One of the biggest milestones for your little one is moving from a cot to a bed. But the big question is often, "When is the right time?" While there’s no one-size-fits-all answer, baby and toddler sleep specialist Hannah Clark (@hannahclarksleepspecialist) suggests that 18 months to 3 years is usually a good time. Of course, every child is different, so it's more about looking for signs that they're ready rather than sticking to a specific age.

Signs Your Child is Ready to Move from Cot to Bed

Here are some key signs from Hannah that your toddler might be ready for a bed:

1. Climbing out of the cot – If your child is trying to escape, it’s definitely time to move to a bed for safety reasons.

2. They ask to sleep in a ‘big kid’ bed – Showing curiosity about beds or wanting to sleep in one can be a positive signal.

3. They want you to lie with them or next to them – This is a tricky one when they’re still in a cot! If they’re asking for more contact, a bed allows you to easily lie with them to settle them.

4. Sleep routine changes – If your child is restless in the cot or showing sleep disruption, a new sleeping arrangement may help.

5. Toilet training – When toilet training begins, a bed makes night-time bathroom trips easier [1].

Why a Floor Bed Could Be the Perfect Transition

Hannah is also a fan of floor beds for toddlers, and here’s why:

1. No more transfers – You can settle your little one by lying with them in their own space. No more trying to sneak out and risking them waking up as soon as their bum touches the cold cot mattress!

2. Cuddle or feed to sleep – A floor bed makes it easier to cuddle or feed your child to sleep and then roll out like a 🥷. The bed smells like you, they’re already comfy, and the space feels safe.

3. Support independent sleep – If your child sleeps better when co-sleeping, a floor bed offers a halfway point between bed-sharing and independent sleep. You can lie with them to resettle, then either sneak back to your own bed or stay with them if they’re having a tough night.

4. Encourages safer sleep – A floor bed is safer than a regular bed or cot for a child who’s prone to climbing out. Being low to the ground significantly reduces the risk of injury from falls.

Tips for a Smooth Transition

When you decide the time is right, here’s how to help your toddler adjust to their new bed:

1. Make them part of the process – Let them help choose bedding or their new bed, like our Sunny Bed, Oat Bed, Austin Bed, or Harrie Bed. Involving them will make the change feel exciting.

2. Keep routines consistent – Stick to the same bedtime routine they know and love. The familiarity will help them feel secure.

3. Take it slow – Start with daytime naps in the new bed before transitioning to night-time sleep.

4. Create a cosy space – Floor beds, like our Harrie Bed, provide a comfortable and safe environment that makes it easy to stay close while also encouraging independence.

Why Our Beds Are Perfect for This Transition

Our Sunny Bed, Oat Bed, Austin Bed, and Harrie Bed are all designed with toddlers in mind. Slightly raised off the floor for healthy airflow, they provide a safe, cosy space for your little one’s first "big kid" bed. Made from sustainable Australian hardwood, they offer a Montessori-style option that fosters independence while keeping your child close to the ground for safety.

With our beds, the transition from cot to bed can be a smoother and more enjoyable experience for both you and your little one.

Sources

1. Instagram - Hannah Clark Sleep Specialist