Shop The Story
The best toddler beds for a peaceful sleep.
Toddlerhood comes with many changes — some big, some small — but one of the most important is the transition from crib to bed. If your toddler is breaking out of their crib, they might be signaling to you that they are ready for a big-kid bed. There are no strict guidelines as to what age kids should switch to a toddler bed, but they can start to show interest as early as 18 months and as late as 4 years old.
While some kids may be enthusiastic about the idea of a toddler bed, for others, the thought of a big bed can be scary. Toddlers’ worlds are changing every day — potty training, new siblings, new school, and more — and life can get overwhelming, so it’s best to keep sleep stress-free and straightforward.
RELATED: The 10 Best Mattress Protectors for Kids That Parents Say Are ‘Perfect for Potty Training’
What to Consider When Buying a Toddler Bed
There are two types of beds to consider when buying a bed for toddlers: Parents can choose from a traditional toddler bed that comes with guard rails and is low to the ground, or they can opt for a twin bed with the option to attach safety rails, usually sold separately. Either is a great choice.
Also, be prepared for possible sleep regression and a new excitement around bedtime. Have patience, and try to keep everything else the same. Stick to your regular bedtime routine and ensure that your toddler’s room is safe, given that they may do some exploring when you’re not around. Transitioning to a toddler bed is an exciting time, and your baby is growing up fast!
Below, check out our 13 picks for the best toddler beds in 2021.
Best Overall: Dream On Me Convertible Toddler Sleigh Bed
Best Convertible: Dream On Me Emma 3-in-1 Convertible Toddler Bed
Best for Travel: Regalo My Cot Portable Toddler Bed
Best Crib-to-Toddler Bed: Carter's by DaVinci Colby 4-in-1 Convertible Crib
Best Twin: Burkley Twin Convertible Toddler Bed
Best with Rails: Monarch Hill Ivy Toddler Bed
Best Bunk Bed: Bellmead Twin Over Twin Bunk Bed
Best with Tent: Disney Mickey Mouse Toddler Bed
Best Car Bed: Delta Children Grand Prix Race Car Toddler-to-Twin Bed
Best with Storage: South Shore Plenny Twin Daybed
Best Affordable: Nickelodeon PAW Patrol Toddler Bed
Best with Canopy: South Shore Sweedi House Bed
Best Day Bed: Dream on Me Toddler Daybed with Storage
Each product we feature has been independently selected and reviewed by our editorial team. If you make a purchase using the links included, we may earn commission.
Best Overall
Dream On Me Convertible Toddler Bed
This toddler bed comes with detachable rails on either side and is low to the ground for added safety. Plus, the solid-wood foundation makes the bed extra sturdy. It also comes in many different colors and fits a standard toddler bed mattress. You can't go wrong with this pick.
Best Convertible
Dream On Me Emma 3-in-1 Convertible Toddler Bed
For parents concerned that they won't be getting the best bang for their buck with a bed their kids only use for a few years, this toddler bed converts into a table and two chairs after kids grow out of it. Note: The conversion kit is sold separately.
Best for Travel
Regalo My Cot Portable Toddler Bed
Help your toddler rest comfortably on vacation or while visiting relatives. This bed holds kids up to 75 pounds with its durable canvas fabric. It folds up for convenience and even comes with a fitted sheet.
Best Crib-to-Toddler Bed
Carter's by DaVinci Colby 4-in-1 Convertible Crib
You get four beds in one with this purchase as it converts from a crib to a toddler bed to a daybed and then a full-size bed. This bed will grow with your child for years.
Best Twin
Catalina Bed
This bed features a wood footboard and headboard and can be adjusted to two different heights. The lower height is perfect for toddlers to get in and out of bed on their own. You can also add bed rails to either side.
Best with Rails
Monarch Hill Ivy Toddler Bed
This toddler bed features built-in guard rails that help keep your little one from rolling off. It's also quite sturdy, and many parents praise how easy it is to assemble.
Best Bunk Bed
Bellmead Twin over Twin Bunk Bed
There's just something about a bunk bed that's thrilling for kids. If you have an older child, getting a bunk bed is an exciting way to transition your younger child to a big bed. This bunk bed is low to the ground so that toddlers can sleep safely on the bottom bunk. It also converts to twin separate twin beds and comes with guardrails.
Best with Tent
Disney Mickey Mouse Toddler Bed
Kids will feel safe and cozy in this tented toddler bed. The tent features window panels and doors that can be rolled up on either side. Plus, Mickey Mouse is there to comfort your child should any bad dreams arise.
Best Car Bed
Delta Children Grand Prix Race Car Toddler-to-Twin Bed
There's nothing like a car bed to get your toddler ready for bedtime. This sturdy bed features a bench at the foot to store toys and books. It also has built-in side rails to keep your little one safe as they speed past the finish line in their dreams. It also converts to a twin bed and comes in red, black and blue.
Best with Storage
South Shore Plenny Twin Daybed
This classic day bed features three drawers at the bottom, perfect for storing sheets, blankets, or toys. Even with the drawers, the bed is still low to the ground for safety.
Best Affordable
Nickelodeon PAW Patrol Toddler Bed
Toddlers will love having the Paw Patrol pups with them as they drift off to sleep. This affordable bed features a metal frame and plastic footboard and headboard. Include your kid in the assembly process by having them put the decorative stickers on the bed.
Best with Canopy
South Shore Sweedi House Bed
This bed will not only provide a comfortable place for your child to sleep, but also help spark their imagination in the process. It’s easy to assemble and adds a special touch to any room. We love that the toddler bed can be customized with paint, stickers, curtains and more.
Best Day Bed
Dream on Me Toddler Daybed with Storage
This gorgeous day bed is extra secure and features a storage drawer underneath. The guard rails detach so your child can enjoy this bed beyond their toddler years, or you can use it in another room when your little one grows out of it.