Best Toddler Beds

Proper sleep is crucial for infants and children as they grow. Moving from a crib to a bed is a major milestone that many parents and toddlers look forward to. However, finding a bed that is both comfortable and safe is important. Toddler beds are typically lower to the ground than other options and frequently have additional safety features, such as guardrails. Most also comply with safety standards pertaining to materials and design.

While safety should always be the top consideration when searching for a toddler bed, shoppers have countless models to choose from in varying materials, colors, and designs. To help you find the right fit for your child’s sleep needs, we’ll outline our top picks and discuss what sets them apart. Then, we’ll examine the most critical factors to look at when shopping for the best toddler bed, including materials, construction, and ease of assembly.

What Is a Toddler Bed?

Young children frequently transition from a crib to a toddler bed, which is smaller than a twin and lower to the ground for easy access. These beds usually use the same size mattress as cribs to make the transition to a “big kid” bed as simple as possible.

Additionally, toddler beds should have safety features to help protect young sleepers. Guardrails on both sides can help prevent falls, though many models have openings so your child can still get in and out of bed without help.

Safety should be the primary concern of any parent. The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) standards are intended to reduce risks by establishing guidelines on small pieces, the size of openings, and the quality of materials used to limit the chances of choking, entrapment, and exposure to toxic materials. Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association (JPMA) certification verifies that a product meets ASTM standards and applicable laws.

Some toddler beds are convertible or customizable to suit your family’s needs. They may include additional storage, attachable changing tables, or the option to convert the bed into different furniture pieces. With a wide array of colors and styles on the market, there’s also something to complement virtually any decor.

Since toddler beds allow children to be more autonomous, it is essential to prepare for the transition. Ensuring your child’s bedroom is safe by securing furniture, using plug protectors, keeping cords out of reach, and eliminating potential hazards can help prevent injuries. Consult your pediatrician to determine whether your child is ready for a toddler bed and prepare an individualized plan for transitioning.

How to Choose a Toddler Bed

Finding the perfect toddler bed for your child can be challenging. With so much to consider, it can be difficult to determine what is most important. To help you find the right toddler bed for your family, we will outline key factors to examine before making a purchase.

What to Look for in a Toddler Bed

Safety is the primary aspect shoppers should consider when searching for a toddler bed. However, many other criteria also contribute to what is ideal for your family.

Bed Size
Toddler beds are smaller and shorter than twin size beds. They typically use the same size mattress as a crib for an easier adjustment. The smaller size of these beds can help children feel more comfortable, and the low height can allow them to access their beds independently while limiting the possibility of serious falls.

Quality Materials
Beds made of quality materials can help promote a safer night’s rest for your child. Frames made with low-quality materials may be less stable and could contain potentially harmful substances. While quality materials often cost more upfront, they may enhance the safety and durability of the bed.

Safety
Safety is paramount when searching for a toddler bed. As such, many models have enhanced safety features, such as guardrails and low profiles to reduce the risk of fall-related injuries. Toddler beds should also follow established safety standards, like CPSC and ASTM guidelines, to limit potential hazards.

Versatility
Many toddler beds have versatile designs that allow parents or caretakers to adjust the bed to fit specific needs. Some common design elements include height adjustments, the ability to convert to a crib or a daybed, and built-in storage. These special features may cost more, but they can be immensely valuable as your child’s needs change throughout their growth.

Style
While safety should always be the first concern when selecting a bed for your toddler, certain styles can also enhance the look of the room and make your child’s bed feel special. With so many models on the market, shoppers can choose from countless materials, colors, and designs to find a style that suits their preferences.

Price
The price of toddler beds can vary widely. Factors such as versatile designs, quality materials, and customizability may increase the price. Shoppers can generally expect to pay anywhere from $100 to $400 for a quality toddler bed.

Ease of Assembly
Buyers are often responsible for assembling their new toddler beds. The more intricate a design, the more complicated it may be to construct. While most companies aim to produce a product that is straightforward and simple to put together, ease of assembly may be useful to assess when comparing options.

When to Transition Your Child From a Crib to a Toddler Bed

Each child is different when it comes to reaching milestones, including transitioning from a crib to a toddler bed. Most experts recommend making the switch when your child is around 3 feet tall or attempts to climb out of their crib. Typically, this occurs by the time the child is 3 years old, though each child varies. However, experts typically advise that children should be at least 18 months old before making the switch. A pediatrician can give you individualized advice for when to make the transition based on your child.

While many children are excited to move to a “big kid” bed, going from a crib to a toddler bed can come with challenges. To ensure safety and establish a routine, experts recommend taking the following steps:

Make sure your child’s bedroom is safe. It is important to clear away any toys or furniture that could cause injuries if your child falls or gets out of bed. Installing childproof latches on drawers or chests can also prevent your toddler from climbing on them.

Create rituals to establish a bedtime routine. A simple routine, such as reading a bedtime story or singing a song, can help set the expectation of sleep and signal to your child when it is time for bed.

Encourage your child to stay in bed. When your child can get in and out of bed on their own, it may be more challenging to get them to remain in their room throughout the night. Setting the expectation to remain in bed until morning and rewarding your child for doing so can help reinforce this habit.

Avoid rewarding getting out of bed during the night. While it may be difficult, try not to encourage bedroom breakouts. Simple actions, such as letting your child get in bed with you or stay up later, can inadvertently reward them for leaving their bedroom. Instead, encourage them to remain in bed until morning.