How quickly babies grow! In the blink of an eye, they will be crawling. Before you know it, they will have started walking! As a parent, you must do all you can to make transitions like these as seamless as possible. Which is why that transition from crib to bed is something you need to plan, well before your children make that all-important move.
You can rest assured that we have thoroughly scrutinised the pros and cons of choosing the right toddler bed for your little one.
Toddler Bed Basics
A toddler bed is nothing short of being a more compact bed for small children. Typically around the size of a regular crib, it even uses a crib-size mattress.
You will usually find low side rails on toddler beds to prevent children from falling out. While this baby child bed might sit directly on the floor, it might also be fitted with low legs. This property, that of the toddler bed being ‘low’, facilitates the smooth movement of little ones in and out of the bed.
When you should make the move
Already thinking of a cool toddler bedding set to go with that baby child bed? Firstly, a look at whether your child might even be ready for that toddler bed, after all.
You want to ensure your child is developmentally ready before making the transition from the crib to the bed. It might not be safe if they aren’t. For instance, your child might be too young to get out of bed at night and wander around.
Here are three signs that serve to indicate that your toddler might just be ready for their first-ever bed, after all.
- They are sleeping through the night
- They can climb out of the crib when it is at the lowest setting
- They are about three feet tall
Read More – Strategies for Dealing with a Toddler Who Gets Out of Bed
7 Key Bed Features to Note When Selecting a Toddler Bed
Here are the key considerations when selecting a toddler bed for your little one. Ensure that the bed you finally zone in on ticks all the boxes for these vital bed features.
1. Safety
When it’s your little ones you’re talking about, safety is paramount. It can be especially scary for a baby to wave goodbye to the safety of their crib and enter an unfamiliar space. Ensure you follow three safety guidelines while choosing a toddler bed.
1. Guardrails– You might never leave the baby alone for a second, but you can never be too careful. Having guardrails in place is an absolute must for a 2-year-old baby bed.
2. As low as possible– That bed should be low enough for the baby to climb in and out of, with a greater-than-usual sense of ease.
3. A mattress that fits– When choosing that toddler bedding set, select a mattress that fits snugly into the bed frame, with no gaps between the mattress and the frame, for enhanced safety.
2. Design
Did you know design is the key factor in toddler bed ideas?
Toddler beds come in all sorts of shapes and colours. There will be beds made of metal and those made of wood. While some are classic, others are modern. With so many options available, it’s important to ask the following two questions when choosing a toddler bed.
Is this the bed they might enjoy sleeping in? Note: This is something that you need to have a gut feeling about, really.
Is this bed in keeping with the theme I have planned for the baby’s bedroom? For instance, you might choose a pink bed for a girl’s Princess-themed room.
You might get carried away and buy a bed that looks something like a castle, because castles seem to be your little one’s thing at the moment. Remember this: kids are into racing cars one day, and dinosaurs the next. Make sure you don’t buy a bed simply because it conforms to some popular fad, either. Instead, choose a classic piece of furniture that seamlessly blends with any décor.
3. Durability
Did you know that durability is the key feature for a 2-year-old baby bed?
That bed might look really cool, but is it strong enough for a baby jumping in it countless times? It’s most important that the bed be sturdy. This is far more important than it being trendy, whimsical or even themed. With that in mind, ensure you follow these two guidelines when choosing a toddler bed.
1. The bed needs to be made from a strong wood, such as sustainable pine.
2. Having a bed with a metal spring base helps.
4. Comfort
Needless to say, if the bed you choose is not comfortable enough, you’re going to have a hard time keeping your toddler in it all night. As a rule, firm mattresses are much better for toddlers than overly soft ones.
5. Non-Toxic
There are certain toddler beds that are laced with toxic chemicals that can irritate your toddler’s eyes and respiratory tract. When choosing a toddler bed, it might be a good idea to choose one made of 100% solid wood, with a water-based finish and VOC-free. VOC stands for Volatile Organic Compounds, which are the very toxic chemicals you want to keep away from the vicinity of your toddler!
6. Price Point
You really don’t need to go overboard when shelling out money for that bed you feel is the perfect fit for your little one. That being said, you don’t want to spend too little on it, either. As we have touched upon earlier, choose one that’s made of solid wood. Also, ensure you factor in the cost of that mattress!
7. Room Layout
It’s only elementary to adapt your choice of toddler bed to the amount of space you have in the room. Tip: You can optimise storage and even declutter your child’s room by using the space under the bed.
Read More – Why Are Infant Bed Rail Guards A Must Buy?
Conclusion
The progression of children is to move them from the cot to the bed. Many children need larger beds at age 2. The transition could be challenging for some children, so choosing the right toddler bed is essential. The article addressed the essentials of providing a toddler bed for your children, including key features and toddler bed basics to consider when selecting a bed. Do you have anything else to share with us?
We at EuroKids believe it’s a good idea to invest in a quality toddler bed. Not only will it help children transition seamlessly to a regular bed, but it can also be passed on to siblings if you’re planning another child!
For informative and accurate articles on all things related to your newborn-toddler’s development, growth, health and nutrition, follow EuroKids Blogs and do check out our nationally recognised preschools and take the next step for kids learning journey through EuroKids Preschool Admission.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What age should a child move to a toddler bed?
Most children transition between 2 and 3 years of age, although the right time depends on their development and whether they have started climbing out of the crib.
2.H3 – Is a toddler bed necessary?
Not always. Some children move directly from a crib to a single bed, but a toddler bed can make the transition easier because it is lower to the ground and includes safety rails.
3. What type of mattress is best for a toddler bed?
A firm, supportive mattress that fits the bed perfectly is generally recommended for toddlers.
4. H3 – Are guardrails important on a toddler bed?
Yes. Guardrails help reduce the risk of falls while children adjust to sleeping in a larger bed.
5. How can I help my toddler sleep in their new bed?
Maintain a consistent bedtime routine, involve your child in choosing bedding, offer reassurance, and praise them as they adjust to their new sleeping environment.
