When you need new kitchen furniture for your home, having kids around means you’ll need to make this decision carefully. From safety concerns to spills and stains, there are different factors to consider while you weigh your options. The following tips can help you choose the best kid-friendly furniture for your kitchen.
Choose Materials That Are Easy to Clean and Maintain
Kids can accidentally spill milk, juice, and other beverages on your new kitchen table or chairs, so it’s important to choose furniture that’s easy to clean and maintain. Otherwise, you could end up with unsightly stains on your new kitchen furniture.
When choosing kitchen tables, consider the material they’re made from. With wood tables, you’ll need to quickly clean spills and stains, so they don’t set in or cause moisture damage. These tables can also end up with chips and other signs of damage, which mars their appearance. Having a finish on your wood table can help protect it from stains, spills, and other damage, although you might need to refinish it from time to time.
Kitchen sets with laminate tables might be a better option for homes with kids. Laminate tables are typically easier to clean than other materials, and they don’t require a lot of maintenance to keep them looking as good as new over the years.
When choosing chairs or stools, you might want to avoid upholstered ones. Upholstered chairs and stools can be harder to clean if kids spill juice, sauce, or other foods or beverages on them. With bare chairs or stools, you don’t have to worry about stains and spills setting in as much. You can always place removable cushions on them for added comfort if needed.
Consider Safety Concerns
Your new kitchen furniture should be safe for kids to use, whether they’re sitting at the kitchen table for a family meal or perched on a stool at your kitchen island. While you’re comparing options for kitchen chairs, tables, and stools, keep safety concerns in mind. For example, choose chairs or stools that are sturdy and won’t easily tip over, such as ones made from metal or wood.
When you’re choosing kitchen stools, opt for ones that have a back on them rather than backless models. Stools with a back provide kids with some extra support while sitting, which can help reduce the risk of falls.
While chairs and stools that swivel might be fun for kids to sit on, they could make it easier for younger kids to fall. If you have older kids, swivel stools and chairs for your kitchen can provide a safe seating option. However, you might want to avoid choosing this type of chair or stool if you have younger kids that are fidgety.
If you’re ready to start choosing kid-friendly kitchen furniture, visit one of our San Francisco area locations in San Jose or Pleasant Hill. At California Stools, Bars, and Dinettes, you’ll find a wide selection of high-quality kitchen sets for your home.