To protect their children, parents take baby-proofing steps like putting covers on light sockets and installing baby gates at the top of the stairs. However, furniture in a child’s room can present hazards as well. If you’re shopping for children’s furniture, here are a few safety considerations to keep in mind.

3 Essential Features of Safe Children’s Furniture

1. Non-Toxic Lacquer

Many lacquer products contain formaldehyde, which is also used in many low-grade adhesives. People exposed to formaldehyde experience itchy, watery eyes, coughing, wheezing, nausea, and a wide range of other symptoms. Some studies have even found a link between formaldehyde and cancer, so look for children’s furniture that only uses lacquer without formaldehyde and other toxic materials.

2. Mattresses & Cushions That Fit Well

Many cribs and children’s beds have small gaps between the mattress and the rail, leaving a gap into which kids can fall and hurt themselves. Even a relatively small space presents a risk of broken bones and trauma, which is why it’s important to inspect every piece of children’s furniture carefully. Before placing your child in a crib, make sure you can’t fit more than two fingers between the mattress and the rail.

3. Avoid Sharp Corners & Edges

Children tend to fall a lot, so every sharp corner is a serious threat to their health. All children’s furniture should have soft, rounded edges and rails, minimizing the risk of injury if your child falls and hits their head. For added safety, add pads to the corners of coffee tables, chairs, and any other furniture with corners.

With unique, adaptable designs and industry-leading safety features, Flexa Furniture Hawaii offers children’s furniture that will last a lifetime. All of their modular pieces are treated with high-quality, toxin-free UV lacquer and made with textiles designed to be safe and allergy-friendly. Visit their website to learn more about their commitment to safety, or call (808) 955-4434 with any questions.