A porch bed can be a wonderful and relaxing addition to a porch, but it is important to spend your money wisely, and purchase the best one for your needs. You will first need to determine whether you want a freestanding porch bed or a hanging one; freestanding are easier to install, and may be the only option for renters, but many people prefer the look and feel of a hanging bed. It is also important to consider the materials used to manufacture the bed to ensure it is of high quality, and whether or not the mattress and cushions are easy to fold up and bring inside in case of inclement weather.
Freestanding porch beds and hanging porch beds, with a design similar to a porch swing, are the two most common options. A freestanding porch bed is a great choice for people who rent their homes, do not have the construction know-how or ability to safely install a hanging porch bed, or who actually want to bring the bed inside to a garage or storage area during the winter months. Hanging porch beds are somewhat more popular because many homeowners prefer the way they look, and the relaxing way the bed will gently swing back and forth, but are more challenging to install, and will need to be securely mounted on a porch roof.
The size of the porch bed is another consideration when making this purchase. Of course it is necessary to make sure it will fit properly on the porch, but if there are few size constraints, it will be necessary to consider how it will be used. If it will primarily be a relaxing space for one person at a time, it may be fine to purchase a smaller bed, but if a couple of adults or a bunch of kids will be using it, then it will be a good idea to get a bigger porch bed.
It is also important to consider the materials used to create the porch bed. Solid wood is the best and sturdiest option, and will also hold up better over the years; in addition, it will be able to support more weight. Consider also the way the mattress and cushions are made. If you live in an area with unpredictable weather, you will certainly want to choose a mattress and pillows that are easy to pick up and bring inside without a great deal of effort.
