10 Best Toddler Bed Rails
They grow up so fast, don’t they? If your little one is almost big enough to transition to a toddler bed, it’s time to be thinking about how you can help prevent falls as she gets used to a bed. A guard rail can help keep your toddler secure even as she rolls around her “big-kid bed.” With lots of toddler bed rails on the market, it can be hard to pick the right one. Check out the results of our survey of more than 2000 Pampers Parents to help you make your choice.
Features to Consider When Buying a Toddler Bed Guard Rail
When it comes to picking a toddler bed guard rail, consider these features:
Security and safety. Pampers Parents said that one of their top priorities when making a choice was the security and safety of the guard rail. You'll want to make sure that the toddler bed guard rail can be firmly secured to the bed, that it’s stable, and that it cannot be moved or adjusted by your child. Another safety consideration is making sure that the rail can support your child’s weight if your child rolls or leans onto it. The rail should also fit snugly against the mattress so that your child can't roll into the gap. Always follow the manufacturer’s advice about how much of a gap there should be between the bed rail and the headboard or footboard or check with your child’s healthcare provider for advice if the manufacturer doesn’t provide information.
Height and length. The bed rail needs to be the right length to fit securely on the bed you have and the right height to stop falls at night. If you have an especially thick mattress, double check that the rail is high enough to prevent any falls.
Comfort. For example, some Pampers Parents said they preferred to pick a cushioned guard rail in case their toddler rolls against it while sleeping.
Price. Guard rails come in a variety of price points, and more expensive doesn’t necessarily mean better. Remember, too, that your child will need the rail for only a limited time; you may not want to break your budget on a product that you’ll be using for a relatively short time.
Adjustable. Some Pampers Parents emphasized choosing a toddler rail that could be adjusted to fit the size of the bed, or that could be used when transitioning from a crib to a bed.
Foldable. Some bed rails can be folded down. This is a convenient feature when you want to sit with your little one to read a bedtime story or have easier access when changing the sheets, for example.
Ease of installation. Some bed rails are easier to install than others, with some needing two people for the initial setup, according to some Pampers Parents. This could be a deal breaker for you if you don’t have help at hand.
Color. Maybe you want the toddler bed rail to match the bed or fit in with the décor of your toddler’s room. If so, take a look at what colors are available in the model you’re considering.
Portability. If you’re planning to travel and need to take the guard rail with you, you may want to pick a guard rail you can transport easily.
The 10 Best Bed Rails for the Side of Your Toddler’s Bed
More than 2,000 Pampers Parents voted on the best toddler bed rails. Read the reviews to find out which one is right for you and your little one:
1. Summer Infant Summer Single Fold Safety Bedrail
Why pick this one? This toddler bed rail was the absolute favorite among Pampers Parents! The Summer Infant Summer Single Fold Safety Bedrail folds down when you need easy access to the bed, such as to change the sheets. However, some Pampers Parents found this product hard to fold down and difficult to clean. Pampers Parents loved this toddler bed guard rail for the ease of installation and for the reasonable price. Many Pampers Parents also liked that it can be adjusted to fit up to a queen-size bed size and stays secure and safe once installed.
The side of the rail is made with see-through mesh for ventilation and so you can see your sleeping child from the side too.
One thing to consider is that although the price of this product is very affordable, if your toddler’s bed needs a rail on both sides of the bed, then you will need to buy two of these. In this case, you may be better off looking at slightly pricier models that come with two rails.
Highlights: This toddler bed rail is portable and easy to store.
Pampers Parents pros and cons:
2. Summer Infant Summer Double Safety Bedrail
Why pick this one? Pampers Parents liked this toddler bed rail for its stability. This guard rail includes two sides that can be connected under the mattress — a good choice if your toddler’s bed isn’t pushed up against a wall on one side and you need a rail for both sides.
This toddler bed guard rail has panels that measure 42.5 by 21 inches, which means it can accommodate thicker mattresses and the pair of guard rails can adjust in size to fit most bed widths. One of the panels can fold down so you can access the bed more easily.
Some Pampers Parents said they had trouble getting the rails down once up. Other Pampers Parents wished this bed rail were easier to install or that it were more portable.
Highlights: The mesh material used is breathable and comfortable. The gray color may hide marks and stains a little better than a white model.
Pampers Parents pros and cons:
3. Seven Colors Bed Rail Guard for Toddlers Vertical Liftable Extra Long Bed Rail
Why pick this one? This toddler bed rail comes with a smooth vertical lifting mechanism that the manufacturer claims will makes it easier for your little one to get in and out of the bed. This design feature may a plus for you if the placement of your toddler’s bed side table makes it difficult to have a fold-down guard rail because the table is in the way.
Many Pampers Parents liked that this bed rail is longer than many other models on our list and secures more of the bed. In addition, some Pampers Parents loved that the height of this bed rail kept their active, curious toddlers from scaling the sides of the bed.
The Seven Colors Bed Rail Guard is 70.8 inches long and can be adjusted to heights of 28.3 to 36.6 inches. It’s designed to work for most bed sizes. Depending on the size of your bed, you can also buy one of these to secure the foot-end of the bed.
Pampers Parents, on the whole, were very satisfied with this bed rail, but some said they wished there were more color choices and others cited the price as a potential downside. The price is for one panel, and you'll need to buy another one if you’d like two secure both sides of the bed.
Highlights: Features a childproof lock for added safety so that only you can operate the rail.
Pampers Parents pros and cons:
4. Regalo Hideaway 54-Inch Extra Long Bed Rail Guard
Why pick this one? Pampers Parents loved this bed rail for its extra-long length, sturdiness, and value for money. The Regalo Hideaway Extra Long Bed Rail Guard measures 53 inches long and 20 inches high and requires no tools for setup. It suits any bed up to a queen-size bed.
One special feature is that this bed rail can be tucked in between the box spring and mattress, so it’s hidden out of sight when not in use. Simply fold the panel down and glide it along the included rail to stow it away.
Some Pampers Parents had a few issues with this toddler bed rail, reporting that the fabric on the rail ripped, while others found the rail was too low when combined with a thicker mattress of around 10 inches or more. Some Pampers Parents also reported that they had trouble changing the bed sheets with the toddler guard rail in place.
The price is for one panel. You'll need to purchase two if you’d like to place a guard rail on both sides of the bed.
Highlights: The mesh material is machine washable.
Pampers Parents pros and cons:
5. Hiccapop Convertible Crib Toddler Bed Rail Guard with Reinforced Anchor Safety
Why pick this one? Pampers Parents loved that this guard rail can be used for a crib (with an open side) before being moved to a toddler bed. The manufacturer claims that it’s the only toddler rail for a crib that firmly anchors to the bed frame with steel clamps, so it cannot slip out of place.
The design ensures this bed rail is easy to fold down, making it easier to tell bedtime stories or change the sheets. Pampers Parents liked the breathable mesh fabric.
Keep in mind, some Pampers Parents found they had trouble locking the rail.
Highlights: This rail is made with hardened steel and heavy-duty fabrics.
Pampers Parents pros and cons:
6. Regalo Swing Down Crib Rail, with Reinforced Anchor Safety System
Why pick this one? This toddler rail is suitable for use only with a crib (with an open side) and for children who are older than 2. Pampers Parents liked the swing down feature that helped make it easy to get their child in and out of the crib.
The manufacturer claims the bed rail is easy to set up without tools, although some Pampers Parents said you need two people to install it. Some Pampers Parents felt this model was not sturdy enough. However, many liked this model for the price and the fact it was suitable for use with a crib.
Highlights: This crib rail is covered with a durable mesh nylon fabric that’s easy to clean with a washcloth and is also machine washable.
Pampers Parents pros and cons:
7. Munchkin Sleep Toddler Bed Rail
Why pick this one? The Munchkin Sleep Toddler Bed Rail has a sleek, modern design. It measures 18 inches high and 36 inches wide, and has a push-button hinge that folds down for easy access. Pampers Parents liked this bed rail for its sturdiness and stability, as well as its price.
The manufacturer claims it’s easy to install and clean—you can use a damp cloth to clean the fabric and plastic parts. Some Pampers Parents wished this bed rail were longer.
The price is for one guard rail. If you’d like a second for the other side of your toddler’s bed you’ll need to factor double the retail price into your budget.
Highlights: It comes with strong safety straps that eliminate the gap between the bed rail and the mattress for added safety.
Pampers Parents pros and cons:
8. ComfyBumpy Store Bed Rails for Toddlers
Why pick this one? Pampers Parents liked this toddler bed rail for being easy to install and use. They also liked that it’s durable, simple, sturdy, and adjustable to most bed sizes.
This toddler guard rail attaches tightly to the bed frame, and the manufacturer claims your little one won’t feel the flat iron bars under the mattress. Some Pampers Parents found the fold down mechanism difficult to operate.
The price of this product is one of the highest on our list. Consider whether it fits your budget, especially if you’re planning to buy two to fit either side of your toddler’s bed.
Highlights: It’s one of the only toddler guard rail that secures to different bed types easily. It uses hook and loop fasteners to attach to slats and springs, straps to fasten under mattress boxes, and screws to secure to wood bed bases. So whatever type of bed your toddler has, this guard rail will likely be able to work with it.
Pampers Parents pros and cons:
9. KOOLDOO Store 59 Inches Toddler Bed Rail Fold Down Safety Baby Bed Guard
Why pick this one? Unlike the other guard rails on our list, which are quite plain in design, this one has cute seaside motifs on the mesh fabric. If you’re looking for something a little different this might be it! Pampers Parents loved that the design is great for kids and has sponge insulation for extra comfort.
The KOOLDOO Store Toddler Bed Rail is designed to fit many bed types and sizes, from cribs to double beds. It’s made from steel and formaldehyde-free fabric.
Although the manufacturer claims that this bed rail is easy to install, Pampers Parents warned that this bed rail could be tricky to take apart for storage.
Highlights: The height is adjustable to three different settings so you can set the right height for your toddler’s mattress.
Pampers Parents pros and cons:
10. Dream On Me Mesh Security Rail
Why pick this one? Last but not least, Pampers Parents liked this Dream On Me Mesh Security Rail for its low price and durability. It’s easy to assemble and install without tools.
This bed rail is made of a soft and breathable mesh fabric, and it comes in a variety of colors (including pinks, blues, grays, and white) so you can match it with your little one’s bedroom or let your toddler choose his favorite color. Some security instructions are printed on the outside of the rail, and you might not like the look of this.
This Dream On Me model measures 33.5 inches in length and 15 inches in height, and some Pampers Parents wished it were longer and taller.
Highlights: It’s lightweight and portable.
Pampers Parents pros and cons:
The Bottom Line
When it comes to finding the right toddler bed guard, it’s important to find one that is secure, comfortable, and easy to install and use. We hope this list of Pampers Parents picks has made it easier to navigate all your options and find the ideal one for you and your toddler. Once you’ve installed your toddler bed guard rail, you’ll be able to sleep peacefully knowing that your toddler is snoozing soundly—and securely—as well.
Recall Notice
*Prices are correct at the time of writing.
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