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How do I Choose the Best Kids' Bean Bag Chair?

Angela Crout-Mitchell
Angela Crout-Mitchell

When choosing a kids' bean bag chair there are several factors to consider, including the material used in the construction of the chair, the size of the chair, and safety features. Bean bag chairs hit their original height of popularity in the late 1960s and early 1970s and fit in well with the more relaxed social mindset of that era. Often constructed in a bag or sack like shape, these chairs are ideal for lounging on the floor and are easily moved from one location to another. Children's bean bag chairs are usually made a little smaller than the standard size and may feature hypoallergenic materials as well. Many kids like to use bean bag chairs for TV viewing and playing video games in addition to other activities, such as reading.

One of the first decisions that should be made in regards to selecting a kids' bean bag chair is the material it is created from. The most common materials and fabrics used for the outside of the chair are vinyl, durable cloth, or for the novelty factor, furry material. Manufacturers have also created bean bag chairs to match sports, movie, and TV show themes to appeal to the younger generation. Most bean bags are filled with small beads of PVC or Styrofoam™ chunks to offer support and comfort while in use. Earth conscious parents can also find bean bag furniture made from all natural or organic materials as well.

Uniform polystyrene pellets can be used as bean bag stuffing.
Uniform polystyrene pellets can be used as bean bag stuffing.

It is important to consider the size of the kids' bean bag chair as well. These chairs are available in many different sizes and can be found to fit in just about any space. It is usually advised to match the size of the bean bag chair to the size of the child. Many kids have a hard time getting out of the chair when it is too large.

As is the case when purchasing any other type of children's furniture, it is important to consider safety features when choosing a kids' bean bag chair. Consumers will want to ensure the chair contains enough filling to make it stable and supportive, reducing the risk of suffocation. Most pediatricians strongly advise waiting until a child is old and strong enough to support their own weight and have good balance before introducing bean bag chairs. It is common to find bean bag products, especially those made for kids, with safety information on the label or packaging.

Discussion Comments

animegal

Does anyone know if it is hard to care for the fur covered children's bean bag chairs?

I am looking for a cute pink bean bag chair for my sister and I found one covered in a soft faux fur. She has a very girly room so I know she would love the chair but I am worried that the fur will get icky if she actually uses the chair for anything besides decoration.

The large bean bag chairs I have in my room are a suede material and they have held up really well. They are also surprisingly easy to clean. Perhaps a miniature version of what I have could work if the fur isn't the way to go.

drtroubles

@Sara007 - If you want the sturdiest children's bean bag chairs I would choose those that are made out of a thick vinyl. To get a really solid child's bean bag chair you are going to need to spend a bit more money as the hardiest ones are always a bit pricer.

What my wife did when we went shopping for bean bag chairs she pinched each of the bags with her nails to get a feel for the fabric and see if it was easily marked. We ended up finding a really sturdy chair that has held up to both kids and pets.

Sara007

I have been considering getting some children's bean bag chairs for my kids because they are always sitting on the floor. I can't seem to convince them that the couch is a better place to sit, so I figure I would compromise and get some bean bag chairs for kids.

Does anyone know which bean bag material is the strongest? We have a large dog and I don't want to buy some cheap discount bean bag chairs that will fall apart if our dog decides he wants to take turns sitting on the chairs with our kids. We love our dog but it does have a habit of wrecking furniture that isn't built well.

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    • Uniform polystyrene pellets can be used as bean bag stuffing.
      By: Nattawut Thammasak
      Uniform polystyrene pellets can be used as bean bag stuffing.
    • Bean bag chairs are a popular furniture staple for kids' rooms and college dorms.
      By: venusangel
      Bean bag chairs are a popular furniture staple for kids' rooms and college dorms.