Common Questions About Transitioning to a Toddler Floor Bed

Making the switch to a toddler floor bed can come with a few questions and concerns. Here, I have tried to address some of the most common worries parents might have about transitioning to a floor bed. If you want to read more about the benefits head over here or you would like a how-to guide you can read one here.

Won’t My Child Always Just Come Out of Their Room?

Yes, your toddler might get out of their new floor bed, especially once they’re mobile and realise they can open the door. The key is consistency. Keep calmly putting them back to bed and explaining that it’s sleep time. You could also introduce a timer or another visual cue and explain that it's "quiet time" and that you’ll come and get them when rest time is over.

What If My Toddler Rolls Off Onto the Floor off the Floor Bed?

They’ll be fine! Because the mattress is so low to the ground, they might not even wake up and could just settle themselves back to sleep on the floor. If you want, you can gently place them back on the bed. Some parents use a pool noodle under the fitted sheet to create a small bumper, which can encourage them to roll back towards the middle of the bed. (Always follow safe sleeping guidelines.)

What If We Have a Nappy Changing Table or Other Furniture We Can’t Move Out of the Room?

Think about whether you can change your setup. For example, we used a mat on the floor for changing, which worked really well alongside the floor bed. If you can’t move certain pieces of furniture, make sure they’re not climbable and that they’re securely attached to the wall. Also, remove small items like creams or wipes from the room while your baby is sleeping.

What Will the Health Visitor or Midwife Say When They Visit?

They may not have seen this setup before, but you won’t be the only family with a toddler floor bed. View it as an opportunity to share your approach with them. Explain that you’ve taken all the necessary precautions to ensure your child’s safety, and that a floor bed is a safe, practical option.

What If My Children Share a Room?

The IKEA Kura bed is a great solution for room-sharing siblings. You can use the top bunk for your older child and the bottom as a floor bed for your youngest. Our eldest moved into the top bunk once he was confidently and safely using the ladder, around 2.5 to 3 years old.

We Tried a Floor Bed, But They Rolled Out and Got Cold. What Can Help With This?

We faced the same issue and found sleep suits like the tog snugglers from JoJo Maman Bébé to be a game-changer. These sleepsuits are fantastic for keeping your child warm if they kick the covers off, and they allow plenty of freedom to move.

I Have Dogs and Cats—How Do I Stop Them Sleeping on the Bed?

The best solution is to keep pets out of the room, if possible. If you can’t, you can lift the mattress between naps or overnight and lean it against the wall to keep it pet-free.

Do I Need Slats Under the Mattress to Prevent Mould?

This depends on the environment in your home. If you have issues with damp or mould, slats might be a good idea to allow airflow. However, we never used slats and didn’t experience any problems. Every couple of months, I’d lift the mattress to hoover underneath and let it air out.

By answering these common questions, I hope to make your transition to a toddler floor bed smoother and more confident. It's a wonderful step towards encouraging independence, fostering a good sleep routine, and creating a safe, comfortable environment for your little one.