Menu
MattressFirm Logo
Bed Basics
Bed Basics

Big Kid Bed: When Should Your Child Make the Switch?

June27_Blog_640x400

So, your little one is starting to grow up before your eyes; and you're wondering when is the best time to transition from crib to toddler bed.

Typically, children make the move between the ages 2 and 3.5 years old; however if you don't feel your child is ready, as parents trust your instincts on when your family should make this transition.

There are many factors worth considering during this process including:

  1. Safety
  2. Baby on the Way
  3. Costs and Convenience
  4. Bed Types

Our Mattress Firm team has compiled a few helpful tips for you to know when to pack up the crib and set up the big kid bed. These will help make your life easier in the process.

Safety should be a top concern.


Most toddlers have the ability to climb over a crib rail when they are about 35 inches tall and between 18 and 24 months of age. Little kids love to stretch their wings and try new things.

Escaping from the crib while you think they are sleeping can be dangerous. As a general rule, if your child can climb over the crib's railings while awake, don't hesitate to make the move to a bigger bed.

After you decide it's time, consider how you are going to safeguard your toddler's room and the entire house. You may need to add a child safety handle on the inside of the door until your child understands nighttime exploring is off-limits.

Think about any sibling issues.


One big factor to consider is when you are expecting the arrival of a baby. This can be a very sensitive time for your toddler, especially if you have a one-child household. It's best to start the process one to two months before the new baby is due, assuming that your toddler is at least 18 months old.

Knowing there are many changes to come, make the big kid bed experience special for your toddler. Here are a few  ideas on how to get them involved in this exciting process. And when the new bed arrives have your little one pull out a toy drill or hammer to help you with assembly.

Consider all costs involved.

At Mattress Firm, you can definitely get a great deal and reviews on everything you'll need for a big kid bed. Other costs you should budget include a toddler safety railing, bedding, a mattress protector and child safety locks.

Ease into the transition.


After deciding when the time is right to move your little one to the big kid bed, it's important to choose the best type of bed for your child.

A few options include a toddler bed, which is low to the ground and can support a crib mattress; a twin mattress positioned on the floor or atop box springs, or a traditional bed set-up with a removable guardrail to keep your child from falling out while asleep.

Congratulations Mom and Dad! This is a big milestone not only for your child, but also for you.

Mattress Firm knows there is a lot to get used to when transitioning beds and we are here to help. Come visit one of our Mattress Firm locations and we will make sure you have everything you need for no complaints from your big kid!

You Might Also Like

An illustration of a small bedroom with a well optimized set up.
Bed Basics
Small Bedroom? Here’s Your Guide to Maximizing SpaceFrom single dorm rooms to first apartments and historic homes, many bedrooms are smaller than we’d like. While we don’t always get a say in the size of our room, we (fortunately) do get to decide what to do with it.
A woman sitting on her made bed, stretching her arms out in front of her.
Bed Basics
What Exactly Is Mattress Support?Perhaps one of the most common—albeit vague—pieces of advice you’ll often hear when you’re in the market for a new mattress is to find one with “good support.” But what does that even mean? And is mattress support the same as mattress firmness? If you’ve ever wondered what good mattress support actually implies and what the right support can do for your sleep, you’ve come to the right place.
Matty against a blue background. Text reads: Matty Asks Mattress Sizess
Bed Basics
Matty Asks: Mattress SizesGot questions about buying a new bed? We’ve heard ‘em all. Our Sleep Experts® are here to help with all the answers. Whether you’re curious about bed fillings, accessories, pillow lofts, under-bed options, or anything else in your bedroom, we’ve got answers. And there’s no question too small or too silly.
Two people laughing on a Sleepys by Sealy memory foam mattress.
Bed Basics
Why We Love the New Sleepy’s by Sealy Memory Foam MattressesWhen it comes to pressure relief and customized support, memory foam mattresses are a customer favorite for a reason.
An illustration Sleep Expert® and a customer talking in store next to a mattress.
Bed Basics
Should I Shop for a Mattress In-Store or Online?If you’re short on time, buying a mattress online may seem like the best option. But before we give you our expert-approved mattress shopping tips, keep in mind there are pros and cons to each. The biggest perk of shopping in-store is getting the help of our Sleep Experts®, who are trained to make your mattress shopping experience quick and easy. Plus, we have thousands of stores across the nation, so you won’t have to go far!
A woman with the Sleepy's Storage Base with Reversible Headboard base open putting pillows into the under bed storage.
Bed Basics
New Alternatives to the Classic Box SpringChoosing the best alternative to the traditional box springs can depend on several factors, including your personal preference, budget and lifestyle.
A couple laying on an adjustable bed looking at a tablet.
Bed Basics
Tips and Tricks for Styling an Adjustable BedYour bedroom should reflect your style and taste in a way that helps you to de-stress and get into a relaxed state before bedtime. Of all the elements in your bedroom, the most important is the mattress that enables you to get great sleep each night, and many people have further optimized their rest with an adjustable bed.
5Budget-FriendlyWays_Facebook_blog_1200x628
Bed Basics
Best Budget Mattresses for Every Price RangeBest Mattresses for Every Budget: Under $500, $1000 & $2000