high sleeper - please help me choose!

[wethree]

hi everyone..

i really need some help with this: we'd love to get a high sleeper for my son (5) as he has a tiny room. i've narrowed it down to about 6 but they vary in price enormously. i just don't know hwat to get as its difficult to go and actually see them and i'm concerned that more money doesn't necessarily equal better quality. i would like to be able to use this bed for him until mid teens so i would like something solid. has anyone got any suggestions or experience of high sleepers, ones to consider, or avoid? i need one to fit a standard single (ie not european longer size) as room too small. this rules out thukka etc..

these are the ones i have looked at. i don't really want to break the bank on this but i am very confused!

www.flexa.co.uk/products/Classic-High-Bed-with-Straight-Ladder/1-5-PROD28-VO10.VO34

www.marksandspencer.com/Texas-High-Sleeper/dp/B004FOMSB6?ie=UTF8&ref=sr_1_1&nodeId=42966030&sr=1-1&qid=1316966755&pf_rd_r=1TEG7HXWE43HH6PRWPSQ&pf_rd_m=A2BO0OYVBKIQJM&pf_rd_t=301&pf_rd_i=0&pf_rd_p=215485807&pf_rd_s=center-3

www.diy.com/diy/jsp/bq/nav.jsp?action=detail&fh_secondid=10548432.

www.brasilianimports.net/store/default.asp?pag=products&id_produto=471&product= Antique High Sleeper Frame Only

www.archerssleepcentre.co.uk/Julian-Bowen-Bedsitter-Pine-Bed-Frame-p957.html

bonkersbeds.co.uk/epages/eshop515093.sf/?ObjectPath=/Shops/eshop515093/Products/BB(HF)0080&ViewAction=ViewProductViaPortal&Locale=en_GB

www.idealhomestore.com/Verona_Maximus_Highsleeper_White_Finish_p/verona%20ve-max-highsl.htm

any thoughts, gratefully received!

thanks!

We have a Flexa which is very well made and sturdy, so would recommend. I would choose a bed that can easily convert into a low down single bed, giving you more options in the future. You can sometimes pick them up second hand on Ebay or Friday Ad.

DS has an Aspace cabin bed - quality is great - and well worthwhile checking their seconds section for bargains.

thanks - i do LOVE flexa and aspace. just top end of our budge but i will keep looking for second had ones maybe. good to nkow whey are worth the money though. thank you!

Everyone I know who has had seconds from them has said that the damage is tiny and the saving fantastic. I have just had a seconds bed for DD delivered so fingers crossed!

Make sure your ceiling really is high enough. DD loves her high bunk, but it really is a bit of a tight fit and she's banged her head plenty of times.
Also get the best mattress you can afford, a 5 year old may not feel the slats, but a 8/9 year old will.

Just thought i'd update this: i found a second-hand Flexa high sleeper with desk, in the paper... we've just put it together and it is FANTSTIC! really solid and no fear of my son dangling over the edge because it has a nice high surround. slats on the ladder are wide, flat and foot-friendly and all in all its a properly well made piece of furniture that will last years :-)