Your Guide to Selecting the Best Toddler Bed

updated: 9/26/2025

Key Takeaways:

• Think your little one is ready for a "big kid bed"? Watch for signs your toddler is ready to switch, like climbing out of the crib or outgrowing their sleep space.
• To ease the transition, make their new bed safe and inviting with tall guardrails, cozy bedding, and familiar bedtime buddies.
• Choose furniture that grows with them, with add-ons like storage, trundles, or reconfigurable designs for long-term value.

7 Tips For Selecting the Best Toddler Bed

Remember hearing the soft sound of pitter-patter steps down your hallway for the first time? That's when you realized your 'baby' climbed out of the crib. For many parents this is THE feared stage. Toddlerhood. Temper tantrums. Terrible twos. We’ve all heard the frightening expressions.

Why focus on the negatives when there are so many exciting positives—like creating a fun toddler room? It’s the perfect time to upgrade to a toddler bed and make the space your own. Have fun with it, design a room that sparks laughter, joy, and memories that will last a lifetime.

Ready to get started? Follow these 7 tips when shopping for toddler beds for boys or toddler beds for girls.

1. Knowing When to Make the Switch

Wondering when it’s time to make the big transition to a "big kid bed"? Maxtrix suggests toddler beds for ages pre-k and up. That being said, every child's development is different so that age may vary.

Here are a few telltale signs that your toddler may be ready to move out of the crib and into their very own toddler bed:

• When your little one actively climbs up the side and manages to get over the top (be careful, as there is a real chance of injury here). 
• When he/she is able and wants to follow their own bedtime routine. 
• When the bed simply gets too small! 
• When you don’t want to keep getting up to “rescue” your toddler from monsters at night. 
• When you are ready to get woken up by your child coming to your bed rather than hollering down the hall. 

If you replied yes to one or many of the statements above, your child is most likley ready. What a milestone! Consider the following items below.

2. Keeping Kids Inside Their Bed

One of the best ways to encourage your toddler to stay put is to make their bed feel safe, fun, and inviting. Fill it with familiar friends like stuffed animals, favorite blankets, or even a beloved pillow so they feel comforted and secure.

You can also explain that just like their “bedtime buddies,” they need to stay tucked in for the night. Adding a top tent to your toddler bed can make the space feel extra cozy and special (like their own little hideaway), helping them connect the idea of bedtime with comfort and fun!

3. Creating a Safe Sleep Space

To ensure a safe sleeping space for toddlers, pay special attention to the height of guardrails. You want to make extra sure they are as tall as possible to prevent accidental falls at night.

Maxtrix has one of the highest guardrails in the industry at 11” above mattress surface, if used with a low-profile mattress. Keep in mind that the thicker the mattress you choose, the lower the guardrail protection will be.

To maximize safety, always avoid gaps or protrusions on children’s furniture. While all manufacturers must comply with federal safety standards, it’s worth double-checking that there’s nothing your child could get stuck in or that clothing could catch on, which could cause accidents.

Another key factor is the use of natural, non-toxic materials. To help prevent allergies and reduce exposure to harmful substances, choose furniture made from solid wood and fabrics like 100% cotton. Ensure that any paints or finishes are from trusted suppliers and meet strict safety standards.

At Maxtrix, we use only certified lacquers and paints, and every product undergoes additional testing to exceed US standards. As an extra precaution, keep bedding minimal until you’re confident your child can safely move and free themselves from covers or duvets.

5. Easing the Transition to a New Bed

When routines change, things can get tricky—so involve your child in the process! Show them pictures of their new bed and build excitement by making it feel like a special occasion.

If the timing lines up with a birthday or holiday, turn the new bed into a fun “big kid” present! For extra excitement, consider a furniture system that doubles as a mini playground by adding an adventurous slide or bed tent.

6. Add-Ons for a Smarter Setup

Storage is another crucial factor to consider. Want your little one to pitch in with cleanup? Add underbed storage drawers or a bedside tray to keep toys organized and within reach.

Or, if you have extra space, consider adding a dresser or bookcase for the ultimate, easy storage solution. With these clutter-eliminators, your child can easily see the difference between a messy room and a tidy one, and feel proud of helping out!

Does he or she have lots of cousins and friends over for sleepovers? What about nighttime fears? Does he/she call for Mom a lot? You can add a trundle to make sleepovers comfy for all visitors (voluntary or not!)

7. Bed Placement and Long-Term Reconfiguration 

When choosing a toddler bed, it’s smart to think beyond the early years! Our 1–3 Toddler Bed is designed to grow with your child, easily reconfiguring into a daybed and later into a twin bed. That means you won’t need to overhaul the entire nursery every few years. Instead, you’re investing in a setup that adapts as your child grows.

As for safe and cozy bedroom placement, put the bed away from windows or areas where injury could occur. Position it in the darkest spot in the room, and consider blackout blinds to help your little one sleep longer in the mornings.

To create an even cozier environment, add a top tent to block out light and sound. Many parents share that their kids sleep more soundly under one. And when the seasons change, the tent can be removed in seconds for better airflow.

Time to Pick Your Toddler Bed!

So, what do you think, ready to make the switch? Transitioning to a toddler bed is a big milestone. But you don’t have to stress, parents everywhere are going through it too! 

Turn this stage into something fun with a Maxtrix toddler bed designed for safety, style, and smiles. Explore Our Toddler Bed Collection today! 

 

FAQ:

What bed should a 2 year old have?

• A 2-year-old is often ready for a toddler bed, especially if they’re climbing out of the crib or outgrowing it! Look out for your kids climbing ability and growing independence to determine if they're ready for a toddler bed, 

Should a 2 year old have a toddler bed?

• Yes, a toddler bed is a safe and fun option once your child starts showing signs of independence or can no longer be contained in a crib. 

Should a 3 year old have a twin bed?

• Some 3-year-olds transition well to a twin bed, especially if the frame includes safety features like guardrails. If you're unsure if they're ready for a twin bed, opt for a low-profile toddler bed. 

What type of bed is good for a toddler?

• A low toddler bed with tall guardrails and non-toxic materials is best. Options that grow with your child, like beds that convert to a twin, are ideal.

Should a 3 year old be in a crib or bed?

• Most 3-year-olds are ready for a toddler or twin bed, especially if they can climb out of the crib. Transitioning to a "big kid bed" helps promote independence and a safer sleep environment.