Different Kinds of Beds for Kids

Space-Saving Beds

• Traditionally, childen's room are small with limited storage. Children might share a room or invite friends for sleepovers. Consider bunk beds or trundle beds for sleeping more than one child without permanently sacrificing floor space. Trundles fit nicely under day beds, which work well for seating during daytime hours. Many of the newer bunk bed models maximize space by turning the lower bunk perpendicular to the top and including desk or closet space underneath.

Cost-Saving Beds

• Keep things simple by attaching the bed frame to a basic headboard. This saves both space and expense. Platform beds provide another inexpensive option, and storage drawers underneath might eliminate the need for a separate dresser. For younger children, consider purchasing a bed that converts from crib to toddler bed to single and avoid purchasing separate beds at each stage.

Thematic Beds

• It used to be that just bed covers came in themed sets. Now even the beds take the shape of popular cartoon characters or vehicles. Race cars, pumpkin-shaped princess coaches and space ships are just a few of the customized beds available to support decorative themes. Keep in mind, though, that time passes quickly and children's fads even more quickly.

Hand-Crafted Options

• While most of us purchase ready-made furniture at furniture stores and outlets, there is another option. Skilled carpenters might consider making their own kids' beds. Others might consider custom-made furniture through a local craftsman or shopping at antique furniture shops for hand-crafted beds. Pass on quality beds through the generations as family heirlooms.