Kids Bed Buying Guide: Expert Tips

Want to secure the perfect bed for your child? Learn insider tips on safety, quality, size, and more with our comprehensive kids' bed-buying guide!

Finding the right bed for your child is an important decision that can affect their sleep, health, and development. The bed they sleep in needs to be safe, comfortable, and sized appropriately for their age and stage. But buying a bed for your child may seem an overwhelming process because every retailer or site offers you various options to choose from.

So, to ease your decision, our bed-buying guide will cover everything you need to consider when shopping for your child's bed. We'll look at the different types of beds available, recommended sizes of kids' beds, and features to look to secure the best bed for your child.

Let’s simplify the shopping process for your kids’ bed and promote healthy sleep habits needed for their growth!

What Are the Various Types of Kid’s Bed?

There are several main types of beds made for kids, each with its benefits based on a child's age, interests, and room setup. Here are some popular options you can consider:

Toddler Beds

Toddler beds are a common transitional bed for kids aged 2-4 years old. They have safety rails to prevent nighttime falls and often depict colorful characters or shapes that appeal to little ones. Low to the ground, toddler beds help young children get in and out of bed more independently as they move from a crib into their own sleeping space.

Bunk Beds

Bunk beds for kids efficiently stack two beds vertically to maximise floor space in a bedroom. The bottom bunk sits close to the ground while the top bunk is elevated and accessible by an attached ladder.

Loft Beds

Similar to bunk beds, loft beds lift a standard twin or full mattress 3-5 feet above the floor via either a metal frame or stairs. The open space underneath can then be used creatively for elements like a play area, desk, or storage. Also, loft beds are a versatile option for kids who enjoy climbing.

Canopy Beds

Canopy beds have decorative fabric draped above the mattress to create a cosy, whimsical feel. The sheer canopy attracts children who enjoy more creative, ornate bedroom themes.

Cabin Beds

Cabin beds incorporate wooden panels stretching partway across 1-3 bedsides in a cabin or house-like form. Some styles also have storage drawers built into the base. The partial coverage helps section off the sleeping area while maintaining an open surrounding play space.

Trundle Beds

Trundle beds are second low-profile bed that stores underneath a standard elevated bed frame. The trundle slides partway or fully under the main bed when not in use. These beds maximise sleeping capacity in tight spaces, ideal for accommodating sleepovers.

What are the sizes of Kids' Beds?

Since you have explored the types of children’s beds, there is a need to know about the typical sizes of these beds in the UK to decide what size is suitable for your child’s age and needs. Here is a quick overview of different bed sizes:

Small Single Bed Size:

• Dimensions - 2ft 6in x 6ft 3in (75cm x 190cm)
• Narrow bed for toddlers transitioning from crib to bed

Single Bed Size:

• Dimensions - 3ft x 6ft 3in (90cm x 190cm)
• Standard 1-person bed for older children & adults

Toddler Bed Size:

• Dimensions - Vary, but often around 70cm x 140cm
• Low, railed bed for toddlers learning to sleep independently

Bunk Bed Size:

• Dimensions - Most commonly made up of two standard single beds, each sized 3ft x 6ft 3in
• Vertically stacked beds, ideal for siblings sharing a small room.

Cabin Bed Size:

• Dimensions - Typically single bed sized, around 3ft x 6ft 3in
• Beds with partial wooden panels on the sides for privacy

Space-Saving Cot Bed Size:

• Dimensions - Approx 3ft x 6ft 3in (140cm x 70cm)
• Converts from crib to child bed, saving space long-term.

How to Buy a Kid’s Bed? Features to Consider

When it's time to transition your child from a crib to their first "big kid" bed or upgrade them to a larger sleeping space, selecting the right bed involves a few key considerations for safety, durability, and adaptability:

• Size: Make sure to allow ample growing room, while ensuring the mattress fits snugly for safety. Measure your space and opt for longer frames if possible.
• Safety: Look for brands that adhere to voluntary safety standards and test beds for structural stability and lack of toxic materials. Rounded corners, guard rails, and low heights help prevent injuries.
• Frame: Select durable wood frames or metal with a baked-on painted finish for moisture protection and to prevent chipping over years of use.
• Adaptability: Beds that convert from crib to toddler to twin size or include adjustable mattress levels can adapt across ages. Under-bed trundles are great space-saving additions too.
• Comfort: Make sure any mattress fits the frame properly and look for quality foam and innerspring options to provide posture and joint support during growth spurts.
• Added Features: Convenient details like storage drawers, attached ladders, decorative fabric, detachable guardrails, and character themes make the bed fun and personalised.

What Age to Move from a Toddler Bed to a Single Bed?

The typical age range for a child to transition from a toddler bed to a standard single bed is around 3-6 years old. Many parents opt to move their toddler into a small single or twin-size bed with guardrails once their child reaches 35-38 inches tall or ages 3-4. This allows growing room as the child continues developing physically.

It also accommodates longer overnight stretches without the need to exit the bed frequently. Experts generally suggest making the move before age 6 when growth spurts can hit rapidly. However, considering your child's maturity level and sleep habits will determine the ideal timing.

Final Remarks

Finding the right bed for your growing child is an important investment in years of great sleep and healthy development ahead. By understanding standard kids' bed sizing, and considering key features like durability, safety, and adaptability, you can ensure the bed you select will properly support them at every age and stage.

And don’t forget to have fun with it! Adding your child’s favorite colors, bedding, decoration themes, and storage can make the new bed positively theirs, now and through to adulthood.