Bunk beds seem to be a staple in many children's bedrooms. However, you may be wondering about how safe these beds actually are for your children. Are there any risks associated with them? What about children who don't like heights? You may also want to think about the other options for children who want bunk beds but are on their own.
What are the risks of bunk beds?
There are many risks that come with bunk beds. Falling from the bed is the most common risk and results in the most injuries. Studies have shown that this risk is greater for children under the age of 6 when they are in these beds. The ladder of the beds is also a great risk as children can slip off it or hit themselves on it. Older children who are using these beds will run the risk of hitting their head when getting up in the morning. It is possible to reduce these risks by having a few rules agreed with your children.
Sleeping on the top of bunk beds
Sleeping on the top bunk is something that any child will want to do. That does not mean that every child should do it. There are certain rules you should stick to when it comes to sleeping at the top. The most important one would be that the child has to be over the age of 6. Younger children run a higher risk of hurting themselves if they are on top. Generally it is the older child that should be placed in the top bunk. Children who are fearful of heights may have a problem with the top bunk.
Bunk beds and night walking
Does your child walk around at night? Do they have sleep disturbances? If the answer is yes to these questions then you may want to wait before buying bunk beds. Children who sleep walk should never be placed on the top bunk. Additionally, if they are on the bottom bed they run the risk of hitting the ladder when they get up. Children with other sleep disturbances should not be placed on the top bunk as well as they may fall while sleeping or when they try getting out of the bed.
Midsleepers as another option
If you only have one child but want to get bunk beds you may be looking for another option. Midsleepers are a great way to give a child a bunk bed without having the additional bed going to waste. These beds will have the mattresses raised with space under them. This space can be used as a play area or a study space. Many manufacturers now add fun items to the space beneath the bed. Some midsleepers even come with slides as well as ladders for children to have a fun and easy way to get off the bed.
Bunk beds are considered normal for a child's bedroom and children love them. However, there are a number of risks of injury that they carry and you need to be aware of them. If your children suffer from sleep disturbances or sleep walking then you will need to carefully consider whether these beds are right for them.