Choosing the perfect bed for your child is more than just a purchase, it’s an investment in their comfort, safety, and healthy development. From transitioning out of a cot to finding a fun yet functional bunk bed, the right sleep setup in their bedroom makes all the difference in their growth and quality of rest.
The size, design, and materials are essential in creating a nurturing and inspiring environment for bedtime stories and sleeping.
In this guide, we explore how to choose a child’s bed based on age, safety, room size and mattress type, with expert tips for UK parents and a handy checklist at the end.
Choosing the Right Size Bed for Growing Kids
One of the first things to consider is your child’s age and stage of development, and we are probably talking post cots to toddler beds or the next big step. I had a changeable cot bed combo, then straight into full size. It meant spending more at the time, but less over-all, and to accommodate regular overnight guests.
The right bed should support their size today and accommodate growth in the years to come. Kids’ beds are available in various sizes and styles to suit different developmental stages, so do your research and ask for their input.
- Toddlers (2–4 years): A low toddler bed with side rails provides security during the transition from cot to bed.
- Primary age (5–10 years): A standard single bed (90x190cm) or small double (120x190cm) gives room to grow.
- Tweens & Teens (10+ years): Consider an extra-long single or full double to future-proof your purchase.
Top Tip: If your child is experiencing a growth spurt, go for a longer mattress to avoid the need for a new bed within a year or two. Remember that your kids can grow incredibly quickly, and you don’t want their feet hanging off the end at any point.
If you have the space, a full size bed is worth it in the long run. You’ll thank me if you ever have to get in alongside them for cuddles when they are poorly. Also, they can double up as guest rooms at Christmas, or when they start wanting sleepovers, which I didn’t even think about when choosing my sons bed.
How Safe Should a Bed Be for Toddlers and Tweens?
When it comes to kids beds, safety is non-negotiable. Always look for solid construction, certified material, and compliance with UK safety standards. The same applies to bedroom furniture, don’t go cheap and flimsy unless absolutely necessary as children love jumping on beds and playing things like floor is lava.
Safety Must-Haves:
- Rounded corners and smooth edges to prevent injuries
- Guard rails for bunk or mid-sleeper beds
- Secure ladders with non-slip steps (especially for bunk beds)
- Certified compliance: Look for BS EN 747 standard labels for bunk bed safety
For children under six, bunk beds are not recommended. If you’re looking for a loft bed or high sleeper, ensure there’s sufficient clearance between the bed and ceiling.
Bunkbeds are a practical, fun way for your children to share a room and take up less room than a twin. And they are ideal for a sleepover, but they should comply with safety standards. They must have guardrails on both sides of the top bunk at least 16cm above the mattress surface, and the gaps between them and the frame can’t exceed 7.5cm. The ladder must be securely attached to the frame and offer secure steps.
Choosing the Right Mattress for Your Child
A mattress affects your child’s sleep quality, posture, and overall health. Make sure it suits their needs at every stage:
- Babies: Firm, breathable mattress to reduce risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS), as soft mattresses can cause their chins to rest on their chests, obstructing their airways. Avoid pillows and soft bedding in their cribs because they can also increase the risk of suffocation.
- Toddlers & Young Children: Medium-firm to support developing bones and joints
- Older Children & Teens: A slightly softer surface may be more comfortable, but still supportive
Other Considerations:
- Hypoallergenic materials (to reduce dust mites and allergies)
- Removable covers for easy washing
- Durability: A good-quality children’s mattress should last 5–7 years
- Mattress sizes should fit the bed frame securely with limited excess space
- Get elasticated sheets as kids wiggle a lot during the night
Space-Saving Bed Ideas for Small UK Homes
British homes often have smaller bedrooms, especially in newer builds. Luckily, modern children’s beds offer clever solutions for maximising floor space.
Smart Options Include:
- Mid-sleeper beds with built-in desks or storage
- Bunk beds for siblings or sleepovers
- High sleepers with wardrobes, shelves or sofas underneath
- Divan beds with drawers or lift-up storage bases
Tip: Measure the room first, especially ceiling height, before committing to elevated beds. It’s a nice idea to have the space underneath, especially if the area will get used with a desk or similar. But get those key room measurements and make sure the rest of the bedroom furniture fits around it.
Standard double beds or larger king, and queen-size mattresses are only suitable for larger rooms. Investing in a high-quality mattress of this size can last almost a decade and accommodate growth spurts as your child ages.
Final Considerations: Style & Longevity
While safety and comfort come first, choosing a bed your kid likes can help make bedtime easier. Let them get involved in selecting colour schemes or themes, it gives them ownership and builds excitement around sleeping in their own bed, super helpful if you are trying to encourage independent sleeping.
Go for neutral tones or timeless designs if you’re thinking long term, this avoids outgrowing the style too soon.
Buyer’s Checklist: Choosing a Child’s Bed
Use this checklist to make an informed decision:
Ideal for age/stage (cot to toddler bed, junior to teen)
Meets safety standards (e.g. BS EN 747 for bunks)
Appropriate mattress firmness for support
Fits room dimensions with space to walk and play
Includes built-in storage or allows for under-bed boxes
Design your child will enjoy (but won’t outgrow too quickly)
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best bed size for a 5-year-old in the UK?
A standard single (90x190cm) works well, but a small double may provide more room to grow.
When can my child safely move to a bunk bed?
UK guidelines recommend age 6+, and beds must meet BS EN 747 safety standards.
How often should I replace a child’s mattress?
Every 5–7 years, or sooner if it shows signs of sagging or discomfort.
What bed is best for small rooms?
Mid-sleepers or divan beds with storage help maximise floor space in compact homes.
