Toddler Towers: Material, Cleaning, and Staying Upright
We are one article closer to the end of our tower series and we’ll discuss 4 important features: material, how to clean, anti-slip surfaces and non-scratch pads. Let's dive right into each of these areas in more detail.
What are they made of?
There are typically two options for toddler tower materials: plastic and wood. However, we will not be discussing plastic towers as they are not the best choice for the obvious reasons: environment and looks.
When it comes to furniture it seems wood can mean so many things to so many people. However, when analyzing the myriad of toddler towers available it seems that there are 3 recurring types: birch wood/plywood, pine wood, and bamboo. These options are environmentally friendly and are sturdy enough to withstand the wear and tear that comes with toddler use.
It is essential to note that not all types of wood are created equal. MDF (medium-density fibreboard) is not the healthiest option as it contains formaldehyde, which can be toxic. It is best to avoid towers made from MDF and instead opt for one made from hardwood or plywood.
What about cleaning?
When choosing a tower you probably don’t think about how easy it is to clean it, but once your little one starts using it you’ll definitely have some pieces of advice to friends when it comes to this aspect. It is essential to consider the shape of the tower. Avoid towers with cut-out shapes and sharp edges as they can be dangerous and difficult to clean. Instead, opt for a simple, sleek design that is easy to maintain and does not pose a risk to your child's safety.The wooden boards have a non-toxic smooth finish that protects against scuffs and scratches and also make for an easy clean-up using a damp cloth.
Safety and Protection Features
No matter where you plan on using the tower, water will probably part of the experience. The smooth finish of the wood combined with a splashed water can become dangerously slippery. This is where non-slip strips or even a mat come in handy. Both platform and step should have these.
In addition to non-slip strips, it is also crucial to ensure that there are non-slip pads on the feet of the tower. This feature will not only protect your hardwood floor but also ensure that the tower does not slide or move when your child is using it.
The anti-slip elements for the platform and feet can also be purchased separately, but if you want to skip the hassle you can opt for a tower that includes these.
Our next article will be about special towers that feature activity boards, slides or double as a table and chair.
