How We Test

Our methodology turns product specs into room-fit outcomes. We evaluate each toddler bed across five pillars and publish a single SpaceFit score that shows how well it will live in a small room day to day.

The Five Pillars of SpaceFit

1. Footprint Fit (30%): True dimensions including rail overhangs, door swing and closet clearance, wall-hugging and corner placements, under-window installs, and trundle/drawer open distance.
2. Safety & Stability (25%): Guardrail height vs. typical mattress profiles, step-over height, rounded edges, slat spacing, hardware quality, center-of-gravity stability, wobble and creak tests on thin floors.
3. Convertibility & Longevity (20%): Ease and cost of converting to daybed/twin, availability of conversion kits, standard mattress compatibility, and resale potential.
4. Storage & Organization (15%): Drawer capacity and glide quality, trundle practicality, headboard cubbies, and whether storage can replace a separate dresser without blocking pathways.
5. Setup & Care (10%): Unboxing footprint, part labeling, tool requirements, one-hour setup feasibility, surface cleanability, and washable textile fit.

How We Measure

• Tools: Laser distance meters, calipers, levels, stud finders, and decibel readings for squeaks/creaks.
• Real-room trials: We assemble and place beds in compact layouts, testing door/closet clearance, corner fits, and side-by-side setups for shared rooms.
• Documentation checks: We verify dimensions, weight limits, and safety claims against manuals and manufacturer documentation; we look for credible material certifications and low-VOC statements.

What We Document

• True footprint diagrams and recommended placements
• Assembly time and any gotchas (hidden fasteners, mislabeled parts)
• Guardrail and step-over measurements matched to common mattress heights
• Drawer/trundle clearance in tight corridors and near radiators or baseboards
• Noise and wobble observations, plus maintenance tips to prevent loosening

Scoring and Transparency

We explain why a product scores as it does and note trade-offs (e.g., storage capacity vs. drawer clearance). If availability or components change, we re-test or adjust the score and update notes with a timestamp.

Limits and Safety Notes

No lab test replaces caregiver supervision. Always follow the manufacturer’s age, weight, and assembly guidelines, and periodically re-tighten hardware. If a product is recalled, we remove recommendations and post an alert.