What Size Mattress for a Toddler Bed?

Signs of Readiness

• The safety of a baby's crib is one of its best points. It is generally the only place in your house a small baby or toddler can be left without supervision. Deciding to move to a toddler bed often happens when a little one tries to climb out of the crib, which can happen anywhere from 18 months to 3 years of age.

Convertible Crib

• If you purchased a convertible crib before your baby was born, you can use it as a toddler bed with a few simple modifications. Convert your crib according to the manufacturer's directions. Most models require you to lower the mattress to the lowest possible position and remove one side panel. You will use the same mattress with this sort of toddler bed that you used with your crib, so no special mattress will need to be purchased.

Traditional Toddler Bed

• If you have a standard (nonconvertible) crib, you will need to purchase a traditional toddler bed. Like the convertible crib, this will use the same crib mattress you've been using for the last couple of years. Toddler beds come in different designs and materials, from hard plastic character-themed beds to quaint wooden ones. You can purchase special toddler-bed sheets and blankets as well, although your crib sheets will still work on these beds.

Standard Bed

• Some parents opt to put their toddler straight into a standard bed. Many first "big" beds are twin or full sized. The entire bed setup needs to be purchased, including a frame, box springs and the mattress itself. A headboard and footboard are optional. You might consider getting a safety rail so your little one doesn't fall out of bed, which can be a big drop from a standard bed.