Is your toddler suddenly turning bedtime into an escape mission? If your little one has started climbing out of the crib, it can be both frustrating and dangerous. Falls from a crib can lead to serious injuries, and ensuring your child stays safe is a top priority.
If you’re wondering how to keep your toddler from climbing out of the crib, you’re not alone! In this article, we’ll explore:
✔ Why toddlers climb out of their cribs
✔ Effective strategies to prevent crib escapes
✔ When to transition to a toddler bed
Why Do Toddlers Climb Out of Their Cribs?
Before tackling the issue, it’s important to understand why your toddler is climbing out in the first place. Here are some common reasons:
1. Curiosity and Independence 🚀
Toddlers love exploring their environment, and climbing out of the crib is their way of exercising independence and curiosity.
2. Seeking Attention or Comfort 🤗
If your child feels lonely, scared, or wants more snuggles, they may climb out in search of your attention.
3. Too Much Energy at Bedtime 🏃♂️
An understimulated toddler may struggle to settle down, leading to bedtime resistance and climbing out of the crib.
4. Developmental Milestone 🎉
As toddlers grow, their physical abilities improve. Once they figure out how to swing a leg over the crib, they will test their new skill repeatedly.
5. Discomfort or Sleep Regression 😴
Teething, growth spurts, or sleep regressions can disrupt your toddler’s usual routine, making them more likely to fight sleep and escape the crib.
How to Keep a Toddler from Climbing Out of the Crib
Now that we understand why toddlers climb out, let’s discuss proven ways to prevent crib escapes.
1. Lower the Crib Mattress to the Lowest Setting
One of the simplest ways to keep your toddler from climbing out is by adjusting the crib mattress to its lowest height.
✅ Why it works: The lower the mattress, the harder it is for your toddler to swing a leg over the crib railing.
🚨 Warning: Never remove the crib’s bottom support or place the mattress on the floor. It may make the crib unstable and unsafe.
2. Remove Climbing Aids (Toys, Bumpers, and Pillows)
Check the crib for stuffed animals, pillows, or bumpers—anything that your toddler can step on to get leverage.
✅ Why it works: A clutter-free crib eliminates “boosting” objects that help your child escape.
🚨 Warning: Avoid piling up blankets or bedding, as they can increase the risk of suffocation.
3. Use a Sleep Sack (Wearable Blanket)
A sleep sack or wearable blanket can restrict leg movement, making it harder for toddlers to lift their leg over the crib.
✅ Why it works: Sleep sacks keep toddlers snug and comfortable while preventing climbing.
🚨 Pro Tip: Choose a sleep sack with legroom to avoid frustration while still limiting climbing ability.
4. Reinforce a Consistent Bedtime Routine
If your toddler climbs out due to excess energy, a solid wind-down routine can make a huge difference.
✅ Try this calming bedtime routine:
✔ Dim the lights and reduce noise 30 minutes before bed.
✔ Read a bedtime story or sing a lullaby.
✔ Use white noise or soft music to create a soothing sleep environment.
🚨 Avoid screen time before bed—it can overstimulate your toddler and make sleep resistance worse.
5. Flip the Crib Around (If One Side is Lower)
Some cribs have one side lower than the other. If this applies to your crib, turn it so the higher side faces outward.
✅ Why it works: A taller crib railing makes climbing more difficult, deterring escape attempts.
🚨 Caution: Ensure the crib is secure and not wobbly after repositioning.
6. Try the “Backwards Pajamas” Trick
If your toddler unbuttons or removes their sleep sack, put their pajamas on backward (zipper in the back).
✅ Why it works: Your toddler can’t unzip from the back, keeping them secure in their sleepwear.
🚨 Best Pajamas to Use: One-piece zip-up pajamas work best for this trick!
7. Move Them to a Toddler Bed (When Ready)
If your toddler consistently climbs out of the crib despite adjustments, it may be time for a toddler bed.
Signs It’s Time to Transition:
✔ Your child climbs out every night despite safety modifications.
✔ They are 2.5 – 3 years old and physically outgrowing the crib.
✔ They show interest in a “big kid” bed.
🚨 Safety Tip: If you transition to a toddler bed, baby-proof the room by:
✔ Using baby gates at doorways.
✔ Securing dressers, shelves, and furniture to prevent tipping hazards.
✔ Keeping dangerous objects out of reach.
When Should You Be Concerned?
While crib climbing is normal toddler behavior, it’s important to watch for red flags such as:
🚨 Frequent falls or injuries.
🚨 Extreme bedtime resistance and sleep disruptions.
🚨 Climbing out during nap time AND bedtime.
If climbing persists despite all safety measures, consult a pediatrician or sleep specialist for guidance.
FAQs: Toddler Climbing Out of Crib
✔️ Most toddlers begin attempting to climb out of the crib between 18 months and 2.5 years old, but some start even earlier!
✔️ No. Crib tents can pose entanglement and suffocation risks and are not recommended by pediatricians.
✔️ No, crib climbing is not misbehavior—it’s a developmental milestone. Instead of punishment, focus on safety solutions.
✔️ Try lowering the mattress, removing climbing aids, and using a sleep sack to prevent climbing while keeping them in the crib longer.
✔️ Most children transition between 2.5 and 3 years old, but if safety becomes a concern, you may need to transition earlier.
Final Thoughts: Keeping Your Toddler Safe in the Crib
If your toddler has started climbing out of the crib, don’t panic! With simple adjustments, you can keep them safe and secure while maintaining a consistent sleep routine.
✔ Lower the mattress to the lowest setting.
✔ Remove anything they can use to climb.
✔ Use a sleep sack to limit movement.
✔ Create a calming bedtime routine.
✔ If all else fails, consider transitioning to a toddler bed.
🎉 Consistency is key! With patience and the right strategies, you can help your toddler stay safely in their crib until they’re truly ready for a bed.
Disclaimer: The content on Passive Parenting is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional advice. Always consult a qualified expert for parenting or medical concerns.
