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The best toddler beds are perfect for smoothly transitioning your baby from the crib to the bed. These beds are similar to the standard beds but are smaller in size and designed for maximum comfort and protection for babies. A toddler bed also has similar features to that of a crib but with additional features that support the needs of a growing baby.
Here, we tell you about the benefits of toddler beds and give you some tips on selecting the right one. We also list some of the best options available from trusted brands to help you choose the best fit for your baby.
Top Picks
11 Best Toddler Beds
1. Best Overall: Delta Children Plastic Toddler Bed
Highlight: The key components of the bed are made from high-quality, durable plastic, which makes it lightweight and easy-to-move. If you prefer a toddler bed that can be moved easily from one room to another, then the Delta Children’s plastic-made portable toddler bed should be a trusted choice. This video takes you through the unique features of this affordable toddler bed, making it easier for you to make a buying decision.
Pros
- Can be dismantled for convenient storage and transportation
- Multiple points of attachment hold the bed together securely
- Metal rods connect various plastic parts of the bed to make a sturdy frame
- Easy step-by-step guide tells you how to assemble the bed easily
- Features a modern design
- Holds maximum weight of 50lb (22.6kg)
Cons
- Might not be as supportive
- May not be suitable for tall children
"With its side rails—crucial for those who have trouble sleeping—it ensures safety without sacrificing comfort. The plastic construction reduces nighttime bumps, which is nice, and the bed's design excites my little Spider-Man fan."
2. Best Lightweight: Dream On Me Classic Toddler Bed
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The 1,032 reviews on Amazon indicate that this product has a loyal following.
Highlight: The bed comes in seven color options including Cherry, Espresso, Black, Natural, Pink, Pecan, and White. The color choices offer you the liberty to pick one that your toddler likes and one that fits with the room’s theme. To know more about this product, here’s a review video that you can watch.
Pros
- Made entirely of solid wood and is lightweight
- Bed’s berth stays low, closer to the floor
- Prevents the child from rolling off the bed
- Bed is made from wooden slats that are lightweight yet hold the frame of the bed firmly.
- Features a classic design
- Free of latex, lead, phthalates, and BPA
- Maximum holding capacity is 50lb (22.6kg)
Cons
- Assembly might be time-consuming
- Instructions may not be clear
"This bed is ideal for its timeless charm and ease of installation. It also fits nicely into my child's compact room, and I must say it has held up to my toddler's spirited play and made the transition from the crib much more enjoyable."
Point to consider3. Best Easy-To-Install: Orbelle Trading Toddler Bed
Highlight: The bed has a straightforward design, which makes it convenient to install. Fewer parts make it easy to understand which component goes where. Parents will love the brand’s simplistic design. Check out this reviewer’s experience in this video to find out more about the product’s features.
Pros
- Wooden components made of high-quality, solid wood
- High safety guardrails on the back and front, with two more rails halfway along the sides
- Includes the tools needed to install the components together
- Height of the bed is low enough for a toddler to sleep securely
- Maximum weight holding capacity is 50lb (22.6kg)
Cons
- Assembly might be difficult
- May have blemishes
"The bed combines functionality and a traditional style, making it perfect for my toddler transitioning to a bed. I particularly like the side attachment block and mid-frame foot, and assembling the bed was straightforward."
Delta Children Plastic Toddler Bed Best Overall | Dream On Me Classic Toddler Bed Best Lightweight | Orbelle Trading Toddler Bed Best Easy-To-Install | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Color | Spider-man | Cool Grey | Grey |
| Weight | 17.9 pounds | 16.5 pounds | 17 pounds |
| Dimensions | 7.4 x 29.61 x 17.24 inches | 53 x 28 x 30 inches | 53 x 30 x 26.5 inches |
| Rating | |||
| Reviews | 2,925 | 1,032 | 571 |
| Price | $65.34 | $87.97 | $83.15 |
4. Best Ventilated: Delta Children Toddler Tent Bed
Highlight: A large canopy with adorable windows covers the entire bed, making it a cozy place for a toddler to sleep. Manufactured by a trusted brand, this toddler bed with a canopy is crafted to meet the JPMA standards.
Pros
- Half guardrails on the side work as a point of attachment for the canopy
- Canopy is made from high-quality plastic
- Has a compact design
- Two entrances on either side of the canopy allow the toddler to step in and out of bed with ease
- Two mesh windows on either side provide ventilation
- Holds a maximum weight of 50lb (22.6kg)
Cons
- Tent might not be durable
- May be difficult to assemble
"This transitional bed is pretty cozy and comfortable. It sits low to the ground and has sturdy frames, which is reassuring for my restless little sleepers. And although the side rails are removable, I'd advise handling them carefully."
5. Best Stylish: Orbelle Trading Gray Padded Toddler Bed
The mom-approved toddler bed has a tufted gray footboard and headboard with crystal-like inset buttons that give it a sophisticated look. The toddler bed frame is made of solid wood for durability, and the headboard and footboard have foam inserts for comfort and safety. The bed measures 53x30x28in, offering ample space for the child to move.
Pros
- Comes complete with tools for assembly
- Made of soft microfiber polyester material
- Easy to clean
- Can withstand heavy weight
Cons
- Gold screws may be larger than expected
- Instructions may be slightly vague
"My granddaughter has fallen in love with this wooden bed I recently put together. Even though it takes two pairs of hands to assemble, the result is a reliable, well-made bed with a pleasing appearance."
6. Best Cartoon-Themed: Batman Batmobile Toddler Bed By Delta Children
Highlight: Is your toddler a Batman fan? Then look no more, for this safety-tested toddler bed with built-in guard rails takes the shape of the iconic Batmobile car, as shown in the comic and cartoon series.
Pros
- Made from durable plastic, [Read: Cribs For Babies] this bed is lightweight and easy to assemble
- Large guardrail at the back with smaller ones on the side and the front for extra safety
- Low sleeping height provides maximum protection to a toddler
- JPMA-certified
- Maximum weight limit is 50lb (22.6kg)
Cons
- Might be too small in height
- Stickers might rip easily
"This batmobile bed is easy to assemble and has fun stickers that appeal to my child. The center support bar felt a little shaky, but for a floor-aligned bed, it's a good option."
7. Best Sturdy: Cars Wood Toddler Bed From Delta Children
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The 7,694 positive reviews on Amazon are proof that this product meets customers' expectations.
Highlight: Individual wooden panels fit together to form the bed. The front side of the character-themed toddler bed has a low guard rail, which makes it easy for a toddler to get onto the bed without the risk of tripping, making it a trusted choice.
Pros
- Shaped like the famous Disney character, Lightning McQueen, from the animated film Cars.
- Includes decal stickers with details like wheels and badges
- Wooden panels are sturdy and firm, holding the bed together rigidly
- High guard rail at the back and full guard rails on each side prevent the toddler from rolling on to the floor
- Manufacturer provides the details on assembly along with the bolt, for the convenience of the buyer
- Certified by JPMA and meets all their safety norms, making it child-safe
- Tested bed can hold a maximum weight of 50lb (22.6kg)
Cons
- Might be challenging to put together
- May have an unpleasant smell
"This car-themed bed is more than just pretty. It is composed of solid wood and is strong. Because it is low to the ground, it saves room and is simple for small children to access. The smell of the paint lingers for a few days, but barring that, it is a practical choice."
Do remember8. Best Environment-Friendly: Costzon Toddler Bed
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
More than 650 buyers on Amazon have said the product lives up to the hype.
Highlight: A low height of only eight inches and a large ingress-egress point makes it a safe yet practical toddler bed. This toddler bed is trusted by moms and dads, as its safety rails prevent your little one from tipping off the bed.
Pros
- Wide wooden panels bolt into place to make a rigid frame
- Enough gap that makes it easy for a toddler to get onto the bed
- You can get the bed in multiple colors
- It is finished with environmentally friendly paint, free of lead and other toxins
- Easy to clean wooden surface
- Maximum weight capacity is 50lb (22.6kg)
Cons
- Some holes might not be pre-drilled
- Instructions may not be clear
"This toddler bed strikes the right balance of sturdiness and lightweight design. It took me just a few minutes to assemble. It's a good choice for parents looking for a wooden bed to help their children transition to a big kid bed."
9. Best Wooden Bed: Classic Sleigh Toddler Bed By Dream On Me
Highlight: A toddler bed shaped exactly like a sleigh! If you are looking for something exciting to gift to your toddler, then this expert-approved wooden toddler bed can be your pick.
Pros
- Bed is made from solid wood with panels you can neatly assemble with minimal hassle
- The paint is non-toxic and safe for toddlers
- High guard rails at the front and back providing maximum safety
- Middle leg on each side of the bed adds stability
- The bed can hold a maximum weight of 50lb (22.6kg)
Cons
- Might be a challenge to assemble
- May not have pre-drilled holes
"I find this bed with half rails perfect for my active toddler. Despite its low weight, it has endured his energetic play, and I like that it serves its purpose, though I do not expect it to last us for years."
10.Best Interactive:Delta Children Interactive Wood Toddler Bed
Highlight: The front guard rail has an interactive clock with a spinner to point time. There is also a planner with activities that a toddler is supposed to do before bed, like wear pajamas, brush teeth, and listen to a story. You can mark the activities with an erasable marker to make bedtime a fun activity for the toddler.
Pros
- All panels are made from durable wood
- Bed is closer to the ground for maximum toddler safety
- Adorable design to help reduce bedtime resistance
- High guard rails keep the child secure while they are asleep
- Bright color scheme makes it enticing for a toddler
- It can hold a maximum weight of 50lb (22.6kg).
Cons
- Instruction manual might not be clear
- May have an unpleasant smell
"I recently assembled this wood-framed toddler bed that stays flat on the floor, so I am happy to suggest it to parents of active children. The Mickey Mouse graphics are lovely, and I love the footboard."
Quick tip11. Best For Daytime Naps: Dream On Me Toddler Day Bed
Highlight: The bed is designed for daytime usage by the toddler and features a single high guard rail on one side and half guard rail on the other. It is a tried-and-tested toddler bed with storage to place in the drawing room or even in the bedroom for the toddler’s naps.
Pros
- Has a low height that makes it easy for the toddler to get on and off the bed
- Naturally free of latex, phthalates, lead, and BPA
- Includes a slidable, storage drawer at the base of the bed
- All tools for easy assembly provided by the manufacturer
- Available in five colors
- Can hold a maximum weight of 50lb (22.6kg)
Cons
- Might be slightly smaller than expected
- Holes may not be drilled deep enough
"I had no trouble putting this toddler bed together. The drawers are suited for light storage and do not affect the bed's sturdy structure. Its eye-catching look and practicality make it a good option for my child's room."
What Is A Toddler Bed?
The US Consumer Product Safety Commission defines a toddler bed as a piece of furniture designed to accommodate a standard infant crib-size mattress (1). The dimensions of a standard crib mattress are 28in (71cm) in width and 52in (133cm) in length (2). If you already have a standard, full-sized crib for your baby, then you can continue to use its mattress with a toddler bed.
[ Read : Babyhug Mattress Set Reviews ]
The Dimensions Of A Toddler Bed
The dimensions of the bed should at least be 51 5/8 inches (130cm) in length and 27 1/4 inches (69cm) in width. Toddler beds in bigger sizes are available too.
The Right Time To Introduce The Toddler Bed
Ideally, you should wait until the baby is at least 15 to 18 months old and capable enough to stay secure in a toddler bed. Also, check if the toddler is ready to move into a bigger bed. If your toddler often displays bedtime resistance in a toddler bed even at the age of 18 months, don’t push them. Give it a break and try after a few weeks or a month. Most kids get used to sleeping in a toddler bed by the time they are 20 months old.
Gopa Bezboruah, a parenting and travel blogger, says, “Once your baby is ready to transition from a crib to a bed, you can consider getting a toddler bed. A toddler bed should be sturdy, meet the height and weight requirements, and have protective side rails.”
What Are The Benefits Of A Toddler Bed?
A toddler bed offers the following advantages.
- Observe the weight and height limit: Most traditional toddler beds support a weight of no more than 50 lb (22.6 kg). Toddlers grow quick, so watch their weight and the capacity of the bed to prevent any crashing accidents. Also, read and adhere to the safety notes and instructions provided by the manufacturer.
- Safer than full-size bed: Toddler beds are lower than a full-size bed and also feature some guard rails. Toddlers can sleep safely in the bed until they are old enough to sleep in a full-size bed.
- Makes things easier for the parents: Cribs lock the toddlers inside, crippling their movement and making them dependent on the parent for everything. A toddler bed gives the child the freedom to get on and off the bed on their own. It is especially useful when the toddler is learning to potty train and wants to go to the toilet.
That said, a toddler bed is no good if you don’t choose one that meets your child’s requirements.
[ Read : Fisher Price Georgia Wooden Crib Cum Toddler Bed Benefits ]
How To Choose The Right Toddler Bed?
Are you confused about what to look for in a toddler bed before buying? Here’s a checklist you can use for picking a bed for your toddler.
- Low bed height: There is no standard dimension for the height, but it should be low enough that the toddler can sit on the edge of the bed with both the soles of their feet touching the ground. If you fear your toddler may roll over from the edge, then you can consider toddler beds that are almost at floor height.
- Guard rails: Toddler beds usually have guard rails at the back and halfway across the sides of the bed. Many beds also have a guard rail at the front to prevent the toddler from rolling down or getting precariously close to the edge during sleep.
- Sturdy legs: The guard rails may add some extra weight to the bed. Therefore, toddler beds usually have two extra legs to support that additional weight, and for stability and sturdiness.
- Assembly style: Pick a bed that comes with clear instructions on how to get the parts assembled. It is vital to assemble a toddler bed correctly to ensure safety.
- Material: Toddler beds can be made of plastic or wood. Plastic is easy-to-clean and light. Wood is more durable and can withstand rough use. Make a pick according to your requirements and what works better for your toddler.
[ Read : Babyhug Teddy Print Baby Bedding Set Review ]
Tips For Toddler Bed Usage
- Observe the weight limit: Most toddler beds support a weight of no more than 50 lb (22.6 kg). Toddlers grow quick, so watch their weight and the capacity of the bed to prevent any crashing accidents.
- Check for loose joints: Periodically check for any loose joint or parts of the bed that seem squeaky. If the toddler is active and jumps on the bed, then you must check for loose joints more often.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can a two-year-old sleep on a memory foam mattress?
A memory foam mattress is less suitable for toddlers because they may find it difficult to turn sides as their body sinks into the mattress.
2. What type of bed should a toddler have?
Your toddler should sleep on a firm mattress as it reduces the risk of suffocation.
3. Is it worth getting a toddler bed?
Yes, toddler beds are lower to the ground and have adequate side support, preventing your little one from falling.
4. What size is a toddler bed?
A toddler bed is smaller than a single bed. It measures around 140 cm in length and 70 cm in width.
5. Do toddler beds come with mattresses?
Most toddler beds come with mattresses. If the manufacturer hasn’t provided the mattress, test the firmness of the mattress and opt for one with breathable properties.
Why Trust MomJunction?
Vibha Navarathna is passionate about researching pregnancy and baby-related products. She believes in giving well-researched recommendations in an informative and objective manner, enabling prospective buyers to make the right choice. In this list, she has selected the best toddler beds based on user reviews, tester’s experience, and factors such as the design, comfort, and safety aspects. Vibha also shares some useful tips to help choose an appropriate toddler bed as per your requirements.
The Bottom Line
The best bed for toddlers provides maximum comfort and protection. However, finding the right one for your baby can be quite a task. Hence, our list includes the durable Delta Children Plastic Toddler Bed and the comfortable Orbelle Trading Gray Padded Toddler Bed . It also features theme-based options like the Delta Children Toddler Tent Bed to catch your child’s fancy and help them have a good night’s sleep. You can also select a safety-tested bed made of wood or good quality plastic based on your preferences. Also, consider factors like sturdiness, height, durability, guard rails, and ease of assembling. Besides, check the bed’s condition and take up maintenance if needed.
Infographic: How To Transition Toddlers From Crib To A Toddler Bed?
Many parents prefer to move toddlers to separate rooms or separate beds to sleep in. Toddlers’ beds are much smaller in size and height than normal beds and are equipped with various safety features, such as side rails. Go through the infographic below to learn more about transitioning toddlers from cribs to beds.
Illustration: Momjunction Design Team
References
1. Full-Size Baby Cribs Business Guidance & Small Entity Compliance Guide; US Consumer Product Safety Commission
2. Safety Standard for Toddler Bed; US Consumer Product Safety Commission
3. Where Should My Toddler Sleep?
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