Chair-bed: types, design and selection rules

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A living space often serves multiple functions. The living room serves as a nursery or bedroom, the office turns into a relaxation room. The transformation occurs due to the transformation of furniture. One of the most popular practical interior items is a folding chair-bed, which serves as a permanent sleeping place or temporary for guests. Modern models are reliable and can decorate any room. Simple selection rules will help you find a decent option.

Folding chair-bed - advantages and features

A folding chair will easily fit into a living room, children's room, bedroom, or spacious hall. The choice of upholstery material, color scheme, dimensions, and additional equipment depends on the installation location.

The purpose of the model determines the height of the backrest, the presence or absence of armrests.

At first glance, the product is not much different from an ordinary chair. However, due to a special mechanism, it quickly transforms into a comfortable bed.

The main feature of the bed chair is its versatility. A small piece of furniture combines several functions.

The design has a number of advantages.

• When folded, it occupies a small area.
• The parameters of the sleeping bed comply with accepted standards.
• The product will delight you with a long service life.
• There are different ways of transformation.
• The converting device is designed for frequent use and is therefore highly reliable.
• The operating principle of most mechanisms is quite simple.
• Additional equipment in the form of a storage compartment is possible.

However, the chair-bed is not without its weaknesses.

• The sleeping area may contain joints, and individual blocks may not match in height.
• For many models, the base does not have orthopedic properties.
• The structures have a uniform design.

Popular models

Furniture design solutions are constantly evolving. Today there are several popular options for chair-beds. Knowing the features of each of them, the consumer will be able to choose the model that best suits his needs.

Without armrests

Externally, the product looks like a large chair with soft upholstery. A good example is office-type chair-beds. Structurally, such models are divided into subtypes:

• roll-out;
• with drawers;
• "accordion".

The advantages of a chair without armrests include:

• fast, easy layout;
• wide berth;
• Stylish appearance that matches modern interior styles.

The main drawback of such furniture is that the mechanism breaks down very quickly. In models with armrests, arm rests strengthen the design.

Orthopedic

Models with an orthopedic mattress are also in great demand. It should be understood that such furniture is still not suitable for daily use, especially by children under 10 years old. Structurally, the model is not much different from similar products that are not equipped with a special mattress. Most often, such products are structurally composed of three or more sections, which, when unfolded, do not form joints due to the presence of a rigid frame.

A separate segment is chair-beds for bedridden patients. With their support, treatment and rehabilitation are more successful and faster. Some varieties are an integrated wheelchair with a sanitary area. Manufacturers often offer a transformable bed with a turning function and a toilet. Orthopedic furniture for patients with limited mobility can be mechanically or electronically controlled. In the first case, it will be possible to unfold the chair only with the participation of a stranger; the second option allows the patient to be more independent.

With linen box

Such models are often used as the main bed. Chair-beds with a linen box are most often produced with the following folding mechanisms:

1. Accordion. The dimensions of the internal compartment are small, but they are enough to store bedding. The presence of such a niche is typical for models with a width of 85–90 cm.
2. Roll-out mechanism. Here the box is assumed by the structure itself. It can extend with the seat or be located in the central element of the frame, thereby adding rigidity to it.
3. Eurobook. The storage compartment is located under the seat. When the structure extends, the niche is open. To get a sleeping place, you need to lay the back of the chair on it.
4. Click-clack. This mechanism began to be used for chairs relatively recently. The linen box acts as a supporting element. During the transformation process, a backrest and seat are placed on the compartment.

Due to the design features, such models look bulky. An alternative would be chairs with narrow armrests, which will save space.

Accordion

Eurobook

Click-clack

Children's

Often parents have to place two children in one room. For each, it is necessary to provide several functional areas: for storing things, relaxing and studying. Therefore, folding or roll-out chair-beds are one of the best solutions for rational distribution of space.

It is recommended to choose a wooden or metal structure. Upholstery materials must be safe. The ideal option is if the furniture is covered with a cover that can be easily removed and washed. A children's chair-bed can have slats at the base; they regulate the degree of rigidity of the structure.

An orthopedic mattress helps to properly distribute the load on the spine. But still, doctors do not recommend considering a chair-bed as a permanent place for a child to sleep.

In fact, children's models differ from the adult version in design. They are often stylized as toy animals, cars, castles; for older children, chairs with bright, abstract prints are suitable.

Pros and cons of a round sofa bed, product characteristics

Double

According to accepted production standards, a product is called a two-seater sofa if the width of its seat exceeds 140 cm. The maximum parameter for a chair is 120 cm. For a comfortable rest for two people, it is better to choose a model without armrests - when folded out, you will get a sleeping place 110 cm wide. Used for daily use chair-beds are usually equipped with mechanisms such as “Accordion” and “Click-Clack”. In this case, there are no unpleasant joints on the unfolded furniture that interfere with proper rest.

Chair-beds with the Dolphin mechanism cannot be wider than 95 cm when unfolded.

Angular

The best choice for a room of modest dimensions would be corner models. They only have a back, and the armrests are either completely absent or cover only one side. Folding mechanisms - “Eurobook” or roll-out. Rollers or legs act as support.

Folding models can have a rounded seat or a trapezoid shape. The modern version is a semi-chair, its distinctive features are a high back and only one side with an armrest. Most often, this model is used as an additional element to increase the length of the sofa. In some cases, it can act as independent furniture, especially if it is supplemented with a roll-out transformation mechanism.

Inflatable

In the modern world, mobility is highly valued. An inflatable chair-bed is suitable for accommodating rare guests, going on picnics, or going to the dacha. Its assembled weight does not exceed 3 kg. Models with reinforced bottoms have been developed for the street. During operation, avoid contact with sharp objects. The disadvantages include instability to most liquids, especially if they contain alkali.

A transformable inflatable chair-bed is a model in which the sections are fused, with only a thin partition between them. There are also options consisting of individual elements. To form a chair, the parts are simply stacked on top of each other, or, as an option, they are placed in the shape of a lounger to create sleeping places.

Advertiser

In fact, this is a chair without a sleeping place, and the “bed” prefix is ​​present here only because the product makes it possible to rest on it for several hours. Such models are often installed in offices, but they are also suitable for placement in apartments and private houses. There is always a function for adjusting the angle of the backrest; for user comfort, there is a footrest that can be raised or lowered. Chair-beds with a pouf look original; it can also be used as an independent seating area. Products can be controlled manually or using a remote control.

Frameless

The model consists of two poufs connected to each other with straps or a zipper. There is no frame, hence the name. Such furniture can be placed in the kitchen, and if you combine several identical products, you will get a comfortable soft corner. Frameless chair beds are not suitable for daily use. Due to the lack of armrests and backrest, a person will feel uncomfortable and will be afraid of falling in his sleep. In addition, the internal filling of poufs does not provide full support for the spine.

Bed dimensions

When assembled, the folding chair bed is characterized by the following parameters:

• the seat width is at least 60 cm;
• depth ranges from 50 to 70 cm;
• back height varies from 70 to 120 cm;
• the distance from the seat to the floor varies from 35 to 40 cm.

The presence of armrests increases the overall width of the product by 25 cm or more.

The minimum width of a sleeping place for a child is 60 cm, for an adult - 70 cm. The most common products are 80-90 cm, and the maximum value can reach 120 cm. According to the rules, the length of the bed exceeds a person’s height by 15-20 cm. For standard models it is in ranging from 190 to 225 cm.

Mechanisms of transformation

The transformation of the chair into a bed is carried out thanks to a transforming mechanism. Such devices have different principles of operation.

• "Eurobook". The seat moves forward and the backrest lowers into the gap.
• "Dolphin". The additional surface is removed from under the seat and then raised to its level.
• "Accordion". A flat sleeping bed is formed by extending the seat and unfolding the double backrest. There is a storage compartment inside.
• "Book". The lower part should be raised and then lowered. At the same time, the backrest also assumes a horizontal position.
• "Sofa". An additional surface extends from the bottom. A pillow is placed on it, which until this time is in the compartment under the seat.
• "French folding bed." Before unfolding, remove the top pillow, and then unfold the frame along with the mattress.
• "Venice". This device is based on the Dolphin mechanism. It is distinguished by the presence of a system that prevents the skew of the withdrawable part
• "Saber". To unfold the product, you need to pull the strap to move the seat. The backrest is placed in the vacant space, and another pillow is placed at the headboard.
• Roll-out. The bed is formed by removing the lower section and folding out the double seat. The surface has joints and a small height (about 25-30 cm).

Filler

If you have to choose a chair bed for daily sleep, then you should pay special attention to the internal contents. The most commonly used types are:

• foam rubber and synthetic winterizer are affordable, but their service life is very limited;
• holofiber and durafil have proven themselves as durable materials with good performance properties;
• latex is designed to last up to 20 years. It has high elasticity, but is quite expensive;
• an independent spring block will ensure correct body position, evenly distribute the load, and last up to 10 years;
• The Bonel system is affordable, but the orthopedic effect is practically absent.

For frequent use, it is better to purchase a chair bed filled with latex, holofiber, durafil or independent springs. These varieties can provide sound sleep and good rest.

How to choose the right chair-bed?

Before buying a chair-bed, you need to carefully determine for yourself what you want from this furniture. We also advise you to study all the features of the chairs. Only after this can you go shopping.

Filler

When choosing a chair, it is worth remembering that the filling is necessary to create comfort. Moreover, the chair should be comfortable in any position – both sitting and lying down. There are several main options for filling a chair:

• spring block;
• foam;
• holofiber;
• padding polyester;
• latex.

If we talk about padding polyester and foam rubber, they cannot boast of elasticity. In addition, their appearance can deteriorate quite quickly. However, they are the cheapest of the fillers. Also, these materials eliminate the occurrence of allergies. Holofiber and latex, on the contrary, can be proud of their elasticity and long service life. The spring block is the most popular and convenient option, since this option has orthopedic properties, ensuring the necessary body position.

the most popular filler is a spring block; fillers are different - foam rubber and synthetic winterizer are short-lived and cheap, but latex and holofiber last a long time and are elastic

Material

Another point that you need to pay attention to is the upholstery of the chair-bed. The material should not fade in the sun, be easy to wash, and also be resistant to long-term use. There are many upholstery options. It can be either artificial or natural leather, or some types of fabrics.

• For example, armchairs upholstered in jacquard can decorate a classic interior. Jacquard is a fabric that contains cotton. It holds its shape well, but cannot be cleaned with water. For this reason, it is not suitable for families with small children.
• But chenille is distinguished by high quality and durability; such fabric can be used daily.
• Armchairs upholstered in velor boast a very attractive appearance. However, experts do not recommend choosing such models for daily use.
• Flock is another good material that is used in the production of chair-beds. It is distinguished by a pleasant velvety texture and high strength.
• Genuine leather upholstery is an excellent option for a chair-bed. It has only one drawback - the high price.
• Eco-leather is an excellent analogue to natural materials, has an attractive appearance and is practical. And the price for products with such upholstery is very affordable.

The upholstery material can be jacquard, eco-leather, velor, the upholstery can be flock, chenille, genuine leather

Frame

There are 4 main types of materials that are used to produce transformable furniture. This is plywood, metal, aluminum or wooden beams.

• If you want to purchase a budget model, then you should choose a plywood frame. However, it is worth paying attention to how the material is processed, and also make sure that it is laminated or impregnated with special products.
• The wooden frame has a long service life. It can withstand prolonged daily use. Products made from natural materials are environmentally friendly and safe. However, do not forget that wood and humidity are not compatible with each other.
• The metal frame is also famous for its high strength and long service life. It is worth paying attention to whether the metal has been treated with a special agent that will protect it from rusting.
• If you have chosen aluminum as the material for the base of the chair, then you will be pleased with the lightness of the product. However, such pieces of furniture may not withstand constant loads.
• The best option is a frame made of different materials. This chair-bed will serve you for a very long time.

the frame can be made of plywood, wood, metal.
In this article, we told readers how to choose a chair-bed correctly, what functions it can perform in an apartment. We also paid attention to the types of this furniture. If you decide to purchase a product for your home, we advise you to carefully study all the information about it before purchasing.

Upholstery materials

The upholstery determines the appearance of the product. A chair bed for daily use needs durable, fade- and stain-resistant upholstery material. It is also important that it harmonizes with the interior style and overall color scheme.

For these purposes, the following are most often used: natural and artificial leather, eco-leather, textile materials.

• Genuine leather has a long service life, a rich appearance, and does not require complex care. However, this coating is quite slippery, very expensive, and in the summer it will be too hot.
• A more affordable option is artificial analogues (faux leather, eco-leather). In terms of external indicators, they are close to natural material, but are not as durable and have the same disadvantages.
• Cotton is worth choosing for a children's model. It comes in a variety of colors, is breathable, but wears out quickly.
• Jacquard is easily recognized by its original ornament. It is beautiful, has high strength characteristics, and therefore is expensive.
• The tapestry is characterized by even greater density than the previous version. It does not lose its shape, but under the influence of light it can fade.
• Flock gives a pleasant sensation upon tactile contact, is affordable, is not afraid of fading, but wears out quickly. Modern samples are more resistant to wear, but are more expensive.
• Chenille is a fleecy type of fabric. The material is high density, durable and easy to clean with a vacuum cleaner. The disadvantage is sensitivity to moisture.
• The matting is dense, retains its shape well, does not require complex care, but is afraid of contact with sharp objects.

Materials for the manufacture of structural elements

The main elements of a classic chair-bed are a frame and a fabric-covered mattress attached to it. The quality of the materials used directly affects the service life.

Frame

For the manufacture of this element the following are used:

• plywood, chipboard;
• wooden beam;
• metal.

The first option belongs to the budget category. When choosing, pay attention to the quality of processing. The frame made of wooden beams can last a long time and can withstand daily use. The market offers models made from coniferous wood, characterized by an affordable price and high quality, and luxury products made from expensive lumber. The wooden frame is not very resistant to high humidity, so it is better not to create kitchen ensembles with such chairs.

Chair-beds with a metal frame provide a large margin of safety if the structure has been pre-treated with a special compound to prevent corrosion and mechanical damage. It is metal-based models that should be chosen for everyday use.

Wooden beam

Plywood

Chipboard

Metal

Upholstery

Upholstery material must be resistant to fading, wear and abrasion. In inflatable models, the main layer is formed from PVC. Then, to improve consumer properties, they are sprayed with flock, velor, and velvet. For all other types of chairs, fabrics and different types of leather are used as upholstery:

1. Jacquard holds its shape well and is 50% natural. It is not subject to wet cleaning, therefore it is not recommended for families with children and pets.
2. Chenille is easy to care for, the material is budget-friendly and suitable for daily use.
3. The tapestry is durable and affordable.
4. Flock is pleasant to the touch and easy to care for.
5. Velor gives the product an impressive appearance, the material is durable, but it is not recommended for furniture that is often used.
6. A leather chair is the most expensive of all types of upholstery, but the material has high performance properties.
7. Eco-leather is characterized by the same advantages as its natural counterpart, but its cost is much more affordable.

Advantages of chair-beds without armrests, their dimensions

When selecting upholstery material, many factors are taken into account. None of them can be ignored, otherwise the furniture will not last long.

Jacquard

Chenille

Tapestry

Flock

Velours

Leather

Eco leather

Base and mattress

The range of transformable furniture is represented by various types of base:

1. Regular base. Foam rubber is attached to the frame, which is then covered with fabric. Suitable for occasional use as a guest bed. Found in frameless models.
2. Topper. Thin removable mattress with orthopedic properties. Purchased to improve comfort. Indispensable if the chair-bed is used as a folding bed. Its thickness does not exceed 10 cm.
3. Orthopedic mattress. It is based on a springless or spring block. The best orthopedic properties are achieved if the springs are independent, that is, they have their own cover. Their optimal quantity is 256 pieces per 1 m2.
4. Springs. Armchair beds with a spring block are an ideal solution for daily use. It is better to give preference to the option with independent springs.

The correct selection of base and mattress affects the service life and health of the consumer. Some products are not initially designed by the manufacturer for frequent unfolding: if this feature is neglected, the parts can quickly fail.

Regular base

Topper Orthopedic mattress

Springs

Armrests

Products with armrests are made in two variations.

• Rigid hand rests are usually made of wood. They look beautiful and elegant. Their disadvantage is their low degree of comfort.
• The second type is more common: with upholstery and a small layer of soft filling.

The sizes and shapes of the armrests are quite varied. Their appearance depends on the overall design of the model.

A chair bed without armrests has smaller dimensions and weight, and its stylish appearance will easily fit into any modern interior. However, this design also has disadvantages. The absence of side elements can lead to falling out of bed during a night's rest (especially for children), or to the bed linen moving off.

Design and color

There are no strict rules or restrictions when it comes to choosing the color scheme for a chair-bed. The consumer must decide on the functionality of this furniture in the interior: whether the product will be a bright, eye-catching accent or will become a harmonious addition to the overall design, as if dissolving into the decor of the room.

Trendy colors today are green and all shades of blue: they perfectly calm and relax. These colors can be recommended for children's and adult bedrooms.

The classic palette - white, beige, gray, brown - can fit into any interior design. Such furniture will not stand out against the general background and will form a fashionable, original design.

Advantages of folding children's beds, rules for safe placement

Provence style presupposes the presence of the most simple and laconic furniture. The chair-bed must also comply with the principles of the chosen direction. Examples include models with carvings, geometric and floral prints on the upholstery. Pastel colors also have a place.

For rooms in a classic style, furniture upholstered in jacquard is preferred. The chair itself should be massive, with armrests. The legs are characterized by a noble bend.

Models with smooth geometric shapes and lines will fit into a modernist or loft interior. This feature should also be present in the upholstery print. The massiveness of the structure and forged legs are other mandatory features.

Advertisers and other modern models are suitable for high-tech style. A minimum of decor, its simplicity - these are the requirements for furnishing elements. The more futuristic the chair looks, the better.

Provence

Classic style

Loft

Modern

High tech

Frame

Wood, metal, plywood, and chipboard are used to make the frame.

• The wooden frame is characterized by high strength, durability, and environmental safety. However, wood is sensitive to changes in humidity, increases the weight of the product and is expensive.
• Plywood can be an alternative option when making the skeleton of furniture. Its thickness must be at least 25 mm. It is important that the parts are treated with a special compound.
• The budget option is made from chipboard. The performance characteristics of wood boards are inferior in all respects. This chair will not withstand intensive use and significant loads.
• The metal structure made of steel profiles is not inferior in properties to wood. But unlike it, it is not afraid of moisture due to the protective coating and looks less massive. And if aluminum alloy is used as the material, then a pleasant moment will be the reduction in the weight of the product.

Models in which the frame is made of metal and wood boast good characteristics.

The types of folding chairs are varied, so choosing the right model will not be difficult. Before making a final decision, it is worth assessing the strength of the frame, the quality of the fastenings, the reliability of the transformation mechanism, the durability of the upholstery, and the performance characteristics of the filler. The presence of a spacious compartment will also be a big plus in favor of a particular product.