Choosing beds for children: what should you look at first?

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From birth, the baby sleeps in a small crib with fairly high sides. When the child gets older, parents begin to look for children's beds from 3 years old, since the baby can no longer fit comfortably on the previous bed. Such models are large in size and differ in functionality. In addition to safety, they are expected to be compact and ergonomic.

Design Features

A children's bed from 3 years old should differ from the adult version. It is the features of the product that are responsible for the baby’s safe sleep. Among the main requirements for arranging a sleeping place are ergonomics. This is the most important characteristic, since a child’s skeleton is formed during sleep. It is necessary that the bed is as comfortable as possible and suitable for height and age.

What else you need to pay attention to:

1. No sharp corners. All frame parts must be rounded, this affects the safety of the berth.
2. The height of the product should be small; it should be comfortable for children to get out of bed. Fulfilling this condition will also protect you from injury in case of an accidental fall.
3. Availability of sides. Children under 3-4 years old need this type of bed to protect them from falling during restless sleep.
4. Structural strength. Restless children love to jump on the bed or rock it.
5. The material from which the product is made. It must be environmentally friendly. In this case, the most suitable option is made of wood.

In order for a child to go to bed with pleasure, the design of the bed should be interesting. Thematic design models, such as a car or a house, are suitable. But it is unacceptable to have small design details that could be broken off. This is due to safety, since children love to tear off pieces and put them in their mouths.

A homemade bed must also meet all of the above requirements.

No sharp corners

Low product height

Availability of sides

Structural strength

Environmentally friendly material

Popular models

The choice of cribs is great. Among all the diversity, several popular types can be distinguished. They differ in their functionality, size and complexity of assembly.

Standard single with sides

The most common option is a single bed. It is intended for one baby and will look natural in a children's room with any interior. Such models are equipped with protective sides, which is suitable for a small child from 3 years old. Advantages: low price, ease of assembly. The disadvantage is its low functionality, since the bed does not have additional accessories.

Transformers

These are complex multifunctional structures. During the day, this model can be turned into a table, and at night, it can be used as a regular bed. Due to the fact that the height of such furniture is quite large, it is equipped with sides. Some of them can be increased in length. This is very convenient, since as the child grows there will be no need to purchase a larger bed; you will only need a mattress of the required length. However, it is worth considering that the width of the bed will remain the same. Cons: large design dimensions and high price. The transformer can be used for children from 3 years old, but there are also very small models for newborns.

For the bed to last a long time, the quality of the transformation mechanisms must be high.

Roll-out

The specific design of the roll-out model (matryoshka) is that the sleeping place is hidden in a niche. At night it pulls out and becomes a full-fledged bed. There are designs designed for two, three and even four children, which is very convenient for large families. In this case, each sleeping place is rolled out slightly higher than the previous one.

They can be installed in small rooms, which significantly saves space. The lower roll-out tiers are low, so it will be safe for small children from 3 years old to sleep on them. Older children sleep on the upper beds. The main disadvantage is the need for daily unfolding, which can lead to breakage over time. To avoid problems during operation, when choosing, you need to pay attention to sliding mechanisms and their quality.

Bunk

Ideal for families with two children living in one room. This model saves space in the room. There are different designs, for example, a corner one is popular, in which the sleeping places are located perpendicular to each other. A very practical furniture option is bunk beds for children from 3 years old with drawers for storing things or linen.

Models and designs of children's beds with soft backs, popular brands

A mandatory design element is the sides on the second tier (at least 30 cm), which will ensure the safety of a child of any age while sleeping. Suitable for children no more than four years apart. The only drawback is that if the room is too warm, then the child may feel very stuffy on the top floor.

The age categories are different: babies from 3 years old can be placed on the bottom crib, and older adults (from 6 years old) can be placed at the top. According to generally accepted standards, it is not customary to send small children under 6 years old to the upper tier, especially if they often wake up. As a safety net, the stairs must be equipped with handrails. You can also use rope mesh from the side to the ceiling.

With drawers

Manufacturers often add drawers to any type of children's beds. They can move out in different directions. The location option should be chosen taking into account the layout of the room:

• drawers roll out to one side if the bed is installed against the wall on one side;
• extend to both sides of the bed if the furniture is installed with its back to the wall;
• extend in the direction of one of the headboards if the supports are decorated with legs;
• as part of a set, when racks with shelves and drawers are located above the bed.

This additional furniture feature is designed to store various items, from bedding to toys. Their size is chosen depending on the filling. For example, teenage beds with small drawers are suitable for storing writing instruments, notebooks and textbooks.

When choosing, you need to take into account that for large drawers it is better to choose a design with wheels, and for medium ones - guide elements.

Attic

A distinctive feature of this model is functionality. These kids beds with bumpers save a lot of space in the room. The sleeping place is located on the second floor, and on the lower tier there is, for example, a desk or a sofa bed. You get to the top via a ladder, which can be folding, folding or sliding. There are also dresser steps with built-in drawers for storing various things.

For small children, it is better to choose attached structures with an opening width not exceeding 400 mm. The gaps between the steps should not be too narrow and not too wide so that the foot fits completely. It is important to ensure that the handrails do not slip.

A loft bed is often purchased for school-age children, since its design is quite high. For the same reason, it is not suitable for low rooms.

Couches

It is a small sofa bed that does not have a back, but is often supplemented with sides on both sides. Can be folding. The sleeping place is ideal for sleeping and is not inferior in its properties to orthopedic mattresses. The couch can also be used as a place to sit in front of the TV or just for hanging out with friends. Most often, such models are equipped with drawers for bedding or other necessary items. Advantages: space saving, low cost, folding models are suitable for a child of any age. The disadvantage is the presence of folds in the disassembled position.

The couch, if it is equipped with sides, can be used for children from 2-3 years old.

Beds for children from 2-3 years old

By the age of 2-3 years, the child grows out of the cradle, but he is not yet ready to sleep on an adult bed. The habit of tossing and turning in your sleep without worrying about your own safety can lead to a fall. Therefore, for children over 2 years old, a sofa bed or a crib with sides is best. There are several varieties of such sides.

Depending on the design there are:

• removable sides that can be unscrewed or removed over time (plus - a children's bed with a removable side can be transformed and adjusted to the needs of the owner, minus - the sides can be accidentally removed by the child himself). These sides are sold at any IKEA store.

Manufacturing materials

The furniture market offers children's beds from 3 years old, made from different materials. Each option has its pros and cons:

1. Wood is a reliable and safe raw material. As a rule, cribs are made from solid hardwood. Such products are durable, do not cause allergies, have a pleasant woody smell, but are highly expensive. Design solutions are presented in a wide variety.
2. Metal models are the most durable option. They are hypoallergenic and odorless, affordable for people with average incomes. Such products are a good option for installation in a children's room, although many parents consider them the most dangerous.
3. Beds made from chipboard and MDF are also a common type of furniture, which is distinguished by its diversity. Such models are included in the middle price range. The main disadvantage can be considered their unreliability, since the structure quickly wears out and dries out. When moisture gets on the surface, loss of shape occurs.

Important parameters of a teenage bed, current models, styles, colors

When choosing a crib material for children over 3 years old, adults should take into account all the positive and negative qualities in order to be sure of the safety of their child.

Tree

Metal

Chipboard

MDF

Nuances of choosing a size

There is a certain standard that allows you to accurately select the right model for each age category. There are four varieties, in cm:

• 75 x 130 - for children from 3 years old;
• 70 x 160 - from 5-7 years and older;
• 80 x 160, 80 x 190 - for teenagers.

The size of children's furniture also depends on the child's height. It must be remembered that the length of the sleeping place should have a reserve of about 40 cm. It is recommended to change the bed to a larger one every 4-5 years. If a transforming model is initially installed, it will last longer than the usual one.

To make your child feel comfortable and safe at night, you should not buy furniture for growth, since most often models for adults do not have additional protective elements.

How to choose the right design size

Children's beds from 3 years old with sides can be purchased in a standard size or ordered according to individual measurements. The second option is more convenient when space is strictly limited. But such a product will also cost more.

When choosing a bed, you need to be based on the fact that the child should have about 40 cm left in reserve from his height. The standard dimensions of a children's bed from 3 years old are 140 x 70 cm. This bed will last up to 5-7 years. After which it is recommended to purchase a model with a width of 80 cm and a length of at least 160 cm. On average, the sleeping bed must be changed after 4-5 years, each time purchasing a product 10 cm longer.

You should not buy a bed for growth; your baby will feel restless and uncomfortable in it. In addition, older models do not have adequate safety features.

Requirements for sides and headboards

Sides are special devices that ensure the safety of children's sleep. Beds for girls and boys over 3 years old are produced without them or with low restraints. The need for them arises if the child sleeps restlessly and moves around during sleep.

Some models of berths are equipped with hanging barrier devices. This version of the product is convenient, since by the age of 5-6 years the child already controls himself in his sleep and the sides can be removed from the crib. The main requirement for them is the absence of sharp corners; this is true at any age. Standard height is 30 cm (including the mattress).

There is also a modification of this device made of fabric or mesh. The positive thing is that the child, throwing his arms out in his sleep, will not hit or get bruised. The disadvantage of this option is its fragility, since the material stretches and may tear over time.

The headboard is an equally important part of a children's bed. It has not only a decorative function, but also a protective one. This is a restrictive piece, so it must fit the child's height and not restrict him while sleeping. The headboard also prevents the pillow from falling onto the floor. Many children lean on it like the back of a chair, so the element must be securely attached to the bed frame. The varieties include soft ones, upholstered in fabric, and hard ones. The second option is inconvenient if the bed is too small in height, and the child may hit his head on a hard stop. For younger children and those who fidget in their sleep, a soft option is preferable. Headboards come in a variety of shapes; this parameter depends on the design of the bed itself. It is preferable that there are no sharp corners on it.

Hard sides

From fabric

From the grid

Upholstered headboard

Upholstered in fabric

Hard

Variety of design solutions

The color of children's furniture is of great importance. The design of this interior detail will determine the mood in which the child will go to bed. After all, he will lie down in his favorite bed with great pleasure. The design decision depends on age:

1. Products for children over 3 years old should not be purchased in bright colors that will distract from sleep. You can choose models that are painted with white, pink or blue paint, taking into account the gender of the child. You can also choose an option to match the color of the wood. Stickers depicting cartoon characters, butterflies, boats and other funny designs will look interesting.
2. Older children - 5-8 years old - can be pampered with a sleeping place of various themes. Beds for boys are made in the shape of a boat, house, airplane, car or train. Such models will be decorated with a steering wheel, mast, rudder and other elements. For a girl of this age, you can arrange a boudoir decorated with ruffles and bows. Often a canopy made of light fabric is installed above the sleeping place. For sophisticated princesses, there are carriage-shaped beds.
3. Stylized models decorated with carvings, rhinestones and other inserts that are relevant for this age will suit romantic teenagers. Guys prefer sports style, it can be football or any similar theme. It is also worth paying attention to the interesting color design, for example, a laconic gray bed with bright red inserts looks original. Girls choose calm, light colors: mint, lavender or powder.

The best models of beds for girls of different ages, subtleties of choice

Whatever ideas come to mind, one thing is certain - the design of the bed should be in harmony with the rest of the room’s decor and not stand out from the overall design.

How to choose the right beds for children?

In order for children's furniture to serve the entire period declared by the manufacturer, you need to be guided by a number of criteria:

• choose a bed according to the child’s age;
• When purchasing, request a certificate of product conformity;
• Check that all assembly parts are present.

It is advisable to buy children's beds from solid wood.

It is advisable to buy children's beds from solid wood. In this case, the coating - paint, varnish - must be non-toxic. This will protect your baby from harmful fumes from furniture finishing.

Also calculate how commensurate the crib is with the area of ​​the room.

Prefer a design with slats over a crib with a plywood or wooden bottom. This will prevent the model from absorbing moisture and promote free air circulation.

In order for children's furniture to serve the entire period stated by the manufacturer, you need to be guided by a number of criteria.

Bedroom furniture for children should be lower than for adults. The child is still small and cannot control his movements in his sleep - it is easy for him to fall out of the crib. If it is equipped with sides with alternating slats or rods, then they are located at an average distance from each other so that the baby does not get his leg, arm or head stuck between them.

Furniture with streamlined shapes and without protruding fittings is suitable for a baby, since he is very mobile, but does not yet know how to control his body.

For a younger child, a classic or themed one is suitable, for an older child - from a standard model to a folding sofa.

Also calculate how commensurate the crib is with the area of ​​the room. It is important to take into account the environment in the room, but here you can always improve the situation - choose calm colors of curtains and wallpaper; complement the interior with interesting decor, etc.

Children's beds also have their disadvantages if they are made from low-quality materials.

Furniture with streamlined shapes and without protruding fittings is suitable for a baby, since he is very mobile, but does not yet know how to control his body.

Boys and girls over 4 years old can already choose a themed bed.

To organize a sleeping place, you can purchase complex furniture, which includes a bed, a wardrobe (chest of drawers), a table and a chair.

For sleeping places, choose designs that are as safe as possible.

If the age difference is more than 5 years, then if the room has sufficient space, it is wiser to purchase different beds.

Boys and girls over 4 years old can already choose a themed bed. Initial hobbies will show which model the child will prefer. Boys tend to love technology, so bedroom furniture in the shape of a racing car or airplane will appeal to them. Girls love everything fairy-tale - you can arrange for your little “princess” a matching crib with a canopy or an imitation carriage.

Initial hobbies will show which model the child will prefer.

You can paint the classic model yourself - cartoon characters, flowers, abstractions of geometric shapes painted in bright colors will cheer up the kids.

Children's models within each type can have one or two, and sometimes three tiers.

A bunk bed is ideal for two children - its design serves as a sleeping place, a “training camp”, and an area for interesting games.

Girls love everything fairy-tale - you can arrange for your little “princess” a matching crib with a canopy or an imitation carriage.

If the age difference is more than 5 years, then if the room has sufficient space, it is wiser to purchase different beds. For a younger child, a classic or themed one is suitable, for an older child - from a standard model to a folding sofa.

Furniture for children today is very diverse.

Boys tend to love technology, so bedroom furniture in the shape of a racing car or airplane will appeal to them.

Useful tips for selection and placement

To ensure that the bed lasts as long as possible and you can relax comfortably in it, you should follow simple rules when choosing. The first thing you need to pay attention to is the size of the bed. It must be appropriate for the age and height of the child. In addition, it is worth considering the following nuances:

1. A prerequisite for healthy sleep is an orthopedic mattress that will not allow the spine to deform. A child will always sleep well on such a bed.
2. To prevent the air from stagnating and circulate faster, it is better to opt for a model with slatted sides. The distance between the latter should be no more than 8 cm so that the child’s head does not get stuck between them.
3. The quality of the material from which children's beds are made must be at a high level. To avoid allergy problems, you need to choose products made from environmentally friendly materials. Prefabricated models should not contain formaldehyde-based glue or resin paint.
4. When choosing models with various mechanisms (transformers, draw-out and others), you need to pay attention to their quality so that they work smoothly and without the use of force.
5. If the children's room does not have impressive dimensions, then models consisting of several items, for example, a loft bed, are suitable. For families with two or more children, roll-out or two-tier options are perfect.

The product must have a quality certificate, so when choosing, it is a good idea to check its availability.

Availability of an orthopedic mattress

For air circulation, it is advisable to choose models with sides in the form of slats

Pay special attention to the quality of the material

Check all retractable mechanisms

It is also important to place the children's bed correctly in the room. You should not install a sleeping place next to a radiator, which serves as a source of increased temperature. Placing it near a window is also undesirable: drafts can harm the child’s health. Sockets, wires and other dangerous objects should be kept away from the bed. In addition, so that children can see those entering the room, furniture should be placed facing the door. Knowing these simple rules, you can create a comfortable and safe sleeping place for your child.

Do not place the bed next to a heating source

Drafts from windows can harm a child's health

The child must see everyone entering the room

Sockets, wires and other dangerous objects should be kept away from the bed

Choosing a children's bed depending on the child's age

It is best to choose an option that is recommended exactly for your child’s specific age, which guarantees his safety.

When describing different models, manufacturers give special recommendations for the age category of children for whom these or those beautiful cribs are intended:

• Newborns (from 0 to three years);
• From 3 years to five;
• Schoolchildren and teenagers;
• Two children (same gender or different).

Children's furniture should not be purchased for children to grow into. It is advisable to periodically update the interior of your child’s bedroom.

Crib for newborn

Which bed should you choose for your child so that the baby has good sleep and proper development of the spine? Experts recommend the following types:

• With a changing table. Such a crib for a baby goes well with the functions of a changing chest, and such a “furniture element” can additionally have drawers under the changing and sleeping area. In some cases, the design contains open shelves;

• Cradle bed. It must have a convenient, reliable, practical swing mechanism. The cradle can be used permanently due to the locking position. Currently, there are two types of cradles: with automatic rocking (without anyone’s help) and with mechanical (manual) rocking. But keep in mind that many children quickly get used to motion sickness and without it they will not want to fall asleep peacefully;
• Cot-playpen. It is a great option for small apartments where a newborn lives in the bedroom with his parents. In this case, the sleeping area is combined with the playing area. Reliable legs ensure a stable position and do not allow the structure to tip over, even if the baby stands up and leans its handles on the sides;

• With drawers. It is a mobile (on wheels) or stationary (on legs) structure, having one or two drawers under the bed. Thanks to them, the space under the bed is used efficiently, and the drawers are convenient for storing bedding and things for a newborn.

A canopy can be attached to a crib for children from zero to three years old.

Cot for babies from 3 to 5 years old

When the child turns three years old, parents need to choose the right standard design of the recommended size. You should pay attention to the following samples:

• Transformable bed. Suitable for a child from three to five years old, but babies will also feel great in it. In the original version, it is a crib with a place to sleep. It can easily be transformed into a sleeping place and have an additional, separate table;

• Classic. Single standard soft bed with sides that will protect the baby from falling. They can be add-on, lift-up or stationary, and are mounted on one side or on both sides, depending on where the bed is located;
• Thematic. The best modern beds for children are made in the form of animals, cars, boats, castles, etc. Initially, they have protective sides, and the size of the bed is ideal for children from 3 to 5 years old. Such products can be made to order, so their cost can be much higher than that of ordinary classic ones.

The protective sides must be firmly secured so that the child cannot remove or move them.

Models for schoolchildren and teenagers

At this age, children are already trying to be independent, so you need to furnish a room for them with an individual approach. The most functional unusual beds will suit them.

For this age category they often buy:

1. Loft beds. Perfect for placing a child's working and sleeping area efficiently and compactly. In this option, the bed is located in the attic (on the second tier) and, depending on the design, there are shelves (closed and open), a computer or desk, a pencil case, a closet, etc. below;
2. Classic. In this standard variety, the size of the bed is equal to a one-and-a-half bed for adults. They come in different colors, with a large selection of footboards (bed headboards) and headboards. Models may be different:

• Unisex;
• Boy's bed;
• Bed for a girl.

This age category of children implies the purchase of furniture for growth. This procedure is simply necessary in order not to change the interior of your son or daughter every year.

Beds for two children (same or different genders)

When it comes to furnishing a room for two children, the most important aspect is that the sleeping area is very compact, leaving plenty of space for lively play.

Optimal options:

• Add-ons. They are a place to sleep, raised on high legs. Under it you can place a second classic stationary bed. Many manufacturers offer such kits to families with two children, as well as the opportunity to inexpensively purchase any of the parts separately. Often modular children's rooms include seating areas in a ready-made solution;
• Bunk bed for children. These are real sleeping places in two copies, which are located on top of each other. They have a practical and durable single design. You can get to the second “floor” by steps that look like drawers or stairs.

These are two ideal options for furnishing the bedroom of two children - of the same or different sexes. Everyone will have their own personal territory and space to sleep.

In the photo of beds for children you can see a variety of styles of modern models (industrial, classic, minimalism, hi-tech), various shapes, colors.