Cot, Toddler & Single Beds: What’s the Difference & When to Make the Switch?

Throughout childhood, children go through many stages of beds from their cot to toddler bed and finally....their big kid bed. But how do you decide when it’s time to make the switch? What are the key signs they’re ready for the next step? At Mocka, our product experts have created the ultimate guide to help parents understand each stage in your child’s journey to their first big kid bed. So, you can confidently find the perfect fit for your child and your home.

 

Understanding The Stages: From Cot to Big Kid Bed

As your little one grows, so do their sleeping needs. Transitioning into the right bed can help them sleep soundly and develop more independence overnight, marking a key milestone for many children. Let’s break down each stage in their journey: 

A Safe Start With A Cot

Once your little one is born, they will typically start by sleeping in a cot in their nursery. Designed for newborns up to 2-3 years of age, a baby cot features high railings, secure sides and a firm mattress to keep bub safe and sound overnight. Many baby cots also feature adjustable settings to change the height of the mattress as they learn to crawl and use their cot side railing stand up on their own.  

At Mocka, some of our baby cot designs can also convert into a toddler bed with low or half-size side railings. This allows you to make the most out of your furniture pieces, extending the lifespan of each bed stage.

The Transition Stage With A Toddler Bed

From 2-5 years old, children will begin to transition away from their cot into a toddler-friendly sleeping arrangement. Toddler beds are designed smaller and lower to the ground for safety, making it easier for little ones to independently climb out on their own during the night if needed.  

At Mocka, our convertible cots and low-profile single kids' beds are ideal for this stage in your child’s sleeping journey. Each low-profile kid's bed sits low and flush with the floor complete with a soft upholstered frame to keep your little one cosy, safe and secure.  

The Long-Term Choice With A Single Bed

Best for children throughout their primary school years and beyond, standard single beds and king single beds (otherwise known as kid's beds) are a long-term bed frame choice for your child and your home. Sitting higher in profile and wider than a toddler bed, kids beds are made for young children as they transition into teenagers and beyond.  

Looking for extra room and longevity throughout their childhood? King single beds are a great choice for children’s beds. With more room on the sides for growing children, the frame will suit their size for longer, making it a great investment piece for any young household.  

At Mocka, our kids beds are designed in a range of on-trend and timeless designs to complement your interiors and your little one’s sense of style. Adaptable to evolving bedroom themes as your child’s tastes change, our kids beds are built to last through sturdy design, versatility and value.

 

Toddler Bed vs Single Bed: What Is The Right Choice? 

Still stuck on which bed to choose for your child as they transition away from the cot? There are several key differences between toddler beds and single beds that should be considered before investing in their next frame: 

Size Comparisons

The main difference between these bed types is the toddler bed size vs single bed size. In Australia, the typical toddler beds size is around 70cm wide and 140cm long, while single bed sizes are on average 92cm wide and 188cm long. With the added room in a single bed for your child, this larger size is ideal if you are looking for a long-term bedding solution they can use for years to come.  

Mocka’s low-profile single beds can also remove the need for the in-between size altogether, allowing your little one to seamlessly transition from cot to single bed with ease. This is also a more affordable option for young Australian families with extra longevity and value.

Age & Confidence

Another key consideration when deciding between a toddler bed vs single bed is your child’s age and confidence, as well as any important safety features. For young toddlers, opting for a low-profile bed design that sits closer to the floor makes it easier for them to climb in and out confidently, reducing any fall risks. Or alternatively, a convertible cot to toddler bed with guardrails is a great option for little ones that toss and turn in the night or kids who might struggle with the change of a completely new bed frame.  

For older toddlers or confident little ones, going straight for cot to a single bed or even a king single bed is a great option. It can help build their independence earlier as they can take themselves to bed or go to the bathroom on their own in the night. While allowing parents to save budget on investing in multiple bed frames throughout their childhood.  

Safety

Are security and safety a key concern? Look for toddler beds and kids beds with safety features like sturdy frames, supportive structure, guardrails and a low-profile. These can help your little one stay extra secure as they drift off to sleep each night.

Space & Styling

When picking your kids bed, it’s also important to assess the area you have to play with and the space in room that the bed will take up. For smaller rooms, a light coloured and minimal open-frame bed can make the space feel more open, light and airy. While low-profile beds can take up less floorspace in compact floorplans.  

Working with a larger space? Opt for a darker wood or a bright colourful bed frame to create a distinct sleep zone for your little one. Mocka’s range of cots, toddler beds and kids bed frames have a range of shades, tones and timeless designs to suit their sleep sanctuary.

 

 

When To Make The Switch From Cot To Single Bed

There is no strict timeline, particular age or golden rule in which a child should transition from their cot to a single bed. This will greatly depend on the child’s readiness and safety above all else. Consider your child’s personality, everyday sleep habits and confidence when it comes to bedtime and whether they could manage a change in their sleep environment and routine.  

Some behaviours that could indicate they are ready to transition include climbing out of their cot, starting toilet training or showing interest in having their own big kid bed. These tells could indicate it’s time to slowly transition them from their cot into their long-term sleep sanctuary.

 

 

Styling Their First Big Kid Bed

Now they’re ready to make the move into their big kid bed, it’s time to celebrate this major milestone! To ease this transition, there are some simple styling tips parents can incorporate into their child’s new sleeping space.  

Some design touches include keeping consistent continuity between the nursery and their big kid room or bed such as similar colour tones and textures. This familiarity can provide a sense of comfort to your child as they navigate this new change.  

Another way to celebrate this accomplishment is to take your little one shopping with you to pick out a couple of pieces that they can include in their new room. This could include rugs, lighting, artwork, playful cushions, blankets, toys and more. By involving them in the experience, they can take more ownership of their own space and add personal touches that reflect a part of themselves. 

Finally, opt for neutral quality furniture pieces as the foundation of their room to allow the space to effortlessly grow with your child. From dressers to cots, toddler beds, kids beds, bedside tables and beyond, these furniture pieces can be elevated with seasonal styling touches like bedding, lighting and decor that can easily be swapped out to make the space feel fresh and new.

 

 

Discover The Best Kids Beds For Their Sweet Dreams

With a better understanding of each sleep stage, the difference between beds and your little one’s readiness, you’re ready to make a more informed decision for your child’s future. At Mocka, we understand this is an exciting time for your family. So, our curated collection of cots, toddler beds and kids beds are here to help make their transition as seamless and possible. Take the next step in your child’s journey to their big kid bed and browse our stylish selection online today.