Bean bag alternatives for your playroom
Move over bean bags, because Marshmallow’s in town. Here’s why Candyland, Formitura’s soft and lightweight debut collection, provides chic and savvy alternatives to the humble bean bag…
They may well have had a bit of a ‘moment’ over the past few years. Largely thanks to hip and happening start-up companies with a preference for bean bags over, oh, you know – actual useful, comfortable office chairs. But we’re here to introduce Formitura’s inaugural Candyland collection – a looks-good-enough-to-eat assortment of sleek and practical furniture designs. And, in the process, we’ll explain why the once-loved bean bag is no longer en vogue.
Bean bags - so what’s all the fuss about?
There are many theories about how and where the bean bag originated. Some say they were introduced by the Egyptians thousands of years ago - some time around 2000 BC, and used mainly as a prop in games.
The bean bag as we know it today was first brought to market in the Sixties, by the famous Italian furniture company, Zanotta, Three of the business’ designers were tasked with creating a new piece that was comfortable, unique and beautiful to look at. And so the first Zanotta bean bag was born.
So, what are the benefits of bean bags?
Bean bag aesthetics
Lots of people love the casual, slouchiness of a bean bag. A real favourite as kids’ playroom furniture and kids’ bedroom furniture, there’s a huge selection of designs, prints and colours out there.
Bean bags are comfortable
Did you know that bean bags are actually said to help with neck and back problems? It’s thought that the form-fitting structure aids posture and comfort. So much so, that new ‘neck bean bags’ have been introduced - miniature bean bags that can be warmed up in the microwave, and applied to any painful areas.
Bean bags are lightweight and easy to move
Most bean bags are made with something called EPS - expanded polystyrene. It’s similar to Styrofoam, and it makes for a very lightweight product. Handy for moving around from room to room.
Bean bags are fairly affordable
While there are some high-end, pricier options available, you’ll usually find that bean bags are pretty affordable.
The downsides of bean bags
It’s not all plain sailing, though. Take a look at some of the cons of bean bags...
Bean bag durability
Bean bags can look casual and fun, but their innate slouchiness often has its drawbacks. You may find yourself constantly fluffing your bean bag furniture, and that it loses its shape really quickly.
Getting up can be a struggle!
While many claim bean bags are great for neck and back issues, people with these types of problems - or limited mobility - may also find it a real struggle to pull themselves up out of a bean bag.
Bean bags can pose a danger to young children
While proving to be light and comfortable, bean bags contain EPS balls, which can be harmful to small children if the exterior isn’t strong and damage-proof. Similarly, bean bags aren’t suitable for really little ones - if they fall asleep on one, there’s a risk of suffocation.
Bean bags aren’t very environmentally friendly
Bean bags aren’t especially good for the environment. The EPS balls inside the majority of them can be extremely hazardous to birds and marine life. That said, these balls can be recycled if disposed of properly in a clear plastic bag.
Say hello to Formitura, a whole new world of bean bag alternatives...
Formitura specialises in sleek, foam-filled furniture. Made in Italy and 100% recyclable, Formitura designs are durable, lightweight and super-stylish. The debut collection, Candyland, features four models in dreamy colours. Meet your new bean bag alternatives. Here’s why they’re a cut above..
Your Formitura won’t lose its shape
Although comfortable, bean bags will often lose their shape - even with limited use. That couldn’t be further from the truth with our Marshmallow piece, pictured. Inspired by our Creative Head, Esti’s, love of sweets, this was the very first of all the Formitura designs. Like the rest of the Candyland collection, Marshmallow is made in Italy using both polyurethane foam and polyethylene. This innovative interior means it’s ultra lightweight and robust, and designed to retain its plump shape.
Your Formitura has all kinds of uses
A bean bag is just that – a big bag of ‘beans’, essentially. Yes, you can sit on them, but can you use them as a table, a chair and a footstool? We think not. Cue Peardrop, a curvy little number inspired by the traditional boiled fruit sweets. This design comes with a sturdy top – handy for snacks, drinks or books. And, as per the rest of the Candyland collection, it flaunts its very own bowling ball-style grabbing holes, so you can move it around with ease.
Your Formitura allows for storage
Bean bags with storage space are few and far between. And those that have the space can often only accommodate soft toys. Our Sugarplum design comes with a brilliant lift-off lid, so it’s perfect for a kids’ playroom, and will keep floors neat and tidy as well as providing seating for little ones. In true Formitura style, it’s also lovely to look at.
Your Formitura oozes style
Slouchy? Yes. Stylish? Not particularly, but it’s a matter of opinion. Instead of a bean bag then, how about a multi-purpose piece of furniture that’s easy to clean, easy to shuffle about and looks gorgeous at the same time? Enter Gingerbread – a playful design that’s reminiscent of Quality Streets, and could work beautifully as a child’s footstool around a Christmas tree.
Ready for a contemporary new bean bag alternative? Find your Formitura here.