Should You Buy a Double or Single Bed for Your Child?

When your baby becomes too big for a cot or a toddler bed, it is time to decide which bigger bed is the best choice. The questions arise, should you buy a double or single bed for your child? The answer to this question is not the same for everyone. Here are some things to consider when choosing the right bed for your child.

How much space do you have?

Before considering which bed you should buy for your child's room, it's worth visualising the space you have inside it. Measure the bedroom and decide where other furniture will be placed to make sure you have enough room for the bed you are considering. You need to allow enough room to get around the bed easily, access other furniture, and still have a play area for your child.

You'd expect a double bed to be double the dimensions of a single bed but in actual fact, that's not the case. The dimensions are as follows:

Kids Single Bed Size

• Kids single bed dimensions: 90cm x 190cm.

Kids Double Bed Size

• Kids small double bed dimensions: 120cm x 190cm.

Kids Double Bed Size

• Kids double bed dimensions: 135cm x 190cm

Another thing worth thinking about is that between single, double and small double kids beds; the length will never change. Size-wise you only have to think about the increase in width.

How much can you spend on the new bed?

A double bed (including small double beds) is usually more expensive than a single bed. Additionally, if you are purchasing a bed to last more than a few years, you want one built solidly that will accommodate your child’s weight as he or she grows. With beds, as with everything else, you get what you pay for and a higher quality bed is going to be more expensive.

What size bed should a 12 year old have?

Generally, a full size kids mattress would be perfect for a 12 year old, however, how quickly they make the transition to a full size mattress is a different matter. Some kids hit their growth spurt younger than other which warrants the transition sooner. Our childrens bed range includes a number of different beds that are fit for a full size mattress such as single beds, double beds & bunk beds.

Which bed is best for you and your child?

If there are times when your child wants or needs company – when they are sick or scared – a double bed may be the best option. A big bed also makes a good space to read and play. A double bed for kids may be an option too big to jump too straight away and if so; a small double bed can be a great middle-ground.

Ask your child if they have a preference. Some children like a cozy sleeping arrangement, in which case a twin bed may be an ideal choice. Other children are active sleepers, tossing and turning during the night, and a double bed may be better if it suits your child’s sleep habits better than a twin bed.

Other things to consider:

• Do you need extra storage space? If you want storage, consider a bed with drawers underneath.

• Will your child have friend sleeping over? If your child is over six, consider a bunk bed. For a child under six, a single trundle bed works well.

• How long is your child going to be using the new bed? If you want to use the bed through the teen years, make sure you choose a bed size your child can use for a number of years.

Remember that whether you decide upon a single or double bed, it will last for about seven years before the mattress needs to be replaced. During that time, your child will spend about 20,000 hours on it. Therefore, it is important to make the right choice to provide for your child’s comfort and guarantee a good night’s sleep.

Considering the space available, how much you can afford to spend, and your child’s preference will help you make the right choice for your child when deciding if you should buy a double or single bed for your child.