Why Open Floor Beds are Trending

I completely fell in love with the open-floor concept! Floor beds are a fantastic way to encourage independence early on. Once your child is over four months old, there’s no age restriction—open-floor beds can benefit children of all ages.

Floor beds promote independence by allowing babies and toddlers to explore their entire (baby-proofed) bedroom instead of confined to a crib. While it’s not for everyone, more parents are embracing this concept.

A floor bed can be as simple as a mattress on the floor. This idea comes from the Montessori Method, developed by Dr. Maria Montessori. The Montessori approach focuses on child-centered learning and encourages freedom and independence within a safe environment.

How Does It Work?

Getting started is simple! The main requirement is a fully childproofed room. Secure all furniture to the walls, hide cords, and store toys safely. Think of the entire room as one big crib.

Choose a comfortable mattress—most parents prefer a twin or 120 cm wide mattress. To make it safer, you can place pillows or gym mats around the bed to soften any falls. Another helpful tip is using a side bumper under the fitted sheet to prevent rolling while allowing easy access in and out.

The Process

I’ve created a gentle, parent-led approach that allows you to stay with your child as they adjust to their new bed and sleep environment. This method is free from any “cry-it-out” techniques, focusing on building your child’s confidence in their sleep skills while keeping you close for support.

Setting Expectations

Sleep learning is a beautiful journey. You’ll witness your child growing in confidence and gaining independence. However, remember that sleep learning often involves emotional ups and downs. Your goal is to create a secure attachment to their sleep space, which may require patience as they adapt to new changes.

Benefits of an Open Floor Bed

1. No Falling Worries
   One of the biggest concerns when transitioning out of a crib is the risk of falling. With a floor bed, even if your child rolls out, it’s just a gentle “fall,” reducing any worry.

2. They Will Learn to Sleep
   A common concern is, “They’ll never fall asleep!” They will, and learning to fall asleep independently is incredibly beneficial for their development. Floor beds can also be a budget-friendly alternative to buying a traditional bed. Place a mattress on the floor, or get creative with a design that suits your family’s needs.

3. Independence and Exploration
   Open-floor beds foster independence, making mornings easier! Instead of calling for you from a crib, your child can explore and play in their room. Their bed becomes a comfortable, inviting space—a cozy oasis.

Want to Learn More?

I'd love to meet you if you’re considering an open-floor bed! Before making a decision, I offer a free 15-minute call to discuss whether this approach is right for you.

Book a call through the link below. I can’t wait to connect with you and start a potential new sleep journey!

https://www.independentsleepers.com/packages-pricing

Selina Truax
Founder and Head Sleep Coach