When to Transition from Bassinet to Crib to Toddler Bed: A Complete Timeline

Most parents hit the same sleep questions sooner or later: When should my baby move out of the bassinet? Is it time for the crib yet? And how do I know when they’re ready for a toddler bed?

Our timeline breaks down the typical progression of sleep spaces, from bassinet to crib to toddler bed, so you can see what usually comes next (and what to watch for along the way). Instead of rigid age rules, we focus on readiness cues, safety considerations, and realistic age ranges, because every kiddo gets there a little differently.

And you may notice that toddler bed can mean different things. For some families, it’s a crib converted to toddler mode. For others, it’s a standalone toddler bed or the jump to a “big kid” bed. In this guide, toddler bed simply means the transition out of the crib, regardless of which bed comes next.

Think of this page as your sleep transition roadmap—a big-picture overview, with links to deeper guides if you want more hands-on help at any stage.

Quick Sleep Transition Timeline at a Glance

• Newborn to Bassinet: Birth to ~4–6 months
  Designed for the earliest months when babies are small, sleepy, and waking often. Most babies outgrow the bassinet as they gain strength and mobility.

• Bassinet to Crib: Around 3–6 months
  Often prompted by rolling, pushing up, or simply needing more space. Timing varies, and some families transition gradually while others switch all at once.

• Crib Years: Roughly 6 months to 2.5+ years
  Many children stay in a crib well into toddlerhood. As long as your child is sleeping safely and not climbing out, there’s usually no need to rush this stage.

• Crib to Toddler Bed: Around 2.5–4 years
  Readiness matters more than age. This transition is often tied to climbing attempts, growing independence, and the ability to follow basic safety rules.

Newborn to Bassinet (0–4/6 Months)

Bassinets are designed for the earliest months of life, when babies are small, sleepy, and waking often. They’re compact, easy to place near your bed, and make middle-of-the-night feeds and diaper changes feel a little less daunting.

That convenience is also why bassinets are temporary by design. As babies grow stronger and more mobile, they quickly outgrow the size—and safety limits—of a bassinet. Rolling, pushing up, or even just getting heavier can all signal that it’s time to think about what comes next.

Most bassinets have strict weight and movement limits, and once a baby starts showing signs of rolling or increased mobility, the risk of tipping or climbing becomes a concern. Even if your baby hasn’t hit the maximum weight yet, movement milestones alone can mean the bassinet phase is coming to an end.

For a deeper look at timing, safety guidelines, and common questions, read How Long Can a Baby Sleep in a Bassinet?

Bassinet to Crib (Around 3–6 Months)

For many families, the move from bassinet to crib happens somewhere between 3 and 6 months, though the timing can vary widely. Some babies outgrow their bassinet quickly, while others are happy there a bit longer. What matters most isn’t the calendar—it’s safety and readiness.

Common signs your baby may be ready for the crib include rolling or attempting to roll, pushing up on their hands, or simply running out of space. A crib means more room to move and a sturdier sleep surface, which becomes especially important as babies get stronger and more active.

It’s also normal for there to be some overlap during this stage. Some families start with naps in the crib and nights in the bassinet, while others make the switch all at once. There’s no single “right” approach. The best option is the one that works for your baby and your routine.

For step-by-step guidance on making the transition smoother, check out Transitioning Your Baby from a Bassinet to a Crib Made Easy

Crib Years (6 Months–2.5+ Years)

Once your baby has settled into the crib, many families find they stay there much longer than expected. In fact, the crib years often stretch from late infancy well into toddlerhood, and that’s completely fine!

Cribs are designed to safely support babies as they grow stronger and more mobile. Rolling, sitting, standing, and pulling up are all part of this stage, which is why cribs offer more space and higher sides than bassinets.

It’s also not unusual to start thinking ahead during this phase, especially as your little one approaches toddlerhood. Questions about when to move on from the crib often come up during sleep regressions, new milestones, or moments of bedtime resistance. In most cases, those changes are developmental, not a sign that a new bed is needed.

As long as your child is sleeping safely and not attempting to climb out, there’s usually no need to rush the transition. For many families, staying in the crib longer supports better sleep and clearer boundaries.

Crib to Toddler Bed (Around 2.5–4 Years)

The transition out of the crib often happens sometime between ages 2.5 and 4, but there’s a wide range of normal. Some toddlers are ready earlier, while others do better staying in the crib longer. What matters most is readiness, not a specific birthday.

This move is usually driven by a mix of factors, including climbing attempts, increased independence, and the ability to follow basic safety rules. For some families, the transition is also influenced by practical considerations, like a growing toddler who feels cramped or the need to free up the crib for a sibling.

It’s worth noting that this change can feel bigger than earlier sleep transitions. Moving to a toddler bed usually means more freedom, which can affect bedtime routines and overnight sleep. For many kids, waiting until they’re truly ready helps make the transition smoother and supports more consistent rest.

If you’re weighing timing, readiness signs, or how to make the switch with fewer sleep disruptions, this guide walks you through it: When to Transition to a Toddler Bed | Nursery to Big Kid Room

A Final Word on Sleep Transitions

Sleep transitions can feel like big milestones, especially when you’re in the middle of another one. But there’s no universal timeline that every baby follows. What matters most is safety, readiness, and what works for your family at each stage.

Some babies move through these transitions quickly, while others take their time. Both paths are completely normal. If you ever find yourself unsure, remember that staying put a little longer is often just as valid as moving on. 

Frequently Asked Questions About Sleep Transitions

Can my baby skip the bassinet and sleep in a crib instead?
Yes. As long as the crib meets current safety standards and is set up correctly, it’s safe for a newborn to sleep in a crib from day one. Some families choose this option based on space, budget, or personal preference.

For more guidance on crib setup, room-sharing, and other safety basics, see How to Create a Safe Sleep Environment for Your Baby.

What if my baby rolls earlier than expected?
Early rolling is common and usually a sign it’s time to reassess your baby’s sleep space. And keep in mind, this can happen as soon as four months! Once rolling or increased movement begins, a crib often provides a safer and more supportive environment than a bassinet.

Is there a maximum age for staying in a crib?
Not exactly. Many children stay in a crib well past age two, and some closer to three. As long as your little one is sleeping safely and not climbing out, there’s typically no need to rush the transition.

Will moving to a toddler bed improve sleep problems?
Not always. Sleep disruptions are often tied to development, routines, or separation anxiety rather than the bed itself. In some cases, switching too early can actually lead to more wake-ups.

What if my child isn’t ready when others seem to be?
That’s completely normal. Readiness varies widely, and comparing timelines rarely tells the full story. Trusting your child’s cues is usually more helpful than following a strict schedule.

Why Should You Trust Bambi Baby?

At Bambi Baby, our decades-long commitment to quality and customer satisfaction has established us as a trusted authority in the baby products' industry. With over 40 years of experience, we have developed a deep understanding of what parents require when choosing the perfect gear. Our expert team is dedicated to guiding you through this important decision with personalized recommendations, ensuring that the gear you pick perfectly matches your lifestyle and needs.

Still Have Questions? 

Bambi Baby experts are ready to connect! If you have any more questions regarding bassinets, cribs, or other nursery gear, you can reach us at cs@bambibaby.com or chat with us on our website. We would love to hear from you!

We would also love to see you in store! Feel free to visit any of our store locations in New York, New Jersey, or Miami if you prefer personalized assistance from one of our experts. We're here to ensure you find the perfect gear for your baby with confidence and ease.