What Else Should I Keep in Mind When Choosing a Bed for My Child

It goes without saying that you want to keep your child as safe and comfortable as possible. By selecting furniture that have rounded corners, is the correct height for the child’s developmental stage, and have easy-to-open drawers, doors and lids, you'll create an environment that is safe and secure.

• Because ladders and climbing are involved, for safety reasons save bunk beds for children over six years of age.
• Also as a safety measure for children under six, choose a bed with a solid headboard as opposed to a slatted one; avoid other design styles that include open spaces, such as metal bars or lattice work.
• When choosing a bed for a child making the transition from a crib to a regular bed, select a style that is close to the ground and has safety rails.
• If you’ve decided on buying a bunk bed, make sure there is a minimum of two feet of space between the bunk and the ceiling.
• For new bunk bed users, consider including a night light in the room to make middle-of-the-night trips to the bathroom safer.
• Select paints and finishes for walls and furniture that are lead-free and non-toxic.
• It might seem like a battle you will never win, but when planning a child’s room don’t forget to include an easy-to-use storage system. It might encourage them to develop the habit of keeping things in their place. Whatever system you decide upon—storage cubes, plastic bins, baskets or dressers—use labels to help them remember where everything goes. For pre-schoolers, use pictures.
• Proper lighting is especially important in a child’s bedroom. When deciding on the placement of their furniture, take full advantage of natural light, and ensure that there will be enough overhead and task lighting for homework, etc.
• If limited space is an issue, either due to room size or the room is being shared by two, consider purchasing furniture that incorporates extra storage like a captain’s bed or a bookcase headboard.
• If you are purchasing a trundle bed, check manufacturers’ descriptions for weight specifications, especially if you are buying the bed for older children and their guests.
• Secure to the wall any piece of furniture that might be considered "too tall" such as a bookcase or armoire. Many manufacturers will include anti-tip kits so that you can safely secure the piece of furniture while reducing the risk of accident.