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Floor Beds for Toddlers: What They are and Why You Might Consider One

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FLOOR BEDS FOR TODDLERS: WHAT THEY ARE AND WHY YOU MIGHT CONSIDER ONE

 

As a pediatric sleep coach, I often get asked about floor beds for toddlers. A floor bed is a bed that sits directly on the floor, rather than on an elevated frame or box spring. They are becoming an increasingly popular choice among families when transitioning from the crib. Today we are going to explore what floor beds are, why you might consider them, and how to safely use them.

What are floor beds?

Floor beds are exactly what they sound like – beds that are placed on the floor. There are lots of options with a variety of materials. A quick search on amazon brings up lots of options including some really cute wooden floor beds.  Some parents choose to make their own floor beds by placing a crib mattress on the floor, while others purchase a floor bed that is specifically designed for this purpose.

Why might you consider a floor bed for your child?

There are several reasons why you might consider floor beds for toddlers. Here are a few:

  1. Independence: Floor beds allow children to get in and out of bed on their own, which promotes independence and self-confidence.
  2. Safety: Since floor beds are lower to the ground, there is a lower risk of injury from falls.
  3. Mobility: If your child is a restless sleeper or likes to move around a lot, a floor bed allows them to do so without the risk of falling off a higher bed.
  4. Montessori Method: Floor beds are often associated with the Montessori method, which emphasizes independence and hands-on learning. In this approach, the child’s room is designed to be a safe and stimulating environment that encourages exploration and self-discovery.

How to safely use a floor bed

While there are many benefits to using floor beds for toddlers, it’s important to use them safely. Here are a few tips to keep in mind:

  1. Choose a safe location: Make sure the bed is placed in a safe location away from hazards such as windows, heaters, and cords.
  2. Use a firm mattress: Choose a firm, safe mattress to support your child’s growing body. 
  3. Keep the room childproof: Make sure the child’s room is free from dangers such as small objects that could be choking hazards, blind cords, and electrical outlets. You also want to ensure that all furniture is anchored.
  4. Supervise young children: Young children should be supervised when using a floor bed, especially if they are prone to rolling off the bed.

 

When introducing a floor bed, it is extremely  important to create a safe sleep environment. Make sure the room is fully childproofed, remove any objects that could pose a safety hazard, and ensure that all furniture is anchored. You will also want to make sure that any nearby stairs are gated. These are all safety precautions I suggest anyway when childproofing, but they are especially important once your child is no longer in a crib.

When to introduce a floor bed

I generally suggest holding onto the crib for as long as possible if it is working for your family. This would be until your child outgrows the height/weight limits of your crib or if they are able to climb out of the crib so the crib is no longer safe. I do find it helpful when our little ones can understand expectations and boundaries around sleep when making the transition out of the crib.
 
Some families will explore floor beds when their child is younger, especially if they do not seem to be willing to sleep in the crib. If you find yourself in this situation, I would first want to explore what is happening there and if your child is experiencing any discomfort in laying flat. Sometimes issues like reflux could be coming into play and addressing that first would be the best step. If you are trying a floor bed with your younger child, the safety piece is very important. You want to continue to follow all safe sleep guidelines and you want the bed to be away from walls so that your child would not become wedged between if they were to roll off. You want the room essentially to be one giant crib. I always suggest talking to your pediatrician or another professional who knows your child and family when making changes around sleep so you can get individualized guidance.

Other things to consider

As with any change around sleep, when introducing a floor bed it is important to be consistent with bedtime routines and sleep schedules to help your child adjust to their new bed. Initially, you may need to sit with your child until they fall asleep, but over time they will become more comfortable and independent.

Parents have found floor beds to be a helpful tool for promoting independence around sleep habits. By allowing children to have more control over their sleep environment, floor beds can help children feel empowered.

Additionally, many parents have found that floor beds make it easier to transition their child to a traditional bed when the time comes, as the child is already used to sleeping independently on a mattress. Overall, floor beds can be a great option for parents who want to foster their child’s independence.

Floor beds can be a great option for young children, promoting independence and mobility. If you’re considering a floor bed for your child, be sure to follow the safety guidelines above and consult with your pediatrician if you have any concerns.

If you are looking for support while transitioning away from the crib, I am here for you. Book your free Discovery Call today to get started.

References:

  1. Montessori, M. (1912). The Montessori Method. London: Frederick A. Stokes.
  2. American Academy of Pediatrics. (2011). SIDS and Other Sleep-Related Infant Deaths: Expansion of Recommendations for a Safe Infant Sleeping Environment. Pediatrics, 128(5), e1341–e1367. https://doi.org/10.1542/peds.2011-2284
  3. Ball, H. L., & Hooker, E. (1999). Where will the baby sleep? Attitudes and practices of new and experienced parents regarding cosleeping with their newborn infants. American Anthropologist, 101(1), 143–151. https://doi.org/10.1525/aa.1999.101.1.14

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