How to choose a bed

Healthy and sound sleep is the key to good health, good mood and performance. Whether the rest will be complete and the morning will be good largely depends on the correctly chosen bed, so it is important to approach such a purchase responsibly, taking into account the features of this furniture.

Bed selection criteria

In order not to lose your head from the variety of assortments and choose a high-quality model, you need to consider the parameters that determine the degree of reliability and comfort. These include:

• size and shape of the bed;
• design;
• base;
• mattress.

How to decide on the form

The optimal choice is the classic rectangular option. If your soul is drawn to originality - furniture in the shape of a heart, boat or circle, you need to prepare for additional problems, from discomfort during sleep to bedding and bedspreads that will have to be sewn to order. And such a model will take up much more space. Fantasies can be realized in original decor and textile design.

The size should be given maximum attention. The standard bed length varies from 190 to 210 cm. For optimal size, add 15–20 cm to your height. To determine the comfortable width of the bed, you can lie on it with your hands folded behind your head.If the elbows do not go beyond the sleeping area, then it is suitable. Ideally, it is better to choose the largest product that can fit into the room without limiting the ability to move freely. After all, the larger the bed, the more comfortable it will be to sleep.

Height matters too. For most models it is 50–90 cm. Low platform beds are acceptable for the young and healthy. Elderly people should purchase a taller model that makes it easier to lie down and stand up on.

ATTENTION! The best height option is when the top edge of the mattress is at the level of your knees.

Frame selection

The frame design may include 2 backs, which serve as supports, and 2 side panels. Another option is 4 panels and 1-2 hanging backs. Then legs or a platform are used as a support. With high-quality manufacturing, both structures can last a long time, although the supports, which have a larger area, break less often than the legs. On the other hand, models with legs look more elegant.

Frames are made from various materials, which determine their durability:

• solid wood samples are the most reliable and environmentally friendly;
• forged and welded metal frames are not inferior to wood and look very elegant;
• products made from MDF represent the optimal price-quality ratio, therefore they are in high demand, they are much cheaper, but not so durable;
• copies made of fiberboard and chipboard are the cheapest, but unreliable; it is better not to purchase them as double and family beds with increased load.

ATTENTION! If the frame is upholstered in fabric, leather or other material, it must be dense and wear-resistant.

Bed headboards, in addition to the function of support, also perform other tasks. They hold pillows at the head, allow you to comfortably lean on your elbows while watching TV or reading, and protect from contact with the wall. They can also be used to install lamps or decorative items. The headboard also provides psychological comfort, giving a feeling of security. The backrest can be equipped in the form of a box with a hinged lid for storing things.

How to choose a base

A base is attached to the frame, which serves as a support for the mattress. The main thing is that it should not sag under the weight of people sleeping on it. Consider the following types:

1. Structures with metal gratings are inexpensive and last a long time, but they bend easily and do not have orthopedic properties, so they are only suitable as a temporary sleeping place.
2. There are also bases made of solid sheets of thick plywood. This is an environmentally friendly material, strong and durable, but it does not have holes for ventilation of the mattress, which provokes the accumulation of bacteria and dust mites. This base does not have an orthopedic effect and is considered an outdated option.
3. The most popular bases are those in which bent orthopedic slats (lamellas) made of wood or plastic are placed on a wooden or metal frame. They can easily withstand heavy loads, are softly springy and allow you to completely relax while sleeping. The more planks are laid in the base, the stronger it is. In a single model, at least 15 of them are required, in a family model - at least 30 pieces.

To save space, drawers for storing things or a common compartment can be built under the base, which can be opened using a lifting mechanism. The main disadvantage of such equipment is that it interferes with the ventilation of the mattress, and this quickly makes it unusable. Therefore, if there is no need, it is better to leave an empty space under the base for ventilation.

Which mattress do you prefer?

Some bed models are sold complete with mattresses, but not always of good quality. It is better to buy it separately or find an option with a quality product. It is better to immediately discard a cheap type made of foam rubber, which after a short time is pressed through and loses its shape.

Experts have differing opinions regarding mattresses. Some are inclined to favor multi-layer products without springs, especially those made from natural fillers. Others prefer spring combination options. With regard to orthopedic mattresses, it is believed that hard and medium-hard products with independent spring blocks or mattresses without springs made of coconut and latex are the best to support the spine. When choosing a mattress based on its hardness, it is better to be guided by your own feelings, without being embarrassed to lie on it in the store.

Choosing a bed according to the bedroom design

When choosing a model, you need to focus on the style of the bedroom. A low product on a platform is perfect for high-tech, minimalism, oriental style, but it does not look good with low ceilings or in a Romanesque interior.

Wicker and bamboo structures perfectly complement eco or ethnic style, but are inappropriate in a minimalist design. Forged metal beds are suitable for country or retro bedrooms. Furniture with leather trim is versatile and looks harmonious in modern, classic, minimalist bedrooms.

Where to install a double bed

To correctly place a double bed in a room, it is better to adhere to simple ergonomic rules:

• in the bedroom this is the main item; it is given a central place with the headboard facing the wall;
• the passage between the side of the bed and the wall or other furniture must be at least 0.7 meters;
• if you have to place it with its side to the wall, the space at the foot should be free;
• placing the headboard towards the window is unsuccessful, as drafts, bright sunlight, heating sections may disturb you, and it will also make it difficult to get to the curtains and the window itself;
• if there is a niche or recess in the wall, this is a great place that creates a feeling of privacy.

Considering the subtleties of choice, it is easier to make the right decision and ensure a comfortable stay in a cozy family nest.