The Baby Den

Choosing your child’s first bed sounds simple until you actually start looking. Suddenly there are toddler beds, cot beds, floor beds, Montessori beds, single beds and soft foam beds — and everyone seems to have a different opinion. Here’s how to compare the options and choose the first bed that works best for your child, your home and your bedtime routine.

There is no perfect age for moving from a cot to a toddler bed. Most families start thinking about the change somewhere between 18 months and 3 years, but readiness matters more than age. Here’s how to tell when your toddler may be ready, how to make the transition smoother, and what to look for in their first bed.