The importance of safe and comfortable sleep for children

At Stompa, we understand how important a good night's sleep is for children's health, wellbeing and development. As parents ensuring that your little ones are safe and comfortable while they sleep is a top priority. That's why we are committed to designing beds and mattresses that not only provide comfort but also meet the highest safety standards.

Children spend a significant portion of their early years asleep which is essential for their physical, emotional and cognitive development. Each child is different and the amount of sleep they need can vary, but as a guide according to NHS it is suggested that:

• children 3 - 5 years old need 10 - 13 hours
• children 6 - 12 years old need 9 - 12 hours
• children 13 - 18 years old need 8 - 10 hours

A well-rested child is better equipped to handle all the challenges in their day, from learning and playing to developing social skills. However, good sleep isn't just about the number of hours they spend in bed, it's also about the environment in which they sleep.

A few tips from us:

• Make the bedroom a calm and relaxing space at night-time, think about the lighting not being too bright and draw the curtains to avoid outside light shining in.
• Keep an eye on the temperature so it's not too cold or too hot, aim for between 18 - 21°C.
• A cuddly toy or blanket nearby is great for children of all ages.
• Clean and comfortable bedding, perhaps your child would like to choose their own so they have a real sense that their bedroom is their own space
• Avoid having a TV or other digital screens in the bedroom at nighttime.

Safety is critical in any child's bedroom and this is especially true when it comes to their bed. 

Make sure you buy your child's bed from a reputable retailer you trust. Look out for these things:

• Be aware of the manufacturer's recommended minimum age for the bed.
• Check the manufacturer's guarantee period. 
• Is the bed steady and stable with no loose parts? Remember children move around in their sleep.
• Does the bed base attach securely to the bed frame and does it allow for free airflow and ventilation?
• Is the ladder firmly secured?
• Check that no catches or fixings are accessible or prominent for small fingers to fiddle with.
• Strong safety guard rails can prevent children from rolling out of bed and they are especially important in raised beds such as mid sleepers, bunk beds and high sleepers.
• Check that the bed has safety stickers or markings indicating the maximum mattress height to be used on the bed. Always buy the right mattress height for the bed, don't buy second-hand or hand-me-down mattresses. Your child will not get the support and comfort needed for growing and it could be a health and safety hazard.
• Safety certificates, check that the bed has been tested to the correct and latest safety standards, and look for stickers or markings indicating the safety testing.

At Stompa, we design every bed with your child's safety in mind. All our products comply with the latest UK and European safety standards, such as BS EN747 for bunk and high beds, and BS8509 for low beds. This means every bed we produce is rigorously tested for stability, strength and durability ensuring your child can sleep securely. Our Stompa mattresses are also safety tested according to BS EN7177: this safety standard covers children's mattresses, ensuring they meet strict requirements for flammability.

See our full range of beds, all safety tested, up to 10 year guarantee, free delivery to UK Mainland and Home Assembly available.

If you need any help in choosing the right bed for your child, we are here to help you, please feel free to get in touch.