When your baby is old enough to move in to their own room they get used to the safe and enclosed environment of their cot. Once they out grow this and the time comes to transfer them to their "big bed" a single bed is a huge jump and can be quite a shock for a little one to get their head round.

The answer is now readily accessible in the form of a toddler bed which is either a stand alone piece of children's bedroom furniture or can be created by removing the sides from your child's cot bed. Remember that you must have bought a cot bed specifically designed for conversion and you can not just take the sides of a regular cot as this will not be rigid or sturdy enough.

Stand alone junior beds range from basic wooden frames to elaborate novelty toddler beds in the shape of trains, cars or princess carriages but almost all are based round the toddler mattress size 70cm by 140cm.

If you shop smart you can find toddler beds with extra storage included which will help maximise the space you have available in a smaller bedroom. The shelf life of the junior bed is dependant on the height and weight of your child however even used for a relatively short amount of time it can be a valuable aid in the smooth transition from their familiar cot to a grown up bed.