Making the Leap from Toddler to Kids Bed
Is your little one ready to make the move from a toddler bed to a kid’s bed? (And just as importantly, are you? They grow up so fast!)
Toddler beds are generally suitable for children up to age 5-7 years. Once you are confident they no longer need the low height or side rails usually offered by a toddler bed (and there’s no more space for all their teddies!), it’s probably time to consider a full-sized kid’s bed.
So, what type of bed are you looking for? You’ll want one that works for their room and offers any necessary storage or practical features, whilst also making them eager to get into bed at night (we can hope!)
To help you decide, we’ve selected some of our best kid’s bed styles below, so you can find the perfect first ‘big bed’ for your not-so-little one!
1. Mid Sleeper Beds: Room to Play!
Kids love to play, so why not choose a bed that allows them to do just that?
A mid-sleeper height bed is an ideal first ‘big bed’ for a child of 6 or older. The space underneath can be filled with cushions, bean bags or their favourite toys, to create a cosy den/ play area.
The Marlowe Mid Sleeper has raised sides to keep kids from rolling out in the night, and a peekaboo window to encourage imaginative play. The Lifetime Adventure Hangout Mid Sleeper Bed goes a step further and makes the bed into a den with windows as well!
Storage in the steps of both beds ensures they are functional as well as fun.
2. Storage Beds: Clear the Clutter
Making the leap from a toddler bed to a kid’s bed with built-in storage drawers will help you keep on top of the clutter in children’s rooms (we know it can be overwhelming!)
The Cool Kids Tipi Cabin Bed can be built to suit your needs. Add the optional storage drawers, or keep the space clear for your own storage. The optional canopy roof with a roll-down window will ensure kids are just as happy with their new den bed as you are!
For even more flexibility, check out our Margrit Cabin Bed. Not only does this Scandi-style bed come with 3 drawers, but there’s also a large trundle drawer underneath that could be used for more storage or a spare mattress. The low height and raised sides also mean this bed is suitable for slightly younger children aged 4 years+.
3. Adaptable Beds: To Grow with Them!
If you’re someone who’s always thinking about the next move, an adjustable bed could be the answer. By choosing a bed that can be adapted as your child grows, you ensure it has longevity and that you won’t need to be purchasing another bed in a few years.
The Vox 4 You Single 4 Poster has an adjustable height from floor level to standard day bed, to take your little one from toddler to teen. Set the height lowest when your child first moves into the bed, and raise it as they get older, choosing to add the optional storage drawer if you wish.
To give yourself even more flexibility, check out the Canoe Adventure 4-in-1 Combination Bed by Lifetime. This incredible kid’s bed has four possible combinations: low house bed, raised house bed, loft bed and single day bed. There’s an optional canopy for when they’re younger, and storage and trundle options for older kids.
4. Trundle Beds: For Super Sleepovers
If your little one is a social butterfly who loves hosting sleepovers, a trundle bed is a great choice.
Many of our beds have optional trundle drawers and some come with one already included. For example, our Lars Low Cabin Bed has a trundle and 3 drawers, which are ideal for storing spare bedding.
The Fraser Single Storage Bookcase Bed is available in dark grey or white and comes with built-in headboard storage along with the included trundle drawer. When they’re too old for sleepovers (‘that’s so uncool!’) use the drawer to store their trainer collection instead.
5. Beds with Desks: Work Hard, Play Hard!
Want to maximise the chances of your child doing their homework without being asked a zillion times? A bed with a desk gives your child a designated area for creative activities and studying, which will become increasingly important as they get older.
Combine work and play with the Midi Playhouse Bed by Kids Avenue. It comes with a practical chest of drawers and pull-out desk, whilst still appealing to young kids with its fun treehouse bed design.
If you prefer something lower, the Louis Cabin Bed packs plenty into its compact size. As well as a desk with built-in shelves, there’s also a 2-door cupboard for storing their treasures!
6. Slide Beds: Built for Fun!
If you’re worried about how your little one will cope with transitioning out of their toddler bed, you might want to make their new bed as fun as possible. Enter: the slide bed!
Our Mathy By Bols Treehouse Bed with Slide is the ultimate fun bed for kids. After all, what child wouldn’t love climbing into their treehouse at night and sliding out in the morning? This is the bed of their dreams!
For younger kids, a lower height option might be preferable. The Maxxi Cabin Bed comes with a small slide, a chalkboard panel on the side, and two storage cubes on castors.
7. Double or Triple Beds: Space to Grow
Finally, consider how future changes in your family’s life might affect your choice of kid’s bed.
Will your child soon be sharing a room with a sibling(s)? If so, a bunk or triple bed might be desirable. The Lifetime Family Bunk Bed features a single bed on top and either a single, small double or double bed below (all European-sized), to suit your family’s needs.
If you have space, you might also want to invest in a double bed for your child now, so you don’t have to worry about them demanding one when they reach the dreaded teenage years. The Beach House Double Bed by Lifetime is a great option for this, as you can remove the roof and railings as your little one grows.
