Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Right Kids Bed (UK)

Choosing a kids bed is one of those decisions that feels bigger than it first appears. You are not just picking a frame, you are choosing where your child will sleep, play and grow for the next few years. With so many options available, from simple singles to bunk beds, mid sleepers and high sleepers - even to novelty beds, it can be hard to know where to begin.

At West Norfolk Bed Outlet (WNBO) we focus on mainstream beds that suit real family homes. That means practical designs, sensible prices and styles that work in typical United Kingdom bedrooms, from box rooms to shared spaces. This guide will walk you through the key choices, including bed types, what suits each age, how to measure your room, safety basics and the right kind of mattress for growing bodies.

If you already want to browse options while you read, you can take a look at our kids beds selection, then come back to this guide whenever you need help comparing styles or planning your next move. By the end, you should feel confident about which kids bed fits your child, your room and your budget.

Kids Bed Types Explained

When choosing a kids bed, most parents start with size, but in reality, the best bed for your child depends on a mix of age, safety, space available, and how long you want the bed to last. Below is a helpful breakdown of the most popular kids bed types and who they suit best, so you can quickly narrow down what makes sense for your family and your home.

Toddler Beds

Toddler beds are a small step up from a cot and usually suit ages two to four. They are low to the ground and normally have protective side rails, which makes bedtime feel safe and familiar for younger children who may be nervous about moving out of a cot. They do not last as long as a single bed, so many parents now skip straight to the next size, especially when space is limited or budgets need to stretch further over the years.

Single Beds

A single bed is the most common size for children and suits roughly ages four right up to early teens. Parents love them because they provide the best long-term value and work in the majority of UK-sized bedrooms. They are easy to dress, do not take up too much floor space, and are generally the cheapest option for long-term use. If you want a bed that will truly last, a single is usually the go-to choice for most family homes.

Small Double Beds

A small double is ideal for older children or teenagers who want more room to grow, but still do not have the space for a full double. They are perfect for kids who enjoy spreading out or for rooms that double up as occasional guest spaces. They cost a little more, but many parents see them as a worthwhile upgrade if it avoids buying another frame in a couple of years.

Bunk Beds

Bunk beds suit siblings sharing a room and make the most of small floor areas. They work best from around age six upwards and are particularly helpful where storage space is limited. Choosing bunks can avoid needing two separate beds and allows children to enjoy their own sleeping zone, which is especially useful for box rooms.

Take a look at our extensive bunk bed collection, offering next working day items (see our terms), wooden or metal variants and even novelty styles for your growing child.

Mid Sleepers

Mid sleepers sit slightly higher than a single but lower than a bunk. They often offer built-in storage or play areas underneath which help keep bedrooms tidy and organised. They are best from around age five onwards, depending on your child’s confidence with steps.

High Sleepers

High sleepers maximise head-height space, so they are ideal for older children and teens who need a desk or gaming area underneath. These are brilliant for rooms with limited floor space but do require children to be comfortable climbing up and down safely.

Which Bed for Which Age?

Children grow quickly, and their needs change just as fast. The right bed at age two is rarely the right bed at age ten, so choosing something suitable for their current stage (and ideally the next stage too) can save space, money and stress in the long run. Below is a simple guide to help you decide which bed type makes the most sense based on your child’s age, confidence and bedroom size.

Toddlers (ages 2–4)

Most children move to a bed between two and three. A toddler bed (or Montessori bed) is the gentlest transition from a cot because it is low to the ground and has raised sides that help children feel secure. Some parents choose to skip toddler beds altogether and move straight into a single bed, especially if space is tight or they prefer a longer-term option. The important part at this age is choosing a mattress with a lower profile so climbing in and out feels safe and controlled.

Younger Children (ages 4–7)

Once children are confident sleepers, a standard single bed usually becomes the most practical choice. It offers better long-term value, suits most UK rooms and creates a familiar sleeping routine that will last for years. At this stage, mid sleepers can start to be considered if your child is steady on ladders or steps, but always follow height recommendations and check mattress thickness guidance. Many families choose a single bed here because it removes the need for another upgrade during junior school years.

Juniors (ages 7–12)

Junior ages open up more choices including bunk beds, mid sleepers and high sleepers, depending on confidence and room space. Bunks are ideal for siblings or sleepovers, while mid and high sleepers create much-needed storage or desk space. If your child likes extra room to stretch out, this is often when parents begin considering a small double as a longer-term solution. Just remember to check ceiling height and ladder positioning in smaller rooms.

Teens (ages 12+)

Teenagers generally prefer more personal space, so a small double becomes a popular upgrade, especially in rooms that double up for studying or gaming. A small double provides extra width without overpowering a typical UK bedroom. It also avoids another upgrade in a couple of years, which makes it a smart choice for value-conscious family homes. If height allows, high sleepers can still be useful for desk space, but comfort and room layout tend to take priority at this age.

Beds for teens generally used the same principles as other age groups, if you can double up the bed with storage, study or gaming then you can maximise space elsewhere in the room.

Bedroom Size and Practical Measuring

Before you decide which style of kids bed to choose, it really helps to take a moment and measure the space properly. Bedrooms in the UK come in all shapes and sizes, especially in older homes where alcoves, chimney breasts and sloping ceilings can limit your furniture layout. Taking accurate measurements means you are less likely to run into awkward surprises later on, such as a ladder blocking a wardrobe door or a bunk bed sitting too close to the ceiling.

Small and Box Rooms

Many family homes have at least one box room that needs to double up as a child’s main bedroom. In these smaller spaces, a single bed tends to work best because it allows room for storage furniture and play space. If floor space is particularly tight, a mid sleeper can sometimes help by adding storage underneath, however always check room height and step positioning first.

Moving Around the Room

One of the most common mistakes is only measuring the width and length of the room without considering how your child will move around it. Try to leave enough space to walk comfortably around the bed, open wardrobe doors and use drawers without bumping into corners. If you are considering bunk beds or a high sleeper, think about where the ladder will sit, and whether it will clash with doorways or windows.

Considering Ceiling Height

Height is just as important as floor space, particularly if you are looking at bunk beds, mid sleepers or high sleepers. Children should be able to sit up comfortably without hitting their head, and there should be adequate clearance from the top bunk or top sleeper to the ceiling. This is especially important in loft conversions or bedrooms with sloped roofs. When in doubt, measure from the floor to the lowest part of the ceiling, not the highest.

Measuring carefully before buying will make choosing the right style much easier and will avoid having to rearrange the entire room later on. A tape measure and a quick sketch of the layout is usually all you need.

Safety Basics for Kids Beds

Safety is naturally one of the first things parents think about when choosing a new bed. While most modern children’s beds are designed with safety in mind, it is still worth knowing a few simple guidelines so you can choose confidently and set up the room in a way that keeps bedtime stress-free.

Ladder Positioning

If you are considering bunk beds or a high sleeper, pay close attention to where the ladder will sit in the room. Ideally, it should be easy for your child to access and should not be placed directly beside a door or window. Positioning the ladder away from busy walkways also helps reduce the chance of bumps during playtime.

Height and Headroom

Any raised bed needs enough headroom for your child to sit up comfortably without touching the ceiling. This is especially important in rooms with sloped ceilings or loft spaces. Always check the recommended age guidance too, as most upper bunks are suitable from around six years upwards.

Mattress Height

In the UK a top bunk mattress should not measure thicker than 15cm. This is to ensure that every bunk bed or loft-style bed guard rails work as intended. Choosing a mattress that is too deep can reduce the rail height and compromise safety, so it is worth double-checking this measurement before ordering.

Guard Rails and Stability

Guard rails are there to keep children secure while they sleep, so make sure they are fitted correctly and remain firmly in place. Avoid placing toys, cushions or bedding near the rail edges as these can make rolling more likely during the night.

General Good Practice

For younger children, keep floors clear around the bed and avoid placing stools or small chairs nearby that could be climbed on. Good lighting for night-time bathroom trips can also make a big difference. Simple steps like these help create a calm, safe sleeping space whatever bed style you choose.

Storage, Layout and Space-Saving Ideas

Children accumulate a surprising amount of belongings as they grow, so a clever approach to storage is just as important as choosing the right size of bed. Small bedrooms in particular benefit from furniture that earns its space, whether that is extra drawers, an organised study area or a place to tuck toys out of the way.

Underbed Storage

A simple single bed can instantly become more practical with underbed drawers or storage boxes. This is one of the easiest ways to keep toys, books or spare bedding neatly stored without crowding shelving or wardrobes. For compact rooms, low-profile drawers can help keep the floor area looking tidy and open.

Mid Sleepers and Built-in Storage

Mid sleepers are popular because they raise the sleeping area just high enough to allow shelves, cupboards or a small desk to sit neatly underneath. This makes them great for school-age children who need a mix of storage and play space. The additional level also keeps floors clearer, which can make even smaller rooms feel more spacious.

High Sleepers with Study or Gaming Areas

High sleepers take advantage of vertical space and are ideal for older children and teenagers who need a dedicated study spot or gaming area. Positioning a desk beneath the bed frees up the main part of the room for relaxing or storage furniture. It is a smart option for rooms where wall space is limited and every inch needs to work a little harder.

Bunk Beds with Integrated Storage

Some bunk bed designs offer shelving or drawers built into the frame or staircase. These designs reduce the need for extra storage furniture and make shared bedrooms feel more organised from day one. Choosing bunks with storage can also be a cost-effective way to create two sleeping areas without sacrificing valuable floor space.

Mattress Guide for Children

The right mattress can make a huge difference to how comfortably your child sleeps and how confident they feel in their new bed. Kids sleep differently from adults, so what works well in the main bedroom might not be the most suitable choice for growing bodies. The good news is that choosing a children’s mattress is mostly about comfort, safety and the right height for the bed frame you have selected.

Choosing the Right Firmness

Most children benefit from a medium to medium-firm mattress. This gives gentle support without feeling too hard and helps keep their growing body in a natural sleeping position. Very soft mattresses can allow the body to sink too far, while overly firm mattresses may feel uncomfortable at younger ages. A balanced feel tends to work best as children move from toddler years through to primary school.

Breathable and Comfortable Materials

Breathability is important because children can get warm while they sleep, especially in bunk beds or mid sleepers where airflow may be slightly reduced. Look for mattresses made with breathable fillings or fabrics that help regulate temperature during the night. Natural or breathable synthetic materials both work well, so it really comes down to comfort, price and how long you want it to last.

Checking UK Safety Standards

Any children’s mattress should meet UK fire safety regulations and be clearly labelled with the correct standards. Most UK retailers provide this information on the product page or label. If you are unsure, always ask your retailer for confirmation so you can buy with peace of mind.

Mattress Height for Bunks and Loft-Style Beds

If you are choosing a mattress for a bunk bed, mid sleeper or high sleeper, pay close attention to the maximum mattress height recommended by the manufacturer. A mattress that is too deep can reduce the effectiveness of the guard rails, and this can make the upper bunk feel less secure. Slimmer mattresses are usually recommended for the top bunk, and are often more comfortable for the lower bunk too because they provide more headroom.

Long-Term Value

Children’s mattresses generally last several years, so it can be worth choosing a slightly better-quality option rather than replacing it sooner. That said, there is no need to overspend; most parents find that a mid-priced mattress provides the right balance of comfort, support and value as children grow.

Budget Guide and Value Choices

When it comes to buying a kids bed, most families want something that feels good quality but still makes sense for the budget. The good news is that you do not always need the highest-priced option to create a comfortable and practical bedroom. A lot of value comes from choosing the right size at the right age, rather than focusing only on style or added extras.

Setting Realistic Expectations

Prices can vary depending on materials, storage features and whether the bed is part of a specialist range. For most households, a well-made single bed offers the best balance of cost and longevity, particularly if you want it to last through primary and secondary school years.

When a Small Double is Worth it

A small double is usually more expensive up front, but it can save money in the long run if your child prefers more sleeping space or if the room is also used for guests. Many parents make this upgrade during the junior or teenage years to avoid buying another frame later.

Value in Bunks

Bunk beds can be great value where two children share a room, as they remove the need to buy a second frame. They also keep more floor space free, which can reduce the need for extra storage furniture.

When to Upgrade

There is no strict age for moving your child to the next bed style or size. Most upgrades happen naturally as children become more independent, need additional privacy, or want a layout that feels more grown-up. Rather than focusing physical size of the bed, think about how your child actually uses their room and whether their current bed still meets those needs.

Growing Independence and New Routines

As children get older, bedrooms often need to accommodate more than just sleep. Homework areas, reading corners and larger wardrobes can all shift the way a room needs to function. Upgrading the bed can be a practical way to free up extra space or make the bedroom feel more suited to their age.

Moving on From Bunks

Bunk beds are brilliant for shared rooms and younger siblings, but once children reach early teens, they often enjoy having their own full sleeping space rather than sharing a bunk layout. If one child later moves into their own room, many bunk styles can be separated into two individual beds, which keeps the transition simple without needing to buy a new frame immediately.

When a Small Double Makes Sense

A small double can make the room feel more grown-up and provide extra comfort without using as much space as a full double. It tends to suit pre-teens and teenagers who want a room that reflects their personality and feels more like a personal space rather than a shared children’s room. Comparing small double beds by style and width can help you decide whether this is a good next step.

Conclusion

Choosing the right kids bed is more than simply picking a style you like. It is about understanding your child’s age, the size of their bedroom, and what they need the space to do as they grow. The good news is that there is a suitable option for every stage, whether you are moving on from a cot, managing a compact box room, or planning a more grown-up space for a teenager.

Safety should always come first, followed closely by day-to-day comfort. From ladder positions and guard rails to choosing the right mattress height, a little planning makes bedtime feel secure and reassuring for both you and your child. Practical storage and space-saving ideas also make a real difference, especially in smaller UK rooms where every centimetre counts.

Most importantly, choose a bed that suits your child now while giving them room to develop their own routines over time. If you would like to compare sizes and options in one place, feel free to browse our wide range of children bed styles to find something that works for your family and home.