SNIGLAR Toddler Bed Frame with Guard Rail

Where the Kritter goes for playful character, the Sniglar goes for simplicity - solid pine with a natural, untreated finish and a lower profile frame that sits closer to the ground, which some parents prefer for a toddler's first bed since it reduces the height, and impact, of any tumble out of bed. The guard rail does the same essential job as the Kritter's, keeping a sleeping toddler contained without the enclosed feel of full bed rails.

The two IKEA beds score almost identically overall, but for different reasons: the Sniglar's solid pine holds up to the daily knocks of toddler life better than the Kritter's painted surface, which chips and scuffs more visibly over time, while the Kritter's playful design tends to win over a toddler faster during the actual transition. If your toddler isn't fussed about bed design and you'd rather have something that looks good for longer, the Sniglar is the more durable buy.

Well suited to small bedrooms where the lower profile helps, and to parents who'd rather have understated, natural-look furniture than a themed design. Also a sensible pick if you're not precious about winning your toddler over with character - a straightforward, no-fuss toddler bed rather than an event.

The plainer look, while durable, doesn't have the same persuasive pull for a toddler who's nervous or resistant about leaving the cot - some parents find they need to lean more on other transition tactics, like a favourite toy or involving the toddler in choosing bedding, to get buy-in, where the Kritter's design does some of that work for you. As with the Kritter, the mattress is sold separately.