Bedtime routines
Bedtime routines

Is 18 months too early to move from cot to a toddler bed?

S Asked by Sam

He's started trying to climb out of his cot and I'm worried he'll fall.

13–18m Cot
Verified answer

Once a child is genuinely climbing out, the cot has become the bigger risk, so it's reasonable to move sooner. Try lowering the mattress first; if they still escape, a low bed in a fully toddler-proofed room is often safer.

Gemma Coe, Child sleep specialist
Gemma CoeBSc, PGCE, PGDip, MPH
Child sleep specialist · Reviewed Jun 2026

Reviewed by Gemma Coe, child sleep specialist — general guidance, not a substitute for your GP or health visitor.

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