How Safe Is Your Bed?

Common Bedroom Fire Risks

The bedroom can be more hazardous than you might expect. Three common causes of bedroom fires are worth knowing about.

Smoking

Smoking in bed accounts for 30% of mattress fires. Every three days in the UK, someone dies from a fire started by a cigarette. If you smoke, always use a proper ashtray and avoid smoking in the bedroom entirely.

Candles

Around five fires a day in the UK are started by candles. If you use candles in the bedroom, place them in proper holders on a stable surface, well away from curtains, bedding, and hanging fabrics. Never leave a candle unattended.

Electric Blankets

Over 500 fires a year are caused by electric blankets. While modern blankets are generally safe, they should be checked regularly for damage to the blanket or wiring and replaced immediately if any faults are found.

Fire doubles in size every three minutes in a mattress. In many cases, it is the carbon monoxide from the smoke that is most dangerous, not the flames themselves. A fire-retardant mattress does not make the bed fireproof, but it provides valuable extra time in an emergency.

BS7177: The British Standard

BS7177 is the British Standard covering the flammability of materials used in beds and mattresses, including covered divans, mattress covers, and upholstered bases. While not a legal requirement, it is an important indicator of safety and performance.

Products tested under BS7177 are assessed for ignitability against a range of sources, including cigarettes and matches. Check that any mattress you buy carries a BS7177 compliance label.

EN747-1: Bunk Bed Safety

The European standard EN747-1 (which superseded the earlier BS6998) covers the safety of raised beds, including bunk beds, mid-sleepers, and high-sleepers. It sets requirements for:

• Guard rails and supports to prevent occupants falling out
• The design, construction, and fitting of ladders and steps
• Safe dimensions for the sleeping area

The manufacture and sale of bunk beds is also covered by law in England and Wales. Any bed you buy should carry a label confirming it has been tested and passed the relevant standard.

What To Check When Buying

• Look for a label or notice confirming the bed has been tested to current safety standards.
• If renting a furnished property, check that the beds meet current fire-safety regulations.
• Avoid buying second-hand mattresses, particularly older ones that may pre-date modern fire-safety standards.
• Consider a mattress with fire-retardant properties for additional protection.

For help choosing the right mattress for your needs, our buying tips guide covers the essentials. To compare mattresses across UK retailers, check our mattress listings page.