Platform beds are great to look at because of their symmetry, sharp lines, and solid surfaces. This creates a very aesthetically pleasing experience. Unfortunately, these very same qualities can cause concern for parents of babies and small toddlers. Once they get up and start walking around, toddlers seem to bump their heads into everything. This is because they are so top heavy, making it easy to lose their balance.
Parents worry that they need to babyproof their platform beds to prevent injuries against sharp corners. This is a legitimate concern. Even if the toddler never trips or stumbles, it is always better to be safe than sorry. I once saw a toddler run full speed into drywall, leaving a tennis ball sized hole in the wall with their head. He was fine but it goes to show that anything can happen.
Tip #1: Cover the Corners With a Thick Blanket or Comforter
This is a simple solution that only requires to make your bed every day in a timely manner. Simple drape the blanket over the corners so that they are completely covered. You may have to use more than one blanket to cushion the corners. Look for thick padded blankets. Comforters work well because they tend to be thicker than normal blankets. Try getting a comforter that is one size too big so that there is plenty of flop-over.
Tip #2: Stuff the Blanket Corners
If the comforter you’re using isn’t thick enough, try stuffing the bottom corners with extra padding. Such as a folded hand towel or old t-shirts. Like the previous tip, you’ll just have to make sure to make your bed every day and cover the corners well. Use a comforter you don’t mind having to open and sow back up again. It’s not a pretty solution, but worth it if you can bear with it.
Tip #3: Corner Protectors & Bumpers
These handy little guards are designed to protect kids and are the exact shape you need to place on a sharp corner. Corner bumpers are available in different materials such as foam and plastic. Some even come in different colors to match your home decor, such as brown for wood furniture. They tend to come with their own adhesive.
Tip #4: Edge Guards For the Sides
The side rails of a platform bed also have sharp corners that can be potentially dangerous to a small child running about in your bedroom. For this, edge corner guards are available. They stick to a 90 degree edge using adhesive or double-sided tape. Once in place, it cushions the edge and helps protect against injuries.
Tip #5: Non-Skid Mats & Grippers For Rugs
Not just the bed itself, but the area around it requires consideration. Area rugs look great on hardwood floors. But after a fresh polish, area rugs without any grip become potential slipping hazards. As a solution, non-skid mats and grippers go directly underneath an area rug to keep it from slipping underneath you. This helps prevent the type of accidents that lead to bumped heads.
Tip #6: Upholster the Frame
If you’re confident enough in your DIY skills and are looking for a new project, this is also an option. Although much more permanent than the rest. Upholstering a frame completely changes the look of the bed so be sure this is what you want. Instead of the sharp clean look of modern design, it will become soft and rounded, which some people prefer. Check out this step-by-step tutorial for detailed instructions.
Murdoch Upholstered Platform Bed
Despite the sharp corners, platform beds are actually a safer choice for kids than traditional box-springs. Because they don’t need a box spring, platform beds are much closer to the ground. This reduces the risk of injury when children fall off the bed either while playing or sleeping. A previous study determined that children under six years of age have a higher chance of occurring injuries, with a 52% chance of significant injury, simply by falling off the bed while sleeping.
About the Author
Cheryl Khan is a contributor to the Platform Beds Online Blog. She is an avid DIY’er who lives and breathes interior design. Follow us for her latest posts.
great !!!!!i was looking for these solutions
I like the idea of getting edge guards for the corners around my house, but I think I would prefer a more permanent solution. Something that will look nice like adding corner blocks to sharp edges. As long as the corner is rounded a little bit it is not as big a problem.