Types of beds: how to navigate among a wide range

Types of beds

Classification by number of beds

• Single bed. Designed for one person. The running dimensions are considered to be a width of 80-120 cm and a length of 190-210 cm. The base of such a bed most often consists of 15 wooden slats.
• Double (double) bed. Suitable for overnight sleep and comfortable rest for two people. More often the width is 160-230 cm, and the length is 200-220 cm. The design itself consists of 30 lamellas.
• One-and-a-half bed. This type of furniture is suitable for one person. A little more than a single room. The width ranges from 120 cm to 160 cm, the length reaches 190-220 cm.

What types of bed designs are there?

• The load-bearing support is the back of the headboard and the wall near the legs, and the frame with the sleeping place is superimposed on them.
• The main load is taken by the bed frame with a berth, and the backrests are then hung on it.
• The base with legs acts as a support, but the backs and side walls are not connected to it in any way.

Classification by functionality

• Beds with drawers for storing linen, which give the bed additional functionality. Drawers come in both add-on and pull-out types.
• Bedroom furniture without storage space.
• Design with an internal storage box and a lifting mechanism (this model is considered not very convenient, since it becomes necessary to constantly lift the bed with the mattress).

What types of headboards are there for beds?

• Connected to the bed, separate (in the form of unique cabinets), screwed to the wall (in the form of a frame).
• High or low.
• Solid or with small gaps.
• Hard or soft.
• Rectangular, semicircular, square or unusual shape.
• Laconic or with decorative elements.

What materials are beds made from?

• Wooden. They are considered durable, reliable, environmentally friendly and safe.
• Metal (forged and welded). Such furniture looks extravagant, sophisticated and elegant. But not everyone will like a cold metal headboard.
• Leather. This sleeping place does not collect dust and wool and is easy to clean.
• Constructions made of MDF, chipboard and high-quality plastic. These varieties are characterized by budget.

The material of construction does not greatly affect the quality of sleep, but it is important that it be durable. Experts recommend giving preference to metal and wood, since such materials have a long service life.

What style are the beds in?

• Rectangular. A classic sleeping option.
• Round and oval. They are considered non-standard beds. They are distinguished by their large size and the ability to fit into the created interior.
• Built-in (transformable bed). A functional solution for small spaces, they can be converted into a chest of drawers or a bookcase.
• Podium bed. The structure consists of a flat wooden base. Suitable only for a spacious bedroom, since such a structure takes up twice as much space.
• Bunk (one bed rises above the other). Such models are intended for a children's room, as they save free space.

Classification by bed base

• The structure is made of natural wooden planks (lamellas), which have a certain rigidity, but at the same time retain plasticity. This foundation has good orthopedic properties. The more lamellas in the base, the longer the service life of the product. And the smaller the distance between them, the greater the load such a structure can withstand.
• Armor mesh made of metal. The mattress is placed on top of such a mesh. This design will last for a long time, as the metal mesh is durable. But due to reduced rigidity, such a base sags under the weight of a sleeping person.
• Construction made of sheet material (chipboard, plywood, MDF). The cost of such a bed is lower than the other two options. But resistance to strong pressure and weight is also reduced.
• Slatted base (has bent and metal slats). Improves the characteristics of the sleeping place.

Bed material

When deciding which bed to choose, users are also faced with the need to study the material used to make the furniture. The durability of the product directly depends on this.

Solid wood

One of the most durable options. Wood can be used for a long time and without problems, subjected to loads, it is safe and environmentally friendly. Pay attention to frames, the basis of which is beech, oak, ash. In a more affordable price category you can also find decent options.

Metal

Record resistant, long lasting, usually used for forged and welded products. Forged ones look elegant and, with proper interior arrangement, ideally complement the design of the room.

Chipboard or laminated chipboard

Inexpensive options with a relatively short service life. It is worth noting that durability largely depends on operating conditions. Chipboard can be laminated, repeating the pattern of any type of wood / stone. Such products can be painted or veneered, upholstered in fabric or eco-leather - that is, you can make a model that looks as attractive as possible.

MDF

Also an inexpensive option, inferior in characteristics to metal and wood. However, you need to understand that with careful handling, their use will not be short. Plus, such models are not harmful to health and look beautiful in appearance. It is precisely because of the optimal combination of price and quality that MDF beds are quite popular.

Combination of wood and metal

This option combines the best qualities of both materials, due to which the performance, strength and external characteristics remain consistently high.

Interesting! One of the popular options for making a bed is a base made of wooden pallets. By the way, they are also used to make sofas, chairs and even tables. Several large pallets can be an excellent base for a low bed. But you need to understand that such a solution will not fit into every interior and is more appropriate for young people.

Since we are talking about the material used to make the bed, it is worth taking note of the design of the bed frame. It can consist of two supporting backrests and two side drawers or 4 drawers and 1-2 hanging backrests with supports on legs or wheels.

Despite the fact that the support backrests show slightly better operating results, both frame designs will last a long time if they are manufactured well.

Bed configuration

The bed frame consists of:

• backrests (headboard and footboard);
• drawers (side panels designed to accommodate linen drawers);
• supports (two or four legs or a solid podium).

The sleeping place can be equipped with ottomans, bedside tables, built-in cabinets and bedside tables.

Additional options:

• box for storing bed linen;
• a lifting mechanism that provides additional space for personal belongings;
• backlight function (lamp built into the back or side);
• orthopedic base;
• protective side (barrier), it can be built-in or removable, more often found in cribs;
• canopy;
• mirror inserts.

Another part of the package is the mattress:

• Based on foam rubber or its substitute. Using innovative technologies, an orthopedic mattress with sufficient rigidity is created from such soft material. However, its service life is short-lived.
• Cotton mattress. An affordable option, but it is not recommended to use it for a long time. Vata has the ability to roll into tubercles, which impair the quality of sleep and negatively affect posture.
• Spring mattress. It is considered a suitable option for those with back problems. There are several types of spring blocks and coating options (width of intermediate layers); the service life of such mattresses varies.

The mattress filling can also be anything: coconut coir, latex foam, wool or natural felt, purified buckwheat.

Storage system

The bed occupies a fairly large area, and under it there is a space comparable in volume to a large closet. It would be foolish not to use it to store bedding and other things.

In some designs, drawers are installed at the bottom, but in order to open them, there must be enough free space on the sides. In a small home this is impossible.

Therefore, another method was invented: furniture with a lifting mechanism. The mechanism may be different.

1. Manual - does not involve the use of any shock absorbers, and all lifting efforts fall on the person. This method is only suitable for strong men, but it will be difficult for women and older people to cope.
2. Spring - to facilitate lifting, metal twisted springs are installed. The service life is 20 thousand lifting and lowering, after which the springs will have to be replaced.
3. Gas lift is the most expensive, but also the most convenient type. The lifting is carried out thanks to a special cylinder containing gas under high pressure. The greater the pressure, the heavier the base the mechanism can lift. The movement occurs smoothly and does not require any effort. And the durability of such a part is higher - at least 70 thousand cycles.

Peculiarities

The pros and cons of beds are considered depending on the type of their design and other details.

Lifting mechanism for beds:

• there is no need to exert effort to pull out the drawers;
• there is a significant saving of space in the room;
• air circulation becomes difficult and ventilation of the mattress decreases.

Sleeping place with solid base:

• dust and dirt do not accumulate under such furniture;
• the service life of the mattress itself is extended, it does not deform and retains its original appearance for a long time;
• It is almost impossible to break through the solid base; in the future you will not have to change the bars of the grill.

Beds with slats base:

• the lattice helps to press dents into the mattress, which negatively affects its condition;
• the slats break and require replacement.

Beds made of natural wood:

• Due to the fact that the elements are made from different types of wood, everyone can choose a decorative design that suits their own budget.
• The advantages of wooden finishing include environmental friendliness and naturalness of the material used.
• The disadvantages are the capriciousness of the tree itself and the high cost of some species.
• Another disadvantage is the susceptibility of wood to changes in temperature and humidity, so placing such a bed in rooms for seasonal use is not recommended.

Based on the shape of the bed, it has become fashionable to purchase round beds. Theoretically, they are considered double, but in reality it is uncomfortable for two people to lie on them, since there is little free space left. Such furniture is only suitable for a room with enough space.

Additionally, you will have to order a special non-standard mattress, the same bed linen, blanket or bedspread, which can cost a significant amount. But the advantages include the absence of corners, which reduces the risk of injury at home.

Low furniture is not suitable for walk-through rooms. There is a constant draft at the base of the floor in such rooms, which is also felt during sleep. A product that is too tall will clutter up the space. This bed is not suitable for small and narrow rooms.

Choosing a bed size

The size range of beds is wide, and the choice depends on the number of guests, body type and height. The dimensions of a particular type themselves depend on the standard, which can be domestic, European, American, Asian.

Single

Suitable for vacationers of any gender/age. Of course, such a bed can accommodate one person, but it will be cramped for two. The dimensions of single-bedroom furniture, depending on the standard, are 186-200 cm in length and 70-100 cm in width.

One and a half

For people of average and slightly larger build, but for two large people it will be too small if we are talking about domestic ones according to different standards - 190-200 cm in length and 120-160 cm in width.

Double

Standard type of bed for two guests. Often, due to comfort, such products are purchased for one person. Dimensions according to different standards - 185-200 cm in length and 110-180 cm in width.

Family

According to different classifications, this includes both three-bed and king-size beds. The essence is the same - such products are as spacious as possible and can accommodate both two and three people of average build. Product sizes according to different standards are 198-200 in length and 150-200 cm in width.

However, when choosing a bed size, consider not only the number of guests, but also the following nuances:

• The length of the furniture should be 10-15 cm longer than the height of the tallest user.
• The width should allow you to put your hands behind your head without disturbing the second user. If the bed is single, then the arms should not extend beyond the edges of the bed in the same position.
• The opening from the bed to the wall, bedside table for the TV and other closest objects should not be less than 70 cm. This will allow you to move around without obstacles and even install a bedside table, for example.
• An important criterion is the height of the bed. And this parameter is extremely individual. It is worth choosing furniture so that the height allows you to get up/lie down without discomfort. This is especially important for older people: the edge of the mattress in an ideal situation should be at the level of the user’s knees.

The classic shape of the bed is a rectangle, which can then be diluted with interesting decor in the form of blankets and pillows. However, there are more interesting options in shape: oval, arc, circle. Many advise against such unusual performances for the benefit of sleep comfort. We believe that everything depends on related factors, age, design of the room and, most importantly, its size. With proper calculation, any shape can be arranged as comfortably as possible, but perhaps with more significant financial costs than in the case of rectangular models.

How to choose a bed

The first thing you pay attention to when choosing a bed is the stylistic decision. Having decided on it, you can proceed to the following characteristics:

1. Choosing the right size (length). To calculate it, you need to add 15-20 centimeters to the height of the person who is going to sleep on this bed.
2. A comfortable width is considered to be the width at which a person, lying with his hands under his head, will not be able to touch the side edges of the bed with his elbows.
3. As for the height of the sleeping place, the ideal option would be when the top level of the mattress is in contact with the knees of a person in a standing position. But for older people, a high bed would be an acceptable option.
4. You should choose a design with a lifting mechanism when it comes to a lack of free space for storing personal belongings.
5. If in the future such furniture will be often moved around the room, then it is better to choose a design made of slats and grilles.

Determining criteria:

• comfort and degree of rigidity of the support;
• width that will not hinder movement;
• full set;
• dimensions;
• the quality of the material from which the bed is made.

As for the last criterion, we can go into more detail here. So, if the choice falls on a bed made of metal, you need to make sure that it is coated with an anti-corrosion alloy. It is important that it can be washed, and at the same time it does not succumb to rust in the future. If you opt for a wooden bed, then it is better to give preference to solid wood.

Before purchasing, check how stable the bed is on the surface. The joints and connection lines of the parts are inspected. There should be no visible leaks from the glue anywhere. All screws must be installed evenly and firmly.

Bed base (grid)

It's hard to imagine a bed without a bottom. This necessary element serves as a reliable support for the mattress.

Lattice

- This is a frame made of wood or metal. It happens that the frame comes separately from the frame; in such cases, its size should be selected correctly so that it fits snugly to the frame. For a standard size bed, the lattice is also selected as standard. For a double bed, you can choose one frame or two with different degrees of rigidity.

Which is better

Experts do not recommend choosing cheap beds made from chipboard or similar materials. At the time of their production, adhesive mixtures are used, which subsequently release harmful volatile substances into the air. And if you constantly inhale such components, it can be harmful to your health.

Before purchasing furniture where “gluing” is used, you need to familiarize yourself with the brand of the fastening agent used and make sure that it is harmless and safe.
To do this, you can ask the seller or manufacturer to provide certificates confirming the points described above. The transforming bed has the most advantages:

• Saving space and the ability to place it even in a small room.
• Incomparable functionality, due to which, in addition to the bed, the buyer purchases a wardrobe, sofa or table.
• Ease of use despite the massive design. It is easy to control such a system due to pneumatic springs and a special lever.
• The ability to match any interior, since such a bed is always hidden and does not introduce dissonance with its presence.

What should the bed upholstery be like?

Should it exist at all? Many people prefer simple, no-frills beds - they are easier to care for and do not require special cleaning products or care. However, soft and pleasant to the touch upholstery makes the home more comfortable and the atmosphere more homely.

Most often, manufacturers use:

• 
  Natural leather. The finishing is exclusive; such beds are very expensive. But it’s unlikely that you’ll encounter something like this among friends or neighbors. Decorated with Chesterfield, Capitonne ties or left smooth.

• Eco-leather (artificial leather). Allows you to furnish your bedroom inexpensively and stylishly. The touch is practically no different from the natural one. It can be painted in any color and additionally decorated with a carriage screed and other decor.
• Textile. Be sure to be durable, wear-resistant, pleasant to the body. Often with special protective impregnation. The fabric surface has one important drawback - it is afraid of moisture and takes a long time to dry, given that there is often a layer of foam rubber underneath it.
• Velours. The noble velor velvety looks especially elegant and cozy. It wears out faster, but pleases the eye with the depth of color and the palm with a pleasant texture.

Assembly and operation

• Before bringing the bed into the room, it is necessary to clear the passages and prepare a place for assembly (area 6 sq.m.).
• For self-assembly, the warranty only applies to the parts of the product itself.
• The bed is assembled in rooms where there are no ceiling beams and the ceiling height is at least 2.5 meters.
• During transportation, do not move the bed holding the slats.
• If the headboard or side walls are decorated with mirrors, then they are glued using special double-sided tape (three strips per length of the mirror product).
• The maximum load on the sleeping place should be no more than 150 kg (taking into account the weight of the mattress).
• Remove dust from the surface of the bed using a soft, dry cloth or polishing wipes, using specially designed compounds.

Types of bases

The following describes how beds are distinguished according to the type of mattress base.

• The box with a solid bottom holds the mattress well. For its production, solid wood, wood boards, plywood and fiberboard are used. Such a product is rigid, durable, does not interfere with the disclosure of the orthopedic properties of the filler, but increases the overall weight of the bed. During operation, it is recommended to periodically turn the mattress over for ventilation.
• The lattice design allows air to circulate freely. Beech or birch slats are attached to the frame, which demonstrate flexibility and elasticity. The armor is fixed using elements made of plastic, rubber, and polypropylene. However, if the width of the lamellas and the distance between them do not correspond to the type of mattress, the latter will quickly deform and lose its performance.
• Metal mesh is highly durable, but loses its elasticity over time. Its sagging disrupts the correct position of the body during night rest and can cause changes in posture

Precautionary measures

1. Try not to spill liquid on the wooden elements of such a product.
2. Connections that are secured with screws, screws and ties should be checked periodically and tightened if necessary.
3. It is not recommended to install the sleeping place near heat sources such as radiators and stoves, as well as directly to damp walls.
4. Jumping on such furniture, including children, is not allowed.
5. To make the base last longer, do not place heavy things on its edge.

Bed with hard base

The model can withstand heavy loads. A bed with a hard base is suitable for people with significant weight. The base itself is a structure made of laminated chipboard or plywood. The hard bed can withstand weight up to 200 kilograms per bed.

The number of support legs for models with a rigid base can vary from 4 to 9. This number of supports is designed for the expected impressive weight. Choose a suitable mattress for this model. It must “dampen” the rigidity of the base, maintain a healthy body position, and withstand heavy weight if necessary.

Beds with a hard base

More details

Common Defects

The following nuances indicate defects::

1. If the product looks neat on the outside, but the hidden elements are assembled roughly, this indicates a low quality bed or clandestine production.
2. When purchasing wood furniture, you need to inspect its appearance. Surface heterogeneity and cracks indicate a decrease in the strength of the material itself.
3. There are glue smudges at the joints. However, during a cursory external examination of the product, such defects may not be noticed, so these places are checked in more detail.
4. The upholstery (head of the bed) is covered with scratches and wrinkles.
5. There are loose connections between elements, especially if the base is equipped with additional drawers.
6. The legs are of different lengths or have chips on them.
7. A headboard made with decorative elements may have differences on the right and left sides.
8. The surface covered with paint bubbles and has sagging.

In order not to buy a defective product, before purchasing it is necessary to check all parts and components for defects.

Custom bed

Standard salon offers may not suit you. You may be offered custom-made beds. The contractor will take into account all your requirements and desires. You can choose your headboard design. For example, a soft curved headboard. Or an option with a carriage screed. The choice of height, frame, base, footboard, textiles - everything is in your hands.

A custom-made bed will definitely be an individual product. The model will cost more than the standard one. In fact, you will pay additionally for the piece production service. But such a bed is worth spending money on. It will completely satisfy your need for relaxation and beauty!

Custom beds made to measure!
More details

Bed manufacturers

• Askona offers a wide selection of mattresses and beds. They are manufactured in Russia together with European countries. Materials: moisture-resistant plywood, eco-leather, chipboard and polyurethane foam. The beds can withstand heavy loads. The pluses include decent upholstery and a quality mattress.
• Dream Line produces beds only from natural solid ash and beech. The base consists of orthopedic lamellas, which only enhance the beneficial properties of the mattresses.
• Fratelli Barri are Italian beds. Each product looks like a work of art and brings a touch of sophistication to the interior. But the cost is also more noticeable.
• A budget option is a bed from the manufacturer Horizont . The base is orthopedic, and it is made from natural materials.
• Lonax company first specialized in mattresses, but recently the factory began producing high-quality beds for healthy sleep. The frame is made of laminated chipboard and birch plywood. Eco-leather is used for the upholstery material. All fittings are Italian.
• Mozhga is safe and completely natural. The company is more focused on the production of cribs. They are made from solid birch. Finishing is carried out using water-based dyes. Only safe polyurethane enamels and varnishes are used in our work. The base parts and drawers are made of natural wood, which is lined with decorative paper and HDF.
• Olimp factory has many years of experience in the manufacture of furniture, including beds, which are made from natural wood. They are truly distinguished by their reliability and practicality, as well as their long service life.
• Beds from Promtex-Orient are unchanging classics and 100% functionality. Straight lines and compactness of the base itself do not load the space of the room and are combined with the rest of the interior.
• Roll Matratze will satisfy the buyer's request regarding the choice of a massage bed and will provide a line of orthopedic mattresses. The base is collapsible and consists of narrow, overhead slats made of birch. Some models are equipped with grilles that allow you to adjust the hardness of individual zones.
• You can find a transformable crib from the manufacturer SKV . This company has been producing this kind of furniture for 10 years. The cribs are presented in a variety of colors, and the cost range allows each buyer to choose an option that suits them. All products are made from environmentally friendly materials.
• SMK are standard beds at an affordable price. The frames are made of wood, which ensures their durability. The stable metal legs are equipped with plastic tips that protect the floor surface from dents and scratches.
• Manufacturer Triya . All models are made in a laconic style, which simplifies their arrangement with other furniture in the room. At the same time, the sleeping place will not burden the space, and the presence of drawers will provide additional functionality.
• Vasko , a furniture factory with 20 years of experience, presents comfortable and compact beds with a lifting mechanism and linen drawers. The material of the frame and headboard is laminated chipboard, which is painted to match the color of natural wood.

The presented manufacturers are only a small part of the factories and companies that produce high-quality beds from different materials.
Therefore, the buyer should first decide on his own requirements for such furniture, and then make a choice in favor of one brand or another. Advertising from sponsors: // // //

Materials depending on price category

Different materials are used to make beds. Each of them has its own advantages and disadvantages. Products differ in cost, service life, and appearance.

Interior beds made of solid wood surprise with their variety of designs. They look expensive and solid. Such products are durable, environmentally friendly, and characterized by high strength. Noble types of wood are used in production, such as oak, birch, beech, and mahogany. Each breed has its own unique pattern, shade and aroma. A bed made of solid wood will not creak or become loose even under high loads. Carving, decoupage, rhinestones, and artificial aging are often used for decoration. Such beds are considered elite and are expensive. Among wooden furniture, designer furniture is most often found.

For lovers of natural materials who want to save money, beds are made from pine. It is softer than noble types of wood, but also looks rich and elegant. But it is worth remembering that an impact can cause unevenness on such a bed, so it should be handled with care. With careful use, pine furniture will last a long time. Due to their affordable price, such beds are in high demand.

Wood panels are used in the production of economy class furniture. They successfully replace the array, although they differ in a number of disadvantages.

1. Chipboard is natural wood shavings pressed with glue. Furniture made of this material, when exposed to heat or moisture, begins to release harmful substances into the atmosphere, which is unsafe for health. But products made from this raw material are distinguished by a wide variety, they are easy to care for, and are equal in strength to pine.
2. Laminated chipboard is a wood board covered with veneer, plastic or laminated film. The surface repeats the pattern of natural wood. The material is highly durable and is not susceptible to chips and scratches. The structure of the slab does not allow the manufacture of products with decoration. Usually these are smooth shapes and angles, without curves or patterns.
3. MDF is a material made from pressed small wood. The surface allows you to apply a pattern, imitate carvings and make rounded corners. Products made from MDF have good moisture resistance, can easily withstand high temperatures, and are not susceptible to the formation of mold and mildew.

Metal beds deserve special attention. Modern models have come a long way from their bulky ancestors with armored pressed mesh. Today these are stylish, comfortable products that have advantages even over beds made of natural wood. The metal has high strength and reliability. The beds are made from hollow tubes, so they are light in weight and the furniture is easy to transport. Such models are distinguished by a rich choice of finishes - forging, carving, various decorative elements. A metal bed always looks thin and elegant, and the middle price segment ensures high consumer demand for it.

Popular models of soft beds, design options for headboards

Solid wood

laminated chipboard

MDF

Metal

What types of beds are there?

There is a difference between the beds in shape. Single and one-and-a-half beds often have a quadrangular shape. Two-seaters are more like a square. You can also find oval and round sleeping places. The first ones are closer to the usual form, but the second ones are completely original.

The round sleeping area is 2 m in diameter, which is equivalent to a double size. This form is suitable exclusively for those who sleep alone. It will be uncomfortable here for both of us.

Dimensions and number of places to sleep

Surely everyone knows how beds are distinguished by size. Based on the number of places they are divided into:

• single (80-100 cm);
• one and a half (140-150 cm);
• two-seater (160-200 cm).

It is also necessary to remember about the length of the sleeping area. It must be selected according to the person’s height. 20-30 cm is added to it. Take a close look at the height of the bed.

You should not choose low beds for older people, as getting out of them will be quite difficult.

Headboard and footboard

Beds may or may not have a headboard. In order for the pillow not to slide off at night, some kind of limiter is needed, so it is best to lean towards another option. Today you can find the following headboards:

• short and tall;
• solid and with gaps;
• hard and soft;
• regular and with decorations;
• square and rectangular;
• semicircular and complex in shape.

Among the variety of beds, it is necessary to distinguish 3 types of headboards:

• stationary type - they go together with the bed;
• hanging – mounted on the wall surface above the mattress;
• “attached” - bedside tables, cabinets that are moved towards the sleeping bed and serve as a headboard.

Attached headboards are made in the form of storage spaces, which are complemented by bedside tables that stand next to the bed, built-in lamps, etc.

The footboard is the second headboard of the bed. Whether it is necessary or not is up to you to decide. Many of the newest models already come without a footboard, which is very convenient. A sleeping person can turn around without any problems, slide off the pillow, and also stretch his legs and nothing will bother him.