Key Takeaways
| Sections | Key Points |
|---|---|
| Types of Bed Rails | Wooden bed guards: Sturdy and durable, suitable for single and double beds, and cot beds. Mesh bed rails: Lightweight and portable, ideal for travel, 90-degree fold-down mechanism for easy access. |
| Choosing the Right Bed Rail | Consider factors such as compatibility with bed size and mattress, child’s age, and specific needs such as extra tall and wide options for double beds or sunken mattresses in cot beds. |
| Installation and Safety Guidelines | Ensure secure installation with no movement or gaps. Leave a clear gap of at least 25cm between the bed rail and both ends of the bed for easy access. Always follow manufacturer’s instructions for installation and safe use. |
| Best Type for Travelling | Mesh bed rails are recommended as the best option for travelling due to their lightweight and portable design, easy fold-down mechanism, and compatibility with most beds and mattresses. |
| Ease of Installation | Both wooden bed guards and mesh bed rails are designed for easy installation, requiring no drilling or screwing. Wooden guards are secured by sliding under the mattress while mesh rails are placed between the mattress and the bed frame and locked in place. |
Bed Rail for Toddlers Safety Baby Bed Guard Portable Children Protective Guard Kids
BabyDan Folding Bed Guard (Black)
Safetots Extra Wide Bed Guard Wooden White
Dreambaby Prague Toddler Bed Rails Guard – Foldable & Portable Bed Safety Barrier
Little’s Bed Guard Rail for Toddler, Child & Baby. Fits Single, Double Up to King Size Beds
Safety 1st Portable Bed Rail | Compare Prices
As parents, the safety and well-being of our children are always our top priority, especially when they are sleeping. Bed guard rails provide a crucial safety measure to ensure that toddlers and young children can sleep peacefully without the risk of falling out of bed. In this guide, we will explore the different types of bed guards available and help you choose the best one for your child’s bed.
Types of Bed Rails
There are two main types of bed rails available: wooden bed guards and mesh bed rails. Wooden bed guards are designed for single and double beds, as well as cot beds. They provide a sturdy and durable barrier to keep children safe while they sleep. Installation is a breeze, as you simply slide the bed rail under the mattress – no drilling or screwing required. Wooden bed guards come in various lengths and heights to suit different bed sizes and mattress depths.
On the other hand, mesh bed rails are lightweight and portable, making them a great option for travel. They fold down easily for convenient storage and transportation. Mesh bed rails are compatible with most beds and mattresses, and they offer a 90-degree fold down mechanism for easy access to your child when getting them in and out of bed. They are available in standard sizes and extra tall and wide options for added security.
Choosing the Right Bed Rail
When choosing a bed rail, there are a few factors to consider. First, ensure that the bed guard is compatible with the size of your child’s bed and mattress. Check the length and height of the bed rail to ensure it will fit properly. Also, consider the age of your child – bed rails are recommended for children between 18 months and five years old.
If you have a double bed, look for an extra tall and wide bed guard to provide added security. For cot beds with sunken mattresses, make sure the hinge mechanism is located on the side of the bed rail so that it can fit snugly beneath the mattress. We recommend Safetots for cot beds with a sunken mattress.
Check out our Bed Guards For Cot Beds category they are designed to fit perfectly with cot beds, helping you ensure a snug, secure sleeping for your toddler.
If you are planning holidays or family visits, Travel Bed Guard category offers portable and compact solutions. For larger beds, we haven’t forgotten about you. Our Double Bed Guard and King Size Bed Guard collections can help you ensure that everyone in your household enjoys a safe night’s sleep, no matter what size bed they’re using.
Installation and Safety Guidelines
Installing a bed rail is simple. For mesh bed rails, place the frame between the mattress and the bed frame. Make sure it is securely locked in place. For wooden bed guards, slide the base frame under the mattress, allowing the weight of the mattress to keep the bed guard in place. It is crucial to check for any movement or potential gaps where limbs could get trapped.
Position the bed guard at the head of the bed, leaving a clear gap of at least 25cm between the bed rail and both ends of the bed. This ensures that your child can comfortably climb in and out of bed. Remember to choose a suitable bed rail height and length based on your child’s needs and the specific bed size. It should be noted that this is just a general guide. Follow the instructions you are given as not all bed guard rails work in the same way. Please check out the resources below for more guidelines on safe use.
Care and Installation Guide
- Regular cleaning: Toddler bed rails should be cleaned regularly to prevent the buildup of dirt and bacteria. Use a mild soap and warm water to clean the rails, and dry them thoroughly with a clean towel. Some bed rails have covers that can be removed and washed in a washing machine.
- Check for damage: Inspect the toddler bed rails regularly for any signs of damage, such as cracks or dents. If you notice any damage, stop using the rails immediately and contact the manufacturer for repair or replacement.
- Proper installation: Make sure the toddler bed rails are installed correctly and securely. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully, and check that the rails are firmly attached to the bed. Some bed rails do not require tools to install and can be installed in a very short time.
- Regular maintenance: Toddler bed rails should be maintained regularly to ensure they are functioning properly. Check that all the moving parts are working smoothly, and lubricate them if necessary.
- Choose the right type: When choosing toddler bed rails, make sure you choose the right type for your needs. Some bed rails are universal and can work with almost any bed type, while others are designed for specific bed sizes. Make sure you choose a bed rail that is appropriate for your child’s age and size.
- Check for safety: Always check the toddler bed rails for safety before using them. Make sure there are no gaps between the rail and the mattress which could entrap and endanger a child. Also, always use two guardrails, even if your child’s bed is against a wall. The space between the mattress and the wall can pose a danger.
- Check regularly: Check the rails every night before bed to make sure they are securely in place. When you shop for a toddler bed rail be sure to check that it conforms to British safety standards.
Remember that toddler bed rails can be dangerous if not used properly, so it’s important to take care when using them. If you have any concerns or questions about toddler bed rail safety, contact the manufacturer for advice.
Conclusion
Bed guard rails are essential for ensuring the safety of your toddler while they sleep. By choosing the right bed rail for your child’s bed, you can provide a secure and comfortable sleep environment. Whether you opt for a wooden bed guard or a mesh bed rail, the important thing is to prioritise your child’s safety and choose a bed rail that is compatible with their bed and mattress. Sleep peacefully knowing that your little one is protected throughout the night.
References
https://www.hse.gov.uk/healthservices/bed-rails.htm
FAQs
Do I really need a bed rail?
No, not always. It depends on their age. However bed rails provide safety and peace of mind for mums and dads, preventing your child from falling out of bed and potentially getting hurt.
What age should bed rails be used for?
Bed rails are recommended for children between 18 months and five years old.
Advantages of fold-down mechanism on a bed guard?
Some mesh bed rails feature a 90-degree fold-down mechanism, allowing for easy access to your child and convenient bed linen changes.
How to choose the right length and height bed guard?
Consider the size of your child’s bed and mattress depth when selecting a bed guard. Extra tall and wide options are available for added security.
Can bed rails be used on double beds?
Bed guards can be used on double beds, although you need to buy one of a suitable length to ensure a secure fit.
Differences between wooden and mesh bed rails?
Wooden bed guards provide a sturdy, fixed barrier, while mesh bed rails offer portability and a fold-down mechanism for easy access.
Can they be used for travelling?
Most of the mesh safety guard rails are portable, light weigh, collapsible and ideal for travelling.
