Cot to big bed transition!

Moving from a cot to a big bed is a big milestone. For little ones, it can feel exciting and new. For us parents, it can feel a little daunting - but with the right timing, preparation, and consistency, the transition doesn’t need to be stressful.

When Should You Make the Move?

Red Nose Australia recommends moving your child once they start attempting to climb out of the cot, as this becomes a safety risk. Most toddlers make the move between 2 and 3.5 years, though some are ready earlier, from around 18 months.

Other reasons you might consider transitioning include:

• A new sibling on the way and you need the cot
• Your toddler has outgrown their portacot
• They’ve started asking for a “big bed”
• They’re toilet training and need easier access

Where Should They Sleep?

Depending on their age, you have a few options:

• Toddler bed (from around 18 months): A smaller, low-to-the-ground option that can feel like a gentle step up from the cot.

• Floor mattress (no earlier than 12 months, as per the AAP): A cosy and safe option if the room is well child-proofed.

• Adult bed (not recommended under 2 years): Works well for older toddlers who are steady and safe.

How to Transition

Every family is different, so choose the arrangement that works best for you. A few tips to help:

• Talk to your toddler about the change so they know what’s happening.

• Build excitement - involve them in choosing bedding or a pillowcase.

• Start the transition at bedtime, when it’s naturally easier for toddlers to fall asleep. Alternatively, you can begin with naps to ease them in.

• Keep routines the same - toddlers thrive on consistency.

Safety First

Moving out of a cot means more freedom - and that comes with new risks. Safety is essential:

• Treat their whole room like the cot space and remove anything unsafe.

• Use safety gates if needed to restrict access to certain areas.

• Place the bed away from walls and cords to prevent entrapment or tangles.

• Bed rails can help if you’re worried about them rolling out.

• Transition from a sleep sack into pyjamas or a sleep suit, since sacks can increase fall risks with more mobility.

• Red Nose Australia recommends introducing pillows and blankets only once they are in a big bed, usually from 2 to 3.5 years.

What to Expect

Toddlers are still developing the part of their brain that controls impulse, so resisting the urge to hop out of bed can be tricky. For this reason, some sleep disruptions are common. You might see:

• Playing instead of sleeping

• Frequently getting out of bed

• Delayed settling at night

If this happens, stay calm and consistent. Gently return them to bed without fuss or extra attention. Over time, they’ll learn what’s expected.

Interestingly, in a recent poll we ran with 500 parents, only 40% said they experienced sleep disruptions when transitioning before the recommended age - so every child is different.

Final Thoughts

This transition can feel huge, but most toddlers adjust really well with preparation, consistency, and patience. Try to avoid big changes (like starting daycare) at the same time, and keep routines predictable.

Need Extra Support?

If you’d like some help navigating the cot-to-bed transition (and everything else toddler sleep throws at you), we’ve got options to suit:

• Quick Chat (30minutes): Perfect for small tweaks and personalised tips.

• One Week Phone Support: Great if you’re managing multiple challenges like bed time battles, frequent night waking, or early rising.

• Toddler Sleep Guide: Your go-to resource for navigating the cot-to-bed move and so much more.

You don’t have to figure it out alone - we’re here to help.

Until next time,
The Sleepy Little Bubs Team x