How to Choose a Toddler Bed
Choosing a toddler bed can be a daunting task. There are so many different models to choose from, and they all have their own pros and cons.
How do you know which one is best for your family? This guide will help you make an informed decision about the type of bed that would work best for your little one!
*This post may contain affiliate links, which means I receive a small commission, at no extra cost to you, if you make a purchase using this link. I only recommend products I love or would personally use.
Things to Consider When Choosing a Toddler Bed
How much space do I have in my home to store the bed, and what is my budget like?
When making the transition from an infant crib to a toddler bed, keep in mind that sometimes the size isn’t really all that different. Toddlers are little, so in turn, toddler beds are pretty small as well.
As you’re considering what type of toddler bed to buy, you’ll need to think about your budget. You need to go into your shopping knowing what your budget is so that you have realistic expectations of what you can afford.
What design or color will work best with our bedroom decor?
When choosing a bed for your toddler, be sure to think about what kind of design or color scheme you have in your toddler’s bedroom. Some people like to keep the same color scheme they used in their nursery, and others want to redesign the room to match their toddler’s favorite cartoon character.
What kind of mattress will work best for a toddler?
There are many different types available, and I’m going to share them with you. But, if your child has an allergy of some sort, or if you’re looking for something in particular, for sure start there.
How high do I want my toddler bed to be?
Some people like to have their toddlers as close to the floor as possible in case they fall out. You could minimize the risk of your toddler falling out of the toddler bed by simply adding a toddler bed rail. But when you’re toddler bed shopping, make sure you pay attention to the height of the bed and mattress.
Do you want the toddler bed to have side rails?
Some toddler beds are made with built-in bed rails. Even if the toddler bed you’re looking at doesn’t have side rails attached, you can always buy one and add it to your toddler’s bed to help keep them safe.
Important Safety Features of a Toddler Bed
Guardrails
Nearly every toddler bed I have seen has some sort of bed rails to help keep your little one in their bed. If you decide to use a larger bed, make sure you scroll to the bottom, because I have a bed rail you can add to any bed to help keep your toddler safe.
Low to the Ground
To reduce the risk of your toddler falling out of their bed, look for beds that are close to the ground. I will share one loft bed option, so depending on your toddler, this may or may not be a great option. But I want to share it, just in case it’s the right toddler bed for your little one.
Firm Mattress
Even though your toddler isn’t a “baby” any longer, it’s still important that they’re sleeping on a firm mattress to reduce the risk of suffocation. Many of the beds I will share with you use the crib mattress you already have.
Sturdy Construction
As with any bed, you want to choose a bed that has sturdy construction. Safety should always be your priority when choosing a toddler bed, and having a bed that isn’t going to fall apart is a top consideration.
Types of Mattresses for Toddlers
Foam Mattress for Toddlers
Most foam mattresses will come with some type of cover that can be removed and washed. These beds do not have any springs or other metal parts, so they are generally considered safer than coil spring models because the coils may pinch a child’s fingers.
Foam Mattress with Springs for a Toddler
Some foam beds come with a layer of coils, making them sturdier and more supportive than the previous type. These are typically less expensive as well, so they can be good for families on a budget or those who will only need to use it temporarily when transitioning from crib to bed. The downside is that these models may have metal parts which could pinch your little one’s fingers if not careful!
Coil Spring Mattress for a Toddler
Coil Spring mattresses are traditional in most households because there is no risk of pinching, and coil mattresses tend to last longer than other types. However, this means you’ll likely find them to be much more expensive too, especially if you’re looking for a sturdy bed.
Types of Bed Frames for a Toddler Bed
Bed frames are also an important factor when choosing what type of bed to purchase for your child. There are three main types available today:
Platform Beds for Toddlers
Platform beds can be made out of either wood or metal, and the mattress is placed on top without a box spring. These types may not have as much support because there’s no box spring on the bottom, and many children find these beds to be cold at night.
Standard Metal Bed Frame for Toddlers
This is a common style of toddler bed that has springs made out of steel wire or coils in order to provide additional support. Many parents prefer this design because it can last their child for years before he or she outgrows them!
There are many things to consider when it comes time for you to choose a bed frame, and what type of material the springs are made out of is just one factor!
If your child tends to move around often during sleep, then slatted frames might not be the best for them because they provide less support. However, if they’re afraid of falling over while sleeping, then you may want to go with a platform design instead.
It’s important that the mattress provides enough height so that your toddler can’t fall off at night, even though this could depend on their age as well!
What are the best brands of toddler beds?
Choosing a toddler bed is hard! There are so many different brands and models to choose from that it can be overwhelming. Here are some of the best!
Delta Children Canton Toddler Bed
The Delta Children Canton Toddler Bed is a simple and budget-friendly toddler bed that is a great transition out of the crib. This toddler bed will use the mattress from the crib, which is one less thing you’ll need to buy. It comes in 4 colors, is low to the ground for easy access for your toddler, has a wooden bed frame, and is super simple to put together!
Delta Children Plastic Toddler Bed
Another great option is the Delta Children Plastic Toddler Bed in either the Mickey Mouse theme or the Minnie Mouse theme. Delta is a great brand, and it’s what we’ve bought for our children. They’re easy to put together, and this plastic bed frame is easy to clean. It houses a standard-size crib mattress, is easy to get in and out of, and holds up to 50 pounds.
TOLEAD Low Loft Bed with Slide
The TOLEAD Low Loft Bed with Slide is a fun option if you have the space for some fun. This bed frame comes in 3 colors, is made of Pine wood, can hold up to 200 pounds, and provides great storage space underneath.
Givjoy Folding Sofa Bed
If you need a multi-use toddler bed, the Givjoy Folding Sofa Bed is something you should check out. You get to choose from 8 different colors, and something super cool about this item is that you can get it with designs that GLOW IN THE DARK! Super cool! This mattress is super portable and can function as a seat during the day.
Little Seeds River Metal Toddler Bed
The Little Seeds River Metal Toddler Bed is the best option if you want a metal bed frame. It comes in black, can hold 50 pounds, and has safety guard rails.
If you choose a toddler bed that doesn’t have bed rails, no problem! You can add this hiccapop toddler bed rail bumper. Hiccapop bumpers fit toddler beds, all the way up to king-size beds, which is great if you don’t want to have an actual toddler bed, but still like the security of having a bed rail. It easily fits under your deep-pocket sheets and stays put.
An important part of this process is deciding whether or not we want our little one’s bed to have sides on it – these are great if he or she still doesn’t know how to climb well because then they won’t be able to get into trouble (or fall off) at night when asleep. They’re relatively easy too, with adjustable rails that parents can reach inside easily, no matter their size!
With the right information and choices available today, finding the perfect match for your child is easy. You just have to decide what you want for them and then go out there and find it!
Great Tips for Raising Toddlers!
The Best Shoes for Toddlers with Wide Feet
How to Keep a Toddler From Climbing Out of Their Crib
The Ultimate Gift Guide for Toddlers
The Best Double Stroller for an Infant and Toddler
20+ Stocking Stuffer Ideas for Toddlers
Must-Haves When Flying with a Toddler
The 8 Best Books for Parenting Toddlers
How to Be a Better Mom to Your Toddler
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