Cot to Bed: When Is the Right Time to Transition?
When is the right time to transition my toddler from a cot to a bed?
Signs Your Toddler Is Ready for the Cot-to-Bed Transition
When is the right time to transition my toddler from a cot to a bed? Most children make the move somewhere between 18 months and 3 years -- but readiness matters far more than the date on the calendar.
There's no single trigger -- it's usually a cluster of signals. Here's what to watch for:
- Climbing out of the cot -- once they're scaling the sides, it's a safety issue, full stop
- Asking for a "big bed" -- toddlers tell you more than we give them credit for
- Dry nappies overnight -- a strong sign their body and sleep are maturing together
- Starting potty training -- easier access in and out of bed helps enormously
- A new sibling needing the cot -- practical, but worth timing thoughtfully
Trust your instincts. You know your child best.
How to Make the Cot-to-Bed Switch Smooth and Stress-Free
Timing It Right Around Other Milestones
If your family's already mid-chaos -- new baby arriving, house move, starting nursery -- hold off if you can. Transitions stack up, and toddlers feel that weight just like we do. Choose a calm fortnight where life feels as settled as toddler life ever gets.
A Few Things That Actually Help
- Let them pick the bedding. Ownership goes a long way with a two-year-old.
- Keep the same bedtime routine. The bed changes; the ritual shouldn't.
- Move the cot out gradually if needed. Some children do better with a slow farewell.
- Mark the milestone. Make it feel like a celebration, not just a swap.
Sleep regression after the switch is completely normal. Consistency beats perfection every time -- and most children settle within a fortnight.
Choosing the Right Bed for Small Spaces
| Feature | Floor Bed | Traditional Toddler Bed |
|---|---|---|
| Fall risk | Minimal | Higher |
| Independence | Strong | Limited |
| Grows with child | Yes, with the right design | Often replaced quickly |
| Co-sleeping friendly | Yes | Rarely |
We built the Roomix Transition Collection around exactly this thinking. It clicks together in minutes, meets British Standards, and adapts as your child grows with the Grow Me Add system -- add legs, a roof, or drawers when the time's right. No replacing. No starting over. Pair it with our Kids Montessori Bookshelf to finish a space that genuinely feels like theirs.
Overcoming Common Challenges
Getting out of bed repeatedly is the one that catches most parents off guard. It's exhausting -- especially at 10pm when you've already done the routine twice. A calm, consistent response works far better than frustration. Brief setbacks are normal; they're not a sign you've done something wrong.
Big life changes -- a new sibling, a house move, potty training -- can trigger regressions even weeks after a smooth start. If that happens, return to the basics: same routine, same reassurance, same boundaries. It usually passes faster than the first time.
"We were nervous about the switch, but having a bed that felt safe and cosy made all the difference. She was proud of her space from night one."
Sarah, mum of two, Bristol
Your Transition, Your Pace
When is the right time to transition your toddler from a cot to a bed? When it feels right for your family -- not because a chart said so.
Our Transition Toddler Bed is built to last through more than one child, adapts with the Grow Me Add system, and won't fall apart after six months of toddler chaos. Buy once, choose well. That's the Roomix approach.
For more on children's sleep as they grow, the AAP Sleep Awareness Toolkit is a genuinely useful read. And if you're navigating safe sleep environments during the transition, the NHS guidance on where babies should sleep is worth bookmarking.
Frequently Asked Questions
What age should a child move from cot to bed?
As Shona, I often share that while most children transition between 18 months and 3 years, your child's individual readiness is much more important than a specific age. It truly is when it feels right for your family, not just a date on the calendar.
How do I tell if my toddler is ready for a toddler bed?
Look for clear signs like your child climbing out of the cot, which becomes a safety concern. They might also start asking for a "big bed," be dry overnight, or begin potty training. Trust your instincts; you know your child best.
How to know if a toddler is ready for a floor bed?
A floor bed can be a wonderful choice for fostering independence and confidence in your child's space. If your toddler shows signs of wanting more freedom or you want to minimize fall risks, a floor bed could be a great fit. Our Transition Collection beds are designed to support this journey, adapting as your child grows with the Grow Me Add system.
Is it okay for a 3 year old to still be in a crib?
Absolutely, it's perfectly fine. Readiness is much more important than a specific age when considering the cot-to-bed transition. If your 3-year-old is still sleeping safely and happily in their cot, there's no need to rush the change.
What are tips for a smooth cot-to-bed transition?
To make the switch smooth, try to time it during a calm period, avoiding other big changes like a house move. Let your child help choose their new bedding to give them ownership, and keep their familiar bedtime routine consistent. Remember, consistency beats perfection.
What if my toddler struggles after moving to a big bed?
It's completely normal for sleep regression to happen after the switch; getting out of bed repeatedly is a common challenge. Respond calmly and consistently, setting clear boundaries. If setbacks occur, simply return to the basics: the same routine, reassurance, and firm boundaries.
