Month: October 2019

How difficult do you think it is to pick out chiIdren’s bunk beds? The first choice is for your children and then there are others who may be using them. If you’re like many families, there’s bound to be others using them.

Over-night stays by friends and family often call for extra sleeping arrangements. Bunk beds can be your perfect answer.

This is especially true if your children have invited a classmate over for one of those “pajama parties”! Late night TV and popcorn, eventually conking out on a super comfortable bed. Children’s bunk beds can come to your rescue!

When you think of a bunk bed, we all know it’s basically one twin bed on top of a second twin bed. At least that’s the way they started out years ago. Now there’s an array of styles, many of which are mentioned below.

These are normally used by children in their bedrooms. If you have a couple of younger kids, children’s bunk beds are a great way to share limited space. Plus, it helps with the budget. Being of the same sex is very important of course, due to privacy. If this is impossible (in the very early years), some parents have been known to put up a privacy curtain for the bunk located at the bottom.

I do not recommend bunk beds for children ages five and under. That’s the age where they tend to fall out and, in some cases, they are hurt.

We will cover in this article: the different types of bunk beds, metal compared to wood, what to think about when buying and Consumer Safety Inspection for children’s bunk beds.

The Different Selections/Types of Bunk Beds

There certainly are a lot of options to think about. You will be considering what they look like. Will they last a long time? How well-made are they?

Styles include Futon, Loft, L-shaped, Novelty, Standard, and Study bunk beds. These are the more popular, but there are certainly many other combinations that are sure to tickle your fancy. They come with ladders to get to the top bed. Most include rails so a child does not fall out.

• Futon Bunk Bed. This type of bunk bed has two levels, upper and lower. The lower really serves as a sofa or a bed.
  
• L-shaped Bunk Bed. If there is plenty of space in your room, you can organize the L-shaped bunk bed so it angles to the right of the bed above.
• Loft Bunk Bed. Actually there is just one bed on top with space underneath. Instead of a bed being on the bottom, you have room for a dresser or chest if you’re short on space, or a simple area where the child can play. For small spaces, this is a great way to go.
• Novelty Bunk Bed. Just think of these as some kind of exciting “novelty ideas” your kids enjoy. Do they love different cartoon characters? How about silly cars or special baby dolls. Then there are ideas from movies. I think you get the picture. Have fun and be creative!
• Standard Bunk Bed. Simply stated, it is two beds, one over the other, usually in twin size. The advantage is that two take up the space of one. In addition, the two beds can normally be taken apart to be used as single beds later.
• Twin Over Full Bunk Bed. As is defined, it is simply a twin bed on top of a full size bed on the bottom. With children of different sizes and growing spurts, this may be a great idea.
• Study Bunk Bed. Just as it sounds. You have a bunk above and a wonderful study area underneath with a desk (which can be designed to fit into the bed), a chair, files, or even bookcases.

Metal Compared to Wood Bunk Beds

• Metal Bunk Beds. These are quite sturdy. However, they are not as strong as top quality hardwood. Metal is able to carry weights from one hundred and ninety to two hundred and twenty-five pounds on the top bunk. There is a huge collection available and these are some of the least expensive. As far as the modern look of metal, it has become extremely popular.
• Wood Bunk Beds. In my thirty-five years of experience, I believe hardwood to be the best choice for durability and long-term use. This would include oak, ash, cherry and poplar as great choices. Try to avoid beds made of particle board and other pressed woods. Of course, there are also soft woods to consider, and example would be pine. They are sturdy but not as strong as hardwood. This is the reason that hardwood investment costs a little more but is well worth it.
• Plastic Bunk Beds? THEY JUST DON’T WEIGH MUCH! Avoid unless the children are very small. Yes, they are reasonably inexpensive. However, I don’t recommend plastic bunk beds under any circumstances!

What To Think About When Buying

Some thoughts that come to parents’ minds are: What’s the price? Should I measure the room? How much can a child weigh?

1. Many folks are on a budget of some kind. So, manufacturers accommodate varied incomes and needs. There are a wide range of price points.

If you are choosing a new bunk bed, you could be looking at pricing from the low hundreds to eight hundred and fifty or so. Then again, it’s possible to spend into the thousands, depending on quality materials and even custom-made children’s bunk beds.

2. I’m sure you’ve considered measuring the bedroom. What’s the height, width and length of the space where you’re putting the bed? Is it a flat, angled or other unusual shape of a ceiling?

3. Be sure to double check manufacturer’s suggested weight limits for the type of children’s bunk beds you are considering. Weight maximums can vary depending on the quality and materials of the bed.

Standard Consumer Safety Specification For Bunk Beds

We all love our children and I would be amiss if I didn’t share this with you. This Consumer Product Safety Commission information is required of manufacturers in regard to the potential hazards associated with falls from the top bunk or being trapped.

The structure of the product is a consideration, which includes the support system of the foundation.

There must be a label of warning and identification of the manufacturer. Consumers are to be instructed on how to use the bed.

There are also mandatory rules by the Consumer Product Safety
Commission (CPSC). Among the rules that limit accidents are those that keep children from being trapped between the top bunk and the wall.

For in-depth details check: United States Consumer Product Safety Commission–Bunk Beds

To Bunk Or Not?

Well, there you go, parent(s). I hope you’re looking forward to the terrific choices you’re about to make about children’s bunk beds. You have a huge selection available. We raised our children on bunk beds and I grew up on them as well. I think they are a terrific choice. I can recommend them in full confidence.

We’ve honed in on four major areas I consider to be very important. The different types and purposes of children’s bunk beds, metal compared to wood, buying (prices), and safety standards. If you have any constructive feedback or questions, please reply in my comment section below.

Carson Dane, Founder

Furnitureplusdecor.com

 

Your baby has been born or is soon due. What a precious moment! With a baby comes what? Love and cuddles from the family, of course. Hugs and kisses. Coos and I love yous.

Eventually however, comes baby furniture. These choices may have preceded or followed the little one’s birth.

Undoubtedly choosing the crib should come first, followed by other nursery selections.

There’s no need to be overly concerned when it comes to making your
buying decisions. Baby crib furniture allows for terrific choices that
come with strict government guidelines.

These rules (which are under strong regulation) will set your mind
at ease. Your child will get the best, safest sleep possible. This
makes your shopping much more worry-free. Please don’t misunderstand. We love our babies. It is natural for us to worry. I will do my best to make you aware of the points to consider when buying baby crib furniture for your little one.

The Crib Should Be Your First Choice

We all have babies’ bedrooms that come in different sizes. When the time is right, your crib choice will probably be decided based on the space you have to work with. When that decision is made, you will then determine where to put the other furniture pieces. This too, will be decided by the remainder of space available.

Purchasing online in today’s market is one of the easiest ways to make well-informed decisions when buying baby crib furniture. Receiving merchandise from companies online is quick and easy. Cost-effective solutions are at your finger tips.

Different Baby Cribs At Varied Prices

There are so many choices for baby cribs, from traditional to modern. It’s all here, online, with affordable pricing based on the quality and budget you’re looking for.

Whether it’s economy, mid-priced or high-end, you’ll be pleased with the variety that’s available online. Cribs can range from the low $100 level to the thousands. Let’s take a look at the differences.

Cribs That Are Considered Expensive/High-end

Many expensive/high-end cribs come from countries outside the United States. The finish on them is often rubbed by hand, with a great number also being crafted by hand in the same meticulous way.

They can even be manufactured to go along with other furniture in the baby’s room with painted details. You pick a shape or design and it can be done. However, be careful about safety rules.

Cribs That Are Priced In The Mid-range

Parents love quality cribs which tend to fall in the mid-range pricing options. The products are stronger than economy cribs. They are a little fancier and come in a great selection of wood and painted stains.

The wood itself is heavier, and thicker, which adds to its durability. Because of the overall stronger structure, stability is nothing parents have to worry about. These cribs can often be converted to other sizes as well.

Cribs In The Economy Range

They can be a choice and a must for some budgets, so the quality is still passable. Because these cribs are less expensive, then something has to give. The materials used and how the product is designed creates a less-expensive investment for the manufacturers. The product isn’t nearly as heavy. However, if it’s sturdy, which most are, you’ll be fine.

Is Your Baby’s Crib Safe?

We have enjoyed a cradle over many years but it is used now only as a decorative addition. Built by my wife’s brother, it was perfect for the time. That is no longer the case. Times have changed. Thank heaven.

Strict rules on safety make your purchase and use of a crib much improved for your little ones. You can now feel much more comfortable that your baby will have a great sleeping environment.

I would not recommend using any old or even gently-used crib. This includes extremely attractive antique styles that look so cute and inviting to the eye. That’s a no-no, just like old bassinets. All sorts of parts that were meant for stability and safety could have broken or come off. I don’t imagine you want to see your baby falling out and potentially being severely hurt.

As you are aware, there have been many infant deaths due to unsafe cribs. That’s why the stringent safety rules were put in place for manufacturers and why I recommend to only purchase new.

Lead paint was used on baby furniture in the past and children chewed on these items causing many physical problems. If you are using an old crib that has been painted, you really need to be sure none of the paint is missing. Actually, just don’t use them is my best advice.

You might get thrilled about getting a great deal, price-wise, at a flea market, for a crib. Trust me, it’s not a great deal for your baby.

Drop-side rails are dangerous. If you have a crib with this type of rails, don’t use it. When possible, buy a new crib without them. Regulations have been put in place in the U.S., but some overseas companies still make them. Statistics show over 30 baby deaths were contributed to drop-side rails. This has happened over approximately the last eight to eleven years.

Baby Crib Furniture Coordinates

First you’ve measured the baby room. Then you chose the right crib for the available space. Next comes your decision of coordinating furniture. You will need the convenience of a changing table.

A chest of drawers, and even a dresser, are great additions, especially
if you have the room. If you’re limited on space, you can even purchase
cribs with drawers underneath. Make sure the bottoms of the drawers are very sturdy, not cardboard. A one-quarter inch thick fiberboard could be much sturdier.

Obviously, many parents are considering having more than one child. With this in mind, a quality purchase that can be used by more than one baby can save money in the long run.

Also, a crib that can turn into a daybed as the child gets older affords a great opportunity for longer use. This is a great baby crib furniture option.

The Wonders of Babies and Their Baby Furniture

So, happy parent(s). We’ve chalked up some exciting possibilities for baby crib furniture. After measuring your room, you make your choice. New is better because it is covered (in most cases) with strict safety guidelines.

As discussed, the cribs come in varied price ranges. There is High-End or expensive with all the quality features. Another choice is, of course, quality Mid-Range products, followed by Economy choices.

Whatever your decisions with cribs, safety issues and choosing baby crib coordinating furniture, you and your little one(s) will have many years of quality enjoyment.

As always, if you have questions about the information I’ve shared, or I can help you in making your baby crib furniture choices, please leave me a message below.

Carson Dane, Founder

Furnitureplusdecor.com

 

I’ve had a career which has spanned over thirty-five years in the furniture industry. In some form or fashion it involved kids furniture. It was always extremely enjoyable working with the entire family when buying kids’ furniture became a reality.

The excitement of seeing the family make choices that were practical, cost-effective, comfortable and in the style they enjoyed, satisfied everyone involved. I look forward to helping you with sound decisions when choosing furniture for kids.

I trust you will enjoy looking at our furniture for kids article and the tips we share with you.

What to consider for the kids

Safety comes first when it comes to kids furniture. It’s important for you to know that the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act was established to protect children under 12. There are stiff, stringent production guidelines that manufacturers must follow.

Products that can cause a hazard are a no-no! Durability is important to the Consumer Products Safety Commission and so it should be. Without a doubt, it’s just as important for parents. I’m sure you’ve seen many recall notices on kids furniture over the years. The industry truly is sticking closely to the guidelines set up.

Practically speaking, parents place themselves as the number one protectors when it comes to furniture safety for their children. So does our government and manufacturers of their products. This should set the minds of parents at ease.

However, if you have a question about a product before or after buying, don’t be afraid to contact the manufacturer. It’s the best thing you can do. Due diligence goes a long way.

Safety for children is important to us all, isn’t it? Of course!
When they play, safety is at bay, simply meaning, they don’t think about it when jumping up and down on sofas, chairs, beds, etc.

It’s not “If” they will fall, but “When”.

That’s why the extra durability precautions that are taken in the manufacture, construction and production phases of well- made furniture can make the difference in a child getting seriously hurt or not.

Be sure the furniture is well-built, and very strong. If there is any place they can crawl in and out of, they will. When the opportunity comes to jump on something that looks fun, they’re all in for that as well.

You’ve heard of handing out punishment? Kids do this extremely well when it comes to mattresses and furniture.

Kids will be kids, right? Buy kids’ furniture with strength and high quality. Hey. You’ve been down that road before, right?

I trust you agree with what I’ve said, so be sure to trust in your choice of manufacturers as well.

Upgrading furniture for kids

You want something new for your kids? Let me guess. I have no doubt that the bedroom comes to mind first, right? Do they have chairs that are thread bare, beds with three legs, chest of drawers that are hard to open, or worse yet, you have to jam them shut?

Do they have a room that screams, “Don’t go in there!”  You’re ready for a change. Obviously these are major rooms that the kids spend time in. They get lots of use.

Kids, both boys and girls, have different likes in style and color when it comes to furniture. They each have their preferred look. Indulge them with your support and direction when final decisions are made.

My years in the market have shown, not surprisingly, girls like pretty, soft-colored furniture. Classics which include white finishes are very common. Beauty is a mainstay for girls as a whole. Gorgeous designs that make the room pop out, make the girls’ eyes pop out as well! They love nice things. Like Mom, like daughter!

The boys? Well, boys will be boys. The rough and tough bunk beds or single beds with sports memorabilia tattooed around the room is what they like. Or perhaps technical or computer games and other goodies to complement their “guy thing”.

 

Bulkier looks for beds, dressers and chest of drawers is pretty normal for boys but not necessary. Comfort is the key for them; beauty is not their cup of tea. Decor is not on their high priority list.

 

 

A work desk for studies is a great addition for both kids. Obviously, a very comfortable chair to go along with the desk is a good choice.

 

Perhaps a couple of bean bag chairs would be useful when the kids have friends over and they need a place to plop down.

Sharing a room can be tough, not so much in the baby and toddler stages, but definitely as they grow. If a single room is necessary, a privacy divider can be a great asset.

Should the room be large enough, your decision on privacy and furniture to suit each child becomes somewhat easier. With a large-enough room, both kids can have a separate space with their own choices.

Your choices of furniture for kids

Have you ever tried to surprise your children with something you knew they would love? You had no doubts. None. Zero. You gave it to them. Not the reaction you were expecting? Oops! You’ve been down that road, yes?

Involve your children when picking out their furniture. They are the ones who live with it. This makes them happy!

It allows them to be in on a good decision-making process. Choosing furniture for their own special space is a very exciting time for kids. Let them have at it with your own special input to help them. Your guidance and practicality will be appreciated.

Ask the children questions in order to help guide them in their thought process.

• What is their favorite color of furniture? Perhaps it’s a wood finish instead of painted tones.

• Who is their comic hero? Lots of furniture incorporates movie or character themes.

• What kind of bed would they like? Something shaped like a vehicle or a more classic choice.
  

• What would their “perfect bedroom” look like?

Space for furniture

The size of rooms calls for unique spacing of furniture for kids. If the room is too small for a complete bedroom set, creativity comes to the forefront. Beds with drawers underneath is a great way to go. Bunk beds with built-in storage create wonderful opportunities in small room areas.

There are a multitude of space-saving storage possibilities to help overcome small areas.

Sharing about furniture for kids

Purchasing furniture for kids will be an exciting adventure for the entire family. This will be a great project to enjoy together.

We’ve covered what to consider, upgrading furniture, choices for furniture, and space requirement, all of which are areas of importance when you are choosing furniture for kids.

There are many things to consider before you make final decisions. What warranties does the manufacturer of kids furniture offer? Are extended warranties offered? Yes, there is an investment for this type of warranty. Is the quality of the product substantial?

I trust all goes well in your venture and you are always welcome to ask me questions or make comments.

I’ll be happy to guide you any way I can.

Carson Dane, Founder

Furnitureplusdecor.com

Let’s take a look at characteristics of contemporary living room furniture sets. Contemporary design is extremely popular and many buyers seek out this wonderful style to enhance their home. Very often, shoppers feel contemporary might be out of their reach. Not so! Contemporary purchases are easy to achieve and quite affordable.

In its simplest explanation, the design has to do with what is happening now, in the present, and at the moment. Others call contemporary a style that is in existence in the immediate time frame, what is in use now. It continually evolves.

In a nutshell, that’s what defines the style.

It could be contemporary today and out of style tomorrow. This would undoubtedly give a complete change in look and how it attracts individuals over time.

We will be looking today at common features in Contemporary furniture, Contemporary designs, what makes living room furniture Contemporary, and homeowners’ Contemporary choices.

Contemporary living room furniture sets have certain recognizable characteristics and features.

Common Features In Contemporary Furniture

1. The silhouettes (outlines) are quite simple with smooth, curvy lines and, of course, shapes that are geometric in nature.

2. There are very few details that are ornamental in the look.

3. Usually they have a shiny finish over what are typically neutral colors. These could include gray and silver tones, light tan, or chrome. White and even black are major color contributors. Then you can include brown, cream and perhaps taupe.

These neutral colors are often highlighted with bold solids such as red, giving it a tone-on-tone combination. Bold accent colors, should be used rather sparingly.

4. Fabrics which are often used include vinyl, wool, linen, cotton, leather, and microfiber. These are generally preferred over material that is heavy. Soft and comfy is often sought after. Print fabric is unlikely to be seen on contemporary furniture. There are times, however, when this can happen. Even then, the patterns tend to be subtle.

5. There are quite a few different modern materials used in the construction of contemporary living room furniture sets.

These use present day technology and incorporate wood, glass, nickel, steel, plastic and, of course, metal. These materials are often married together with different textures such as jute or even hemp. Function of the final product is your first priority followed by the visual that’s being considered.

Contemporary Living Room Furniture Designs

When considering Contemporary living room furniture sets to buy, it’s actually quite simple in so many ways. That’s because it is “Simple” in design. There is an understated design in the style, with few, if any, frills. Basic and simple is the key.

It has a high degree of fashion and can be very functional because it is often designed with storage possibilities.

Contemporary living room furniture has evolved throughout history from many styles. Such examples include Mid-Century Modern, Danish Modern, Minimalism, Art Deco designs, traditional and even futuristic.

Furniture designs from late in the 20th and early 21st centuries may be considered influencers of a contemporary living room furniture set today.
The 1970s began the heyday of contemporary.

Some wood finishes could be cherry, walnut, and oak. Typically, however, the wood is lighter such as birch, maple or other light-finished wood stock.

What Makes A Living Room Contemporary

If you are considering a new look for your living room furniture, contemporary being your choice, there are a few considerations you’ll want to think about.

This may be your first “Look and See” at Contemporary styles for your living room. If this is the case, it is not uncommon to find it difficult to distinguish different design styles from one another. You’re not the only person that has experienced this. Undoubtedly, this is a common occurrence because of so many styles that overlap each other.

The shape of contemporary, as touched upon earlier, relies on minimalism (less is better.) In addition, neutral colors and lines that are curved are important. Neutral walls are important, along with the curved lines of the furnishings. This look verges on Art Deco.

Curved furniture is a perfect choice, along with light and decor selections, for your living room area. Furniture which has clean lines, shapes that are simple, and styles that lend themselves to comfort are key components of today’s contemporary living room furniture sets. Chairs, sofas, and love seats often have arms and legs that are usually round or squared and not bulky.

Lighting that is modern, natural and artificial is always a great opportunity to create something that has your personal signature on it.

Homeowners’ Choices For Contemporary Living Room Sets

Because Contemporary choices can come from different eras, this makes for a great opportunity for you to be very creative with your personal likes. Whether it’s furniture or decor, it’s possible to stay in tune with what’s happening in the contemporary scene.

What are your personal likes? What strikes your personal tastes? You have a plethora of possibilities to bring a current Contemporary look to your home.

What if you love contemporary but over a short time period (3-5 years), Contemporary switches gears and changes to the new “Now”? Are you going to choose the new “Now”? With that will come an additional investment. What will you do with your current Contemporary living room set that is still in great condition?

Final Thoughts

We are happy to bring this information to you and look forward to helping you achieve that perfect choice of contemporary living room sets. We want you to make quality selections. Quality materials are very important to consider. Brand names are always a vital area to consider.

Today we have provided you with some exciting tips that can make your decision-making easier. First, we shared about the characteristics of Contemporary furniture. What’s happening now, in the moment? Neutral colors, simplicity, curvy lines and light woods are all characteristics of the contemporary style.

Next came commonality, followed by designs. Then, what makes a living room contemporary. Finally, how homeowners make their Contemporary choices … be you. Creativity with your choices makes the living room yours. You have placed your personal touch on your future style. What an exciting threshold to cross!

Carson Dane, Founder

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Furnitureplusdecor.com