High sleeper beds are often considered the best solution to sleeping needs when looking for beds for small rooms. These beds featuring a bed on top with empty space underneath seem the perfect choice for congested areas – which they are!
However, when buying children’s high sleeper beds, considering the necessary safety precautions and tips is critical to ensure safety.
Safety Guidelines for High Sleeper Beds
1. No Kids Under Six
Safety guidelines for high sleeper beds strictly mention that children under six years of age must not sleep on the top bunk because of entrapment and fall risk. While the high sleeper beds at MK Furnishings Ireland have high railings and a stairgate (optional), it is still not suggested that younger children be left unattended in the top bunk.
2. Only One Child in a Twin Bed
Most high and mid sleeper beds have a single or twin bed suitable for one kid only. Unless you have a double bed, it is suggested that you do not allow more than one kid to stay in the bed at one time. Two kids sharing a bed meant for one will toss around and might accidentally trip over.
3. High Guardrails
All high mid sleeper beds must have guardrails to protect children from accidental falls. Each bunk must have a guardrail with a 7.5 cm gap between the frame and the guardrail. Also, the guardrails must be at least 16 cm above the mattress surface according to UK standard guidelines.
4. Consider the Weight Limit
Parents buying high sleeper beds for kids often forget to ask about the weight limit and realise that the bed is unsuitable for a child when we share the weight tolerance. As you can find high sleeper beds in different sizes and weight tolerances, it is best to get one that is the most suitable for your child.
5. Place the Bed Away from Windows
High sleeper bunk beds have significant space between the top bunk and the floor, making it risky for young kids. When getting a high-sleeper bed for your children, check if you have a suitable wall to place it against. The bed requires a plain wall without any window to reduce the chances of falls.
6. Keep Away from Sockets
Like windows, electrical appliances and sockets are also a safety hazard around children’s high sleeper beds. If you have a fan or lights on the ceiling that may be too close to the bed, it is better to get a high mid sleeper bed instead of a high-sleeper bed. It is best to avoid placing the bed in a room where the sockets are too close to the bed.
7. No jumping on the bed
Besides other safety tips and guidelines, telling the kids not to jump on the bed is important. The top bunk of high sleeper beds is considerably high from the floor, increasing the risk of bruises and harm if any kids lose balance.
8. Check Material Quality
While it is not highlighted particularly in safety guidelines, you must ensure the quality of the material when buying a high-sleeper bed. Often, cheap high-sleeper beds have low-quality materials which can be hazardous in the long-term. Opt for trusted sellers like MK Furnishings in Ireland to not compromise on the safety of your children.
9. Secure Staircase
Many high sleeper beds come with a ladder to climb to the top bunk. Though it looks minimalist and sleek, it is not the best choice for children’s high sleepers. High sleeper beds with a staircase offer sturdiness and ample space for the children to climb up and down the bed easily. Furthermore, the staircase has drawers that can be used to store toys, books, and clothes.
10. No Hanging Items near Staircase
Hanging organisers and items for activities are often common in themed beds, but make sure that they are not in the way of the staircase. When they are too close to the staircase, the child climbing down the bed might get entrapped in it and trip over.
11. Adequate Mattress Size
Getting a mattress that fits the bed properly is essential to ensuring safety in high sleeper beds. So, you must ensure that the mattress adequately fits the high mid sleeper bed with no spaces in between.
12. Appropriate Bed Height
The height of high sleeper beds may vary among different manufacturers so it’s good to measure your room’s height and get a suitable high sleeper bed. A very high bed also increases the risk of harm in case of an accidental fall. Thus, it is suggested not to get a very high bed, especially for kids.
13. Place a Rug or Carpet
You might try your best to protect your kids from hazards, but sometimes, you cannot prevent the inevitable. A thick rug or carpet is a must in a room with a children’s high sleeper to offer cushioning in case of a sudden fall.
14. Regular Inspections
Whether you buy a cheap high sleeper bed or an expensive one, it is important to monitor the bed regularly and check for any slats and loosened screws. All beds experience wear and tear, and even the slightest negligence can be harmful.
Final Words
Children’s high sleeper beds in Ireland are best for space maximisation, but you must consider the safety guidelines when buying one for your kids. The bed must be made of high-quality material, have guardrails, and should not be too high. Moreover, children below the age of six should not sleep in the top bunk, and kids must be taught not to play on the bed. Other safety guidelines include placing the bed away from electrical sockets and windows.
Check out our extensive range of high-sleep bunk beds at MK Furnishings Ireland to pick the one that suits you the best. Get in touch with us for further details and orders.