Is a Floor Bed Right for Your Baby?
If you’ve seen the curated instagram Montessori baby rooms, you’ve likely seen the floor bed: a simple mattress on the floor where a baby or toddler can sleep and explore independently. But is this safe? Practical? Too crunchy?
Let’s break it down—with a little real-life experience thrown in.
My Floor Bed Dreams (and Reality)
With both of my older kids, I was so passionate about the floor bed concept. I loved the idea of giving them freedom of movement, independence, and a more respectful sleep setup. And with each of them, we made it to around 16 months before I declared: They are ready!
And then… it just didn’t work for our family.
Both times, after a few too many nights of wandering, bedtime battles, and dramatic mid-night wake-ups, my husband had to drag the crib down from the attic and rebuild it. Twice. Poor guy. 😅
So with our third baby (third time’s the charm, right?), I’m just waiting as long as possible before transitioning her out of the crib. I still love the concept—but I’ve also learned that timing matters, and it’s okay to take your time.
What Is a Floor Bed?
A floor bed is a low mattress on the ground instead of a crib. It allows babies and toddlers to get in and out on their own, promoting independence and body awareness.
Some families use it from the newborn stage (in a room that’s fully baby-proofed and closely supervised). Others wait until closer to toddlerhood—often between 12 and 18 months—when climbing becomes a thing anyway.
Pros
Encourages freedom of movement
May reduce resistance to sleep (less pressure, more autonomy)
Can be more affordable than a crib setup (and you just keep using it till they’re grown!)
Great for toddlers who are climbing out of the crib anyway
Easier for parents to lie down with baby if needed (hello, contact naps)
Cons
Requires a fully baby-proofed room (think: outlets, furniture anchoring, no dangling cords)
Rolling off is a possibility—though it’s a very short fall (lots of babies end up legs off the bed… it’s fine)
Not ideal for younger babies unless the room is safe for fully independent sleep
Expect more wandering, especially during transitions or regressions (this was our problem…)
When to Consider It
A floor bed might work well if:
You want to encourage Montessori-style independence
You’re okay with a little bedtime wandering
Your toddler is already trying to escape the crib
You have the time and energy to fully room-proof
Bottom Line
Floor beds are a totally valid option—especially after 6–8 months and even more so after 12+ months, when your baby is mobile and curious. But like all things parenting, what works in theory doesn’t always work in real life.
So if it’s something you’re excited about, go for it.
And if you try it and end up pulling the crib out of the attic again?
Same. You're not alone.
Love,
Emily
