If you’ve just had a baby and are wondering about what sleeping arrangements you can have for them, then an air bed will have crossed your mind.
But these are not like ordinary beds and don’t have the sturdiness of a cot.
Airbeds are great because they’re lightweight, easy to store and transport, and affordable.
They also provide good support for babies and children, so it’s no wonder that they’re becoming increasingly popular with parents looking for a more comfortable sleep environment for their little ones.
However, there are some things you need to know before buying one for your child or toddler.
Here we’ll take a look at how airbeds differ from other types of mattresses, and what precautions you should take when choosing one for yourself or your family.
What Is An Air Bed?
An airbed is essentially a mattress made up of two layers – a top layer, which is filled with air, and a bottom layer, which is usually foam.
The air in between keeps the whole thing light and buoyant, making it perfect for use as a bed for small kids.
An airbed comes in different sizes, depending on whether you want a twin-sized version (which has a single layer of air) or a full-size version (which has two layers).
Twin-sized versions tend to be cheaper than full-size versions, but if you buy the latter, you get a better quality product.
Is An Air Bed Safe For My Toddler?
Often a child that is over 15 months old will be able to sleep perfectly safely on an air mattress.
Any younger than this and it would be inadvisable to put them on an air bed. It can be dangerous for a 1-year-old to sleep on an air mattress.
While most people would assume that an airbed is suitable for any age, this isn’t necessarily true.
There are some risks associated with using an airbed, especially if you’re buying a cheap one.
The main risk is that the air inside could leak out, causing the mattress to deflate.
This can happen if the pump malfunctions or if the valve becomes blocked by dust particles.
Another issue is that the mattress may become too hot during the summer months, which can cause skin irritation.
How Do I Choose An Air Bed For My Child?
When choosing an air bed for your child, you should consider the size of the room where you plan to keep it.
A larger room means that the airbed won’t feel cramped, but a smaller room might mean that it takes up too much space.
You should also think about the type of fabric used to make the mattress.
Cotton is generally recommended for young children, while polyester is best suited to older kids and adults.
You should avoid synthetic fabrics such as nylon and polypropylene.
You should also check that the mattress is properly inflated. Make sure that the pump is working correctly and that the valves aren’t leaking.
Finally, you should ensure that the mattress is well ventilated. If it doesn’t have adequate ventilation holes, then it will heat up quickly during the summer.
What Are The Risks Of An Airbed For A Toddler?
No matter how firmly you blow up your air mattress, it can still pose a suffocation hazard for your child.
They can choke on their own saliva, vomit, or even food.
To prevent this from happening, make sure that the mattress is securely fastened down so that they cannot climb onto it.
You should always read the safety label before you put your child to sleep on an air mattress.
If your child is over 3-years-old, she should have enough mobility to move around and prevent herself from suffocating.
If you do decide to use an airbed, you’ll need to monitor your child closely after putting them to bed. Check the mattress regularly and clean it when needed.
Air mattresses are not meant to last forever, so don’t expect yours to last more than 10 years. You should replace it every 5 years at least.
Are Air Beds Susceptible To Bed Bugs?
Yes, they are! Bed bugs are very common these days and many people have reported seeing them crawling all over their mattresses.
While there’s no way to completely eliminate any risk from bed bugs, you can reduce the chances of getting bitten by keeping your mattress away from carpet and areas that have damp.
Make sure that you wash your sheets and other linens frequently and thoroughly.
Also, vacuum your entire house once a week. These measures will help to keep your home free from bed bugs.
Is It Safe To Use An Air Mattress In Your Home?
While it’s perfectly fine to use an air mattress in your home, you should be careful to follow certain precautions.
First, make sure that the area where you plan to place it is well ventilated.
Second, make sure that the bed isn’t exposed to direct sunlight.
Third, make sure that the air mattress is kept away from any pets.
Finally, make sure that you’re using only one air mattress at a time.
Are There Any Other Types Of Bedding That Are Better Than An Air Bed?
There are plenty of alternatives to an air bed. Some of them include foam mattresses, water beds, and spring mattresses.
Each of these options offers different benefits and drawbacks compared to an air bed.
Foam mattresses are made with a layer of memory foam that provides support and comfort. However, they tend to be heavier and costlier than air beds.
Water beds are great for those who want to relax without having to worry about being disturbed by noise. However, these might be even less suitable for a young toddler.
Spring mattresses provide firm support but offer little comfort. This means that if you choose to get one, you’ll have to compromise between comfort and support.
Conclusion
An air bed is a good option for parents who want to save money while providing their children with comfortable sleeping conditions.
However, it’s important to remember that it comes with its share of risks. Make sure that you take proper care of your air mattress to avoid some of the hazards.