Beds and the standards they have to meet

How do you know if your bed meets the appropriate safety standards?

Although beds and mattresses may not be covered by the same raft of safety legislation and standards as some other products, they still have to comply with regulations that help to protect the consumer and their family.

BS7177

This British Standard, whilst not law, is an indication of the safety and performance of the product you are buying, and most consumers are advised to check that their purchases comply with current British Standards before they buy. BS7177 covers the flammability of material used on beds and mattresses, including covered divans, mattress covers and upholstered bases. These must pass a test that covers ignitability with a range of sources, including cigarettes and matches.

EN747-1

The European standard EN747-1 was published in 1993, superseding BS6998. This standard deals with raised beds, including bunk beds, midsleepers and highsleepers. It covers the design of these beds for the safety of occupants and users - including the bars or supports that stop the occupant falling out and the design, construction and fitting of ladders and steps for accessing the bed. The dimensions and requirements for the safe manufacture and sale of bunk beds is also covered by law in England and Wales.

The beds that you look at, whether for your child or for yourself, should display a notice to say that they have been tested against the appropriate standards and have passed. If you're renting a furnished home, you should check that the beds meet these standards and if you are considering buying a bed second-hand, you should also make sure that the beds you are looking at comply with regulations. Older beds may not have been tested against these standards, which is why you should always consider buying a new bed rather than accepting a hand-me-down or buying a used bed or mattress.

Bed Next Day sells a range of traditional and contemporary single, double, king and superking beds, most of which are available with next day delivery. All the beds we sell are from reputable manufacturers, who have ensured that the beds they provide meet the relevant standards. Our brands include Silentnight, the Original Bedstead Company, Sprung Land and Sealy. Take a look at the beds available on our website, www.mattressnextday.co.uk and order online today, or call 0844 3911 222 if you have any questions.