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Switching from a crib to a toddler bed is a big milestone — for you and your little one. The accessories you choose don’t just make the bed look cute; they influence sleep quality, safety, and how quickly your child settles into a new routine. Think of accessories as the small investments that prevent midnight wake-ups, protect the mattress from spills, and make bedtime feel like a cosy ritual. Want fewer tears and more zzzs? The right picks can get you there.
Before diving into stores, it helps to know which items you really need. The market is full of extras you might not use, so here’s a practical list to keep you focused.
Accidents happen. A waterproof mattress protector saves you time, protects against stains, and keeps the mattress hygienic. Look for breathable materials and a snug fit that won’t bunch up under the sheet. Aim for a protector that fits the mattress size — most toddler mattresses are around 28 inches by 52 inches — so you get full coverage.
Soft, stretchy fitted sheets should be your daily go-to. Cotton blends work well for breathability, while jersey-knit sheets feel like a comfy T-shirt. Buying two or three sets makes laundry day less frantic; rotate them so you always have a clean bed ready.
Choosing the right duvet in the UK usually involves tog ratings rather than thickness. For toddlers, a 2.5 tog for warmer months and a 4.5 tog for colder months can be a good rule, but always consider the room temperature. Lighter options reduce overheating risk and help your child sleep more soundly.
If your toddler is used to climbing, a bed rail is a must. Rails attach to the mattress and prevent falls while still allowing easy access in and out of bed. They come in full-length and half-length options; half-length is often enough for toddlers and less intrusive for bedtime stories.
A pocketed bedside organiser is a small change with big wins: books, night-lights, and a favourite toy stay within reach. Reducing clutter on the floor also makes night-time trips safer for small feet.
A soft night light helps with transitions from awake to sleep and offers comfort during late-night checks. Pick a dimmable LED lamp with warm light to avoid stimulating your child’s brain right before sleep.
Creating a little den or canopy over the bed adds magic to bedtime and can turn sleep into an adventure. Keep canopies breathable and ensure they’re securely fixed so they won’t fall or cover the child’s face.
While cushions and plush toys add personality, be mindful of safety for toddlers under 2 years. After that age, a small number of soft toys and a thin decorative cushion can make the bed feel more inviting without creating hazards.
United Kingdom shoppers have plenty of options — from high-street names to online specialists. Below I’ve rounded up popular retailers known for quality, variety, and kid-friendly designs.
John Lewis is a go-to for well-made bedding, cot-to-bed mattresses, and stylish accessories. They tend to offer reliable product information and a broad price range, so you can find something for a small budget or a splurge-worthy splintering of style.
Dunelm is great for practical and affordable bedding. Expect plenty of fitted sheets, mattress protectors, and fun themed accessories. Their range often mixes value with good design, which makes them handy for quick room refreshes.
IKEA’s children’s range is simple, modern, and wallet-friendly. Their textiles are easy to care for, and their space-saving ideas make them ideal if you’re juggling limited room space. Don’t forget to measure before you buy — many IKEA mattresses and sheets follow set dimensions that work well for toddler beds.
Mamas & Papas specialises in nursery and toddler products. They have a solid selection of cot-to-bed bedding, soft toys, and themed sets that appeal to parents looking for coordinated looks and soft, baby-safe fabrics.
Next offers stylish, on-trend bedding and accessories with a family-focused aesthetic. If you want a coordinated nursery look that transitions into toddlerhood, Next is a solid place to shop for matching cushions, throws, and sheets.
Argos carries everything from budget-friendly mattress protectors to bed guards and bedside kits. Their catalogue-style approach is helpful when you want to compare many brands quickly and find something that fits your budget.
For minimalism and luxury, The White Company offers premium bedding and textiles. If you’re aiming for a serene, hotel-like nursery vibe, their high-quality cotton and neutral palettes give that calm, grown-up feel while still being child-safe.
Marketplaces like Amazon provide a huge range, including niche brands and fast delivery. Read reviews carefully, check dimensions, and be cautious with items where safety certification matters, like mattress protectors and bed rails.
Getting the dimensions right avoids gaps, bunching, and safety issues. Toddler mattress sizes can vary, so measure before you buy anything that needs to fit snugly.
Use a tape measure to get the exact length and width in inches. Common toddler mattress sizes trend around 28 inches by 52 inches, but some are closer to 27 inches by 55 inches. Always match sheets and protectors to your mattress’s exact measurements to avoid slipping.
Mattress depth matters for fitted sheets and protectors. Many toddler mattresses are between 3 inches and 6 inches deep. If you buy a deep mattress, ensure sheets and protectors are labeled deep-fit to prevent looseness.
Style is fun, but safety is non-negotiable. Here’s a quick checklist to keep in mind during shopping trips.
Choose breathable fabrics to lower overheating risk. Natural fibres like cotton, or cotton blends labeled breathable, help regulate temperature better than dense synthetics.
For infants and young toddlers, keep loose bedding minimal. Swap heavy duvets and large cushions for fitted sleep sacks or wearable blankets as needed until your child is ready for standard bedding.
Products with safety certifications or clear safety testing info give you peace of mind. This is especially important for items such as bed rails and protective mattresses.
Good accessories don’t have to break the bank. With timing and a bit of planning, you can snag excellent deals.
Buy heavier duvets at the end of winter and lighter options in late summer to catch clearance sales. Retailers often discount out-of-season stock heavily.
Bedding bundles with duvet, duvet cover, and fitted sheet are often cheaper than buying pieces separately. Bundles also ensure colour and fabric match, which saves time and frustration.
Second-hand and nearly-new marketplaces can be gold mines for gently used bed frames or mattresses, but always check hygiene, wear, and safety before buying. Some mattress protector brands are inexpensive enough that buying a new one makes sense even with a second-hand mattress.
Keeping toddler bedding clean and fresh extends its life and keeps bedtime pleasant.
Wash fitted sheets and protectors at least once a week, and more often for toddlers who still have daytime accidents. Use gentle detergents suitable for sensitive skin and dry items thoroughly to prevent damp smells.
Keep two or three sheet sets in rotation so spills and stains don’t force late-night changes. Rotating also reduces wear on a single set, so fabrics last longer.
Little touches turn a practical bed into a personal space that your child will love. Here are simple ideas that don’t cost much but look great.
Pick a broad theme — animals, space, nature — rather than a single character. Themes age better and are easier to refresh with small swaps like cushion covers or a new duvet cover.
Decals are inexpensive, easy to change, and they add personality without paint or nails. They’re ideal if you’re renting or want to update the room as your child grows.
Use this quick checklist in-store or online to avoid returns and frustration:
- Measure mattress length, width, and depth in inches.
- Verify material safety and breathability.
- Ensure bed rails and guards have clear safety testing information.
- Buy extra sheet sets and a washable mattress protector.
- Consider a dimmable night light and a small bedside organiser.
Armed with the right accessories and a bit of planning, that toddler bed can become a launchpad for lifelong healthy sleep habits. Shopping in the UK gives you access to a wide range of options — from budget basics to luxury linens — so you can match comfort, safety, and style to your family’s needs.
Upgrading to a toddler bed is an exciting step, and the accessories you choose will shape the experience. Focus on safety, fit, and comfort first, then add fun elements that reflect your child’s personality. Whether you shop at John Lewis, Dunelm, IKEA, or online marketplaces, measuring carefully and choosing breathable, easy-care fabrics will pay off with fewer sleepless nights and a happier bedtime routine. Happy shopping — and sleep well!
| Crib & Toddler Bed Accessories - Other | Price | |
|---|---|---|
| Ickle Bubba Pembrey 3 Piece Furniture Set Under Drawer Ash Grey - Premium Pocket Sprung Mattress | £ 898,99 |
