Choosing a Montessori floor bed for your child is a wonderful step toward fostering independence and creating a nurturing sleep environment. However, ensuring your child’s safety is paramount, especially when transitioning from a crib to a floor bed. Here are some detailed safety recommendations to consider, including guidance from Red Nose’s Safe Sleep Recommendations.

1. Age Appropriateness: Wait Until at Least 18 Months

Montessori floor beds are designed to allow children to move freely and independently. However, it’s important to wait until your child is at least 18 months old before making the switch. Younger infants lack the developmental maturity and physical coordination needed to use a floor bed safely.

According to safe sleep guidelines by Red Nose, babies should sleep in a safe cot that meets Australian safety standards until they are old enough to manage the transition. The cot should be used in the same room as parents for the first 6-12 months, which significantly reduces the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS).

2. Baby-Proof the Room

When transitioning to a floor bed, your child will have increased freedom to move around the room. Baby-proofing the entire room is essential to create a safe environment. Here are some key steps to take:

3. Supervision is Key

While Montessori floor beds encourage independence, young children should never be left unsupervised for extended periods, especially when they are still adjusting to the new sleep setup. It’s important to:

4. Follow Safe Sleep Guidelines

Red Nose’s Safe Sleep Recommendations emphasize the importance of a safe sleeping environment. When using a floor bed, consider the following:

5. Regular Safety Checks

As your child grows and becomes more mobile, regularly reassess the room’s safety. Make adjustments as needed to ensure the environment remains secure and supportive of your child’s development.

Preventing Mould Growth Under the Mattress in a Floor Bed

To ensure your child’s floor bed remains a clean and healthy sleep environment, it’s important to take steps to prevent mould growth under the mattress. Although the slats under the mattress in your Sleepy Monkey Bed aid in allowing ventilation and preventing moisture build-up, mould growth is still a risk of all floor beds. Here’s how you can keep the space fresh and mould-free:

1. Ensure Proper Ventilation

Mould thrives in damp, poorly ventilated areas. To avoid moisture buildup:

2. Keep the Mattress Dry

Moisture on or under the mattress can quickly lead to mould growth. To keep the mattress dry:

3. Clean the Mattress Regularly

Regular cleaning is essential to prevent mould and mildew:

4. Maintain a Clean Environment

Keeping the surrounding environment clean and dry is key to preventing mould:

By following these care instructions, you can help ensure that your child’s floor bed remains a safe, clean, and healthy place for them to sleep, free from the risks of mould and mildew.


For more information on safe sleep practices, please refer to Red Nose’s guidelines.