Buying a bed for yourself is easy, but when it comes to choosing a bed frame for your children, there are many factors to consider: the style, the kid's bed size that you want, the safety features, and how long it's going to last. In this Mattresses 365 Kids' Bed Buying Guide, we will discuss everything from cots to sleep stations to help you choose the perfect good-quality children's bed for your little one.
Kids' Bed Size Chart
We always recommend selecting a mattress size and bed frame that allow ample room for your child to grow, to maximise the longevity of the product and prevent your child from sleeping in an ill-suited bed for an extended period.
If you're uncertain where to begin, measuring your child's bedroom can provide a rough estimate of the available space. Then, refer to the mattress size chart below to identify the ideal bed size.
Even if you're not in the market for a new mattress, utilising the mattress size is the most effective way to determine the appropriate bed size for your child. While we have included age ranges as recommendations, keep in mind that every child is unique and may vary slightly from these guidelines.
| Mattress | Mattress Size (WxL) | Recommended Age Range | ||
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Cot |
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0 - 2 years |
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Toddler Bed/Cot Bed |
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2 - 4 years |
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Small Single Bed |
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|
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Single Bed |
|
|
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Small Double Bed |
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What age do kids go into a bed?
The age at which children transition from a crib to a bed varies and can depend on a number of factors, including the child's size, development, and readiness.
Some children may be ready to move to a bed as early as 18 months, while others may stay in a crib until they are 3 or 4 years old. Generally, most children make the transition between the ages of 2 and 3 years old. It's important to consider your child's safety when making the transition to a bed. Ensure that the bed is low to the ground, has guardrails, and is in a safe location in the room. Additionally, it's a good idea to talk to your child about the change and make it a positive experience.
It may seem tempting to transition your child from a cot to a big kid's bed right away, but it's crucial to consider their age, as each age group is best suited for a different type of bed.
For children under the age of 2, we suggest they continue using a cot bed that offers protection while they sleep with its high sides. Toddlers aged between 2-4 years should upgrade to a toddler bed, which lacks high safety rails, but instead has raised sides to reduce the risk of falling out of bed at night.
Low sleepers are ideal for children aged 4 and above because they are easily accessible as they are low to the ground. Mid sleepers and high sleepers are recommended for children above the age of 6 due to their increased height, making them suitable for older children.
Bunk beds should only be used by children over the age of 6 on the top bunk to improve safety, while children over the age of 3 can use the bottom bunk.
When purchasing a kid's bed frame for your child, it's essential to keep the kid's bed size in mind since kids' mattress sizes are not always the same as an adult bed. For instance, a toddler bed requires a toddler mattress, and so on.
For children under the age of 2, we suggest they continue using a cot bed that offers protection while they sleep with its high sides. Toddlers aged between 2-4 years should upgrade to a toddler bed, which lacks high safety rails, but instead has raised sides to reduce the risk of falling out of bed at night.
Low sleepers are ideal for children aged 4 and above because they are easily accessible as they are low to the ground. Mid sleepers and high sleepers are recommended for children above the age of 6 due to their increased height, making them suitable for older children.
Bunk beds should only be used by children over the age of 6 on the top bunk to improve safety, while children over the age of 3 can use the bottom bunk.
When purchasing a kid's bed frame for your child, it's essential to keep the kid's bed size in mind since kids' mattress sizes are not always the same as an adult bed. For instance, a toddler bed requires a toddler mattress, and so on.
How do I transition my toddler to a bed?
Transitioning a toddler from a crib to a bed can be a big change for both the child and the parents. Here are some tips to make the transition smoother:
Introduce the idea: Start talking to your child about the transition a few weeks before making the actual switch. Explain to them that they will be getting a big-kid bed and how exciting it will be.
Involve your child: Let your child help you pick out their new bedding or choose where the bed will go in the room. This will help them feel more involved in the process.
Gradually make the switch: It can be helpful to start by having your child nap in the new bed for a few days before making the full transition. This can help them get used to the new bed and make the transition less overwhelming.
Make the new bed feel familiar: Use your child's favorite blankets, stuffed animals, and other comfort items in the new bed to make it feel more familiar and comfortable.
Introduce the idea: Start talking to your child about the transition a few weeks before making the actual switch. Explain to them that they will be getting a big-kid bed and how exciting it will be.
Involve your child: Let your child help you pick out their new bedding or choose where the bed will go in the room. This will help them feel more involved in the process.
Gradually make the switch: It can be helpful to start by having your child nap in the new bed for a few days before making the full transition. This can help them get used to the new bed and make the transition less overwhelming.
Make the new bed feel familiar: Use your child's favorite blankets, stuffed animals, and other comfort items in the new bed to make it feel more familiar and comfortable.
Safety first: Make sure the new bed is safe by putting up guardrails to prevent falls and securing any cords or wires in the room.
Be patient: It may take some time for your child to get used to the new bed. Be patient and offer plenty of reassurance and comfort during the transition.
Best types of mattresses for kids
When it comes to choosing a mattress for a child, there are several factors to consider, such as the child's age, size, weight, sleeping habits, and any existing medical conditions. Generally speaking, a good mattress for a child should be supportive, comfortable, durable, and safe. Here are some options to consider:
Open coil sprung mattress: This type of mattress is a popular choice for children, as it provides good support and comfort. It also tends to be more affordable than other types of mattresses. Look for one with a high coil count and a firm support system.
Memory foam mattress: Memory foam mattresses are known for their comfort and pressure relief. They contour to the body's shape, making them a good option for children who tend to move around a lot during the night.
Latex mattress: Latex mattresses are durable and hypoallergenic, which makes them a good choice for children with allergies or asthma. They also provide good support and comfort.
Hybrid mattress: Hybrid mattresses combine the support of an innerspring mattress with the comfort of a memory foam or latex mattress. They can be a good option for children who need both support and pressure relief.
Open coil sprung mattress: This type of mattress is a popular choice for children, as it provides good support and comfort. It also tends to be more affordable than other types of mattresses. Look for one with a high coil count and a firm support system.
Memory foam mattress: Memory foam mattresses are known for their comfort and pressure relief. They contour to the body's shape, making them a good option for children who tend to move around a lot during the night.
Latex mattress: Latex mattresses are durable and hypoallergenic, which makes them a good choice for children with allergies or asthma. They also provide good support and comfort.
Hybrid mattress: Hybrid mattresses combine the support of an innerspring mattress with the comfort of a memory foam or latex mattress. They can be a good option for children who need both support and pressure relief.
Hypoallergenic mattresses: If your child has allergies or asthma, look for a mattress made with hypoallergenic materials and covers that are easy to wash.
We offer Kid's Bed Frames from Friendship Mills and vast selection of mattress options, such as the Komfi Unity Comfort Foam Mattress or the Sleepsoul Balance 800 Hybrid Mattress, that are perfect for children. If you need more information on Kid's mattresses, check out our Kid's Mattress Buying Guide.
We’re here to help, so if you're still unsure give our friendly team a call on 01642 686365 and ask for advice or take look at our other useful Mattress Buyer’s Guides below, to see if we can help you make the right mattress choice.
Mattress Buying Guides
Considering a Memory Foam mattress? We're here to help, find out more here.
Looking for a healthy sleeping environment? Then look no further than a Hypoallergenic mattress.
Looking for the right level of support from your mattress? Find out the benefits of a Pocket Sprung mattress.
Discover the Ultimate Guide to Hybrid mattresses: Unlock the secrets to the perfect night's sleep.
Looking for a new mattress? Let our guide walk you through everything you need to know about buying a new mattress.