Your Child’s Sleep Environment: 6 Ways to Make It Great

We’ve all been there – the kids are procrastinating brushing their teeth, insisting they can’t get their pajamas on, and asking for “just one more book,” even though you’ve already read them two extra stories already.

Bedtime doesn’t have to be a battle! It can actually be one of the sweetest parts of the day (we know, bold claim).

But setting your child up for great sleep isn’t just about declaring it bedtime and crossing your fingers. A cozy, calming environment makes all the difference, and luckily, it’s easier to create than you might think.

From super comfy bedding to soft lighting and simple routines, a well-thought-out sleep space helps everyone drift off to sleep a little easier.

Want to know how to make it happen? Check out these six things you can do, starting today, to make your child’s sleep environment one that is sure to bring the sweetest dreams.

A young girl laying in a bed made with pink zipper bedding, tucked under the comforter with a big smile on her face.

1. Set The Right Lighting

First and foremost, you’ll want to make sure the lighting is properly set up for bedtime. It will change from child to child, but whatever their bedtime lighting preferences may be, setting that in place can serve as a clear indicator to your little one that it’s time for bed.

If your child prefers things pitch dark while they sleep, you have an easy task ahead of you. Just flip the lights off and you’re set! However if you’re looking for something a little more heavy duty than that, you can invest in a set of blackout curtains to prevent even the tiniest bit of light from peeking through the window into your child’s room.

If your child wants some soft lighting while they sleep or if they’re afraid of the dark, a classic nightlight will do the trick. There are tons of cute options to choose from, your kiddo is sure to find one that they love!

2. Keep The Space Clutter-Free

A clean room is a happy room, and it’s also a calm room. Your child is much more likely to feel relaxed and ready to sleep if their room is put together, and you’re less likely to find them playing with toys on the floor an hour after putting them to bed!

Let your child take the lead on keeping their room clean. Depending on their age, it could look like sending them in to clean on their own, or it could look more like you sitting and directing them on what goes where.

Having a clean room is going to make a big difference in your child’s sleep environment. If your child is not in the habit yet of cleaning their room, no stress! Putting in the effort to teach them this skill will absolutely pay off in the long run!

A young boy kneeling on the floor beside his bed, which is made with truck printed zipper bedding, pulling the zipper closed with a big smile on his face.

3. Choose The Right Bedding

One of the biggest influences in your child’s sleep environment is the bedding they’ll be sleeping in. You want to make sure it fits their comfort preferences, is nice and cozy, and that it fits their personal style.

That’s where Beddy’s zipper bedding comes into play.

This all-in-one bedding solution consists of two pieces, the top comforter and the bottom fitted base, held together by two zippers that start at the foot of the bed and run up each side. This means that your kids can easily make their bed every morning in just a matter of seconds, leaving their bed looking nice and neat.

There are plenty of styles to choose from, ranging from solid colors to textured finishes and even a line of kids zipper bedding with fun, childlike prints. There is a Beddy’s for everyone!

3. Create a Calming Bedtime Routine

Ok, ok. A bedtime routine isn’t exactly part of your child’s sleep environment per se. However, it contains elements of their sleep environment, and by following a consistent bedtime routine, your child can know what to anticipate when it’s time for bed.

You can make the bedtime routine look however you’d like! If you have multiple children it could be the same for them all, or you can personalize a routine for each individual child. You know your child’s needs and preferences best!

If you need some inspo, here are some common bedtime routine items that you can build off of:

Put on pajamas: It’s a no brainer. However, consider having them put on their pajamas first. This can serve as an indicator to your child that the routine is starting.
Brush teeth: Invest in a timer so they can be sure to brush for the correct amount of time, or even a teeth brushing app on your phone or tablet!
Choose clothes for the next day: Let them pick their outfit for the next day! It gives them the autonomy to choose their own clothing, plus it’s one less thing that you’ll need to think about in the morning!
Family dance party: There are some studies that show that having a family dance party each night with your kids promotes a stronger bond, plus it’s just a really good time! Take turns choosing the song you dance to.
Read a book: It’s an oldie, but a goodie! Reading children a story before bed is a tale as old as time (see what we did there?). Whether it’s one story or five, there are so many benefits with reading to your child each day! Bedtime is a great time to do it.
Choose a stuffed animal or blankie: Another great chance for your child to choose an element of their bedtime routine. Let them select the stuffie and blanket they cuddle with each evening!
Lights out: Just like starting with pajamas signifies that the routine is beginning, turning the lights off signifies that the routine is ending. Time for nighty-night!

A boy's room with a white bunk bed, both bunks made with gray textured zipper bedding and an assortment of white throw pillows and blankets on each bunk.

5. Reduce Noise and Distractions

Noise plays a huge factor in your child’s ability to fall – and stay – asleep. Trying to keep noise and other distractions at a minimum is going to be a huge help for your little one!

Notice how we said to keep noise at a minimum. This doesn’t necessarily mean that it needs to be absolutely silent when it’s time for bed. In fact, many children prefer to have white noise to help them fall asleep! These soft sounds can be incredibly soothing for your little ones.

So whether they prefer total silence or soft white noise, be sure to get them set up for success!

6. Layer For Year-Round Comfort

One of the most important elements of your child’s sleep environment is their comfort level. Depending on the time of year, where you live, or sometimes even the location of their bedroom in your house, they may find that some extra layers are necessary.

It could be as simple as throwing a blanket over the top of their comforter, or you could invest in a quality duvet for an extra-lofty comfort layer.

A young girl in a black leotard and holding a stuffed ballerina doll, sitting on her toddler sized bed, which is made with ballet slipper printed zipper bedding.

Beddy’s: Zipper Bedding For Kids

We know that, as a parent, you want the very best for your child, and when it comes to bedding, Beddy’s zipper bedding is the best way to go! They’re comfy, they’re beautiful, and they’re incredibly easy for everyone to use, most especially your little one.

Beddy’s were originally designed as a bunk bed bedding solution, making it easier than ever to have a neatly made bed in bunks and lofts. And while it was originally made for these tricky beds, zipper bedding is ideal for any bed in any setting.

From toddler beds to twin and beyond, your child’s sleep environment will get a serious upgrade with this incredible zipper bedding.

Explore Beddy’s, the original zipper bedding, for a wide selection of zipper bedding options that would be wonderful for everyone from children to parents and beyond. You’ll also want to check out Nod & Winks, our line dedicated to children! Enjoy the same features and benefits of Beddy’s zipper bedding in adorable prints especially designed for little ones.

Shop Beddy’s today to find your child’s new favorite bedding!

The Beddy's Blog / Zipper Bedding