Skip to main content

Kids’ Bed Buying Guide: How to Choose the Perfect Bed for Your Child

Elizabeth
Updated

Table of Contents

Shopping for the perfect bed for your child often accompanies an exciting milestone in their life. They might be transitioning from a toddler bed or sharing a bedroom with their sibling in your new home. With so many styles and features to choose from, finding the right kid’s bed can feel a bit overwhelming. You want one that is, above all, safe. You also want a bed that can meet the needs of a growing child, such as a growth spurt from kid to teenager. Of course, a bed that fosters a good night’s sleep is paramount.

In this comprehensive buying guide, you’ll find expert advice on what to look for in a child’s bed, including key safety and other features as well as a wide array of bed styles that are great for kids’ rooms.

Key Considerations When Selecting a Bed for Your Child

Here’s a high-level overview of what to keep in mind when shopping for kids’ beds. We’ll go into more detail on these throughout this guide:

  • Safety: Prioritize sturdy frames, guardrails, and proper mattress support for children.
  • Room size: Measure the available space to ensure the bed fits comfortably without overcrowding the room.
  • Age and growth: Choose a bed that will accommodate your child’s growth, so you can avoid frequent upgrades. We recommend that you choose a twin or full size bed for your kids.
  • Storage and functional needs: Many kids’ bed designs have built-in storage, desks, and other features that add functionality while saving space.
  • Shared rooms and sleepovers: If you have two or more children who share a room or a child who loves to host sleepovers, consider designs that meet these needs.
  • Comfort: Select a mattress that is supportive, comfortable, and promotes healthy sleep posture.
  • Style and theme: Consider how the bed’s design matches your child’s interests and room décor for a cohesive look they’ll enjoy.
  • Durability: Look for well-constructed beds that can withstand the impact of active kids who like to have fun, including jumping on the bed!
  • Budget: Find a balance between quality, features, and price that works for your family.
  • Ease of assembly: Consider how simple or complex it will be to assemble the bed as well as take it apart if you move.

Safety First: Features to Look For

When selecting a kid’s bed, safety should be your top priority. Here are key safety features to consider when choosing the best bed for your growing child:

Sturdy Construction

Opt for beds constructed with durable materials that can withstand your child's energy, including impromptu jumping sessions and sibling playtime. Ensure the bed frame, guardrails, ladder or steps (if applicable), and any moving parts are solid to prevent collapse or entrapment risks. For bunk beds, pay extra attention to the stability of the entire structure.

Guardrails

For younger children or those transitioning from toddler beds, guardrails can provide added security. If choosing a bunk bed, the top bunk should have high guardrails on all sides. For standard beds, removable guardrails can be a great option as your child grows. Ensure any gaps in the guardrails are small enough to prevent head entrapment.

Safe Design

Look for beds with rounded edges and corners to minimize injury risks. For bunk beds, check that the ladder is securely attached and easy for your child to use. Avoid beds with decorative elements that could pose entanglement or choking hazards.

Weight Limits

Always check and adhere to the weight limits specified by the manufacturer. This is particularly important for bunk beds, loft beds, and beds with trundles or pull-out features.

Certifications and Standards

Choose beds that meet the latest CPSC (Consumer Product Safety Commission) and ASTM (American Society for Testing and Materials) safety standards. At CozyBeds, all of our products comply with these standards, and each bed comes with a corresponding laboratory certification report, which we can provide upon request.

Here are the safety certifications our children’s beds meet:

  • CPSC - 16 CFR 1513/16 Compliant
  • CPSC - 16 CFR 1213 Compliant
  • Children's Product Certificate (CPC)*
  • CPSC - 15 U.S. Code § 1278a*
  • CPSC - 16 CFR 1303 Compliant*
  • CPSIA Compliant*
  • CPSC -16 CFR 1500.48 Compliant*
  • CPSC -16 CFR 1500.49 Compliant*
  • ASTM F1427-19/21 Beds
  • Phthalates content standards

By focusing on safety, including safety features, standards, and certifications, you’ll be providing a safe sleeping space for your child.

Non-Toxic Materials

It’s also important to opt for beds made with non-toxic materials and finishes. Look for low-VOC (Volatile Organic Compounds) paints and stains, especially for wooden beds, to ensure a healthier sleep environment for your child.

Remember, while these safety features are crucial, proper assembly and regular safety checks are equally important to maintain a safe sleeping environment for your child.

Considering Your Child’s Preferences and Sleep Needs

Every child and home setup is unique, and personal preferences and sleep habits are also important factors to consider when buying a bed for your child.

Sleeping Habits

Every child has their own sleeping style, which will factor into the best bed for their needs. For example, if your little one is a restless sleeper, you might consider options such as a bed with a larger sleeping surface, one that is low to the ground, or one with side rails or guardrails.

In addition, as we’ll explore in more detail in the section below on types of kids’ beds, consider the features that will make your child feel more comfortable and secure, such as a built-in shelf that makes stuffed animals and toys easy to reach, or a bed with a built-in light, or one with a trundle so mom or dad can sleep next to them if they have a bad dream.

Bedroom Size and Layout

Another important consideration is choosing a bed that will fit well with the size and layout of your child’s bedroom. Start by measuring the room's length and width, as well as ceiling height if you're considering bunk beds, a loft bed, or a Murphy bed.

Remember to consider other factors, such as windows, doorways, and play space. In addition, take into consideration the bed’s full footprint if there are built-in shelves, drawers, a ladder, or a slide.

If you have a small space, no worries. CozyBeds makes a wide range of children’s beds that are designed to work in compact spaces and shared bedrooms, including many beds that have built-in storage solutions or are designed for multiple uses, such as daybeds and loft beds.

Personalization and Style

Selecting the right kids’ bed isn't just about practicality – it's an opportunity to reflect your child's personality, spark their imagination, and create a sleeping space they'll love. This can go a long way in turning bedtime from a chore into an enjoyable experience for both of you. We’ll go into more detail on different styles of kids’ beds below, but here’s a quick checklist of things to consider when choosing the right bed design for your child:

  • Whether a themed bed, like a house bed or a car bed vs. more a more traditional style, like bunk beds or a platform bed, is best for your child
  • The need for extra storage or a desk
  • What added features your child might like, such as shelves, built-in lighting, or a slide
  • Colors and finishes that your child will enjoy – not just today but in years to come

Best Bed Styles for Kids

When it comes to different styles of kids’ beds, you have a vast assortment to choose from. Here are some examples of children’s beds that both kids and parents love:

Bunk Beds

Bunk beds are an all-time favorite bed style for kids. They provide a fun sleeping arrangement with a high perch and a cozy bottom nook, while also offering an efficient use of space.

Bunk beds are ideal for siblings who share a room or for kids who enjoy having sleepovers. Some styles can even be separated into individual side-by-side beds as needs change.

While the top bunk is recommended for children age 6 and older, the lower bunk might accommodate younger siblings, based on parental discretion.

If there are more than two children in the family, you can also consider triple bunk beds or quad bunk beds.

(Bunk Beds Buying Guide)

Loft Beds

Loft beds provide an elevated sleeping area that kids love while also creating valuable space underneath the bed for a desk, play area, or storage.

Standard loft beds are best suited for older children, usually age 6 and up, due to the bed height.

(Loft Bed Buying Guide)

Platform Beds

Platform beds are an excellent choice for children of various ages. These beds feature a solid base that supports the mattress without the need for a box spring. Their low profile makes it easy for children to get in and out of bed safely.

If there are two children at home, we highly recommend the type of double beds, as it consists of two beds placed side by side. This allows the two children to interact and play more.

(Platform Bed Buying Guide)

Trundle Beds

Trundle beds offer a versatile and space-efficient option for children's rooms. Featuring a second bed that pulls out from underneath the main bed, they're perfect for siblings who share a room, kids who enjoy frequent sleepovers, or even for parents who occasionally need to sleep near their child.

Daybeds

Another great option for a kid’s bed is a daybed. This design offers a multi-functional solution for children's rooms, serving as both a comfortable bed at night and a cozy seating area during the day.

In addition, with its semi-contained sleeping area, featuring a back and sides, a daybed can help younger children feel secure when they go to sleep. Plus, when a child grows into a teenager, the daybed can evolve into a cool lounging spot for reading or hanging out with friends.

(Daybed Buying Guide)

Murphy Beds

A Murphy bed is another great option for a child’s room. Kids love the “secret hideaway" aspect of the bed when it's put up, which offers more play space during the day. And for children’s rooms that have a low ceiling height or features like windows or a slanted ceiling, a horizontal Murphy bed that pulls down sideways is a great option.

In addition, a Murphy bed made by a quality manufacturer like CozyBeds, when installed properly, can be safe for children to operate under parents’ supervision.

(Murphy Bed Buying Guide)

Fun Beds for Kids

When it comes to finding the perfect kid’s bed, the sky's the limit for imagination and fun! At CozyBeds, we understand that a bed can be more than just a place to sleep – it can be the centerpiece of adventure and creativity in a child's room. Our extensive collection of fun bed designs caters to kids of all ages and interests, making bedtime and getting up in the morning easy and enjoyable.

Kids' beds can come in an array of whimsical options. Here are some styles we offer at CozyBeds:

By choosing a bed that captures your child's imagination, you're not just furnishing a room, you're creating a personal haven that your child will love to spend time in, day and night.

Choosing a Mattress

The mattress is another important part of choosing the right bed for your child. When selecting a mattress for your child’s bed, prioritize firm support to promote proper spinal alignment and development. In addition, be sure to look for mattresses made from high-quality, breathable materials that are hypoallergenic and resistant to dust mites, as these features contribute to a healthier sleep environment.

Additionally, ensure the mattress fits snugly in the bed frame to prevent gaps. And consider waterproof options or mattress protectors to guard against accidents during potty training.

Quality Materials and Durability

When selecting a bed for your child, durability and quality should be paramount in your decision-making process. Kids are known for their boundless energy and sometimes unpredictable behavior, which means their furniture needs to withstand more than just a peaceful night’s sleep. What about those jumping sessions with siblings and friends?

Look for beds made from sturdy materials, such as high-quality wood or high-grade, child-safe metals. These materials can better handle the wear and tear of daily use, including enthusiastic jumping sessions, impromptu fort building, and the occasional sibling wrestling match. Quality joints and fastenings are also crucial – they ensure the bed remains stable and secure even when subjected to your child's most vigorous play.

Child-Safe, Durable Finishes

Consider the bed's finish as well. A durable, non-toxic finish not only adds to the aesthetic appeal of the bed but also protects it from scratches, dents, and stains. This is particularly important for kids' beds, as they often double as play areas, homework stations, and general hangout spots during the day.

Look for finishes that are:

  • Non-toxic and low-VOC
  • Scratch and dent resistant
  • Easy to clean

In addition, a reputable manufacturer will stand behind their products with a solid warranty. At CozyBeds, we offer a one-year warranty on all our kids' beds, giving you peace of mind about your investment in your child's comfort and safety.

Remember, a quality kids' bed isn't just a short-term solution. Many well-made models are designed to grow with your child, potentially lasting through their teenage years. By choosing a bed with superior craftsmanship, you're not only ensuring your child's safety now but also making a smart financial decision for the future.

Creating the Perfect Sleep Haven for Your Child

When choosing a bed for your child or children, considering important factors, like safety, durability, comfort, and your child's personal preferences, will go a long way in creating a sleep space that not only supports their growing independence but also sparks their imagination. A well-chosen bed does more than just provide a safe and comfortable place to rest, it can become a personal sanctuary and a launch pad for their dreams.

The perfect bed for your child is one that adapts to their changing needs, from early childhood through the teen years. It should be a place where they feel secure, comfortable, and excited to spend time.

Please check the size chart below to choose the right size bed for your room.

If you have any questions about selecting the ideal bed for your child, please contact us. We’re happy to help you find the best option for your child’s bedroom!

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the different types of kids' beds?

Common types of kids' beds include standard single/twin beds, full size beds, bunk beds, loft beds, trundle beds, daybeds, platform beds, and themed beds (like car, house, or princess beds).

What size bed is right for my child?

A twin or single bed is typically suitable for most children, offering enough space without overwhelming smaller bedrooms. For tall pre-teens, you might consider a Twin-XL bed. And for children who move a lot in their sleep, a full-size bed might be the best option.

How much does a kids' bed cost?

Quality kids' beds typically range from around $200 to $1,000. The price depends on factors like material, design complexity, and additional features. CozyBeds offer affordable beds.

What age should a child have a normal bed?

Most children transition to a "normal" bed between ages 2 and 3, but this can vary based on the child's development and readiness. Some children may be ready earlier, while others might be more comfortable around age 4 or 5.

How can I make my kid's bed more comfortable?

To make a kid's bed more comfortable, invest in a quality mattress, use soft, breathable bedding, add plush pillows, and consider a mattress topper for extra cushioning. Ensure the room temperature is conducive to sleep and use blackout curtains if needed.

How do you choose a bed for a child?

Choose a bed for a child by considering their age, size, room dimensions, safety needs, and personal preferences. Factor in durability, growth potential, and how well the bed fits with your child's interests and room decor.

What helps kids go to bed?

Consistent bedtime routines, a calm and comfortable sleep environment, limiting screen time before bed, and engaging in relaxing activities, like reading stories, can help kids go to bed. In addition, you might consider dimming the lights before bedtime. Some children also benefit from white noise machines or soft night lights.

How can I make my bed fun for kids?

Make a bed fun for kids by choosing themed designs, adding colorful and playful bedding, incorporating fun elements, like tents or canopies, or opting for beds with built-in features, like slides or play areas. You can also let your child personalize their bed with their favorite stuffed animals or glow-in-the-dark stickers.

Where is the best place to buy a kid’s bed?

When shopping for a bed for your child, you can look at local furniture stores, but you’ll find the most variety online. Be sure to go with a reputable manufacturer to ensure the bed meets strict safety standards and is built to last. For example, at CozyBeds, you can find a wide selection of safe, durable, and stylish kids beds to meet your child’s safety needs and sleeping preferences.

Related articles

Comments

0 comments

Please sign in to leave a comment.

Powered by Zendesk