Updated by Gemma Coe, Sleep Specialist in November 2025
It can be exciting or even a little heartbreaking to see your little one leave their cot bed and sleeping bag behind. The time comes to progress from a baby sleeping bag to a big new bed and make fun of moving to a toddler duvet and pillow!
But when is the right time to transition to a cot duvet safely?
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Is my toddler ready to leave the sleeping bag?
With the growing range of sleeping bags and sizes available, your little one can theoretically stay in a sleeping bag until they are about five years old. Many parents start using a sleeping bag when their child is just a few weeks old, making it a familiar and comforting sleep environment. Sleeping bags are easy to use, and your children usually have positive associations with them. Let’s be honest: the designs and colours of sleeping bags or now ‘rompers’ with foot openings are just super cute!!
Matching sleeping bags, couldn’t quite help myself
Even if they do go up to 5 years of age, when should you start to consider a duvet and thin pillow for your little one?
This is often asked at the same time as when parents consider moving their little one to a big bed. ar when they start to potty training at night. By then, at the latest, there will be a certain need to make it easier for your child to access the toilet.
Of course, your child may also ask for a pillow and a duvet of their own accord – simply because they want to be “big” too. From a professional point of view, there is no such thing as THE right time. So please don’t put yourself or your child under pressure. The cot and sleep bag is still very suitable for 4 year olds!
I always recommend a sleeping bag for babies under the age of two years though (why? see below). A pillow is not recommended at this age, and if you do, it should be very thin. For stomach sleepers, a pillow should definitely be avoided until they are older.
For children under one year of age, pillows can even pose a risk of sudden infant death syndrome. At this age, loose duvets are also not entirely safe, as your child can pull them over his or her head. It is therefore important to use a sleep sack that fits well and does not slip. If you prefer to use a blanket at this age, it should always be well secured on the right and left sides.
Is your child ready for a pillow and toddler duvet? A few considerations
It would be nice to avoid any unnecessary toddler sleep issues!
If your child is older than two and you (or your little one) would like to switch to a pillow and duvet, here are a few considerations:
Remember that without a sleeping bag, it will be easier for your child to climb in and out of bed. This means that it may also be necessary to think about additional safety aspects.
Will your child be able to stay in bed through the night or will they pay you a late-night visit?
Impulse control usually starts to develop around the age of three and doesn’t fully develop until about 7 years. So if your child is currently happy in their cot and not climbing out, don’t feel pressured to change anything. A cot remains totally suitable.
If your child discovers their new found freedom and does start to get out of bed frequently after bedtime or during the night then it may be time to set some clearer expectations and boundaries about what we do at night! If they’re 3 years+ you may want to consider using my bedtime pass.
Using visual cues such as my flashcards can help make our expectations nice and clear. You may also want to consider a toddler clock which helps to tell them when it’s still nighttime and they have to stay in bed, and when they can get out!
Also, make sure your child is sleeping soundly before switching to a duvet and a thin pillow. We want to avoid unnecessary wakes. Some toddlers move around a lot during sleep, which can cause duvets to fall off easily during the night.
When are sleeping bags still best?
If your child gets cold at night because the duvet has fallen off, he or she might sleep more restlessly or it can even lead to multiple night wakings. Using a toddler duvet just doesn’t make sense if they’re still active sleepers and settling in one position isn’t possible!
Sticking to a sleep sack can be particularly beneficial for restless sleepers, as it prevents them from kicking off sheets during the night. Or you may want to consider quilted tog-rated sleep suits like this one by Love to Dream.
Before placing that duvet order, consider, is your little one dexterous enough to wake up, realise that the duvet or blanket has fallen off, pick it up again, and replace it over themselves at night time without needing the help of an adult? If so, then they are really big enough to have their own duvet, because when you think about it, it really is quite an advanced skill for a young child, especially in the middle of the night.
If they’ve outgrown their current sleep bag then a couple of companies make 3-5 year old bags. Slumbersac have a better range than others, both the standard and the footless. They also have a range by the child’s height and really go quite tall!
If a duvet falls off, that’s often how night waking’s happen. Try and use a bigger duvet, for example a single duvet on a toddler bed. Turn it landscape rather than portrait so that the sides are tucked in tightly between the bed frame and the mattress. This way your child is wrapped up and the duvet stays in place better.
If they’re really restless then you may want to consider a coverless duvet (so the sheet and duvet don’t become separated and get all tangled).
You can also get some duvet clips like these which will do the job nicely.
Choosing the Right Duvet for Your Toddler Bed
When transitioning your child from a sleeping bag to a duvet, it’s essential to choose the right one for their big bed. Here are some factors to consider:
Size: A toddler duvet should be smaller than a standard duvet (unless you’re planning on the suggestion above) to prevent it from overwhelming your child. Look for a duvet specifically designed for toddler sized beds or cot beds. This ensures a snug fit and reduces the risk of the duvet slipping off during the night.
Tog Rating: A lower tog rating (around 4.5) is recommended for toddler duvets in the summer to prevent overheating. This is especially important for children who tend to sleep hot. A lighter duvet will keep them comfortable without causing them to overheat. You may want a 7.5 or 10 tog during the colder months.
For great guidance on baby room temperature check out the Lullaby Trust here.Material: Opt for a breathable and lightweight material, such as cotton or bamboo, to regulate your child’s body temperature. These materials are gentle on the skin and help maintain a comfortable sleeping environment.
Safety Features: Look for duvets with safety features such as a secure closure system to prevent the duvet from coming undone during the night. This helps keep your child safe and ensures a restful sleep.
Best Products for Toddlers
When it comes to choosing the best products for your toddler, there are many options available. Here are some popular products (that I personally rate) that are suitable for toddlers:
Sleeping Bags: Gro bags and Slumber Sacs are popular options for toddlers. They provide a snug and secure sleeping environment while allowing for some freedom of movement. These sleep bags are designed to keep your child warm and comfortable throughout the night.
Duvets: Slientnight cot duvets are popular options for toddler beds. They are designed specifically for toddler beds and are made from breathable materials. These duvets provide the right amount of warmth without causing overheating.
Pillows: IKEA LEN toddler pillows are a popular option when they are a bit older and would like a pillow. They are designed specifically for toddler beds and are made from breathable materials. These pillows are thin, but offer the right amount of support and comfort for your little one.
By choosing the right products, you can ensure that your toddler has a comfortable and safe sleeping environment.
Toddler duvet and toddler bed
Once you have thought about all the different points and you and your child are ready for the duvet and pillow, go shopping together! There are some lovely bedding sets for toddlers and a great opportunity to let your child choose the colours and prints for their room.
Many children have been using a sleeping bag since they were a few weeks old, making the transition to a duvet a significant change.
This will also help build positive feelings about their sleeping environment and they will be more happy and open to change too!
Moving to a toddler bed can be a challenge for some as it’s too easy to get out. Most children develop impulse control around the age of 3 so they’ll be more able to understand that they stay in bed at nighttime. If your toddler is a climber though, you may need to transition early to keep them safe. In this case, you’d treat their whole bedroom as a cot thinking about their safety if they’re moving around at night.
Preparing Your Child for the Toddler Bed
Preparing your child for the toddler bed can be a challenging task, but with the right approach, it can be a smooth transition. Here are some tips to help prepare your child:
Gradual Introduction: Start by introducing the toddler bed gradually. Begin by having your child sleep in the toddler bed for naps, and then gradually move to nighttime sleep. This helps them get used to the new sleeping arrangement without feeling overwhelmed.
Comfortable and Inviting Space: Make the toddler bed a comfortable and inviting space. Add a favorite toy or blanket to make the bed feel cozy. This helps your child feel secure and excited about their new bed.
Bedtime Routine: Establish a bedtime routine to help your child wind down before sleep. This can include activities such as reading a book or singing a lullaby. A consistent routine helps signal to your child that it’s time to sleep.
Encourage Ownership: Encourage your child to take ownership of the toddler bed. Let them choose the bedding and pillows, and encourage them to make the bed in the morning. This helps them feel more involved and excited about their new sleeping arrangement.
By following these tips, you can help prepare your child for the toddler bed and make the transition a smooth one.
Remember the Bedtime Wind-Down Too!
Looking for screen-free wind-down ideas? My Bedtime Wind-Down Book for Kids is packed with calming breathing games, gentle yoga, mindful colouring and affirmations – the perfect bedtime toolkit to help children aged 3–8 relax, reconnect, and drift off more easily.
Question and answer
What age can a toddler use a duvet?
Most toddlers move from a sleeping bag to a duvet somewhere between 2 and 3 years. Some are ready closer to 18–24 months, but only if they have good mobility and can move bedding away from their face safely. If your toddler still relies on a sleeping bag for comfort, kicks bedding off constantly, or moves a lot in their sleep it’s absolutely fine to wait a little longer.
How do you introduce a toddler to a duvet?
A gentle, positive approach works best. Let them help choose the duvet print so it feels like an exciting “big kid” moment. Use a duvet you can tuck securely under the mattress, and keep sleepwear slightly warmer at first in case they wriggle out. If it doesn’t go well, don’t worry! Pop the duvet away and try again in a few weeks.
What duvet tog should a toddler have?
For most toddlers, a 4 tog duvet is plenty warm enough all year round. However, in winter, if the room regularly drops below 16°C, a 7-10 tog toddler duvet can be used. Look for breathable fabrics (cotton, bamboo, wool blends) to help regulate temperature. Room temperature still matters even past the baby stage; the Lullaby Trust has helpful guidance.
Are weighted blankets or weighted sleep sacks safe for babies or toddlers?
No. The AAP (American Academy of Pediatrics) and several international safety bodies advise that weighted blankets, weighted duvets, and weighted sleep sacks should not be used for babies or young toddlers. They restrict movement and increase suffocation risk. A sleeping bag or toddler duvet is a safer choice.
When can a baby have a duvet?
Babies should not have duvets or any loose bedding due to the risk of suffocation and SIDS. The safest option is a well-fitted sleeping bag until at least 18 months, and many families wait closer to 2 years before introducing a duvet.
When can a toddler have a pillow?
Pillows are not necessary for babies and young toddlers. Most parents introduce a pillow and duvet together between 2 and 3 years, once their toddler has excellent mobility and can move bedding away from their face independently. Choose a thin, breathable, toddler-specific pillow if you decide to introduce one.
How do I stop my toddler’s duvet falling off at night?
Try using a duvet turned sideways so you can tuck the sides securely under the mattress. Some parents use duvet clips to keep bedding in place. During the day, you can play fun games under a blanket to help your toddler practise pulling it up themselves and improve their little motor skills.
Need more help with sleep transitions?
If you are experiencing difficulties with the duvet transition, your child’s sleep at night or sleeping patterns, please get in touch, reach out via instagram.
You can also check out more of my blog posts and printed media articles here.
Whilst we’re here…
If you’ve got a younger baby in the house, or a friend who is expecting, why not grab my book, Newborn Sleep Foundations, for more expert tips!
Reviewed and updated in November 2025 by Gemma Coe, Sleep Specialist.
