What to Consider When Choosing a Toddler Bed
Both babies and toddlers spend a lot of time in their beds, either sleeping or playing, which is why you have to make sure it is a comfortable and safe place. But first, I think it’s important to make the difference between the crib, the toddler bed, and a large bed. The crib is going to be the first sleeping surface in a baby’s life and it should offer protection and support until they’re 18 months old.
Once they reach this age, it’s time for the toddler bed, which is bigger and less guarded, but it’s not a large bed. A toddler can use this type of bed until they’re about 5 years old after which it’s time to think about a regular bed.
It’s also important to know that the bed you’re using as an adult is not recommended for a toddler. Of course, you can allow the baby to play on your bed, but when it comes to sleeping, the baby should sleep on a mattress that was specially designed for their needs.
Since most parents tend to confuse the three types of beds, I did a bit of digging and found the most important features that a toddler bed should have.
#1: Make Sure it’s Safe
While the crib can be high from the ground (because it is guarded by safety rails) the toddler bed must be low on the ground, so the child can move up and down safely. If you’re worried that the toddler may fall from the bed, you should place some cushioning around the bed (pillows or soft rugs). This way, even if the kid falls from the bed, he/she won’t make direct contact with the floor.
Before you buy the bed, you should make sure the frame is solid. I recommend a wooden frame because all the joints come perfectly together and the bed will be sturdy even for the most active toddler. A metallic frame may wiggle and it will loosen up in time.
#2: Choose a Good Mattress
Specialists don’t recommend choosing the most expensive mattress, but one that fits your child’s needs. First, you shouldn’t go with a soft surface because your baby is still growing and a soft mattress may be problematic for the spine. Choose a firm, but comfy surface that accommodates the body and distributes the weight evenly. Take a look at this guide from the unclutterer on how to choose the comfortable mattress for kids bedrooms.
You should also think about the type of material you want for the mattress. For kids who don’t have allergies, a memory foam mattress will do just fine. Still, you should know that, in time, this type of material can gather asthma triggers like dust and pollen. So, if your toddler shows signs of allergic reactions, you should go with an all-natural mattress like latex or wool.
#3: Keep it Simple
I know you would love a decorative frame with princesses and unicorns, but it’s best to keep things simple. The best design you can choose for a bed frame has rounded corners and edges and there shouldn’t be any elements that jut out. Keep in mind that toddlers tend to pull on things and they will make a mission from removing a loose piece of wood from the frame.
Finally, choose non-toxic paint and finishes for the frame – a toddler likes to taste the world around and when the teeth will come out, he/she will use any excuse to munch on something.
Author Bio: Mike is an author at Try Mattress. His passion for sleep health has been an interest of his since college. Teaching people how important sleep is for our health is one of his favorite things to do.
