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Questions about beds and mattresses answered & stories told.

Rollaway beds can be a practical option for a shelter in certain circumstances, but there are several factors to consider before deciding if they are the best choice:

Advantages:

1. Space Efficiency: Rollaway beds can be folded and stored when not in use, making them a space-saving option for shelters that may have limited room.
2. Mobility: They are easy to move, which can be useful if the shelter needs to rearrange sleeping areas or convert spaces for multiple uses.
3. Comfort: Many rollaway beds can have pretty good mattresses, which might provide more comfort than cots or floor sleeping options.

Potential Drawbacks:

1. Durability: Rollaway beds may not be as sturdy as other bed options, especially in a high-use environment like a shelter. They could wear out quickly and require frequent repairs or replacements. (Nine Clouds Beds in Mississauga has a heavy duty rollaway bed)
2. Storage: While they fold up, they still require storage space, and shelters need to have a designated area for them when they’re not in use.
3. Setup Time: Staff or volunteers would need to set up and take down the beds daily, which can be time-consuming depending on the number of clients.
4. Cost: Rollaway beds can be more expensive than cots or floor mats, especially if the shelter needs to purchase a large quantity.

Alternatives

• Sleeping Mats: Highly durable, easy to clean, and the most space-efficient, but they offer less comfort.
• Bunk Beds: If the shelter has space for more permanent beds, bunk beds maximize the number of clients that can sleep in a given area.

Ultimately, whether rollaway beds are a good choice depends on your shelter’s specific needs, budget, and space availability. If comfort and space efficiency are top priorities, they can certainly be a viable option.