When you are parents, the child’s bed is one of the investments that should not be overlooked. Because it determines the layout of the rest of your kid’s room but also because its comfort strongly conditions his sleep (and therefore yours, by extension).
There is no age to pass baby in a large bed. Some advance the period of “18/24 months”, others refer to that of “2/3 years”, and the last even speak of “3/4 years”. One thing is certain, if your child feels cramped or tries to climb the bars of his current bed, it is time to change it.
8 tips for choosing a child’s bed
Do you want to buy a child’s bed? Discover the main criteria to help you make your choice.
1. Ask yourself about your real needs
What type of crib do you need? If you only have a little space and your kid is not dizzy, a bunk bed, a combined bed or a loft bed are a good alternative. To optimize the storage of the bedroom, you can also opt for a bed fitted with drawers. A pull-out bed, meanwhile, will allow your child to occasionally welcome a boyfriend or girlfriend for a sleepover.
2. Study the height of the child’s bed finely
The height of the junior bed that you choose is important because it conditions the autonomy of your child. If the box spring is close to the ground, he can easily get on and off. Otherwise, he may ask for your help. This is particularly important if your child is still small.
3. Book the beds in height for children over 6 years old
Equipped with ladders that are sometimes difficult to access and often not very secure, mezzanine or bunk beds are to be reserved for children over 6 years old. In any case, make sure your child is comfortable in this type of bed before investing. Give it a try during the holidays or at a friend’s house, for example.
4. Bend over the length of the child’s bed
A child’s bed usually measures 70 × 140 cm. This size is suitable for kids from 2 to 6 years old. Some brands offer Best Kids beds of 70X160cm for an extended lifespan up to 7 or 8 years. If you think your child is ready for an adult bed, you can also go directly to a 90x200cm bed. If possible, it is better to proceed step by step.
5. Buy the mattress separately
To make your life easier, many manufacturers sell the junior bed with the box spring and the mattress. Problem: the quality of the latter often leaves something to be desired. To ensure the comfort of your child, it is better to seek and buy a mattress separately. Preferably choose a firm, hypoallergenic and anti-mite model. You will find commercially available mattresses suitable for children.
6. Prefer a bed frame made of natural material
Certain materials used for the manufacture of bed frames such as MDF (medium density fibreboard) release harmful substances into the air (VOC). Inexpensive, they arouse more and more distrust from parents. If possible, prefer solid, natural or oiled wood with ecological products, certainly more expensive but more respectful of the health of toddlers.
7. Choose the look of the bed with your child
The question of the look of the junior bed may seem secondary, however. It is best for your child to join if you want them to spend long nights. Disney bed, mezzanine bed, design bed, slide bed … take the time to weigh the pros and cons of each solution with it. You will find many children’s beds here.
8. Set your budget
You will find cots for all budgets. Some models are sold for a few tens of euros while others exceed 1000 euros. Determine your budget before embarking on a search. You will save time.
