How to Choose Kid-Friendly Furniture

How to Choose Kid-Friendly Furniture
Photo: Photo: Johny Goerend

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Are you a parent on the hunt for kid-friendly furniture but overwhelmed by the vast array of options? We understand – it’s a big task. Not only do you want your furniture to be safe and durable for your little ones, but you also want it to look great and be easy to clean. With so much to consider, knowing where to start is hard.

Here are some essential tips to make choosing child-friendly furniture a breeze. From materials to design, we’ll take you through everything you need to know to find functional, stylish, and comfortable furniture. So whether you’re in the market for a new sofa, bed, or dining table, please keep reading to discover our expert advice on selecting furniture that will meet the needs of your entire family.

Durability

When choosing kid-friendly furniture, durability is one of the most critical factors. Children inevitably jump on the furniture, spill drinks, and accidentally scratch or mark surfaces. Here are some tips to help you choose durable furniture:

  • Choose furniture made from sturdy materials such as solid wood, metal, or high-quality plastic.
  • Avoid furniture with delicate surfaces such as glass or easily scratched finishes.
  • Look for furniture with solid joints and sturdy construction. Avoid furniture with weak or wobbly legs or arms.

Another important consideration is the durability of the fabric or upholstery. Here are some options to consider:

Fabric/Upholstery Type Pros Cons
Leather Durable, easy to clean They are expensive and can be easily scratched by pets
Microfiber Durable, stain-resistant, affordable It can be difficult to clean certain types of stains
Cotton Durable, breathable, easy to clean It can wrinkle easily and may fade over time
Polyester Durable, affordable, easy to clean May pill or attract pet hair

By choosing furniture made from sturdy materials and durable fabric or upholstery, you can ensure that your furniture will withstand the wear and tear of everyday use by kids and pets.

room with kid furniture pieces
Photo: Collov Home Design

Safety

When choosing furniture for your children, safety should be your top priority. Here are some tips to help you select furniture that is safe for your kids:

  • Choose furniture made of sturdy, durable materials that won’t easily break or tip over. Avoid furniture with sharp edges or corners that could cause injury.
  • In the UK, kid’s furniture should be designed to meet child safety standard EN747.
  • Ensure that any bunk beds you choose have guardrails on all sides of the top bunk to prevent falls.
  • Check that drawers and cabinets have safety stops to prevent them from accidentally falling out or slamming shut on little fingers.
  • Consider using wall straps to secure furniture to the wall for tall or heavy pieces that could tip over.
  • Remember to regularly inspect your children’s furniture for any signs of wear and tear, and replace or repair any damaged pieces as soon as possible. These precautions can help ensure your children’s furniture is safe and secure.

Functionality

When choosing furniture that is kid-friendly, it is important to consider functionality. Kids need furniture that is versatile and can be used for multiple purposes. Here are some features to look for:

  • Storage: Kids have many things – toys, books, clothes, and more. Look for furniture with built-in storage, such as shelves, drawers, or cubbies. This will help keep the room organized and clutter-free.
  • Convertible: Furniture converted into different forms can be handy. For example, a bed can be converted into a toddler bed, or a changing table can be converted into a dresser. This will save you money in the long run and make the furniture more versatile.
  • Adjustable: Kids grow quickly, so choosing furniture that can be adjusted as they age is essential. For example, a desk that can be adjusted in height or a chair that can be adjusted to fit their size.
  • Functionality is vital when it comes to choosing furniture for kids. By choosing versatile furniture that can be used for multiple purposes, you can save money and make the most out of your space.
wood toy house for kids
Photo: Collov Home Design

Design

When choosing furniture that’s kid-friendly, design is an important consideration. Parents want furniture that is not only safe and functional but also visually appealing. Fortunately, there are many design options available that meet both criteria.

  • One option is choosing furniture with simple and elegant lines that are attractive and functional. Multifunctional furniture is also a great choice, as it can serve multiple purposes and save space. Another design consideration is colour.
  • Bright and bold colours can be stimulating for children, but they can also be overwhelming. Pastels and natural wood tones are popular for parents who want a more subdued colour palette. Furniture that is easy to clean is also essential. Children are notorious for making messes, so furniture that can be easily wiped clean or is stain-resistant is a must.
  • Finally, consider the age of the child when choosing furniture. Furniture with rounded corners and soft edges is safer for younger children. Furniture with more angular lines and sharper edges may be more appropriate as children age.

Choosing furniture that is kid-friendly can be a challenging task, but it is not impossible. By considering factors such as durability, safety, and functionality, you can find furniture that will not only withstand the wear and tear of daily use but also provide a comfortable and safe environment for your children.