This month, buyers searched our site for kids' and children's bedding strikingly often. That matches what parents are asking for in shops and online: a cheerful design, a fabric that can take a knock and a duvet cover that goes straight into the washing machine without fuss. In this article, we set out what parents look for and how to build a clear children's corner around it.
What parents look for in children's bedding
With children's bedding, two people usually make the decision. The child chooses the theme, while the parent looks at the practical side. A good range wins over both.
Parents mainly ask about:
- a fabric that feels soft and still looks good after repeated washing;
- clear washing instructions, including for prints and special effects;
- sizes that suit a toddler bed, junior bed or single bed;
- a theme the child will still enjoy in a few years' time;
- information about the fabric's certification.
For that last question, a straightforward answer works best: certification applies per item, with a certificate. So request the certificate for the items you stock, and share it with your customers on request.
Licensed themes: attractive, but plan them carefully
Licensed themes grab attention straight away, especially from children who recognise a favourite character. For the buyer, there is a downside: popularity is fickle, and a theme that is big now can quickly give way to something else.
A practical approach is to combine a small core of licensed themes with a broad base of neutral or general designs such as animals, space, dinosaurs, stars and plain colours. This base stays relevant for longer and is easier to combine with pillowcases, sheets and accessories. The licensed theme then acts as the eye-catcher rather than the whole collection.
Also pay attention to labelling and packaging. Customers should be able to see at a glance which size, which combination and which items are included in the set.
Glow-in-the-dark: an effect that needs explaining
Glow-in-the-dark prints work well as a playful extra, because children want to try them out immediately. When selling, it makes sense to present this effect as added value rather than the main selling point.
When selecting products, ask how the print behaves in the wash and follow the care advice strictly. Include these instructions in your product information or on the label. This avoids disappointment and returns caused by wrong expectations. A photo taken in the dark on your webshop, or a darkened demonstration corner in your shop, shows the effect better than any description.
Washability as the starting point for the children's corner
Children's bedding goes into the wash more often than adult bedding. That is why washability is not an afterthought but the foundation. The same goes for the duvet itself: a product you can clean in the washing machine removes a lot of worries. A dedicated spot for washable children's duvets makes this immediately clear to parents.
Set up the children's corner so that a customer can put together a complete sleeping space in a single visit:
- Display the duvet cover, fitted sheet and pillowcase as a set, with a second duvet cover in a different colour or theme as a spare set.
- Place the duvet and pillow directly next to the bedding, with a short washing note alongside.
- Put a mattress protector nearby as a logical add-on.
- Use one clear age group per shelf, such as toddler or junior, so that the choice is quickly made.
- Keep licensed and basic designs separate, but coordinated in colour.
- State the washing advice and, where applicable, the certificate for each item.
Children's bedding for hotels and holiday accommodation
Hotels and holiday accommodation with family rooms are also looking at kids' bedding. What matters most here is that it is sturdy, quick to wash and neutral enough to suit different rooms. A calm design with a playful detail is often more practical than a fully themed bed. Discuss sizes in advance, so that the set fits the beds you actually use.
Frequently asked questions
How do I combine licensed themes with a basic range?
Choose a limited number of licensed themes as eye-catchers and build a base of plain colours and general designs around them. This keeps the shelf relevant if a theme becomes less popular.
What should I tell parents about glow-in-the-dark bedding?
Explain the effect as an extra and provide the washing advice clearly. Be honest about how the item should be cared for, so that parents know what to expect.
Can I show a certificate for children's bedding?
Certification applies per item, with a certificate. Request the proof for the items you want to stock and check exactly what the certificate covers.
Would you like to put together a children's corner that appeals to both parents and children? As a retailer, webshop or hotel, you can request an account at mpstextiles.com and view our range. Get in touch, and we will gladly help you choose a selection that suits your customers.
