Child Bed Size: 90 or 120 cm – What's Right for My Child?
The first big decision when buying a child's bed: 90 or 120 centimeters wide? This is a question many Swiss parents grapple with – and it has more implications than most people think. Not just for room space, but also for your child's sleep comfort.
This guide will show you the pros and cons of both sizes and help you make the right decision for your child.
Overview of Standard Child Bed Sizes
In Switzerland, two child bed sizes are particularly common:
- 90 x 200 cm: The classic single bed size
- 120 x 200 cm: The "small double bed" for children
Both have their merits – depending on the child, room, and family. The right choice depends on various factors, which we will explain here.
90 cm Width – The Practical Choice
Advantages of a 90 cm Bed
- Space-saving: Fits into almost any child's room
- More cost-effective: Bed linen, mattresses, and bedding are cheaper
- Easier transition: Many children feel less "lost" in a 90 cm bed
- Longer usability: Usually lasts until teenage years
Disadvantages of a 90 cm Bed
- Less space for parent-child cuddling
- Can be a bit narrow for very active sleepers
- No space for overnight guests
120 cm Width – The Comfortable Choice
Advantages of a 120 cm Bed
- More sleep comfort: Children can move more freely
- Parent-child time: Space for cuddling and reading together
- Sleepovers: Two small children can sleep together
- Less risk of falling out: More space means less movement towards the edge
Disadvantages of a 120 cm Bed
- Requires significantly more room space
- More expensive bed linen and mattresses
- Some children initially feel "lost"
Decision-Making Aid: What Suits Your Child?
| Your child is... | Recommendation | Reasoning |
|---|---|---|
| Under 3 years old | 90 cm | Feels cozier, less overwhelming |
| A very active sleeper | 120 cm | More freedom of movement, less waking up |
| Loves shared cuddling | 120 cm | Space for parent-child time in bed |
| Often has overnight guests | 120 cm | Two small children have space |
| Room under 10 m² | 90 cm | More play area in the room |
| A rather calm sleeper | 90 cm | Sufficient space, more cost-effective |
Additional Factors for Decision-Making
Room Size
Rule of thumb: A 90 cm bed should have at least 60 cm of space to walls or other furniture. For a 120 cm bed, it's at least 70 cm. Measure your child's room and check what is realistically possible.
Budget
120 cm bed linen often costs 30 to 50 percent more than 90 cm bed linen. Mattresses are also more expensive. Factor in these ongoing costs.
Siblings
If you have or plan to have multiple children, a 120 cm bed is worthwhile. Younger siblings can occasionally sleep together – which saves space and gives children a sense of security.
What do Swiss Families Say?
An informal survey of 250 Swiss families shows: 70 percent choose the 90 cm variant for the first child's bed. The most common reasons: room space and lower costs.
Of the families who chose 120 cm, 85 percent would make the same decision again – mainly because of the comfort for shared reading and cuddling.
The Mila Tip: Both are Right
The Mila Cloud children's bed is intentionally available in both sizes. Our experience: The size is less crucial than the quality of sleep in the bed. An organically shaped fall protection, velvety soft padding, and non-toxic materials ensure deep, restful sleep in both variants.
Choose the size that suits your room and your habits. The most important thing is that your child feels comfortable and safe in it.
Frequently Asked Questions About Child Bed Size
Can a 90 cm bed become too narrow for a child?
A 90 cm bed is completely sufficient for children up to about 12 years old. Only teenagers often prefer more space. Body width is rarely the problem for children – rather the length as the child grows.
Is a 120 cm bed too big for a toddler?
That depends on the child. Some 2-year-olds love the space, others feel "lost." An organically shaped fall protection can help create a sense of security even in a larger bed.
Which mattress fits which bed size?
90 cm beds use standard single mattresses (90 x 200 cm). For 120 cm beds, you need special 120 x 200 cm mattresses – these are less common and often more expensive.
Can I switch from 90 to 120 cm later?
Yes – if the room has space for it. Many families start with 90 cm and switch when the child gets older or a sibling arrives.
The Most Important Things at a Glance
90 cm is practical and space-saving – ideal for smaller rooms and younger children. 120 cm offers more comfort and flexibility – if space and budget allow. Both sizes are right if the bed itself is high-quality and thoughtfully designed.
Size is a practical decision. Security is a quality decision.
Sources: Swiss Council for Accident Prevention (BFU); Swiss Furniture Dealers Association; Survey of 250 Swiss families, conducted in 2024.
