Why Aussie parents love toddler floor beds

Raising a toddler is accompanied by numerous concerns. A significant concern for many parents is transitioning their child from a cot to a proper bed. Many Australians are shifting towards the floor bed toddler as it provides a safe, comfortable, and secure sleep space for the toddler. Instead of a traditional toddler bed or a single bed, the floor bed for toddler is designed for both safety and independence. If you are also pondering selecting the floor bed for toddler for your child, you are on the right page. 

In this article, we will discuss what a toddler floor bed is, what benefits it offers, how to set one up in your room, and some of its pros and cons.

What is a toddler floor bed? 

A toddler floor bed is basically a low-set bed that rests directly on the floor or has a short base. It is commonly recognised among families following the Montessori philosophy of infant development. However, it is getting more popular because many people are choosing it for their child’s safety and proper sleep. Not like the traditional or standard bed with high frames, a toddler floor bed secures the child’s safety and reduces the risk of falls, as the child can easily get in or out of it.

Many styles of floor beds for toddlers are available in the market. Some are merely mini crib mattresses set on the floor. The design is typically:

• A simple timber base or mattress that sits straight on the floor.
• Unrestricted crossbars or railings provide independence to the toddler.
• Often tied in with Montessori ideas, encouraging little ones to explore and build independence. 

The surprising perks of a toddler floor bed     

Many Australian parents are choosing toddler floor beds for their child’s healthy growth. Here are some of the benefits offered by a toddler floor bed:   

1. Foster autonomy 

A toddler floor bed makes it simple for kids to hop in and out on their own, helping them grow more independent. It also helps to foster the self-confidence and critical thinking of the child. 

2. Improves sleep hygiene 

Many parents observe better sleep cycles because children feel more in control. A toddler floor bed serves as an inviting and safe sleep space, promoting better sleep routines. More likely, a toddler is less likely to resist bedtime. 

3. A safer relocation from the crib  

A toddler floor bed also helps to minimise the risks of dangerous falls from the cot bars, ensuring the child’s safety. It also helps to eliminate the worries of the child climbing out of the cot bar.

4. Promoting Montessori learning at home   

Most Australians emphasise the value of Montessori education. A toddler floor bed makes this approach more effective by offering a child freedom to move and explore.

5. Affordable option     

A toddler floor bed is also a budget-friendly option. It can be as simple as a quality mattress on the floor. It is a perfect choice for those Aussie parents who are not interested in investing in multiple-stage beds. 

Essential safety planning for parents in Australia   

While toddler floor beds are safety-oriented, Aussie parents should call attention to a few things before picking one for their child. Consider the following safety considerations before making a switch: 

• Child-proofing the room: Fasten furniture to the wall, cover electrical outlets, and remove small objects from the room that could lead to a choking hazard.
• Optimal ventilation: Make sure there is good airflow around the mattress to prevent mould growth, particularly in the damp areas of Australia.
• Use a high-quality mattress: Don’t forget to pick a high-quality and firm mattress because a soft mattress raises the probability of suffocation for younger toddlers.
• Track room temperature: Use bedclothes that promote air circulation and suit the Australian climate. 
• Keep it simple: Don’t use extra pillows, toys, or heavy blankets because they could disturb the safe sleep.

How Aussie families can set up a toddler floor bed 

Setting up a toddler’s floor bed is easy, and this is how Aussie parents can set up a toddler floor bed:

• Choose the appropriate mattress: Find a single, cot-sized or firm mattress with good structural support that will remain intact. 
• Put on a low border (optional): Many Aussie suppliers are selling Montessori-style frames to slightly elevate the mattress for airflow. 
• Create a calm sleeping space: Create an inviting sleeping environment with low lighting, a neutral colour scheme, and a free of clutter environment. 
• Use protective equipment: Use soft carpets if necessary, child-proof latches and baby gates if you feel the need. 
• Personalise the environment: Use your child’s favourite toys, wall art, or any other personal items to make the room inviting.

So don’t forget to create a calming environment for sleep with a protective toddler floor bed.

When should you introduce a floor bed?  

A toddler floor bed should be introduced in the room when the child displays the signs of mobility, such as crawling, or when they are growing out of the sleeping space. But the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) suggests that waiting until your little one is 12 months old and the surrounding area is fully protected for children for careful exploration. The ideal time of introducing the floor bed also depends on the parents’ comfort level. Consider the following signs to set up the toddler floor bed:

• Mobility: Your little one starts to indicate signs of crawling, rolling over, or normally self-moving. 
• Moving on from a crib: Your child is continuously trying to outgrow the crib, which can be a risk. 
• Comfort of the parent: Parents feel confident and prepared for the transformation, as they know their child best.

Benefits and drawbacks of a toddler floor bed

Everything has some drawbacks along with the advantages. Here are the upsides and downsides of the toddler floor bed:

Pros  

• A safer choice as compared to the cots for active and playful toddlers. 
• Fosters independence. 
• A budget-friendly option as compared to traditional beds. 
• Seamless nightly shifts. 

Cons 

• Some toddlers may end up rolling out of bed. 
• Must follow through with complete child-proofing of the room. 
• Not an option for very small living spaces. 

Where can I buy a toddler floor bed in Australia? 

There are many toddler floor beds available in Australia, everything from budget settings to gorgeous, full-scale Montessori frames. You’ve probably seen them at: 

• Major retailers such as Big W, Target, and Kmart have mattresses and basic options.
• Home furnishing stores such as IKEA have frames and storage. 
• Montessori brands, such as Sprout, Floor Beds Australia, and EcoMonti. 
• Other online stores, such as Catch, Amazon Australia, and Temple and Webster. 

Final thoughts 

A toddler floor bed is not just a sleeping arrangement; it is the choice of most Australian parents that motivates independence, safety, and a smoother transformation from cot to bed. It is gaining attention among Australian parents embracing Montessori principles at home. By making sure the room of your little one is safe and comfortable, you can enjoy the advantages of this setup while giving your toddlers a little extra space and freedom to grow.