How to choose safe, fun furniture for your toddler. Important things to keep in mind when shopping for toddler friendly furniture.
You have gone from parenting a bouncing baby to trying to keep up with a very mobile toddler. Toddlers are typically full of energy and the joy of being able to walk, run, and climb up and over everything in sight. Your pride and joy can now wriggle out of his high chair and climb out of his crib. You need to buy toddler furniture and quick! There are so many choices when it comes to toddler furniture. It can be very difficult to know how and what to choose.
When picking out toddler furniture, first and foremost should be safety. Make sure any furniture you choose is free of protruding nails, screws, or sharp pieces on which your toddler could snag her clothing. Avoid sharp edges, which could pose a hazard if your child bumps her head on them. If the furniture item has been painted or refinished, be sure the finish is non-toxic and not lead based. For wooden items, make sure the items are free of exposed splinters. To prevent pinching small fingers, choose furniture without opening doors or make sure the door mechanism includes safety latches. Buy shatterproof mirrors to avoid injury should the mirrors break. Avoid dressers with drawers that can be pulled out and injure your toddlers fingers or toes.
Toddler furniture should be wide based and sturdy. When your toddler is cruising around the room, holding on to the backs of chairs or other furniture, it is very important that the furniture will not collapse under his weight and cause him to injure himself.
Avoid heavy furniture that can be tipped or pulled over. These items can crush a small child. Look for furniture that provides an eating, sitting or playing surface low to the ground.
Wheels can be convenient for moving toddler furniture from room to room, but be sure the wheels can be locked in place. Always use the wheels in their locked position when the furniture is in use.
Make sure furniture such as feeding chairs, high chairs, beds, and changing tables include safety straps or guardrails to prevent your toddler from falling.
Choose furniture that is cute and inviting for your toddler. Toddlers generally enjoy brightly colored furniture in small sizes. When shopping for toddler furniture you will find plenty of choices and styles. Everything from toddler beds, chairs, and potty chairs to miniature versions of adult dining tables and sofas are available for purchase.
Toddlers can be a messy bunch. Make sure the furniture you choose is easy to clean and includes easy to wipe off surfaces. For furniture made of fabric, make sure it has a removable cover that can be easily laundered.
Look for furniture that is easy to assemble. Furniture that can be folded when not in use can make storage much easier.
Whenever possible, choose toddler furniture that is adjustable. Your child will grow up rather quickly and convertible furniture will enable you to keep the furniture for a longer period. This is particularly true for bedroom furniture, which can be especially costly.
