If you decide to go with a toddler bed, make sure it is sturdy and simple in design. Don’t place the bed in a manner that will allow your child to become trapped between the wall and bed or other pieces of furniture. Many toddler beds already come with rails on the top half of each side of the bed to prevent falls.

Are you planning on traveling with your little one? See our page on portable cribs and toddler travel beds.

Summer Infant Sure and Secure Double Bedrail

Most parents love this inexpensive but sturdy toddler bed rail because it is so easy to assemble. We have yet to see a negative review for this toddler bed rail. Your toddler will feel safe and secure, and the rail construction is simple and sturdy. The side rails fold flat against the bed which makes sheet changing very easy. The featured bed rails are a nice shade of pink so they make a great choice for a big-girl’s bed.  They are also available in a nice blue.

Safety 1st Secure Top Bed Rail

This safety toddler bed rail is very popular. Probably the most popular feature of this particular toddler bed rail and what makes it unique from other toddler bed rails is that it actually sits on top of the mattress so that there is absolutely no fear of the toddler getting trapped between the bed rail and the mattress. It is ideal for thick mattresses such as pillowtops because it has thickness adjustments on both sides. It is also very quick to assemble (most parents report less than 5 minutes with no tools required) and the bed rail folds down to provide easy access to change linens. It is also one of the most economical toddler bed rails you can find. Like most safety guard rails, this one is designed for use only with twin beds or larger. If you are looking for a bed rail for toddler beds or for a crib, go to the Toddler Bed Rails page.

1. Make sure you have a good bedtime routine established before you make the transition. Once your toddler is in a bigger bed she will be able to get in and out on her own. If you have a good bedtime routine you won’t have to worry about your toddler getting out of bed as soon as you tuck her in. It will be easier on her to understand that it is time for her to sleep.

2. Don’t make the transition if there are other major changes going on in your toddler life at the moment. As soon as you know you are expecting another baby, make the transition as soon as possible if your toddler is ready so that it doesn’t occur close to the birth of her new sibling.

3. Do move your toddler into a big bed if they are climbing in or out of their crib. Crib falls from curious toddlers can be dangerous!

4. It’s a personal choice whether to buy a toddler bed or to use a big bed with bed rails. Some parents think that their toddlers will feel more safe and secure in a toddler bed (and they are so cute!). However you may want to consider skipping the toddler bed altogether because it won’t last more than a few years and it will save you the extra expense.

5. If possible, keep the linens the same during the transition. If your toddler is used to a certain blanket, comforter, or stuffed animal, use that in the big bed. Even though the fitted sheet won’t fit a bigger bed, you can still use the top sheet for a few weeks.