Types of metal bunk bed designs, scope of application

Contrary to popular belief, bunk beds are not only suitable for children's rooms; they are an excellent solution in any situation when it comes to saving useful space. This option is optimal for large families, installation in dachas, dormitories, hostels, rest areas for seasonal workers or soldiers. And although wooden furniture will always be out of competition, a metal bunk bed is also quite popular and boasts a considerable number of advantages. The metal structure is very strong and stable, it can withstand heavy loads without deforming, and is characterized by a long service life. The features of such furniture, the rules for choosing and caring for it will be discussed in the article.

Advantages and disadvantages

A metal bunk bed is a functional option that is perfect for residential premises, hotels, country and country houses. The main feature of the product is the location of the sleeping places: they are located on top of each other. This is what makes the design more compact and allows it to be conveniently placed in small rooms.

A two-level metal bed is characterized by a number of positive properties:

1. Compactness - the second sleeping place is located at the top, and not on the side, so the furniture takes up a minimum of space, which allows it to be installed in small rooms.
2. Functionality - the design is equipped with additional elements: drawers for linen, a table, a chest of drawers.
3. Originality - to order, from one frame you can make a bunk bed of the desired design and with any dimensions, even non-standard ones.
4. Comfort – the product is manufactured in strict compliance with all standards for bedroom furniture; resting on such a bed is no less comfortable than on the usual “single-story” beds.
5. Reasonable cost - purchasing this model will cost less than two single-seat options; there are even budget offers that can fit quite organically into modern design and last a considerable time.

However, do not forget that metal products have certain disadvantages:

1. Processing this raw material is a technically complex procedure, so beds are produced in limited quantities, their range is much more modest, especially compared to their wooden counterparts.
2. The material has good thermal conductivity, so in summer the furniture will get very hot.
3. The metal is susceptible to corrosion; for protection, a special polymer coating must be applied to the surface, which should not be subjected to mechanical stress, otherwise its functionality will be impaired.
4. There is a fairly high level of injury risk; impacts on a metal surface (which is not uncommon for little fidgets) will result in bruises, at a minimum.

Important positive properties of a metal structure are a high level of fire safety and hygiene; microbes do not multiply on such a surface.

Dimensions of bunk beds

It should be remembered that a bed is, first of all, a place of rest that should be as comfortable as possible. Therefore, when choosing any bed, it is necessary that the size of its sleeping place fully corresponds to the person who will sleep on it.

Due to the weight, the structure acquires additional stability, adding safety.

Modern manufacturers offer a large selection of beds by size. The following groups can be distinguished:

• each tier is a single bed, width can be from 70 to 90 cm, length up to 2 meters, height up to 1.8 meters;
• one of the tiers is one and a half or double, width varies from 1.4 to 1.6 meters, length up to 2 meters, height up to 1.8 meters;
• The size of children's beds greatly depends on the age of the child, with the height usually being no more than 1.7 meters.

Reusable assembly - unlike wooden structures, connections allow assembly many times without the risk of damage.

Varieties

Manufacturers offer a wide range of bunk beds with metal frames. They differ in design, shape, and design. There are models with additional furniture elements, functional products with a sofa underneath, options for adults and children.

Children's

A metal bunk bed for children is usually chosen for a room with a small area. Among the most popular options for children:

• classic designs with two berths and a high level of safety;
• attic - a two-story model for one child, the bed itself for sleeping is usually located at the top, and below there is a wardrobe and an area for toys;
• bunk bed with drawers and cabinets - looks original, is functional, and provides additional convenience.

Such children's bedroom furniture is a standard compact and practical bed, characterized by durability, mobility, and aesthetic design. Each model is necessarily equipped with protective sides to prevent the child from falling during sleep, and a ladder for comfortable movement to the upper “floor”.

The design should be comfortable and safe. It is worth remembering that children love to play outdoor games, run, jump, so they may accidentally hit themselves. To protect them from injury, it is better to purchase products without sharp corners and with soft upholstery. Don’t forget about the aesthetic component - a bed painted in bright colors with interesting decorative elements is perfect for a child’s room.

Adults

Iron beds for adults with two tiers will also be an excellent solution for small apartments, especially when the children have grown up and the living space remains the same. They are also often installed in guest rooms, country and country houses, hotels, and student dormitories.

Main features of adult beds:

• provide large dimensions, the length can reach 2 m, for some models this parameter is adjusted independently by moving and extending the structure;
• the furniture is massive, strong, resistant to loosening, capable of supporting a weight of 150 kg and even more;
• There are options in which the lower berth can be transformed into a double one.

Users consider a metal bunk bed with a sofa located at the bottom to be unusual and comfortable. The advantage of this option is that, if necessary, this area can be turned into double furniture.

Adult beds vary in size, type of mesh and cross reinforcements. The more expensive the furniture, the more reinforced it is.

Transformers

A metal bunk bed with the ability to transform into other furniture has long gained wide popularity. Among the most popular models:

1. The option with a sofa below will significantly save space. Such furniture becomes a place to sit during the day, and at night it becomes a comfortable bed with two tiers.
2. In the form of a wardrobe - if necessary, the sleeping place is raised to the wall using a folding mechanism, forming a dummy wardrobe with shelves and mirrors. On the sides there are often drawers, shelves, and cabinets for storing things, clothes, and linen.
3. Folding - the design can become horizontally directed. The models use not a frame as a basis, but a body, on two levels of which sleeping places are installed. During the daytime, the structure folds up and forms a closet, and at night it is used as a wide metal bunk bed.
4. Pull-out - these options are usually used for children's rooms, they significantly save space; underneath the bed there are drawers in which you can store clothes, linen, and toys.

This or that bed model is selected to suit the individual needs of a person. Many are designed not only for recreation, offering much more advanced functionality.

Folding

With a sofa

With shelves and drawer

With wardrobe

Special purpose

There are also special-purpose metal beds on sale, which consist of two tiers. They have compact sizes, a simple design without decoration, unusual and elaborate shapes.

Options for special-purpose metal two-tier models include:

• beds for cabins;
• beds for workers;
• army beds.

They all differ in the following features:

• simple design without additional elements;
• high strength - special metal wire is used for production, which meets quality standards;
• compact dimensions;
• eliminating the possibility of surface damage by corrosion due to the polymer coating;
• comfortable sleeping place.

In addition, such beds are highly resistant to loosening and additional loads. They are equipped with plates that increase the strength of the products. The main focus when creating such furniture is on practicality, and not on beauty.

For workers

In the change house

Army

Scope of application

Most often, such beds are associated with a children's bedroom, but such furniture would be no less appropriate for young people's rooms or temporary premises.

1. In small apartments, bunk beds for children and adults are used to save space. There are even double options where each level can be occupied by a couple of adults. The only condition is that the ceiling must be high enough so that those sleeping above do not get injured.
2. This bed can be equipped in guest rooms. The metal frame will withstand any load, and the two-level layout will allow you to accommodate several people at the same time.
3. A metal bunk bed for work cabins is suitable for military barracks, tourist centers, and children's holiday camps. Military models, as a rule, are reinforced with additional jumpers under the berth, since they must withstand significant loads.
4. Metal bunk beds for dormitories save space in the room and allow the use of furniture by people of considerable weight. Such models do not require frequent repairs and can last a very long time.

Reinforced bunk metal beds are used not only in barracks. The strength of the structure is important in dormitories, hostels, change houses - anywhere where guests often change and special reliability of the sleeping place is required.

In apartments

For guests

For workers' cabins

For dormitories

Staircase options and ways to place them

For bunk beds, the following types of staircase locations are provided:

• vertical - represented by two guides, which are installed in the appropriate position, their connection to each other is carried out using special crossbars;
• marching - involves the use of inclined steps; compared to the previous type, its use is much safer, but next to the sleeping area you will need to allocate about 0.5 m2 of free space to install the stairs.

Particular attention should be paid to the placement of this important component of a bunk bed. It should not only be user-friendly, but also secure. For a structure to be stable, it must be made from the highest quality materials.

Marching staircase

Vertical ladder

The standard of Kazakhstan and Russia coincides with the European one

According to GOST 19917-2014, bunk beds must comply with the following standards [4]:

1. The second tier bed must have sides on all 4 sides.
2. The sides must be tightly screwed so that they can be removed only with a tool.
3. There may not be a fence at the feet if a stationary staircase is installed there along the entire width of the opening.
4. The distance between the edge of the fence and the base of the bed is at least 26 cm, and from the mattress to the edge of the fence is at least 16 cm.
5. There should be a maximum level mark on the guard for the height of the mattress.
6. The distance between steps is at least 20 cm, the length of the step is at least 30 cm.
7. There should not be a large gap between the base of the bed and the fence - a maximum of 2.5 cm.

Furniture that complies with GOST usually has a guarantee and certificates of conformity.

Criterias of choice

In order for the product to cope 100% with the task assigned to it, to look aesthetically pleasing, and to be safe for health, it is worth considering the mandatory important selection criteria:

• dimensions - width should be at least 70-90 cm, and length - from 190 to 205 cm;
• strength - the bed must be made of high quality metal (preferably aluminum);
• durability - there must be a coating on top that will protect the product from corrosion, in addition, it must be free of chips and scratches;
• stability - solid rather than collapsible structures are preferred;
• safety - it is necessary to have protective sides and a reliable, durable, stable staircase, ideally with flat steps;
• easy maintenance - it should be enough to wipe the metal case with a damp cloth to get rid of dust.

The advantage is the presence of additional elements. This is an orthopedic base, curtains, shelves, mattresses. They provide convenience and increase functionality.

How to choose a quality product

Modern beds are made with an orthopedic base: slats are placed on the frame frame along with mattresses, providing comfortable elasticity to the sleeping place. You can choose options with a metal grid or mesh as a base. But they are not very reliable, over time they can change their geometry and begin to creak.

What to consider when choosing bunk beds:

• aluminum pipes used for the frame weigh significantly less and are not susceptible to corrosion, unlike conventional coated metal;
• a non-separable model is more reliable than a collapsible one;
• high quality anti-corrosion coating: scratches, chips, abrasions are unacceptable;
• a bed for children should have a reliable fence and flat non-slip steps to the second tier.

Modifications of bunk beds for children, tips on selection and assembly

For a collapsible model, it is important to have reliable, convenient and comfortable fastening mechanisms. Their work must be checked before purchasing furniture. It is advisable to choose a bed that is already equipped with an orthopedic mattress.

If we are talking about creative design structures, you should make sure that the furniture is convenient to use, all built-in elements (cabinets, shelves, curtains) are comfortable for a particular user, and climbing to the second tier will not cause difficulties. It is necessary to check the operation of all retractable elements, the strength of the fences and stairs, the reliability and safety of fastenings.

The bed for children must have a reliable fence

High quality anti-corrosion coating

How to fit into the interior

A metal bunk bed should fit harmoniously into the overall style of the interior and fit perfectly with other elements of furniture. To ensure that the design does not stand out against the general background, it is worth considering a few important tips. So, in a bright room with minimal decoration, a simple bed in a neutral color would look appropriate. Bright designs are inappropriate here; they will become an “absurd spot” in a classic interior. Unusual options with a variety of shapes and patterns, and beautiful decorative elements are suitable for children's rooms . If they are supplemented with drawers, cabinets, which can be made in the form of animals, cars, palaces, this will only be a plus for the child. For a living room that is decorated in bright colors, you can use a bunk bed with colorful decor.

Metal bed models are an ideal solution for interiors designed in high-tech and minimalist styles.

Canadian research: what actually causes injuries

In Canada in 2000, they investigated the problem of bunk beds and found out what caused the majority of injuries [1]:

1. Children fall not from the bed itself, but from the stairs while climbing. This does not apply to teenagers, but to young children under 12 years old - they get injured in the game. Therefore, it is necessary to minimize slipping if the stairs are iron. Choose the most stable ladder with wide steps.
2. Children are injured by sides and fences that are attached to hooks. At some point, such a board may fall or the child may get his hand pinched. There are practically no models with such sides now. Manufacturers offer bed options where the sides are a solid built-in frame or, if the bunk bed is iron, in the form of handrails, a “lattice” made of a combination of chipboard and metal. In any case, the sides do not move at all.

It is worth turning on a small night light in the room at night so that the child does not have to get out of the crib in the dark. And it is important to explain to children that the stairs and the second floor are not a place for pampering.

Care Tips

To make the bed look decent, you need to regularly wipe off dust and dirt from its surface with a damp cloth or sponge. From time to time it is worth using special pastes and solutions for metal products that protect the surface from corrosion. It is important to ensure that the composition does not contain abrasive substances that can scratch the coating or thin it, which will inevitably lead to rust.

For metal furniture, there are also special wipes containing wax. Their regular use will repel moisture from the surface, provide complete protection and care, and add a glossy shine to the coating. Scratches on such surfaces are polished; tooth powder, chalk or flannel with chrome-plated are suitable for this purpose. Darkening is removed with ammonia or lemon, after which the bed is wiped with soapy water and polished with a soft cloth.

Compliance with these simple rules will help significantly extend the life of the furniture, without losing its attractive appearance and functionality.

Ways to place a house

Remember that in the bedroom the bed is the central piece of furniture, and the entire interior of the room will depend on it.

According to the placement method, bunk beds can be divided into classic and corner.

The second floor should be equipped with a high, strong side with a number of transverse elements to prevent falls from a height.

In classic beds, the sleeping places are located one above the other. In corner versions, one bed is located perpendicular to the other.

Also included with many models of bunk beds are fasteners that allow you to secure the bed to the wall. This guarantees additional security.

Preference should be given to models equipped with numerous cabinets and shelves - additional storage space will always come in handy.

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