The Strategist likes to think of itself as crazy (in a good way) about the stuff it buys, but we can't try it all. We select the most convincing products from the best-reviewed ones through People's Choice. This page explains how we rate each item and how we select them. Now we're turning our attention to toddler beds - from mattresses and foam mattress toppers to loft toddler house beds and even camp hammocks.

Toddler beds with the best reviews (and the lowest prices)

Over 4,200 people have given Regalo My Cot Portable toddler house bed 5 stars on Amazon. The 5-pound cot is a favorite among parents for air travel and hotel stays because it fits in a checked bag. Reviewers also praised its versatility, citing how it can work as a cot for overnights at grandparents, next to mom and dad's bed during a thunderstorm, and even as a makeshift TV viewing spot. In spite of the fact that we didn't have enough beds for our summer vacation, we bought this cot.

Rails for toddler beds made of wood

From the moment it is assembled to the first time it is used, this "simple, clean-looking" bed is loved by reviewers. According to one buyer, "I searched high and low for a cute, nontoxic, wood bed - and this one fits the bill.". In addition to the ease of assembly, it is also sturdy: "I have tested it by sitting and standing on it (my weight is 167 pounds), and it did not even squeak. 

A wooden toddler bed with rails that is less expensive

Even though the bed is sturdy, parents say it doesn't creak or squeak: "I don't hear any creaking or squeaking like the old bed," one dad says. Over the past year, they have taken the mattress off, walked on the slats without permission, and jumped on it without permission. Despite the fact that I bought it the same day we got it, it's still as solid as the day we got it."

Toddler beds that are "grown up"

According to enthusiastic owners, this piece is "extremely sturdy" and will remain that way following assembly (which is "super easy" thanks to clearly labeled pieces and good instructions). According to one reviewer, "it's remained sturdy despite kids jumping on it constantly and adults sitting on it every day."

The best toddler sleigh bed

It's designed for a toddler (25 pounds), a mother (120 pounds), and a baby (10 pounds). Other parents praise its "pretty darn solid" construction and "pretty damn easy assembly" - it took me about 20 minutes." The kids seem equally enthusiastic: "She never slept in her crib, but slept in this bed the first night!"