Bunk Bed Safety Tips approved by The Stockton Mill
Use guardrails on both sides of the top bunk. The gaps in the guardrails should be 3.5 inches or smaller to prevent strangulation.
Larger openings are for Adults only beds.
Guardrails need to extend at least 5 inches above the mattress top, which includes any added mattress pad(s), to prevent kids from rolling off.
Check that the mattress foundation is strong and that the right mattress size is used. A smaller mattress will put distance between it and the safety rail giving opportunity for a child to "hang" between the foundation of the bed set and the rail bottom.
Children younger than 6 are too young to sleep in the top bunk.
Never let kids play on the bunk or ladder.
Remove dangerous objects from around the bed.
Keep the top bunk away from ceiling fans.
Install a night light near the ladder, or have dimmer lights installed.
Do not use the bunk bed or ladder if any parts are damaged or broken.
Teach kids how to carefully climb the ladder.
Do not allow children to attach belts, scarves or ropes to the bunk bed. This can lead to strangulation.
Be wary of Do-It-Yourself bunk bed kits. The designs may not meet current safety guidelines.
If your child will be sleeping on a bunk bed at school (or at a summer camp), be aware that these bunk beds are not required to meet federal safety standards. If no guardrail is present or it is not at least 5 inches above the top of the mattress, you may be able to request the appropriate size guardrails from the school/camp.
Go towww.recalls.govand search the products you’re considering bringing into your home to see if they have been recalled. While you are there, sign up to receive alerts about future recalls.
