To raise a healthy and happy child, you need to invest a lot of effort in its development. Caring for a full-fledged sleeping place plays an important role in this. And this is a legitimate concern, since a significant part of the time the child spends in a dream. Moreover, the correct formation of the spine also depends on what the child sleeps on.
Baby cots are usually equipped with orthopedic mattresses. But by the age of 3, the child grows out of it and then the question arises of replacing the crib with something else. It is good if the living conditions allow you to buy a larger bed. But what if there are not so many square meters? And here a good alternative would be to purchase a children's orthopedic sofa.
Manufacturers offer such a large assortment of this type of furniture that you can get confused. In this article, we will help you understand the main issues that arise when choosing the model that is right for you. Before going to the store, you must:
- familiarize yourself with the models of sofas offered by manufacturers for children;
- decide how the sofa will be used: daily or periodically (guest option);
- choose a suitable transformation mechanism;
- choose the right filling for the orthopedic mattress.
Features and Benefits
First, let's find out what an orthopedic mattress is and what are its advantages.
An orthopedic mattress differs from any other in that it supports the spine in the correct position during sleep. As a result, the back muscles are relieved, which contributes to good rest. An orthopedic mattress should be firm enough so that the spine does not sag. Therefore, the main criterion when choosing an orthopedic sofa for a child will be the material from which it is made.
Most often, polyurethane foam is used as a filler. It meets all the requirements for children's products: it does not cause allergies, is resistant to mold, does not attract dust, and is environmentally friendly. Mattresses made of polyurethane foam have a "memory effect", i.e. the ability to repeat all the bends of the body. Polyurethane foam can be used both as the main filler and in combination with other materials.
Another popular material is coir (coconut fiber). A distinctive feature of coir mattresses will be their rigidity. This quality makes them indispensable for children with curvature of the spine, as well as for the prevention of such a problem. They are well ventilated, which makes them comfortable to use regardless of the season.
Latex mattresses are made from the extract of the milky juice of Brazilian hevea in the process of foaming and vulcanization. Latex as a filler enhances the anatomical characteristics of spring mattresses. It should be remembered that latex can cause allergies in a child.
Combined mattresses are made from two or more fillers. As a result, the product acquires the characteristics of those materials that are used in it.
Orthopedists recommend using springless mattresses with a thickness of at least 10 cm. But in adolescence, it is better to switch to mattresses with a block of independent springs. Turn the mattress periodically if the anchorage allows. To remove dirt, wipe it with a damp sponge, then dry it outdoors.
Especially careful choice of design will be needed if you are buying a sofa for daily sleep. In this case, in addition to the filler material and the strength of the mechanism, design features must be taken into account, namely:
- transformation mechanism;
- whether additional space is required for unfolding;
- the presence of a box for things;
- shape and upholstery.
The speed and ease of folding the sofa depends on the transformation mechanism. Also, different mechanisms have a different number of slots in the mattress. The fewer gaps, the more solid the surface, the higher its orthopedic properties.
The following designs of orthopedic sofas for children are presented by manufacturers:
- "Book" is the simplest and longest used model of folding sofas. Has a box for linen.
- "Eurobook" - ease of unfolding in one movement, when unfolded takes up little space. There is a laundry box. The disadvantages include a high berth.
- "Click-gag" - an evolutionary version of the "book", with an additional option of the third position
- "Half-sitting". When unfolded, it provides a large sleeping area. Has boxes for linen.
- "Roll-out" - a convenient design that allows you to get a spacious berth by "rolling out" the part hidden in the seat by the loop. The difference between heights is eliminated by furniture back cushions. Requires some space in front of the sofa.
- "Accordion" - allows you to get a sleeping place without cracks and gaps. Requires significant unfolding space. There is no laundry box.
- "Dolphin" - the original mechanism allows one movement to get an even sleeping place by rolling out the hidden part with automatic lifting. In corner models, it becomes possible to arrange a box for linen.
- "Swivel" - provides a flat berth. Used in corner sofas.
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Options "French" and "American" folding beds in children's orthopedic sofas for daily sleep are practically not used.
Frame material
When choosing an orthopedic sofa for children, the material of the product frame is of great importance. Frames are metal and wood. Metal frames are stronger than wooden ones, but also more expensive. Advantages of metal frames:
- withstand heavy loads;
- do not depend on temperature drops;
- resistant to corrosion, thanks to a special anti-corrosion coating;
- not susceptible to mold and mildew, because there are ventilation holes in the structure;
- there is no risk of the appearance of insects and parasites;
- the assembly uses welding, not glue, which can be toxic.
When choosing a sofa with a wooden frame, you need to check the quality of drying and processing of parts.
Upholstery material
There are many upholstery covers for children's sofas, for every taste, design and request. The upholstery should be made of natural fabric, have high strength, hygroscopicity, and be pleasant to the touch. It is desirable that the upholstery is removable for easy cleaning. A good option would be models with a spare cover.
The sleeping place should be not only comfortable, but also attractive for the child. Let your child participate in choosing his couch. However, you should not buy too pretentious and colorful models if you are buying a sofa for growth. In this case, it is better to stick to neutral colors.
Selection Tips
When choosing a model for a children's orthopedic sofa, you can use these tips:
- it is desirable that the base be monolithic, i.e. in the disassembled state, there were no seams and cracks on it;
- you can change the characteristics of the "native" mattress using a mattress topper: reduce or increase the rigidity, close cracks and seams. Having rolled the topper into a roll, you can put it in the laundry drawer;
- keep in mind that the child is growing. Buy with a margin of at least 50 cm in length. The width should also be maximized. This will ensure a comfortable sleep for the child;
- choose models with a back and sides to prevent the child from falling in a dream;
- for posture correction, choose models that the doctor recommends;
- buy models with quality certificates. The structure and its components must have a high degree of safety.
