Best Bookshelves for Kids: Top Picks for Storage, Style, and Safety
Bookshelves are a great addition to any kid’s room. Not only do they serve as an essential piece of furniture for organizing books and toys, but they can also contribute to the aesthetic of a room. Choosing the right Bookshelves for Kids, however, requires careful consideration of functionality, durability, and safety. In this guide, we will explore the best bookshelf options for kids, how to choose the right one, and why it’s important to invest in quality furniture.
Table of Contents
- Why Should You Choose a Bookshelf for Kids?
- Top Features to Look for in Bookshelves for Kids
- 2.1 Safety Features
- 2.2 Size and Space Considerations
- 2.3 Durability and Materials
- 2.4 Design and Style
- Types of Bookshelves for Kids
- 3.1 Traditional Bookshelves
- 3.2 Wall-Mounted Bookshelves
- 3.3 Cube and Modular Shelves
- 3.4 Book Ledges
- 3.5 Toy and Book Storage Combo Units
- Top Picks: Best Bookshelves for Kids in 2024
- 4.1 Best Overall: KidKraft Bookcase with Reading Nook
- 4.2 Best for Small Spaces: Honey-Can-Do Kids Bookcase
- 4.3 Best Budget Option: IKEA TROFAST Storage Unit
- 4.4 Best for Safety: Safety 1st SecureTech Bookshelf
- 4.5 Best for Style: Pottery Barn Kids Cubby Bookcase
- How to Organize Books on a Bookshelf for Kids
- 5.1 Categorizing by Age Group
- 5.2 Using Colorful Bins and Containers
- 5.3 Rotation System for New Books
- How to Choose the Right Bookshelf for Your Child
- 6.1 Age of Your Child
- 6.2 Available Space in the Room
- 6.3 Style and Theme of the Room
- FAQs about Bookshelves for Kids
- Conclusion
- Disclaimer
1. Why Should You Choose a Bookshelf for Kids?
Bookshelves for kids offer multiple benefits beyond their obvious function of storing books. They are great for organizing not just books but also toys, games, and educational tools. A well-designed bookshelf can teach children how to keep their room tidy, encourage them to read, and give them a sense of independence as they start organizing their things on their own. Moreover, bookshelves come in a variety of styles and sizes to fit any room.
In addition to organization, bookshelves can foster creativity. Some bookshelves are designed with fun shapes, colors, and themes, making them a great way to enhance the aesthetic of a child’s room. Whether your child loves animals, outer space, or fairytales, there’s a bookshelf that can align with their interests.
2. Top Features to Look for in Bookshelves for Kids
When selecting the right bookshelf for your child, several key features should be considered to ensure that the piece is both functional and safe.
2.1 Safety Features
Safety is the top priority when choosing furniture for children. Bookshelves should be sturdy and have features that prevent tipping over, such as anchoring brackets that allow you to secure them to the wall. This is especially important for taller units, which can become unstable if children try to climb them.
Bookshelves should also have rounded corners and smooth edges to minimize the risk of injury.
2.2 Size and Space Considerations
A bookshelf that is too large can overwhelm a small room, while one that’s too small may not provide enough storage space. Measure the available space in your child’s room before choosing a bookshelf. Consider how much room the bookshelf will take up and whether you need additional storage for toys and games.
2.3 Durability and Materials
Kids can be rough on furniture, so it’s essential to pick a bookshelf made from sturdy materials. Solid wood, metal, and MDF (medium-density fiberboard) are popular materials for kids’ furniture. Solid wood is durable and can withstand wear and tear, while MDF is cost-effective and lighter. Avoid bookshelves with sharp parts or poorly finished edges, as they may pose a risk to children.
2.4 Design and Style
Bookshelves come in various designs, from minimalist and modern to fun and whimsical. The design should reflect your child’s personality or the overall theme of the room. Fun designs, like bookshelves shaped like animals, houses, or trees, can make the space more playful and engaging. You can also opt for neutral colors or simple styles if you prefer something that will blend seamlessly with the room’s decor.
3. Types of Bookshelves for Kids
There are different types of bookshelves available for kids, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Let’s explore some of the most popular options.
3.1 Traditional Bookshelves
Traditional bookshelves are classic vertical units with multiple shelves for storing books. They are ideal for children with a lot of books or for use in a shared room, as they often provide ample storage space. These bookshelves can be placed against a wall and come in various styles, from open shelving to units with doors.
3.2 Wall-Mounted Bookshelves
Wall-mounted bookshelves are perfect for rooms with limited floor space. These shelves can be fixed to the wall and are an excellent option for storing books at a child’s eye level, which encourages independent reading. They can be installed in a variety of ways, such as in a grid pattern or in a linear arrangement.
3.3 Cube and Modular Shelves
Cube and modular shelves are versatile storage solutions that can be used to organize not only books but also toys and other items. These bookshelves are often made of cube-shaped compartments, which can be arranged in different configurations. You can buy additional cubes or shelves as your child’s collection of books grows.
3.4 Book Ledges
Book ledges are narrow shelves designed specifically for displaying books with their covers facing forward. These are perfect for younger children who like to see their books rather than pull them from a stack. Book ledges are often installed at a lower height to make it easier for kids to pick their favorite books.
3.5 Toy and Book Storage Combo Units
Combo units combine toy storage with bookshelves. They often feature cubby spaces for toys or bins for storage and bookshelves for books. These are ideal for organizing various types of items in a child’s room while maintaining a tidy and clutter-free space.
4. Top Picks: Best Bookshelves for Kids in 2024
Here are some of the best bookshelves for kids in 2024. These bookshelves stand out in terms of functionality, safety, and design.
4.1 Best Overall: KidKraft Bookcase with Reading Nook
The KidKraft Bookcase with Reading Nook is an excellent choice for any child’s room. It features a cozy reading nook with comfortable seating and a spacious bookshelf for storing books, toys, and more. The soft cushions on the nook are removable and machine washable, making it easy to maintain. This unit is made of sturdy wood and is available in various colors to match any decor.
4.2 Best for Small Spaces: Honey-Can-Do Kids Bookcase
For smaller rooms, the Honey-Can-Do Kids Bookcase is a great option. This compact, three-tier shelf offers vertical storage without taking up too much floor space. It’s ideal for storing smaller collections of books and toys and is made from durable, eco-friendly materials.
4.3 Best Budget Option: IKEA TROFAST Storage Unit
IKEA’s TROFAST Storage Unit is a budget-friendly solution for kids’ rooms. It features a combination of bins and shelves, making it versatile for storing books, toys, and games. The bins are easy to remove, and the unit can be rearranged as needed. The modular design makes it a great option for growing kids.
4.4 Best for Safety: Safety 1st SecureTech Bookshelf
For parents who prioritize safety, the Safety 1st SecureTech Bookshelf is an excellent option. This unit features a secure anchoring system to prevent tipping, and the shelves are deep enough to hold books without the risk of them falling out. The bookshelf is made from non-toxic materials, ensuring that it’s safe for your child.
4.5 Best for Style: Pottery Barn Kids Cubby Bookcase
For a stylish bookshelf that fits seamlessly into a modern child’s room, the Pottery Barn Kids Cubby Bookcase is a fantastic choice. The simple yet elegant design features cubbies that can hold books and toys, and the wide shelves provide ample space for storage. It’s available in various finishes, from white to natural wood, and can be personalized with fabric bins for a pop of color.
5. How to Organize Books on a Bookshelf for Kids
A well-organized bookshelf can encourage children to engage with their books and maintain a tidy room. Here are some tips on how to organize books:
5.1 Categorizing by Age Group
Group books by age range to make it easier for your child to pick age-appropriate books. You can organize books into categories such as “board books,” “early readers,” and “chapter books.”
5.2 Using Colorful Bins and Containers
Use bins, baskets, or containers for a colorful and practical way to organize books and toys. This keeps the bookshelf tidy while adding a fun element to the room.
5.3 Rotation System for New Books
Create a rotation system for books. Display a small selection of books on the bookshelf at a time and rotate them out periodically to keep things fresh. This can also help you store older books out of sight and give your child new books to explore.
6. How to Choose the Right Bookshelf for Your Child
6.1 Age of Your Child
Consider your child’s age when selecting a bookshelf. Younger children will benefit from lower shelves that allow them to easily access books, while older children may need more storage space for growing collections.
6.2 Available Space in the Room
Measure the available space before buying a bookshelf to ensure it fits in the room. A large bookshelf can overwhelm a small room, so consider wall-mounted or compact shelving options.
6.3 Style and Theme of the Room
Choose a bookshelf that complements the theme of the room. Whether you’re going for a modern, minimalist look or something more playful, there are options to match your child’s personality and room design.
7. FAQs about Bookshelves for Kids
Q: How do I prevent my bookshelf from tipping over?
A: Most bookshelves come with anchors that can be secured to the wall. Make sure to use these safety features to prevent the bookshelf from tipping.
Q: What materials are best for kids’ bookshelves?
A: Wood and MDF are popular choices for kids’ bookshelves. Wood is durable, while MDF is more affordable and lightweight.
Q: At what age can my child start using a bookshelf?
A: Children can start using bookshelves as soon as they begin showing an interest in reading. Low, easily accessible shelves are best for younger kids.
8. Conclusion
Choosing the right bookshelf for your child involves balancing safety, functionality, and style. Whether you choose a traditional bookshelf, a modular unit, or a wall-mounted shelf, make sure it fits your child’s needs and room size. The right bookshelf can help organize books and toys while encouraging your child’s love for reading.
9. Disclaimer
This article contains affiliate links. If you purchase products through these links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. All opinions expressed are based on thorough research and our objective assessment of the products featured.