Can You Get Bed Rails Made for a Baby Bed to Convert It to a Full-Size Bed?

Significance

• Not all cribs can be converted into full-size beds. Only convertible cribs that are made to be taken apart and redesigned can be used throughout childhood. The ability to make a larger bed out of your baby’s crib will save money as the child gets older, eliminating the need to purchase an additional piece of furniture. Bed rails are important in the transition from crib to big bed to prevent your child from falling out of the bed.

Rails and Kits

• In order to convert a crib into a bed, you will need bed rails and a conversion kit. Sometimes these items come with the crib when you initially purchase it. Otherwise, you will have to buy a conversion kit. Ask the salesperson which scenario applies to you when you purchase the crib so you know whether or not the added expense will be required down the line. It is a good idea to go ahead and purchase these items in case the company isn’t manufacturing them in two years when you need them.

Safety

• Some bed rails are specially-designed to work with specific cribs while others are more generic and fit a wide range of cribs. Either way, it is important to use a bed rail that has been designed for use with converted cribs and tested for safety. Homemade bed rails may be dangerous if the slats are spaced too far apart or if they are not put together properly. When in doubt, consult the manufacturer for the recommended bed rails and retailers that carry them.

Cost

• Bed rails can be purchased at nursery retailers, online and at discount stores. Prices will vary, depending on brand, size and style. As of September 2011, bed rails range from $30 to $80 in most cases. Remember that when your crib is in the daybed mode, you only need one rail. Once you convert it into a full-size bed, you will need two to keep the child from falling out of either side.