How to Pick a Kids' Wall Plate for a Bedroom or Fan Cave

Quick answer

Choose a kids basketball wall plate for a young child's room and a motocross wall plate for a bedroom or fan cave with an older sports fan. Match the plate size to the existing switch opening, then pick a color that works with the wall before you commit.

Steps to choose and install the right plate

1. Measure the switch opening: Remove the existing plate and measure the opening height and width, then compare it with the size options listed for the plate you want. Common mistake: assuming all switch plates are one size. Write the measurements down before you shop so you can check each product's size options.
2. Match the theme to the room's main user: Pick a kids basketball wall plate for a younger child's bedroom, or a motocross wall plate for a bedroom or fan cave used by an older sports fan. Common mistake: choosing a design the child will outgrow in a year. Ask the child which sport or activity they actually follow before ordering.
3. Choose a color that works with the wall: Compare the plate's color options against the wall paint or wallpaper, and favor a finish that contrasts gently rather than competes. Common mistake: ordering a bold color for a wall that already has a busy pattern. If the wall is patterned, choose a neutral or single-color plate.
4. Confirm the hardware and installation method: Check that mounting hardware is included and that the plate is flat enough to sit flush against the wall. Common mistake: overtightening screws and cracking a metal plate or stripping the threads. Turn screws until snug, not tight, and test the switch before you walk away.
5. Plan the surrounding decor: Use the plate as one accent among a few themed items, such as a poster or shelf, rather than filling every surface with the same motif. Common mistake: repeating the same sports theme on every wall until it feels cluttered. Limit the theme to two or three visible items in a small bedroom.

Two plates that fit the brief

• Boys Basketball Wall Plate: Fabricated from 18-gauge steel with a powder coat finish and made in the USA. A steel plate with a powder coat resists fingerprints and everyday wear better than thin plastic in a child's room.

  

• Freestyle Motocross Back Flip Wall Plate: The wall plate is perfectly flat and reversible, so it can be installed with either side facing out. You can flip it if the finish or design orientation does not suit the wall, which reduces the risk of a return.