When should I switch to a toddler bed?

The safety thresholds for leaving the crib

The AAP advises moving your child to another bed when they are 35 inches (89 cm) tall, or when the height of the side rail is less than three-quarters of their height, which is roughly chest or nipple level when they stand.

Climbing out is the other clear signal. Falls from a crib happen most often when a child tries to climb out, so once your child can or does climb the rail, it is time to make the change for safety even if they have not reached 35 inches.

What age this usually happens

Because the trigger is height and climbing rather than a birthday, the timing varies widely. Many children make the move somewhere between 2.5 and 3 years old, but some are ready earlier and others later.

There is no benefit to switching early just to reach a milestone. If your child is not climbing out and still fits the crib safely, staying in the crib longer is fine and often makes for easier sleep.

Childproof the room first

Once your child can get out of bed on their own, the whole room needs to be safe for unsupervised time. Anchor dressers, bookshelves, and the television to the wall so they cannot tip over if climbed.

Cover unused outlets, keep the bed away from windows, use cordless window coverings to prevent strangulation, and add childproof latches to drawers so they cannot be used as steps. A safety gate at the bedroom door or top of the stairs adds another layer of protection.

• Anchor dressers, shelves, and TVs to the wall
• Cover unused electrical outlets
• Use cordless window coverings and keep the bed away from windows
• Add childproof latches so drawers cannot be used as steps
• Use a safety gate at the door or top of the stairs

Make the transition smooth

Keep the new bed low to the floor and consider a guardrail to prevent rolling out. A floor-level mattress is another option while your child adjusts.

Keep your bedtime routine the same so the bed is the only thing that changes. If your child gets up repeatedly, calmly return them to bed each time with little conversation. Consistency helps the new arrangement settle within a week or two.

Related questions

At what height should my child move out of the crib?

The AAP advises moving your child to another bed when they reach 35 inches (89 cm) tall, or when the crib rail is less than three-quarters of their height, which is about chest or nipple level when standing. These thresholds reduce the risk of falls from climbing over the rail.

What age do most children move to a toddler bed?

There is no set age, because the decision is based on height and climbing rather than a birthday. Many children transition between 2.5 and 3 years old, but some are ready earlier and others later. If your child is not climbing out and still fits safely, there is no need to rush.

How do I childproof the room for a toddler bed?

Once your child can get out of bed, secure the room. Anchor dressers, shelves, and TVs to the wall, cover unused outlets, use cordless window coverings, keep the bed away from windows, and add childproof latches to drawers. A safety gate at the door or top of the stairs adds protection.

Should I use a guardrail on a toddler bed?

A guardrail can help prevent your child from rolling out as they get used to a bed without high sides. Keeping the bed low to the floor, or using a floor-level mattress during the transition, also reduces the risk and impact of falls while your child adjusts to the new setup.

Sources & further reading

1. HealthyChildren.org (AAP) — Make Baby's Room Safe
2. HealthyChildren.org (AAP) — Big Kid Beds: When to Switch From a Crib
3. CPSC — CPSC Approves Strong New Crib Safety Standards

This article reflects current AAP, CDC, and other public-health guidance and is for educational purposes only. It does not constitute medical advice. ParentFlow is a wellness companion — not a substitute for your pediatrician. For any medical concern, contact your healthcare provider.