Buying a bed for yourself is quite different from buying a bed for your kids, as it goes far beyond aesthetics. With a wide range of variety, it can feel like an overwhelming decision to get the right fit. Quality sleep is essential for a child’s physical and emotional growth, learning capacity, and immune function. Hence, buying a supportive, safe, and comfortable bed helps your kids develop better sleep habits and stay energised and focused throughout the day. Besides sleeping and resting, a kid’s bed can be a space for relaxing, reading, as well as playing. Some of the factors parents should consider while choosing the right bed for their kids are safety features, room size and layout, child’s age and growth, comfort, and mattress support. So it is important to choose a bed that not only suits your child’s age and development but also aligns with your budget, lifestyle, and space.
What Factors Should You Consider When Choosing the Right Bed for Your Child?
While selecting the right bed for your kids, safety and comfort are crucial, especially for toddlers and young ones, as they require beds with low height and guardrails to prevent falls. Likewise, it is essential to ensure that the bed frame has sturdy joints to withstand everyday use and is made of non-toxic materials. Besides this, you should also consider your child’s age, personality, and the available space in their bedroom to fit the bed frame without leaving dangerous gaps. Moreover, opting for a bed that adapts as your child grows, like an extendable or convertible frame, can provide better value over time.
Safety Features
When buying a bed for kids, safety should be top priority; hence, look for beds with guardrails for toddler beds and top bunks. Guardrails are essential to prevent accidental falls during sleep for children who tend to move around a lot at night. If you’re buying a bunk bed, the upper bunks must include full-length guardrails on all sides, regardless of wall placement. Likewise, the bed should be made from non-toxic materials and finishes, as children are more vulnerable to harmful chemicals.
Choosing beds with low-VOC (Volatile Organic Compounds) or child-safe certified paints and coatings for a healthier sleep environment. Likewise, choose beds with rounded edges and smooth corners to minimise the risk of bumps and bruises during bedtime and play sessions. Also, beds should be low-to-the-ground for toddlers, making it easier and safer for them to get in and out of bed on their own. Moreover, always check for certification compliance that meets British Standards (BS) certification, and is tested for durability, material safety, and structural integrity.
Room Size and Layout
It is important to measure the available floor space and the height of the ceiling to ensure the bed fits comfortably without overcrowding the room. Likewise, high beds like lofts and bunks especially require sufficient ceiling clearance to allow easy access and avoid bumping heads. Also, parents should take into account the placement of doors, windows, and furniture such as storage, desks, and wardrobes, as beds should not block windows or doorways.
Similarly, wall space plays a key role while choosing a bed. The room should have enough room for a headboard if desired, and for additional shelving above or beside the bed. This is usually done for extra storage for storing books, toys, or bedding essentials. If you have a smaller bedroom, you can go for compact or multi-functional designs like loft beds or bunk beds. These beds are designed to save floor space and often come with built-in storage space or desks to help keep the room functional and tidy.
Child’s Age and Growth
You should always check the age restrictions of the bed you are planning to get before purchasing it. As kids grow quickly, selecting a bed that accommodates this growth can save you time and money in the long run. Likewise, getting a standard single or a small double allows your children to use it comfortably for several years, rather than outgrowing it within a short time. Extendable or convertible beds are a smart investment for long-term use, as a toddler-sized bed can be gradually expanded to suit older children.
Getting a bed that is flexible and adapts as your child grows is the best solution. This eliminates the need to replace the bed every two to three years. Moreover, the height of the bed also plays a crucial role, as low-profile beds are easier and safer to climb into and get out of on their own. As the child grows, getting a mid-height bed like loft styles or cabin style will be a more suitable option if you need to save space and include storage units underneath.
Storage and Functional Needs
While choosing a bed for your kids, storage and functional needs are important factors to consider to help keep the room tidy and organised. In a small and compact bedroom, beds with shelves, drawers, or under-bed storage are excellent for maximising space. They are convenient and easy to store clothes, books, toys, and bedding items in rooms where additional furniture may not fit.
Likewise, for families with multiple children or those who often host sleepovers, trundle beds are a smart choice. The pull-out bed below provides extra sleeping space without occupying more floor area when not in use. Lastly, for older children, loft beds with built-in desks are perfect to combine sleep and study in one compact unit. This design helps free up limited space by integrating a workspace below, making it ideal for the study area, a playing area, or a reading area.
Comfort and Mattress Support
When choosing a mattress for your kids, firmness, comfort, and support are crucial. A firm and supportive mattress helps maintain proper spinal alignment, promoting healthy posture and preventing discomfort as children grow. Parents should avoid overly soft mattresses that don’t provide enough structure for children who are still developing physically. Likewise, it is wise to get hypoallergenic materials like organic cotton covers or latex-free foams to reduce the risk of irritation or allergic reactions. Doing so keeps the children safe and ensures a healthier sleeping environment.
You should make sure that the mattress is compatible with the frame, whether it is a solid or slatted base. Slatted bases are more breathable, whereas a solid base provides a firmer feel. You can also check the manufacturer’s recommendations to ensure the best support and fit. Another key factor to consider is ventilation and moisture-wicking fabrics since kids can be prone to accidents and night sweats. This type of materials can help regulate temperature and keep the bed dry and fresh.
Style and Theme Preferences
While getting a kid’s bed, matching the design of their room, personal interest, and their decor complements the overall style of the room, making it feel more welcoming. Themed beds like race car, princess castles, or animal-shaped frames can transform your kid’s bedroom into a magical space and add a touch of fun and an imaginative bedtime for younger kids.
You can select the bed materials, colours, hobbies, and characters as per your kid’s liking to make it more fun. This can also reflect your child’s personality, making bedtime more enjoyable. As children grow, their tastes often change; hence, choosing timeless and neutral designs like wooden frames, classic colours, and minimalist styles can be a smart investment. This idea can be useful for shared rooms as these designs are easier and versatile to adapt over time.
Budget Considerations
When planning to buy a bed for your kid, be sure to include the cost of bedding, a quality mattress, and any essential accessories like guardrails or under-bed storage. It is important to establish a realistic budget that encompasses more than just the bed frame. As additional accessories can quickly add up, planning a full picture of the total expense will help you make a well-informed decision.
Also, parents should consider the long-term value of the bed, rather than focusing solely on the cheapest or lowest price. Investing in an adaptable and durable piece may cost more upfront, but it saves money in the long run as it lasts through multiple growth stages for multiple children. Lastly, going for multi-functional beds with built-in storage, trundles, and study desks can eliminate the need for extra furniture. These space-saving designs are value for money and significantly useful in smaller rooms.
What Are the Different Types of Kid Beds Available by Age Group?
When choosing a bed for your children, you should consider different types of beds available according to age group to ensure safety, practicality, and comfort. Some of the popular kid or toddler beds are cot beds, single beds, mid and high sleeper beds, cabin beds and storage beds. Cots and cot beds are best for babies up to three years old. This type of bed offers a secure sleeping space with high rails and can be converted into a toddler’s bed as well, providing longer usability. Likewise, toddler beds are suitable for kids between the ages of two to five years old. Toddler beds are low to the ground and often come with side guards, designed for safety. Similarly, single beds are also a popular choice for kids above four years who require ample space for growing.
Crib-to-Toddler Beds
Crib-to-Toddler beds are a smart transitional choice specifically designed to ease the transition from a cot bed to a larger bed. This type of bed is ideal for children between 1.5 to 4 years old who are starting to explore more independence while maintaining safety. This type of bed is low to the ground and has side rails, making it easier for toddlers to get in and out of the bed on their own, reducing the risk of injury from falls. This bed are convertible and transforms from a standard cot into a toddler-sized bed. It is a cost-effective option and a great transitional solution before moving a child into a standard single or twin bed. The typical dimensions for crib-to-toddler beds in the UK are 140 cm (length) x 70 cm (Width), perfect for smaller rooms and young children.
Single Beds
Single beds are a practical choice for children from the age of four when they start to outgrow their toddler bed. This type of bed provides enough sleeping space for kids without feeling too large and overwhelming for young kids. These beds offer great versatility in design, like playful themes for younger children to more minimalist and mature designs for teens. Likewise, these beds work well as additional storage solutions with under-bed drawers or a pull-out trundle to maximise space. The standard UK single bed size is 90 cm (width) x 190 cm (length), making it stylish, practical, and comfortable for everyday use. These single beds easily adapt as your child grows, leaving ample space for play areas, wardrobes, or desks, and saving money in the long run.
Twin Beds
Slightly larger than single beds, twin beds are a practical choice for growing children and provide just the right balance between comfort and space-saving. As single beds can feel congested and cramped as children grow, twin beds offer a bit more room, making them perfect for medium-sized bedrooms. It is suitable for growing children transitioning from early school years into the teenage stage, offering consistent comfort and evolving sleeping habits. The typical twin beds in the UK measure 97 cm (width) x 191 cm (length), and a twin XL comes with the same width but 203 cm in length. These beds are perfect for taller kids, allowing them to stretch freely during sleep and preventing the need for early bed replacements.
Bunk Beds
Bunk beds are an optimal choice for families with multiple children sharing a room or homes that often host sleepovers. This bed help maximise floor space, leaving ample room for additional furniture like a desk, wardrobes, or storage units. Bunk beds are recommended for children aged six or older to prevent the risk of slips and falls during sleep. You should choose a bunk bed made from strong wood or heavy-duty metal with safety rails on the upper bunks for additional safety. Likewise, an easy-to-climb and secure ladder or staircase should be installed for easy and secure access. A typical bunk bed in the UK is 90cm (width) x 190 cm (length) in size, however, the overall frame dimensions can vary, i.e. 200 cm in length, 100 cm in width, and 160-180 cm in height. Parents should measure the room to be used carefully before purchasing the bed to ensure a safe and comfortable fit.
Triple Bunk Bed
Triple bunk beds are an excellent choice for families with three children or those needing extra sleeping space. These beds offer space-saving benefits while ensuring comfort for three sleepers. Available in various styles, such as Single Over Double Bunk Beds and Detachable Triple Bunk Beds with Trundle, they are designed to maximise room functionality. Typically, the dimensions of a triple bunk bed are 240 cm (width) x 175 cm (height) x 140 cm (depth), with mattress sizes of 90 cm x 190 cm for the single and 140 cm x 190 cm for the double. Children aged 3 and older can safely use the bottom bunk, and children aged 6 and above are best suited for the top bunk. These recommendations follow safety standards to ensure secure, comfortable use. Younger children will benefit from toddler or cabin beds as a lower sleeping option until they’re ready for raised bunks.
Loft Beds
Loft beds are a brilliant space-saving solution for smaller bedrooms. They elevate the sleeping area and free up valuable floor space beneath for settings like a study desk, play zone, or even an additional storage area. This design helps maximise functionality in the room without sacrificing comfort. Loft beds are usually perfect for children aged 6 and above, depending on their coordination and maturity for climbing up and down safely. You should consider your room’s ceiling height before purchasing, as at least 75 to 90 cm of clearance between the mattress and the ceiling should be available to prevent bumps and allow your kids to sit up comfortably. The standard dimensions of a loft bed for a single mattress are 90 cm (width) x 190 cm (length), while some models are available in small double (120 cm x 190 cm) sizes, with height ranging from 150 cm to 180 cm, depending on the design.
Trundle Beds
Trundle beds are perfect for families with multiple siblings and who frequently have overnight guests for sleepovers. The pull-out bed stored beneath the main frame offer a convenient and cosy sleeping solution without the need for a separate guest bed. This design can be neatly tucked away while not in use, freeing up valuable floor space for study and play time. Trundle beds are suitable for kids aged 6 and above and are optimal for smaller rooms or shared bedrooms where every square foot is essential. The standard trundle beds in the UK accommodate a single mattress with 90 cm (width) x 190 cm (length) dimensions on both the main and pull-out frames. However, it is recommended to check the manufacturer’s specifications as some trundle bed models may vary slightly in size or clearance height.
At What Age Should a Child Move to a Specific Bed Type?
Children transition through different bed types as they grow. Between 18 months to 3 years, kids usually move from a crib to a toddler bed. Around 4 to 5 years, they usually move to a twin bed, and kids aged 6 and above can use loft or bunk beds, once they’ve developed the coordination to climb and get down safely. Lastly, a full-size bed are suitable for teens or children experiencing early growth spurts for optimal comfort and space.
Here is a table explaining the appropriate age for transitioning to different types of beds:
Bed Type | Recommended Age | Explanation |
Crib to Toddler Bed | 18 months to 3 years | When kids start climbing out of the crib or show interest in more independence, it is optimal to shift them from a crib to a toddler bed. Toddler beds come with guardrails and are low to the ground, making them a safe next step. |
Toddler to Twin Bed | 4 to 5 years | Once the kid outgrows their toddler bed, moving them into a twin bed with rails for safety suits their growing size and needs. |
Loft/Bunk Beds | For 6 years and above | Bunk of loft beds are recommended for children aged 6 and above, or after they have the coordination and awareness needed to safely climb up and down. These beds are the perfect space-saving solution for shared or smaller rooms. |
Full-size Beds | For teens or early growth spurts | A full-size bed is suited for pre-teens or teenagers experiencing growth spurts. This type of bed provides extra sleeping space and comfort and can be used for a long time. |
What Is the Best Mattress for Your Child?
While choosing the best mattress for children, parents should go for one that is medium-firm to firm for optimal support for their growing body and posture. Likewise, you should ensure that the mattress size fits well within the bed frame with no gaps at the edges. Breathable and hypoallergenic materials are perfect to keep your child cool at night and reduce the risk of allergies. Similarly, you should choose a durable mattress that will last through years of use. Lastly, parents should make sure that the mattress meets the UK safety standards like BS 7177 for additional safety and precaution.
Based on Sleeping Habits and Posture
While choosing a mattress for kids, it is crucial to consider their sleeping posture and habits. If your child is a back sleeper, getting a medium-firm support mattress helps them maintain spinal alignment without being too hard. Likewise, for side sleepers, a soft mattress helps reduce pressure on the joints by offering better cushioning around the shoulders and hips. Similarly, for a combination sleeper, an adaptive foam or a hybrid mattress provides the right balance of comfort and support, adjusting to different sleeping positions with ease.
Environmental and Health Considerations
Considering both environmental and health factors is important to ensure a safe and supportive sleep environment. Choose mattresses made from hypoallergenic and dust mite-resistant materials to help prevent allergies and respiratory issues, particularly in children with asthma. Likewise, choosing organic or OEKOTEX-certified fabrics ensures the materials have been tested for safety and are free from harmful chemicals. Lastly, getting a mattress with low VOC emissions is essential as they reduce the release of harmful gases that affect the indoor air quality and a child’s long-term health condition.
Nature and Personality of the Child
It is important to consider your kid’s nature and personality while choosing a mattress. Breathable and cool-sleeping materials help regulate body temperature and keep children who tend to move around a lot comfortable throughout the night. Likewise, memory foam or soft-knit top mattresses can provide a calming and soothing surface, which helps children settle more easily by reducing discomfort. Also, choosing a removable and washable cover can help maintain hygiene and a fresh sleeping environment.
Room Temperature and Climate
While choosing a mattress for your children’s bed, it is essential to consider the room temperature and local climate. Children who tend to sleep hot may benefit from mattresses with ventilated layers or cooling gel. This type of mattress helps promote airflow and regulate body temperature. Likewise, kids living in cold climates may prefer foam mattresses, which retain warmth and provide a cosier sleep environment. Parents should avoid getting a firm mattress as it can feel uncomfortably hard and cold during the winter months.
Why MK Furnishing Is the Ideal Destination for Kids’ Beds in the UK?
Choosing the right mattress and beds for your kids can feel like a constant challenge, much like other items. Finding the right bed that fits your child’s needs is about balancing comfort, safety, style, and future-proofing, all while ensuring it fits your home aesthetics. Whether you’re looking for a crib, a toddler bed, or looking for space-saving loft and bunk beds for your growing children, MK Furnishing has them all. It is the perfect destination for children’s beds in the UK, offering a wide range of products. From toddler beds to loft and kids’ bunk beds, MK Furnishing caters to every stage, from childhood to adulthood. We use child-safe and non-toxic materials in our thoughtfully designed, space-efficient furniture that adheres to the UK safety standards. Besides, we can create themed designs or built-in storage beds in every colour your child imagines.