Posted by Shane Cousins
on January 08, 2026
Knowing when to upgrade your child’s bed is not always straightforward. Some children outgrow their sleeping space quickly, while others remain comfortable for longer than expected. Growth patterns vary, and sleep needs change gradually rather than overnight.
Rather than focusing on age alone, the right time to upgrade is usually influenced by comfort, sleep quality, and how well the bed fits both your child and their bedroom. This guide looks at the most common signs parents notice, helping you decide whether an upgrade should be considered now or planned for the near future.
Common Signs It May Be Time to Upgrade
- Your child looks cramped in bed, often sleeping curled up or pressed against the sides.
- Feet, legs, or arms regularly hang over the edge of the mattress.
- There is an increase in night waking, restlessness, or difficulty settling at bedtime.
- Your child begins to complain about discomfort, stiffness, or not sleeping well.
- Getting in and out of bed independently has become awkward or restrictive.
- Recent growth spurts have noticeably reduced the usable sleeping space.
These changes often appear gradually rather than all at once. While one sign alone may not mean an immediate upgrade is needed, a combination of physical and behavioural cues usually suggests that the bed is no longer supporting your child’s comfort as effectively as it once did.
If you have decided that this is in fact the time to upgrade your child's bed, but don't know where to start; our guide to choosing the right kids bed discusses all the different types of kids beds and who they are best suited for.
Is It About Age or Height?
- Children grow at very different rates, so age alone is rarely a reliable indicator.
- Height, leg length, and sleeping position usually matter more than birthdays.
- Mattress length is often the first limiting factor, rather than width.
- Allowing extra length gives your child space to stretch and change position naturally.
In practical terms, a bed should feel proportionate to your child’s size rather than their age.
WNBO Tip
If your child has less than around 10–15cm of clear mattress length remaining, it is usually a good sign that an upgrade should be planned soon, even if it is not urgent yet.
Sleep Comfort Signals to Watch For
- Frequent tossing, turning, or waking during the night.
- Complaints of stiffness, discomfort, or poor sleep in the morning.
- Preferring to nap on the sofa, floor, or elsewhere in the house.
- A mattress that no longer feels supportive or comfortable.
Changes in sleep behaviour are often one of the earliest indicators that a bed is no longer meeting your child’s needs. As children grow, a mattress that once felt comfortable may no longer provide the right level of support or space. While occasional restlessness is normal, consistent disruption or complaints can suggest that the bed itself is contributing to poorer sleep quality. Paying attention to these subtle signals can help you plan an upgrade before discomfort becomes a regular issue.
Safety and Independence Factors
- Your child should be able to get in and out of bed safely on their own.
- The mattress should fit securely within the frame, with no gaps or movement.
- There should be a low risk of rolling out during normal sleep.
- Bed height should suit your child’s confidence, balance, and coordination.
As children grow, independence becomes just as important as comfort. This is often where bed style plays a role. If you are considering elevated beds, it is worth understanding the differences, which we cover in our comparison of mid sleepers and high sleepers.
Is It Worth Sizing Up Early?
- Upsizing early can reduce how often a bed needs replacing as your child grows.
- It allows space for future height and movement without rushing another upgrade.
- However, larger beds can dominate smaller bedrooms and limit floor space.
- Younger children may feel less secure or comfortable in an oversized bed.
Sizing up early can be a sensible choice in the right setting, particularly where space allows and your child feels confident with a larger sleeping area. In smaller rooms, or for children who prefer a more enclosed feel, a gradual step up may be more appropriate. Rather than aiming to future-proof at all costs, the most effective approach is to balance room proportions, comfort, and your child’s readiness so the bed feels supportive rather than overwhelming.
Final Thoughts
Upgrading your child’s bed is not about following a fixed timeline or comparing milestones with others. Children grow and change at their own pace, and the right time to upgrade is usually guided by comfort, safety, and how well the bed suits both their size and their bedroom. Paying attention to small signs early can help you plan ahead rather than react to disrupted sleep or discomfort. With a thoughtful approach, upgrading becomes a simple, stress-free step that supports better rest as your child continues to grow.
Shane Cousins
Marketing Executive
Shane has been part of the West Norfolk Bed Outlet team for over four years, bringing his BSc Honours degree together with a passion for helping local customers find the right products. He enjoys creating buying guides and collection insights that simplify the decision-making process, while also keeping an eye on the latest bedroom and furniture trends.
