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Best Toddler Beds

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Pros
Cons
Best of the Best
Dream On Me Emma 3-in-1 Convertible Bed
Dream On Me
Emma 3-in-1 Convertible Bed
Feature-Packed

Provide a safe sleep space for your child, and then continue your use of this bed after they transition out by converting it to a table and chairs.

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Feature-Packed
Bottom Line

Provide a safe sleep space for your child, and then continue your use of this bed after they transition out by converting it to a table and chairs.

Pros

Comes in several different finishes for an added pop of color in your child’s room. A metal and pine construction with 2 guard rails per side for increased safety, and a center leg for more support. Convert this bed to a table and 2 chairs for a mature addition to the room as they grow.

Cons

The assembly can be difficult.

Best Bang for the Buck
Delta Children Fancy Toddler Bed
Delta Children
Fancy Toddler Bed
Simple Yet Solid

Give your child an upgrade without sacrificing safety with this toddler bed that will fit a variety of room styles.

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Simple Yet Solid
Bottom Line

Give your child an upgrade without sacrificing safety with this toddler bed that will fit a variety of room styles.

Pros

The low profile construction and partial safety rails allow for your child to easily get in and out and sleep safely. Fitted with a footboard and headboard that looks like a traditional bed, but with a grown-up feel. Comes in multiple classic finishes. Fits a crib-size mattress for convenient transition.

Cons

A few reviews mentioned that they received broken products.

Dream On Me Toddler Day Bed
Dream On Me
Toddler Day Bed
Easy Transition

The daybed style makes for an option that can make the progression from the crib to a bed into a simple and convenient experience.

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Easy Transition
Bottom Line

The daybed style makes for an option that can make the progression from the crib to a bed into a simple and convenient experience.

Pros

Cute daybed design. Handy bottom drawer with ample storage space. Easy to put together with the included tools. The low-to-floor- design makes it easy for a child to get in and out of bed. Pick from 5 stylish finishes.

Cons

Pricey. Some concerns about the durability of particle board components.

Delta Children PlasticToddler Bed
Delta Children
PlasticToddler Bed
Fun Design Options

With the cute bed choices, this is worth considering if you want a character-themed design to liven up your toddler's room.

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Fun Design Options
Bottom Line

With the cute bed choices, this is worth considering if you want a character-themed design to liven up your toddler's room.

Pros

Fun characters, bright colors, and a sturdy steel frame. Two attached guardrails. Easily accessible for a child when getting in and out of bed. Well-made plastic components. Easy assembly.

Cons

Some have trouble with rails and other components not matching up to their designated slots.

BK Furniture Harrisburg Toddler Bed
BK Furniture
Harrisburg Toddler Bed
Traditional Design

Transition your child out of their crib with this toddler bed that models a traditional style, and gives extra safety for peace of mind.

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Traditional Design
Bottom Line

Transition your child out of their crib with this toddler bed that models a traditional style, and gives extra safety for peace of mind.

Pros

Comes with a headboard, footboard, and a safety rail for each side. Has a low profile for easy in and out. Fits most standard crib mattresses. Available in a few different neutral finishes that will go with any décor style.

Cons

The size is smaller than some customers were looking for.

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BestReviews spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing, and testing products to recommend the best picks for most consumers. We only make money if you purchase a product through our links, and all opinions about the products are our own. About BestReviews  
BestReviews spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing, and testing products to recommend the best picks for most consumers. We only make money if you purchase a product through our links, and all opinions about the products are our own. About BestReviews  
BestReviews spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing, and testing products to recommend the best picks for most consumers. We buy all products with our own funds, and we never accept free products from manufacturers.About BestReviews 
HOW WE TESTED

We recommend these products based on an intensive research process that's designed to cut through the noise and find the top products in this space. Guided by experts, we spend hours looking into the factors that matter, to bring you these selections.

First Reviewed
January 21, 2022
30
Models
considered
12
Hours
researched
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Buying guide for best toddler beds

Erica van Blommestein
Written by Erica van Blommestein

Updated April 2023

Babies grow up fast, and before you know it, your little one will move from her crib into a toddler bed. It can seem like a big adjustment to make, but if you handle it right, it can be a relatively smooth transition.

One key concern choosing the best toddler bed. As a parent, you want to make the best choices for your child, but it can become overwhelming when you have so many options to pick from. The good news is, you can't go too wrong with a toddler bed, as long as you make sure it's safe. That said, we at BestReviews are here to help you sort the wheat from the chaff.

We test products in our labs, consult experts, examine opinions from existing customers, and analyze piles of data – all so we can aid you in making informed purchasing decisions. What's more, we never accept free products from manufacturers. We buy items off the shelves, just like you do, so you can be sure our reviews are fair and unbiased.

Read on for our full guide to toddler beds. Then, when you're ready to buy, scroll up to see our top five toddler bed recommendations.

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In all likelihood, your toddler will use their bed as a play zone as well, so get something that is durable.

Why do you need a toddler bed?

Toddlers usually outgrow a crib somewhere between 18 and 36 months, once they’re tall and mobile enough to escape from the crib. It's unsafe to let a toddler sleep in a crib once he can do so, as he could fall and injure himself climbing out. However, at this age, a child still isn't big enough to sleep safely in a regular twin bed. Here are some reasons why toddler beds are the perfect interim option.

  • Unlike regular beds, toddler beds have side rails, so it's less likely your child will fall out.

  • Toddler beds are lower to the ground than twin beds, so if your toddler does fall out despite the rails, she's less likely to seriously hurt herself.

  • Most toddler beds have a center leg each side for added stability. This is an excellent design addition since many kids of this age will also play on their beds, or use them as trampolines.

  • Toddler beds sometimes have fun designs that are more likely to get your child excited about sleeping in his new bed.

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EXPERT CONSULTANT
Kelle is a certified teacher, a leader of multiple children’s organizations, and a mother of two small children. Her professional network of colleagues and extensive knowledge of baby/child-related products makes her a valuable resource here at BestReviews. When she’s not caring for children or studying products, you may find Kelle engaging in watersports and other exercise.
Kelle
Teacher and Child Care Professional

Toddler bed style options

Toddler beds come in a range of styles. Some are more geared toward kids – for instance, featuring cartoon characters – whereas others are classic and stylish.

  • Sleigh beds tend to be wooden and have a slatted headboard, footboard, and side rails. This is a simple, yet classic, design that's extremely popular.

  • Vehicle toddler beds take the form of race cars, trains, buses, carriages, and more. If your want your child to get excited about his new bed, these are an excellent option.

  • Toddler day beds have three full sides. Some have a safety rail on the open side, whereas others do not. Those with a safety rail can be slept in like a regular bed, but those without should only be used as a couch.

  • Panel day beds have fixed panels running down half of the longs sides of the bed, instead of slatted side rails. These beds may be made from wood, plywood, fiberboard, or plastic.

  • Convertible toddler beds can be transformed into full size beds one your child has outgrown them (though this usually requires a separate conversion kit, and you'll need a bigger mattress, too).

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Expert Tip
Check the weight limit before crawling in bed with your toddler. Most toddler beds can't accommodate more than about 50 pounds.
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Toddler bed safety features

Certification

Toddler beds should be certified by the Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association (JPMA). This proves the bed either meets or exceeds the necessary federal safety standards.

Safety rails

We've mentioned them above, but it's worth noting again that toddler beds should have side rails – or "safety – to help prevent your child falling out of bed if she rolls around in her sleep.

Construction

A safe toddler bed should be well constructed. Give it a shake to make sure it seems sturdy enough.

Smooth edges

Look for a toddler bed that has smooth edges and no protruding parts that could hurt your little one.  

Mattress

A well-fitting mattress is essential. If there's a gap between the mattress and the bed frame, your child could get trapped in it.

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Did you know?
Some toddler beds can be converted into full twin beds when your toddler is old enough, which can be a great money-saver.
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Tips for transitioning to a toddler bed

It can be tough to get your toddler to want to sleep in his "big kid bed." Here are a few tips for making that transition.

  • Try to get your little one excited for her new bed by involving her in the selection decision. If she's old enough, let her pick between two or three options on your shortlist.

  • Don't put too much pressure on your child to make the transition. Look for signs he's ready, such as asking to move or trying to climb out of his crib.

  • It's best to position the new bed in the same place the crib stood. Completely changing the room around will cause added stress to what can already be a difficult transition.

  • If your little one has any favorite comfort items, such as blankets or stuffed toys, let her sleep with them in her new bed.

  • Stick to the same bedtime routine as normal to show nothing much has changed apart from the bed.

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For your safety
Metal-framed beds are more likely to have screws that can jiggle loose. Be sure to check them periodically to make sure the bed is sturdy.
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Prices

$40 to $60

You can find basic toddler beds for as little as $40 to $60. The most inexpensive models tend to be made from plastic. These are unlikely to be as durable as high-end beds.

"Most children transition out of their cribs between 18 and 30 months. Sometimes it can be helpful to set up the new bed prior to the transition to get your child excited to grow out of the crib."
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$60 to $100

Mid-range toddler beds cost between about $60 and $100. You can find some excellent beds in the price range that are surprisingly durable and well made for the cost.

$100 to $200

High-end toddler beds cost roughly $100 to $200. You can find a handful of more expensive designer models, but they offer very little added value. In this price range, expect attractive and well-designed beds that are extremely durable and made from high-quality materials.

FAQ

Q. How can I tell if a toddler bed is JPMA certified?

A. Manufacturers know this is important to parents, so beds with JPMA certification usually show a seal of approval on their packaging, or mention it in the product description when you're shopping online.

Q. Why are toddler beds so low to the ground? Don't the rails stop children falling out?

A. In theory, the side rails should stop your child from falling out of their toddler bed. However, some kids are very active sleepers and manage to fall out occasionally, despite having safety rails in place. Due to the low height of a toddler bed, it's unlikely a child who falls from one will do himself much damage beyond a bit of a bump.

Q. At what age should my child transition from a toddler bed to a twin bed?

A. Most children move from their toddler bed to a twin bed at around age 5 or 6. However, you should check the maximum weight limit on your toddler bed (usually around 50 pounds) and make sure you move your child to a twin bed once he exceeds it.

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If your child pushes back against moving up to a toddler bed, it can be helpful to take your child bed and bedding shopping so they feel like they’ve chosen their sleeping setup.
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