Safety Considerations When Buying Children’s & Baby Furniture

When it comes to decorating a room for your baby or child, the possibilities are endless. Stimulating colors, wall art, soothing designs, and contemporary themes are just some of the things you’ll consider, along with furniture.

One of the biggest purchases you’ll make will be a crib or bed. It’s important to consider the safety of the furniture you are buying. Here are some things to consider before purchasing children's furniture for your child’s room.

Cribs

Most parents believe that the crib is one place where they can leave their baby unattended for short periods of time without worry. However, if you buy an unsafe crib, you are putting your baby at risk for serious injury.

The most common injuries include falls, and getting body parts stuck between the bars. Be sure that your baby’s crib meets all of these requirements:

Slats, spindles, corner posts and rods must be less than 2 3/8 inches apart at all points with no loose slats.
The crib should have metal mattress supports, as they are stronger than wood supports, which is important for withstanding a jumping toddler. Make sure the supports are not plastic.
The crib must be sturdy, not wobbly, when you try to shake it.

Bunk Beds

Every kid dreams of having a bunk bed. It must be something about the idea of having your bed in the air that makes it cooler than a regular bed. Bunk beds are great for saving space, especially when your little ones share a room.

That being said, bunk beds are often viewed as in-house jungle gyms by your children. Many injuries can be prevented if you take the proper steps to ensure the safety of your kids. Common injuries occur from jumping on or off bunk beds, wrestling on or around bunk beds, hanging off bunk beds, and jumping off ladders. Consider the following things when buying a bunk bed: