How to Choose Furniture for the Nursery-to-Big-Kid-Room Transition

Are you ready to transition your toddler from a nursery to a big kid room? Now that your little one won't need their crib or changing table, outfit their space in a new set of furniture. Before you buy a bed, dresser, or anything else, take a look at what you need to know.



What Type of Mattress Should You Choose?

The big boy or girl bed is the hallmark of the nursery transition. Your tot's new bed is more than just a piece of furniture — it's a symbol of a major life milestone. According to the Sleep Foundation, most children move from a crib to a bed between 18 months and three years of age. One of the most common signs that a child is ready to make this move includes climbing out of the crib on their own. 

Some parents also choose to start the transition if their child has physically outgrown the crib or they're expecting another baby. If your child is between the ages of 18 months and three years and seems ready to make the transition, your next stop is the furniture store. But this doesn't mean you should choose just any bed.

While you could choose a toddler bed, these mattresses and frames aren't sized to grow with your child. This means you will likely need to transition your toddler-turned-preschooler into a twin (or other standard size) bed in the near future. Not only does this add one more step to the process but will cost you money in furniture that you may never use again.

Instead of a toddler bed, consider a regular twin. This size mattress will fit your child right now and for years to come. You may need to add side bed rails for added safety during this transitional time.

What Type of Bed Frame Should You Choose?

You may not need to choose a frame immediately. Some toddlers need a gradual transition that includes a step with the mattress on the floor. If you prefer to move your child directly from a crib into a bed with a frame, explore lower profile options. Your child shouldn't have to walk up steps just to get into bed.

What Other Furniture Will Your Growing Child Need?

Even though the big kid bed is a hallmark of the nursery transition, it isn't the only new piece of furniture your child's room may need. Baby-focused decor may look out of place in a room that's fit for a preschooler. This means the dresser covered in duckies with diapers and the changing table will likely need to go. Replace these items with pieces that are child-friendly — but don't have a nursery-like feel.

Before you invest in a new dresser or nightstand, think about whether you will want to completely redecorate the room in a few years. If you don't want to constantly switch out the furniture for new pieces, choose options that are neutral and can grow with your child. 

A light natural wood dresser has a bright aesthetic that will work well in a toddler's room. This type of design or style will also fit into your child's room as they move into the elementary years and beyond. Use a similar approach when you choose bookshelves, a desk, or nightstands.

Do You Have Other Safety Factors to Consider?

The bed isn't the only item that may require extra safety measures such as bed rails. The dressers, bookshelves, and similar pieces may pose trip and fall hazards. Avoid pieces that are easy for your child to climb onto or into. Always follow the manufacturer's directions for anchoring these items to a wall or consult a babyproofing or childproofing professional for extra help.

Are you ready to redecorate your child's room? Contact Chris Furniture, Inc, for more information.