This page contains affiliate links. We will receive a commission on qualifying purchases using these links.
The transition from crib to toddler bed or mattress is a big milestone! And every little one makes the move in their own time. Some children happily sleep in their cribs for years (I know, can you believe it?!), while others are ready to make the transition sooner. If your little one is climbing out of the crib, it’s time to transition to a toddler bed or kids mattress to keep them safe!
Whether your little one is transitioning to a toddler bed, or a big kids mattress, we’ve compiled a list of all our favorite toddler bedding, bed frames, mattresses and more. From the best mattresses and bed frames to cozy sheets and pillows, you’ll find everything you need to create a comfortable “big kid space.”
Toddler Bed Frames
When it comes to toddler bed frames, there are lots to choose from. You may already have a convertible crib that transitions to a toddler bed. If not, here are some options to choose from!
Price: $300-$320 depending on bed sides chosen Certifications: Greenguard Gold Certified, no-VOC finish
We had these floor bed frames and absolutely loved them. You can get the Sprout Kids Montessori Floor Bed in a toddler bed size and twin size, but we opted for the full size frame.
What I really like about this toddler floor bed is that it’s designed for independence and grows with your child. You can flip the frame over and it adjusts to a low-profile platform bed. The low to the ground design is great for toddlers to get in and out of easily.
While it supports independence, it’s also sturdy enough to support co-sleeping with a 450 lb. max weight limit. This has been great for our family as sometimes my husband and I lay with our kids to support them getting down to sleep at night.
What we love
Beautiful solid wood design
Adjustable – floor bed or low-profile platform bed
Greenguard Gold Certified, no-VOCs in the wood finish
Supports co-sleeping with 450 lb. max weight
Slatted design
Considerations
More expensive than other toddler bed alternatives
Even when flipped to use as a low-profile platform bed frame, it’s still quite low. It may feel too low as your child progresses to the tween/teen ages
Price: $65-100 depending on finish Certifications: Greenguard Gold Certified
This is a great minimalist toddler bed frame. It has clean lines and a traditional feel to suit nearly any kids’ bedroom. The two-sided guard rails help keep your little one from falling out of the bed! Additionally, the low-to-floor design supports independence and allows littles to get in and out more easily.
What we love
Minimalist & affordable
Greenguard Gold Certified
Made from solid wood
Two-sided guard rails
Available in multiple finishes
Considerations
Reviews are mixed on the quality of the bed. Some consumers note the pieces came damaged
For the toddler hesitant to transition to a big-kid bed, a character-themed toddler bed might be really helpful! Incorporating your child’s favorite characters can make the transition feel more exciting and comfortable.
Delta makes toddler beds with lots of different characters from Disney Princesses to Frozen, Peppa Pig, the Toy Story gang, Bluey, and more!
What we love
Affordable price
Fun designs for little ones
Your toddler may be more willing to switch to a toddler bed if it has their favorite characters!
Considerations
Some reviews mention the mattress support this toddler bed comes with is insufficient. However, toddler bed slats can be purchased for more mattress support if needed.
If you prioritize plastic-free products, this might not be the best fit for you family.
An upholstered toddler bed like this one is cute and cozy. There aren’t any sharp or hard edges to bump into either. I love that it comes in multiple muted colors and makes little ones feel like they’re sleeping on a cloud!
What we love
The cutest cloud design!
Comfortable, soft and cozy
The scallops on the bed keep little ones from falling out of bed
Easy to get in and out of
Considerations
More expensive option for a toddler bed
Because it’s made with fabrics, it’s harder to clean or get stains out of compared to a wooden bed frame
What about a toddler bed mattress?
Most toddler bed frames use a standard crib-sized mattress. If your child is transitioning from the crib to a toddler bed, chances are you can use the same mattress.
We highlight kids mattresses below if you’re looking to transition directly to a twin or full-size bed.
Dimensions: 20” x 12” Fill: GOLS-certified organic latex and GOTS-certified organic kapok fiber
The Avocado Organic Toddler Pillow is an option worth exploring for families who prioritize organic materials. No zippers, and all materials are sewn securely inside. It’s the perfect size for a toddler bed!
Kids’ Mattress Top Picks
If you’re skipping the toddler bed and going right to a kids mattress, here are some options for you!
Certifications: Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS); Global Organic Latex Standard (GOLS), EWG Certified, The Climate Label Certified, MADE SAFE, OEXO TEX, Greenguard Gold Certified
When our kids started transitioning into their own beds, I knew I wanted them sleeping on an organic mattress. I started researching different organic mattresses and found Avocado. We LOVE their mattresses for the kids and ourselves!
The Eco Organic Kids Mattress is made with organic latex, organic wool, organic cotton, and individually wrapped coils. It provides a medium/firm support that’s essential for growing children to get the right support. These mattresses support up to 250 lbs., so you can use it from toddlerhood through the teenage years.
What we love
MADE SAFE Certified with organic materials
Formaldehyde-Free Claim Verified
Provides the right amount of support for growing bodies
Built to last from toddlerhood through the teenage years
Considerations
This mattress contains latex and is not suitable for children who are allergic to latex.
Upon unboxing, you might notice a smell. This is the natural latex, not added chemicals, and it dissipates over time.
The Newton mattress stands out as being the only mattress that’s completely washable – even the core. Messes and potty training accidents have met their match!
It’s made with Newton’s signature Wovenaire® core which consists of 90% air and 10% food-grade polymer. This mattress is designed to promote airflow while still providing the firm support growing bodies need. Its breathable construction also helps with temperature regulation.
What we love
The only kids’ mattress that’s completely washable – messes and accidents have met their match!
Greenguard Gold Certified
Breathable design
Considerations
If choosing a mattress made with organic materials is a priority for your family, the Newton Kids’ Mattress may not be the right fit.
The mattress supports up to 100 pounds, which may limit how long your child can use it as they grow into their tween and teen years.
Price: $799 (twin), $999 (full) Certifications: Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS), MADE SAFE Certified, Greenguard Gold Certified
The Naturepedic 2-in-1 Waterproof Organic Kids Mattress features two different sleeping surfaces designed to adapt to your child’s changing needs. One side has a waterproof surface that’s especially practical during the potty-training years, helping protect the mattress from nighttime accidents and spills. When your little one is ready for a more traditional mattress feel, simply flip it over to the quilted side for older kids. Genius!
Note: This kids mattress is made without latex so it’s a great organic option if your child has a latex allergy.
What we love
Two-sided with a waterproof side for potty training years
Greenguard Gold Certified and made with organic materials
Made without latex and wool making it an allergy-friendly choice
Considerations
Some reviews mention the waterproof side makes a crunching sound from the waterproof materials.
The mattress has an extra firm feel, and reviews are mixed on comfort.
If you’re looking for a more affordable option, the Brooklyn Bedding Kids’ Mattress is a good one to consider. It’s Greenguard Gold Certified and made without harmful chemicals including ozone depleters, PBDE flame retardants, mercury, lead, heavy metals, and formaldehyde.
An all-foam core provides medium-firm support that growing bodies need. Better yet, Brooklyn Bedding beds come with a 365-night trial. That’s plenty of time to decide if this is the right mattress for your little dreamer.
What we love
Affordable kids’ mattress
Greenguard Gold Certified
Made without ozone depleters, PBDE flame retardants, mercury, lead, heavy metals, and formaldehyde
Comfortable foam that provides the right support
365-night trial period
Considerations
Although the 365-night trial is generous, customers should be aware that returns are subject to a $99 fee.
Despite its Greenguard Gold certification, some consumers report noticing a chemical smell when first unpacking the mattress.
Kids’ Bed Frames
These kids’ bed frames are some of our favorites. Most can grow with your little one through the tween and teen years, too!
What’s not to love? This house shaped bed frame makes your little one’s bed feel like a house or fort! Made with solid wood, it sits low to the ground for easy in and out, and no big falls if your child accidentally rolls out at night!
Kids’ bunk beds can be so much fun – especially if you have siblings who want to share a room. I love that Max & Lily makes bunk beds with different configurations to suit your unique needs. You can also choose a ladder or a set of stairs to get on and off the top bunk.
IKEA makes tons of beds to suit any family’s needs. This affordable twin bed frame is made with solid pine and classic enough to fit into any bedroom. You get the frame and the slats (no box spring needed!) for under $150.
If you’re looking for a bed with options, this daybed is great! Use it as a twin bed with storage underneath for clothing or toys. If you have company, you can pull out the drawers and make it a double bed. It’s perfect for kids and then transitions well to a piece in a guest bedroom.
Our Bed Frames
When we moved to Florida, I took it as an opportunity to create big kid bedrooms for the kids that could grow with them. Here’s what we chose!
This is the bed frame we chose for my son, Paul. I love that this bed can work all the way up through his high school years! It’s a classic look with clean lines, and looks great with the blues in his room.
Made with solid pine wood and a low-VOC finish, I felt confident putting this piece of furniture in the bedroom where he will spend so much of his time.
Price: $1,000+ (depending on size of bed and trundle addition) Materials: Solid beech wood, plywood, linen
When I saw this bed, I loved it for Penelope’s room. Then when I saw it’s name – Penny – I felt like it was a done deal. It was definitely the perfect bed for her big girl room!
We opted for the full size with trundle, and I have so much fun envisioning Penelope and Natalie having sleepovers together. Sweet sister memories!
I love the playful yet feminine scalloped edges and the upholstered aspect makes it feel comfortable and soft. It’s Greenguard Gold Certified so I have extra peace of mind it’s made with better materials for cleaner indoor air.
These are the pillows we use for our kids, and they’re so soft and comfortable.
What I especially appreciate is the choice of materials. Instead of polyester fill, this pillow combines organic latex and organic kapok fiber. I love finding bedding options made with materials that feel like a better fit for our family’s preferences.
One important difference between Avocado’s kids’ pillow and its adult pillows is that the kids’ version doesn’t have a zipper or adjustable fill. This is an intentional safety feature, so the pillow isn’t designed to be opened or customized.
Dimensions: 20″ x 26″ Fill: PLA batting made from non-GMO sugarcane
I love that Naturepedic has designed this pillow with kids in mind. While it shares the same dimensions as their adult pillow, it has a lower fill profile to better accommodate a child’s smaller body.
They also offer a smaller toddler pillow, which is a great option if you’re looking for something more appropriately sized for a little one’s bed.
Toddler Bedding
Transitioning from a crib to a big kid bed is an exciting milestone for both little ones and their parents! While choosing the right mattress and bed frame is important, the bedding is what truly makes the new bed feel cozy, comfortable, and uniquely theirs.
From fun patterns and playful colors to favorite characters and themes, kids’ bedding is a wonderful way to add personality to a bedroom. It can create a space that reflects your child’s unique and growing interests.
We love Burts Bees products. Their sheets, burp cloths, kids’ pajamas – we love everything! It’s such good quality and they have the sweetest prints and patterns along with neutral colors, too.
If you’re making the switch to a twin or full bed for your little one, these cotton sheets are cute and comfy. There are so many playful patterns to choose from!
A waterproof mattress protector is a must, especially with little kids. It provides peace of mind with potty training, accidents, spills, and sickness. A mattress is an investment, and this protects it!
Toddler Bed Rails
As exciting as the move to a big kid bed can be, safety should always come first! Choosing the right bed setup can help make the transition easier and give parents a little extra peace of mind.
A toddler floor bed is a great option because its low-to-the-ground design helps minimize the risk of injury if your little one rolls out during the night. If you’re moving straight to a traditional big kid bed or choosing a toddler bed that’s elevated off the floor, consider adding compatible bed rails to help prevent accidental falls.
No matter which bed style you choose, be sure to follow the manufacturer’s safety guidelines and create a safe sleep environment that’s appropriate for your child’s age and stage.
Hiccapop’s crib bed rail is incredibly popular with over 10,000 5-star reviews. It’s specifically designed for convertible cribs and attaches to the front of the bed frame to create a protective barrier along the open side. Its sturdy construction and secure anchoring system help keep the rail firmly in place when properly installed.
Another bonus? You can also use this bed rail on a twin-sized bed, making it a versatile option as your child grows. Just keep in mind that the listed price is for one rail, so you may need to purchase two depending on your bed’s placement and setup.
Another great option for bed rails, and this one comes in a set of two! They’re also longer than the above crib rail, so they’re well-suited for the big kid bed. The sides can come up and down for easier in and out.
If you want something low-profile, these bed bumpers are a great option. You put them underneath the sheets and the silicone grippers on the top and bottom of the bumper keep it in place.
These bed bumpers are soft and made with CertiPUR foam and OEKO-TEX certified materials. They come up 5 inches to provide gentle, soft support when your little ones roll near the edge of the bed.
Looking for more?
Find inspiration for designing a gender neutral nursery and see our top picks for splurging and saving.
We rounded up our favorite cotton pajamas for the whole family – for babies, toddlers, kids, moms and dads!
MEET THE TEAM | MEET THE TEAM | MEET THE TEAM | MEET THE TEAM | MEET THE TEAM | MEET THE TEAM | MEET THE TEAM | MEET THE TEAM | MEET THE TEAM | MEET THE TEAM | MEET THE TEAM | MEET THE TEAM | MEET THE TEAM | MEET THE TEAM | MEET THE TEAM | MEET THE TEAM | MEET THE TEAM | MEET THE TEAM | MEET THE TEAM | MEET THE TEAM | MEET THE TEAM | MEET THE TEAM | MEET THE TEAM | MEET THE TEAM | MEET THE TEAM | MEET THE TEAM | MEET THE TEAM | MEET THE TEAM | MEET THE TEAM | MEET THE TEAM | MEET THE TEAM | MEET THE TEAM | MEET THE TEAM | MEET THE TEAM | MEET THE TEAM | MEET THE TEAM | MEET THE TEAM | MEET THE TEAM | MEET THE TEAM | MEET THE TEAM | MEET THE TEAM | MEET THE TEAM | MEET THE TEAM | MEET THE TEAM | MEET THE TEAM | MEET THE TEAM | MEET THE TEAM | MEET THE TEAM | MEET THE TEAM | MEET THE TEAM | MEET THE TEAM |
Most parenting resources come from a single expert's perspective, but development doesn't really work that way.
You can't fully understand feeding without input from both a dietitian and a feeding specialist. You can't properly address milestones without OT, PT, and SLP perspectives working together. That's why every Eat Play Say resource is created collaboratively by our entire team — giving you the most comprehensive guidance possible, all in one place.
MS, SLP
Founder of Eat Play Say, Speech-Language Pathologist, Feeding Specialist, Play Expert, Mom of 3
Jordyn Koveleski Gorman
SPECIALIZES IN: Infant and toddler speech-language, play, and feeding development, and curating a team that provides expert help that feels like a reassuring text from that one mom friend
EDUCATION: Jordyn received her BS in Speech-Language Pathology from Bloomsburg University and her MS in Speech-Language Pathology from Towson University
FAVE PARENTING FIRST: “The first true smile, it’s the sweetest!”
SPECIALIZES IN: Breast and bottle feeding, tongue ties, oral motor dysfunction, starting solids, infant and toddler speech, treating oral motor disorders
EDUCATION: Jessica received her BS in Communication Sciences and Disorders from Pennsylvania State University in 2015 and her MS in Speech-Language Pathology from Towson University in 2017
FAVE PARENTING FIRST: “Baby’s first wave! What a fun first communication gesture!”
SPECIALIZES IN: Breast and bottle feeding, tongue ties, starting solids, infant and toddler speech development
EDUCATION: She received her BS in Speech-Language Pathology from Ball State in 2014 and a MA in Speech-Language Pathology from Ball State in 2016.
FAVE PARENTING FIRST: “My favorite baby’s first is their first true smile that just warms your soul knowing they are smiling at you. My other favorite is their first word. I love watching their language explode!”
SPECIALIZES IN: Bilingual development (Spanish-English), supporting multilingual families, infant and toddler speech
EDUCATION: She received her BA in Communication Sciences and Disorders and in Spanish from the University of Wisconsin-Madison in 2014 and her MS in Speech-Language Pathology with an English-Spanish Specialization from Marquette University in 2016.
FAVE PARENTING FIRST: “It’s the first slobbery kisses for me!”
SPECIALIZES IN: Infant and pediatric nutrition including breastfeeding, formula feeding, and starting solids. She also specializes in prenatal and postpartum nutrition.
EDUCATION: She received her BSc in Biology in 2014 from Life University, and her BSc in Dietetics from Life University in 2019.
FAVE PARENTING FIRST: ”The first time they say ‘mama!’”
This checklist was created with input from a Speech-Language Pathologist, Occupational Therapist and Physical Therapist and has been downloaded over 20,000 times by parents worldwide. Learn the important milestones to pay attention to, and keep it in your digital back pocket during the baby + toddler years!
Comprehensive Milestone Checklist for gross motor, fine motor, and speech-language milestones for 0-36 months,