How To Convert A Crib To A Toddler Bed? 4 Easy Steps!

How to convert a crib to a toddler bed? Although there are convertible cribs, most people still acquire those regular cribs.

Now that their infants have grown into a toddler, they will need another bed.

How to convert a crib to a toddler bed

But fortunately, you can purchase a conversion kit and simply covert the crib.

Only some basic steps are needed to be taken for this.

But also ensure to refer to the instructions manual that comes with your crib as the parts vary.

 

Steps To Convert A Crib To A Toddler Bed

So, how to convert a crib to a toddler bed?

In this section, we will list down the steps that you can follow in converting the crib.

 

Step #1. Removing the stationary side

For you to be able to do this, you need to unscrew all four bolts holding the crib’s stationary side in place.

 

Step #2. Moving the frame if necessary

The next thing that you need to do is to move the spring frame of the crib onto the bottom.

But if it is there already, you can proceed to the next step.

Otherwise, secure the crib frame in place by using the same washers and bolts.

 

Step #3. Mounting the guardrail

Now, install the guardrail onto the crib’s front panel. It is fine wherever you mount the top portion of the guardrail.

Use the bolts you remove earlier in attaching the guardrail.

 

Step #4. Tighten the screws

After screwing in all the screws, loosed it about half a turn. Re-tighten it later on after you assemble the toddler bed.

Remember not to tighten those bolts and screws too much because it may lead to the distortion or breakage of the wood.

 

Tips For An Easier Transition

To ensure that the conversion process will be safe and smooth, you need to keep in mind the following things.

 

Tip #1. Right timing

Ensure that this transition will not be something scary or overwhelming for your toddler.

Rather, it can be exciting if the time is right.

 

Tip #2. Consider getting a convertible crib

This type of crib can be easily converted to a toddler bed by simply removing the panel in front.

 

Tip #3. Read about it

You can look for a book involving a move and read it to your toddler.

Explain that those characters are like you and moving to a new bed is a brave move.

 

Tip #4. Allow your toddler to be involved in this action

For instance, you can allow him to pick the new bedsheets with a kid-friendly design so that he will be excited about them.

You can further encourage him by adding his favorite stuffed toys onto the new bed.

 

Tip #5. Assess the childproofing again

Most if not all would take measures in making their home toddler-proof for as soon as they know they will be having a baby.

Along with this action, you can re-evaluate this.

Consider obstructing all the stairwells using a safety gate as well as lock all the doors and windows leader outdoors.

Also, double-check to make sure that your baby can’t have access to the areas where you store hazardous materials such as medications and cleaning products.

 

When To Switch To A Toddler Bed?

The transition from cribs to bed is not like other developmental milestones such as starting solids or potty training that just come about naturally.

But following the general rule, parents must start on this change before the baby learns to climb out of the crib and potentially hurt themselves along the way.

The majority of the toddlers learn this ability when they reach 18 up to 24 months old with heights around 35 inches.

But some toddlers are more agile as compared to others and will try to climb out of the crib sooner.

In such a case, you need to move them to the bed already.

In instances where a baby is more comfortable inside a crib and does not even try to climb out at all, you can allow them to continue sleeping there past 2 years of age.

But make sure to be mindful of your child’s safety.

Another consideration here is the fact the baby can get more attached to his crib if he stays there longer.

So it will become even harder for you to transition him onto a toddler bed later on.

 

It’s A Wrap!

Now you know how to convert crib to toddler bed.

But before you start with the process, remember that this move will not be easy.

Your baby might cry or even insist to have his crib back.

It will take one or two months for them to completely adjust to the new bed.

Being free to move out of bed anytime they want might lead to accidents, so ensure to make your house toddler-proof.

Whenever they come out of bed when sleeping, return them gently and leave the room quietly.

If your baby seems not to handle being in a bed yet, you can keep them in a crib in the meantime.

But continue preparing him for the move, he should be ready in a month or two.

So, that’s how to convert a crib to a toddler bed!