What age to change the bed?
Ah, the famous transition from crib to "big kid" bed… A real milestone in your baby’s life (and yours too, let’s be honest!). But when should you make the change? Is there an ideal age? What signs should you watch for? And most importantly, which bed should you choose to make this step smooth? We tell you everything!
The ideal average age
Generally, the bed change happens between 18 months and 3 years. But like everything with children, it depends on your baby’s pace. Some will feel cramped in their crib as early as 2 years old, while others will sleep peacefully in it until 3 years or more. And that’s completely normal!
The right time is when your baby is ready. The key is to observe and support them with kindness.
Our tips for knowing when to change the bed
Here are some clues to help you spot the right moment:
- Your baby tries to climb over the bars (and that’s when safety becomes the priority!).
- They clearly tell you they want a "big kid" bed.
- They sleep sprawled out, feet sticking out… they’re cramped!
- Bedtimes become more difficult, as if their bed no longer suits them.
If you recognize any of these signs, it’s probably the right time to consider a new bed.
Our bed models to ease the transition
Choosing the right bed is essential to make this transition smoother and more natural. Here are the two most practical options:
Convertible beds
It’s the ideal solution to accompany your baby’s growth. Start with a small, cozy size, then gradually enlarge it. No need to change beds every two years: it grows with them!
The benefits:
- Perfect for a smooth transition
- Less impressive than a big bed
- Durable and economical
OLIVER FURNITURE Convertible Baby Bed Wood Mini+ With Junior Kit Included, Oak
CAM CAM Convertible Baby Bed Harlequin 60x120 Cm - White
BERMBACH HANDCRAFTED Baby Bed And Rattan Mattress Frederick
LEANDER Convertible Baby Bed, Classic, Gray
CAM CAM Baby Bed Luca - FSC Mix - White
Montessori Beds
Inspired by Montessori pedagogy, this bed is placed on the floor, allowing your baby to get in and out independently. It encourages autonomy while creating a reassuring and accessible space.
The benefits:
- Encourages freedom of movement
- Zero risk of falling
- Adapted to your baby’s rhythm
OLIVER FURNITURE Junior Bed Wood Mini+, Oak
MATHY BY BOLS Single Bed Discovery 90 X 190 Cm
CHARLIE CRANE Junior Bed Yomi 160 Cm
VIPACK Tipi Bed With Guardrail & Trundle Drawer Natural 90 X 200 Cm
VIPACK MODULO Combination - Set of 3 Children’s Beds 90 X 200 Cm White
Convertible bed: when to expand it?
If your baby already sleeps in a convertible bed, you might be wondering when to expand it. Here are some signs:
- They start to feel cramped
- They move a lot at night and bump against the edges
- They want more space or want to sleep somewhere else
Once again, observation is your best ally. It’s better to anticipate than to wait for the first “stuck” wake-ups!
Bonus: Helping your baby change beds
Here are 5 tips to help your baby transition to a new bed.
Because yes, even though it’s an important step, it can also be a bit overwhelming for your baby. Here are some tips to support them calmly:
- Involve your baby in choosing the bed or bedding.
- Keep familiar comfort items: a security blanket, nightlight, blanket…
- Talk to your baby about this new stage with enthusiasm and confidence.
- Try short naps in the new bed to get your baby used to it.
- Establish a reassuring bedtime ritual: a story, a cuddle, a song…
