storage space. Most often, the cost of lifting beds is lower than that of each piece of furniture separately. However, for many, this model causes concern due to the folding mechanism.

The ladder bed category includes many models designed for different occasions. A bunk is suitable when two children, teenagers or adults live in the room. This option saves space, and often money.

You can make a three-tier structure using an additional floor platform, which usually slides under the lower tier. In some cases, it has a lifting mechanism, which makes it a full-fledged double or triple bed.

The loft bed is also a two-story one, however, there is free space below the bed. This design is ergonomic, as it allows you to create a work area, a small library, a wardrobe, a workshop under the sleeping place. Children's models of loft beds with a slide are completely capable of keeping the child busy with the game.

Among the unusual types with a ladder can be called a hinged bed. It is a stationary platform that is fixed to the ceiling with reliable fasteners. There is completely free space under the bed. This option is relevant only if the apartment has high ceilings. Another type of mounted model is a platform moving up and down along the wall mounts. For convenience, the rails are equipped with a counterweight system or a fully automated mechanism.

The disadvantage of almost all of these beds is associated with the inconvenience that occurs when changing bed linen. It is also worth understanding that in order to lie down, you will either have to lower the bed place, or get to it by stairs.

Among the original beds is the backlit model. The most commonly used LED strip lights along the base and edge. A garland of incandescent lamps is also possible. Subdued light can create a unique intimate atmosphere in the bedroom.

A more standard, but very convenient design option is modular furniture. It is a set of basic interior items made in the same style. Most often, a bed, along with a wardrobe or chest of drawers, is present in all modular sets.

A bed with a place for storing linen will be a useful acquisition not only for a small apartment, but also for any other one. Common options include base shelves, drawers, and a compartment under the mattress. There are models with a mezzanine above the headboard.

The choice of the color of the bed should directly depend on the overall interior, the shades and concepts already available in it:

• You can make the design completely neutral scale, add small accents or play on contrasts.
• Also possible monochrome version, when decoration and furniture complement each other, coinciding in color, but differing in shades.

• The most traditional option for a bed is natural woody or imitating it. This category includes all shades of brown: both light woody, such as alder, and more saturated, dark walnut. With a contrasting interior, bright finishes and neutral furniture are selected, or, conversely, the base walls and floor, but the bed, wardrobes, tables are rich and colorful.

• Unnatural for wood, but neutral in the spectrum of colors - these are white, gray and black. The first is the most popular in country style, Scandinavian, Provence. Moreover, white is quite rich in shades - from warm, rather even beige, to cold with blueness.Gray also has many shades with different saturations, but black is a rather categorical color.

• The materials from which the beds are made are subjected to all kinds of processing, including staining. Thanks to this, you can find models with red, pink, green, blue frame, and in general there are no restrictions on possible colors. Moreover, there is such a variety not only for children's and teenage beds. Many styles allow for such an unusual color of furniture.

In total, there are three main materials from which beds are made. Each has its own set of characteristics, features and appearance, which is suitable for a particular style.

A common variant since ancient times is a tree. A large selection of different species makes natural beds affordable. Among the inexpensive types are solid pine and spruce, and beds made of beech, oak, mahogany, ash are especially expensive. Noble breeds are not only strong and durable, but also have high aesthetic qualities due to their texture, natural pattern, shade and even aroma. You can often find beds made of exotic species, for example, rattan, teak, wenge.

Breeds are classified not only by their nobility and high cost, but also by their hardness. Among the soft species are linden, pine, spruce, alder, aspen. Among the hard ones are oak, beech, ash. Soft rock lends itself to any processing, but it is also easily exposed to mechanical damage. Rough handling can cause chips and cracks and burrs in untreated wood.

Defects can also appear if the furniture is made of low-quality material that has gone through the wrong stages of processing. Therefore, the entire wood surface should be carefully inspected for bulges and irregularities. For furniture, take dried wood without cracks and knots. Most often it is sanded, varnished, but staining, waxing, and visual aging are also possible. In addition, this material can be decorated with carving, tinting and imitation of the texture of more expensive breeds.

It is important not only what kind of wood is taken, but also in what specific form. Most often it is made of boards, which makes the structure laconic, lightweight and outwardly even. This is a classic model that will fit into any setting. A much more original version of logs, which is ideal for country style. The tree in this form looks massive, which is why the bed itself is quite bulky. Such a visual feature does not detract from the material's ability to make the overall rustic atmosphere cozy. Beds made of logs cannot be found in large chain stores, however, they can be found from private craftsmen or ordered from them.

Some log models are simplified as much as possible in their design - they consist of the main structural elements without extraneous parts. Fantasy bed models look very similar to a fairy-tale den made of snags.

Recently, beds made of pallets, or, as they are commonly called, pallets, have become especially popular due to their unusual appearance and availability. Often they are made by hand or ordered from the masters. The main advantages are the low price and stylish appearance. Among the minuses is the need to organically fit such material into the overall interior. This can be done with the help of other furniture made in a similar style, for example, you can put a coffee table made of pallets.

Before becoming a single structure, pallets are sanded and varnished or painted. Such a bed can imitate the color of a noble breed or be unusual bright, for example, turquoise. The most suitable in terms of quality are pallets with EUR and EPAL marks.

Metal is a fairly affordable and cheap material. The structure of the bed can be forged or welded. The first method allows you to create intricate designs that fit a variety of design styles. The main advantage of this material is its strength and ability to withstand huge loads even with its own low weight. In addition, such furniture is easy to care for, since it is enough just to wipe it with a rag.

Mostly aluminum and steel are used for the manufacture of furniture. The first type is lighter in weight, but expensive, and steel is the opposite. Metal can be processed in every possible way, for example, nickel, paint, chrome, and also be subjected to designer forging. Thanks to this, these beds can be entered into the interior of any style, from hi-tech to country.

Beds made of wood-based panels are becoming more and more popular and in demand. There are several types in total, but their essence boils down to pressing the material and applying the top layer - wood veneer or film. These slabs are hollow on the inside, thereby reducing the weight of the products. The undoubted advantage is the low cost.

There are four types of wood-based panels in total:

• Chipboard - wood-shaving. Glued and then pressed shavings or tyrsa. It is very important to buy such furniture from trusted companies and stores, as low-quality goods can be toxic due to poor glue. In terms of strength, the material is not inferior to the pine massif.
• Chipboard - laminated particle board. From above it is covered with plastic, a film with a wood pattern. Thanks to lamination, the material is resistant to minor mechanical damage. Chipboard is cheaper than chipboard.
• MDF - fibreboard made from sawdust bonded with paraffin and lignin. Thanks to this composition, the material is considered environmentally friendly. MDF lends itself to manipulation with processing, so it can be given various shapes, imitate carving. This material is durable, lasts a long time, while it has a low price.
• Fiberboard - fibreboard. It is made from wood dust using a wet pressing method. Most often, fiberboard is found in drawers of beds, since it is not suitable for creating frames. Due to the pressing method, the material cannot be thick. One side of the slab is rough, and the other is covered with foil or laminate.

There are certain size standards that are most optimal and comfortable. In total, they are divided into four categories, and differ from each other in width and length:

• single beds... Quite narrow models up to 100 cm wide. Sizes 90x190 and 100x190 cm are considered optimal for a person with average height and weight. This width is enough to feel comfortable at night, and such furniture saves space. There are also longer options, for example, 80x200, 90x200 cm;
• one and a half sleeping... Beds with a width of 120 cm-140 cm. Models 120x200 and 120x190 cm are considered acceptable for one person, but 160x190 cm is suitable even for two;
• double... The width of such beds starts from 160 cm to 200 cm. The best option is 180x200 cm, because two can easily fit on this one and feel comfortable at once;
• royal... More than 200 cm wide. This model is acceptable only in a large apartment and bedroom, otherwise it will take up all the free space.

The size criteria also take into account the height of the bed. In many ways, when choosing, one should take into account the physiological characteristics of the owner.Tall people will simply be uncomfortable sitting down and getting up from a very low model. There are three options in total:

• low - from 20 to 30 cm;
• medium - up to 60 cm;
• high - 70-90 cm.

Usually, dimensions are measured in centimeters, less often in millimeters and inches. The values ​​of width and length can also change in places. However, a bed of 90x200 cm and 2000x900 mm is essentially the same thing, so you just need to carefully study the size ruler in a particular catalog in order to better navigate when choosing.

The most beautiful and luxurious beds are made in style "classic"... This direction implies a demonstration of high status, even some arrogance. That is why the sleeping place in such an interior is solid, massive, often decorated with columns, a canopy, spectacular carvings on legs and a headboard. You can also find models with inlaid and rhinestones. You can find many models with soft upholstery made from expensive materials such as velvet.

Furniture in styles such as "Eco" and "country"on the contrary, it is simple. It should evoke associations with village life, unity with nature, unpretentious comfort. There is as much natural as possible in the design of the bed, and this applies to everything: material, colors and design.

In the “eco” direction, metal, chipboard, plastic are not used at all. “Country” has more directions, on which the national characteristics of certain countries leave their mark. For example, in a simple way, sophisticated "Provence" welcomes curved metal headboards. The English style is less romantic and more down-to-earth. In the design of the beds, there are details with forging or massive elements made of natural noble wood.

Modern trends are stylish, minimalistic and most often they lack many decorative techniques, for example, carved and forged jewelry. Minimalism laconic, but at the same time comfortable, even if we are talking about a bed without a back. Style "high tech" as urbanized as possible, technical and original. The furniture has strict geometric shapes, and the materials themselves act as decor, and not any processing. This direction welcomes plastic, metal, glass.

Style "loft" begins to enjoy popularity, despite the fact that it is both laconic and unusual at the same time. It is related to the industrial direction, but more bohemian. Within the boundaries of this style, you can find both minimalistic wooden beds and massive steel beds.

One and the same model may suit one person, and be absolutely contraindicated for another:

• First of all, when buying, you should find out exactly what size of furniture you need. Moreover, one should take into account both the dimensions of the room where the bed will stand, and the physical characteristics of the person. To calculate the correct length, you need to add 15-20 cm to the height of the future owner. You can check if the width is suitable in a simple way: lie on the bed, put your hands behind your head and see if your elbows reach the side panels. If they touch, then you should choose a bed with a larger width. The height of the bed is suitable if the mattress on the base of the bed reaches the level of the person's knees. In some cases, you can choose higher models, especially if there are health problems.
• It is important that the bed is not only suitable for physical characteristics, but also of high quality in itself. In order to check the purchase for this criterion, you should carefully examine all the elements. The main surface, regardless of material and processing method, must be flat. It happens that the painted material bubbles, upholstered with fabric - bristles, there are cracks in the wood, and chips on the metal. All these defects should not be, as they reduce the life of the bed.
• At the joints of the parts, there should be no visible glue smudges. All legs must be the same length and stand equally on the floor.The decor on the headboard and footboard can be asymmetrical, even if, according to the designer's intention, it should. Drawers must be tightly closed and not jammed. It is important how firmly the fasteners hold, whether they dangle.

• Elite beds are distinguished by their special refinement, the highest class, quality and the corresponding price.... For them, most often the most expensive tree species are chosen, for example, oak, beech, cherry, and upholstery materials - silk, eco-leather. Often, luxury furniture is made to order, while working only with environmentally friendly materials. Despite all this, you should also be careful about buying an elite bed, check every detail and the condition of the item as a whole.
• Economy-class beds are made from cheap materials - solid pine and spruce, wood-based panels, making furniture more affordable. Despite the low cost, furniture should still be of high quality. In case of uncertainty in the seller and the store, it is better to avoid buying a bed from chipboard, since if improperly produced, this material can emit harmful fumes.
• When buying a bed, consider the interior of the bedroom and its size. In a large room, you can turn around and pamper yourself with even a king-size model, but in a small one, you can limit yourself to a single one. If you need to save space, you should take a closer look at transforming beds. Modern models can be assembled and disguised as a wall, wardrobe, without interfering with using the room during the day.

Regardless of the size of the room and the style of the interior, there are several recommendations for the placement of the bed. First of all, they are associated with the features of the layout and general comfort:

• The bed should not be placed next to the doorway. or against the wall in which he is. This is due primarily to psychology and anxiety from the situation when someone enters the room. At the same time, it is worth avoiding the location behind the door, because then the incoming person will not be visible immediately.
• Should not stir the resting place next to the windowsto avoid overheating from the heating system or colds from walking drafts. To avoid irritation from extraneous noise, the bed should not be placed against the wall behind which there is a kitchen, a bathroom, a bathroom. In the case of thin walls and noisy neighbors, you should also place it further from the adjacent wall.
• Special attention should be paid to what is above the bed. Sloped ceiling or beamed ceilings, massive chandelier, drawers and shelves will be alarming. Excessive discomfort appears when you see your own reflection in the mirror from the bed. It is not necessary to place a sleeping place next to sockets, electronic devices. The foot should not rest against the wall, since then an uncomfortable limitation of the viewing angle of the room is created.
• The approach to the bed in the room must be at least 60 cm... If we are talking about two tenants in the bedroom, then each of them must have free access to each side. If the bed is for one, then it can be placed along the wall.

• In a small bedroom, the bed should be placed across, to visually increase the space, and to do this is closer to the window. It happens that the width of the room does not exceed 2.5 m, that is, it is narrow, elongated. In this case, there is no other way out but to put the bed along the wall so that one approach to it is open. If the heating system is regulated in the apartment, and the windows are tight and do not allow drafts, you can put the bed with your headboard to the window.
• In one-room apartments and studio apartments, the room serves as a bedroom and living room at the same time. To create a more comfortable atmosphere, the room can be zoned. Enclose the bed with a screen or curtain, plasterboard wall, non-massive bookshelf. Moreover, if the room is small, then only the bed should be left in the bedroom area, and the workplace should be arranged in the living room.
• Not all designers share the concept of visible space zoning. Many people advise to give up real partitions, and instead use different shades and textures for finishing.
• By placing a bed on the balcony, you can organize both an additional guest bedroom and a place to relax. To begin with, it is necessary to put the room in order and make it suitable for sleeping - to insulate the floor and walls, put a high-quality double-glazed window, and also close the windows with curtains or blinds.
• Since balconies are often small in width, it can be difficult to find a bed there. Most often, it is easier to make custom-made furniture according to specific measurements. Suitable models include a podium with a mattress, a convertible wardrobe bed, folding from the wall. They significantly save space, and allow you to use it for other purposes. The podium can be hollowed out to store bedding.

The Chinese furniture market is focused primarily on the Western consumer, so the products are created according to the sketches of European designers:

• Among the famous factories and salons are Kinwai, Four Seasons Furniture, Songdream, The BHS.
• There are many reviews about a reasonable price Chinese furniture, the owners note its high quality. However, some have come across beds made of low-quality material with defects.

• Many people are looking for and ordering furniture from Malaysia primarily because of the material. For the production of beds, craftsmen often take a givea tree, that is, a rubber one. This breed is compared to oak due to its high wear resistance and hardness. Outwardly, the givea has an even and natural gradient color. The prices of Malaysian beds vary - from 8 to 80 thousand rubles. Among the reviews, compliments are often found for the beautiful look of furniture and at the same time not very high prices. Negative emotions are associated only with the discrepancy between the colors of the real model and the photo in the online catalog.

• Furniture of Japanese manufacturers rather laconic and minimalistic, at the same time elegant. Low beds, which are reminiscent of national tatami and futons, are a popular model. In addition, the cost of such beds is not very high. Among the well-known Japanese manufacturers selling furniture in Russia, there is a factory Matsuoka.

• Especially popular are European furniture manufacturers. Italy is renowned for its high-end products, crafted from designer sketches and high quality materials. Among famous brands - Bolzan Letti, MD House, Vaccari International. French factories for the production of beds prefer natural materials, practical and versatile forms, in design they do not gravitate towards contrasts. Manufacturers include Ambiance Cozy, Collection Pierre, Grange.

• American manufacturers make beds that combine classic and modern. They create furniture that does not lose its relevance over the years. Known firms such as Ashley, Drexel Heritage, Bernhardt, Vanguard Furniture... Buyers love the originality of the design and shape of the beds, as well as the reasonable price.

• Among the factories closer to Russia, it is worth highlighting the Belarusian ones. The products of this country cause a lot of admiring reviews. Customers are satisfied with the look, great variety, and excellent quality. Among famous manufacturers - Zarya, Forest Deco Group, Gomeldrev, Pinskdrev, Bobruiskmebel.

For information on how to choose the right bed, see the next video.