Kids’ bedroom furniture is a hot market for furniture retailers. For you, that means that there is more out there to choose from, higher quality, and a continual flow of new designs. What, though, should you be looking for in kids’ bedroom furniture? There are a few things to consider with two of the more popular types of kids’ bedroom furniture.
Bunk Beds:
When it comes to buying bunk beds, there are a couple of things to realize. First of all, many furniture retail stores do not sell “Bunkie boards” with their bunk beds. The Bunkie board is the board that lies under the mattress to act as a foundation. Essentially, it is MDF wrapped in cloth, but it is completely necessary. So when looking at and purchasing bunk beds, ask about the Bunkie.
Next, look for bunk beds that are going to be easy for a child to get into and out of. Is the ladder sturdy and easy for your child to use? Is there another way up and down? You should even have your child try out the floor model to be sure.
Captain’s Beds:
In case you don’t know already, captain’s beds are the beds that sit on top of a drawer set. These are becoming incredibly popular because they offer extra storage for children that have way too many clothes, toys, and what not. Additionally, they do not look too childish so that your son or daughter will outgrow the look too soon.
Many captain’s beds take Bunkie boards as well because a regular box spring will sit the mattress up too high. Be sure to ask. Also, since many have the option of a bookcase headboard, always ask your sale associate what comes with the bed at the price you see. In many stores, including the one where I used to work, many of the parts, extra drawers, various headboards, etc. are sold separately. Many also have certain groupings sold at set prices. Make sure you are always clear on what you are getting with a captain’s bed.
Overall Kids’ Bedroom Furniture
There are also a few things to keep in mind when buying kids’ bedroom furniture no matter what the exact type:
- Find something that will grow with your child; he may not like that racecar bed by the time he is 13, which means you will be buying another set then.
- Watch for safety: captains beds should have a way to open from underneath, toy chests should not lock, and look for good rails on top bunks.
- Don’t skimp on the mattress because he or she is “just a kid.” Your little one is growing as he or she sleeps and a good mattress can ensure proper spine alignment and back support.
- Bring along your child to make he or she part of the process. They will be much more accepting of the set that way.
Finally, keep in mind that everything we discussed about your bedroom furniture goes for kids’ bedroom furniture as well. Also, always remember to ask about assembly requirements and options since a lot of kids’ bedroom furniture is ready to assemble (RTA) to some degree.
Oh and one more thing…make sure you measure!