What is Crib 5 & when is it required?

Crib 5, also known as 'Ignition Source 5', is a test that all contract beds must pass before being used in commercial buildings.

The aim of this test is to ensure that the materials and covers have passed UK Fire Regulations. This doesn't necessarily mean that every contract bed that passes the Crib 5 test is entirely fireproof, but it can save lives as products that have passed this test hugely reduce the risk of fire and ignition.

Essentially, the Crib 5 test determines whether the material and coverings of a contract bed will easily catch fire, in the unfortunate event of a fire. This test applies to upholstery and furniture. It's performed by stacking five tiers of a crib-like structure on top of and around the product. The structure is made from wooden planks stuck together with glue. The testers then set fire to the structure. The contract bed will pass the test if the material and coverings do not smoulder, ignite or set fire. The flames should extinguish themselves within 10 minutes to pass the test.

A Crib 5 test is required on all contract beds and furniture in commercial, educational and hospitality sectors. Below is a list of examples where a Crib 5 test pass is required:

• University accommodation
• Hotels
• Hostels
• B&Bs
• Rental properties
• Holiday parks
• Guest-houses
• Health-care centres

All establishments in the UK must adhere to the UK Fire Regulations. So, if you own furniture and beds in these sectors, they must have a Crib 5 pass.

It's an offence if your beds do not meet the requirements. You could face a prison sentence and an extensive fine. Your insurance policy could also be nullified in the event of a fire.

What types of contract beds are available?

There are 6 main types of contract beds available:

• Divan contract beds
• Folding contract beds
• Zip and link contract beds
• Contract bunk beds
• Contract student beds
• Contract sofa beds

You can find out more about the types of contract beds we have available at Mattress Online below.

Divan beds

The majority of contract beds are divan beds. These beds are usually with a solid wooden frame. They also come in a range of upholstered fabric and a lot of our contract divan beds are colour customisable. So, no matter what the style of your room is, you can find the perfect bed for your guests!

Folding contract beds

Folding beds are a useful contract bed to have in any situation. They can be easily folded and stored out of the way until you have an unexpected guest, or if you have more visitors than anticipated. It's always better to be prepared with a folding bed on stand-by, so why not check out our collection today?

Zip and link contract beds

Zip and link contract beds are extremely versatile and are perfect for use in a hospitality or hotel setting. This is because zip and link beds are designed in a way so that they can be pushed together and pulled apart to create one big bed or two smaller beds.

Simply push the beds together to create the perfect room for two guests, or unzip the mattress and split the base in two for visitors who would rather sleep separately.

We have a wide range of contract beds for you to choose from, so why not check out our range today?

What size contract bed can I get?

Contract beds come in all of the same UK sizes as standard mattresses. Here at Mattress Online, we offer the following sizes for contract beds:

• Small single
• Single
• Small double
• Double
• King
• Superking
• Superking zip and link
• Large single
• Contract single
• Contract small double

Can I buy a contract bed?

Yes! Anyone can buy a contract bed, they're not just limited to businesses within the commercial, hospitality and educational settings.

Feel free to browse our collection of contract beds and find the perfect one for you and your guests.

If you're interested in bulk ordering our contract beds, please call 01709 780881 and we can discuss discounts and delivery options. Free delivery is offered as standard!