The materials the bed is made from are just the beginning. You should examine the construction of the bed itself, even if you have to ask the store to remove the mattress to do so. You should see a tough frame with evenly spaced slats. Slats should be about 2-2 ½” apart to allow for both air circulation and plenty of strength. Even if the bed you are choosing is made from a hardwood, the slats will likely be pine; pine is soft and flexible enough to offer support without breaking in beds of any size. Check the following areas and points to be sure the bed is ready for safe, long lasting use:
Check the corners of the bed where the frame connects to the headboard and footboard. These should be true 90 degree angles and should have a brace or secondary support. A diagonal piece that spans the corner or metal bracing should be used for added strength.
If the sides of the bed are directly connected to the headboard (instead of being a separate structure) then they should be bolted in place with metal connectors. The wood in this area needs to be real, dense pine or hardwood; plywood or particle board will erode over time.
Give the bed a wiggle – the entire bed should move when you slide the headboard or footboard across the floor. If it wobbles or shifts instead, choose a different bed.
If the bed is a bunk style, then the ladder or stairs should be permanently attached to the frame; they should not wiggle or move out of place when used. The ladder should hold a large adult with ease (so minimum size of 250 lbs) and you should not be able to shake or slide it loose.
According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, beds have two main safety issues. Most kids that are injured by beds either fall from a top bunk (or from a regular bed being used as a trampoline) or are injured when a bed collapses. Because of this, the construction of the bed as described above is essential. A bed made from solid, reliable materials and with the right approach to construction will offer a safe place to sleep and give you peace of mind about your child's safety.
Looks and design matter, but choosing your child's bed based on his age and future use, the materials and construction quality and with safety in mind will ensure he has a comfortable spot to sleep that will last for years to come.