For your toddler to transition from a cot to toddler bed is a special moment. However, moving to a bigger bed comes with freedom, and freedom comes at a price. Therefore, not only the bed has to be comfortable, but also safe. And, with so many options on the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one for your child. So, what are the important factors to consider when choosing your first toddler bed?
Things to consider when buying a toddler bed
Parents’ dilemma: toddler bed or single bed?
There are several size bed options available in the market for your little one’s first move out of her cot, but the most common options are single bed (90 x 190cm) or a toddler bed (70 x 140cm). This may look simple, and some parents might choose to directly go for a single bed for its simplicity and to avoid buying beds twice. But there’s actually a big difference that you’ll need to consider.
For starters, toddler beds are designed with toddlers in mind. That being said, toddler beds are usually low to the ground and have bed guards placed on each side of the bed – all of which are very essential for your child’s safety. In addition, they’re also usually designed with rounded edges, use non-toxic paints, and more importantly, they’re often designed in a fun way that your kids would love.
Toddler beds – thanks to their smaller size and side guards – may also feel familiar for your little one as they can still feel a bit like a crib, rather than a larger single bed size. This helps to make their transition smoother.
Space and storage
Consider how the new toddler bed would fit to your child’s bedroom setting. Think about whether you’re gonna place it in the middle of the room or against the wall, as this would also determine the type of the bed you’ll choose. For instance, you may want to look for a bed that has openings on both sides if you want to place it in the middle, or opt for a one-side opening if you want to place it against the wall.
Some toddler beds are designed without a bottom space, while some are designed with bottom drawers. It depends on what you prefer, but choosing the one with additional storage can help save some space in your child’s bedroom and can be used as a place to keep her favourite belongings close to them.
Make it exciting
Toddler beds come in a variety of designs, from basic classic beds to themed design with cartoon and dreamy characters. Consider your child’s interests when choosing a design, or better, ask her to go shop for their own bed. This will give them a sense of belonging and would encourage her to be more excited about moving to her new bed.
Choose a solid hardwood material
Once you know what style of bed your child would love, it’s time to consider the type of material used to make the bed. There are several materials toddler beds usually use, it could be natural pinewood, hardwood, metal, or engineered wood. Out of all these choices, hardwood is your best option if you want something that’s strong and last, while also not as expensive as metal bed frames. At the end of the day, kids will do kids things – jumping on their bed, for example – so it’s best to opt for something that can withstand anything your child will throw at them.
Find the one that’s easy to assemble
Unless you have plenty of time or are willing to pay professionals, it’s better to choose something that’s easy to assemble. Most toddler beds you buy online will come in a flat box, and would require assembly. Some beds come with all the tools needed to assemble, but still, one wrong move can potentially destroy the bed’s frame, and you’ll need to do something about it.
So, when to transition to toddler bed?
According to the NHS, most transitions can happen between 18 months and 3 years old. There’s no exact time when your child is ready for her big move, and that can depend on a lot of things. It could be physical, the arrival of a new baby, or she starts asking you for a new bed. Only parents know the child’s readiness and what’s the best time for a move. Some toddler’s transitions can be stressful for parents, but keep in mind that at the end of the day, everyone of us will sleep in a big bed anyway. Read this article for more detail of when’s the right time for a toddler to transition from a cot to toddler bed.
