What age for a mid-height bed? Tips for choosing the right time

Categories: Children's Room

The transition from a baby crib to a child's bed is an important step in a little one's life. Among the various options available to parents, the mid-height bed - lower than a loft bed - is very popular for its many advantages.

However, it's important to know at what age a child can safely use this type of bed. In this article, we will give you recommendations and advice to help you choose the ideal time to transition to a mid-height bed.

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Characteristics of the mid-height bed

Before discussing the recommended age for a mid-height bed, it's essential to understand the specifics of this type of sleeping arrangement. The mid-height bed is a raised bed, usually about 90 cm off the ground. Unlike a classic loft bed, it doesn't always require a ladder for access, but rather steps or a ramp. In any case, it's always a smaller ladder. Indeed, it is lower than a loft bed, which makes it an excellent transition solution for children who want a raised bed.

The main advantage of this bed is that it allows you to save space in the child's room. Indeed, the space under the bed can be used to store toys, set up a reading corner, or create a play area. Moreover, some models even offer integrated storage, such as shelves or drawers. Other models incorporate desks.

What age for a mid-height bed? The recommendations

There is no universal age for transitioning to a mid-height bed, as it depends on several factors related to each child's development and needs. However, it is possible to give some general recommendations to help parents make the best decision.

The recommended minimum age

Generally, it is recommended to wait until the child is at least 6 years old before offering them a mid-height bed. Indeed, at this age, most children have acquired a certain level of autonomy and are able to climb up and down stairs or a ramp safely. Additionally, their sense of balance and coordination are sufficiently developed to avoid falls. As a French manufacturer, we strongly recommend the age of 6. However, each child is unique and develops differently in terms of height, weight, and maturity.

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Signs indicating your child is ready

Besides age, it's important to consider your child's skills and sleep habits. Here are some signs that show they are probably ready to transition to a mid-height bed:

  • They climb easily and safely on furniture and other high surfaces in the house.

  • They no longer fall out of bed or wake up often during the night.

  • They express the desire to have a mid-height bed and seem enthusiastic about the idea.

  • They are able to understand the safety instructions related to using such a bed, such as not jumping from the top of the bed or not playing too close to the edge.

Precautions to take to ensure your child's safety

Even if your child seems ready to transition to a mid-height bed, it is crucial to implement appropriate safety measures to prevent accidents.

Make sure the beds are made from solid and durable materials, such as solid wood or PEFC certified eco-friendly wood. 

The structure must be stable and well-constructed to ensure your child's safety. Also, remember to check that the bed's dimensions correspond to the size of your child's room and the available space. 

Finally, also choose a quality bed base and mattress. For the bed base, solid pine wood slats are an excellent choice. For the mattress, firmness is necessary to protect your child's back.

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Here are some tips to consider:

  • Choose a quality bed, compliant with current safety standards (NF EN 747 standard).

  • Check for the presence of a safety rail on the sides of the bed to prevent falls during sleep.

  • Opt for non-slip and stable steps or a ramp to facilitate access to the bed.

  • Place the bed against a wall to limit the risk of falls.

  • Regularly check that all fastenings and other elements of the bed are tight and secure.

  • Explain the safety rules to your child and make sure they follow them.

In summary, the transition to a mid-height bed depends on the age, development, and needs of each child. Generally, it is recommended to wait until the child is at least 6 years old and shows signs of sufficient maturity and autonomy to use this type of bed safely. Remember to take the necessary precautions to ensure your child's safety and promote peaceful and restorative sleep.

To help you find the mid-height bed that suits your needs and those of your children, we have selected for you our 4 best mid-height beds.