Today we know Montessori as a particular form of education. But in addition to the Montessori style of education and teaching, as we know it in schools and kindergartens for example, there is an important theme beyond that – furnishings and toys in the home. This is where Montessori beds come in.
A Montessori bed offers many advantages for children and their development. But which is the right bed? In our Montessori bed test, we compared different models and present the results. So you can find the perfect bed for your child.
Montessori Floor Bed with Safety Guardrails
Price: £199.90
Brand: Toddler Bed
Rating: 5.0 out of 5 stars (3 ratings)
Features
- Handcrafted Precision: Each bed is meticulously made by skilled carpenters.
- Natural Solid Pine: Durable, natural solid pine wood.
- Easy Assembly: Comes with clear, easy-to-follow setup instructions.
- No Paint or Varnish: Ensures safety and preserves the natural look of the wood.
- Low Profile Design: Allows easy access for your child, encouraging independence.
Who was Montessori and what characterises her philosophy?
Maria Montessori was one of the first women to obtain a medical degree and a doctorate. She worked in the psychiatric department of a hospital with mentally handicapped children. It turned out, however, that these children were not disabled at all. To be more precise, they were not mentally underdeveloped, as had been thought, but they lacked any support.
Maria Montessori developed special work materials, which she used to stimulate the children’sattention and concentration.
The philosophy behind this method is that a child can develop optimally in an environment adapted to his or her psychological needs.
This is based on the principle that every child is totally individual and different, and that they learn and develop at their own pace.
The emphasis is on creating an environment that allows children to develop at their own pace and according to their own needs.
This philosophy goes far beyond parenting style.
In addition to the parent’s style of education and the particular forms of schools and kindergartens, it is also possible to create an optimal environment for children in the form of an establishment.
These days, the “Montessori bed” is the focus of particular attention.
Montessori Floor Bed with Safety Guardrails
Price: £199.90
Brand: Toddler Bed
Rating: 5.0 out of 5 stars (3 ratings)
Features
- Handcrafted Precision: Each bed is meticulously made by skilled carpenters.
- Natural Solid Pine: Durable, natural solid pine wood.
- Easy Assembly: Comes with clear, easy-to-follow setup instructions.
- No Paint or Varnish: Ensures safety and preserves the natural look of the wood.
- Low Profile Design: Allows easy access for your child, encouraging independence.
What is the difference between a Montessori bed and a traditional bed?
The main difference between a Montessori bed and a traditional children’s bed is obviously that it is very close to the floor.
That’s why it’s also called a floor bed.
The aim is to give the child as much freedom as possible.
Traditional cribs are usually so high that children can’t get in and out themselves without risking injury or falling out.
Similarly, traditional cribs generally only offer cots with bars for newborns and babies.
The Montessori concept is very clear here.
From the outset, there is only a low frame on the bed itself, which is designed to protect against falls.
From day one, the child should haveabsolute freedom.
On the one hand, the fact that there is an unrestricted view contributes to this freedom, but so does the possibility of moving around completely freely.
It is precisely this feeling that should be given to a young child with such a bed.
Thanks to a “Montessori bed”, they have the unlimited possibility of going to bed or leaving it whenever they feel like it.
This reinforces the feeling of freedom, even for a small child.
This is clearly in line with the Montessori concept, which states that children should be able to develop and move freely and at their own pace.
Overview of Montessori beds
- the “Montessori bed” is very close to the floor and is called a “floor bed”
- The aim is to give the child freedom
- Traditional children’s beds are often too high and have beds with bars
- The Montessori concept emphasises the absolute freedom of the child
- “The Montessori bed has only a low frame to protect against falls
- The child has an unrestricted view and freedom of movement
- The toddler can get in and out of bed at any time
- Emphasis on the child’s sense of freedom
- The Montessori concept demands free, individual development and movement
Who is the Montessori bed for?
According to Maria Montessori’s concept, newborn babies should already be able to sleep in complete freedom.
As far as the age at which a child can sleep in a “Montessori bed” is concerned, there is already an option for newborns and babies.
In principle, any bed that looks like a “floor bed” can be described as a “Montessori bed”.
For newborns, but also for infants, it is possible to buy a bed specially adapted to the size of the child, with a frame low enough to offer protection against falls.
As most “Montessori beds” are available in different sizes, this is not a problem.
You can also take a slatted base, place a mattress on it and surround it with enough pillows, blankets and a rug.
This would then officially be a “Montessori bed”.
It ‘ s up to the parents to decide when such a bed is appropriate.
Finally, it is also possible to combine such a bed with your own, so that you can sleep together in your parents’ bedroom, for example.
What should I bear in mind when buying a Montessori bed?
The first decisive factor in choosing the right bed is size. These beds are generally available in normal single bed sizes (90 × 200 cm) or double bed sizes (140 × 200 cm).
The second most important thing when buying a “Montessori bed” is to make sure that it is a bed that the child can reach without any problem, which means that there is virtually no space between the bed and the floor.
It’s also important to focus on the materials used. Most of the time, these beds are handcrafted to a high quality. Emphasis is also placed on the materials used, which are durable and, in the case of special woods, are often even painted with a special varnish.
Special types of wood include polished alder or aspen, solid solid pine or oiled beech, oak or spruce.
It’s important to ensure that the wood is treated with natural products and that the wood itself is of the highest quality.
The next point is a clear, simple design for a “Montessori bed”.
These beds are generally natural in colour; to be precise, the wood is treated but the colour is hardly changed.
But there are also sober white models.
It’s important to ensure that it’s very minimalist and focuses on materials, while having a simple, sober design.
- The bed must be easy for the child to reach
- Use of high-quality, durable materials
- Polished alder or aspen, solid pine, oiled beech, oak or spruce
- Natural wood treatment
- Use of a special varnish
- Sober design in natural or white colours
- Minimalist and focused on materials
What are the absolute best sellers?
In addition to the possibility of building such a Montessori bed yourself, there are now superb models available on the Internet that are built according to the Montessori principle.
Some of these models are summarised here on Amazon:
ALCUBE 90×200 Montessori-style home bed for girls and boys
The ALCUBE 90×200 house bed is an elegant children’s bed designed according to the Montessori concept. The bed is designed in a charming house design and offers your child a sense of security and safety. With a sleeping surface of 90×200 cm, it’s perfect for children who have grown out of their cot and need a comfortable new bed.
The Montessori bed is made from high-quality pine, guaranteeing stability and long life. The natural wood gives the bed a warm, cosy feel, making it perfect for any nursery. The bed is also painted white, giving it an elegant, modern look.
The extra bed is low, so your child can get in and out effortlessly. However, it is high enough to prevent your child from falling out. The bed has a stable slatted base that distributes the weight evenly, giving your child a comfortable, relaxed night’s sleep.
According to the Montessori concept, children should explore their environment and learn for themselves. The home bed is designed to give your child the freedom tobe independent and explore their environment. It’s a safe place for your child to play, read or simply relax.
Here, we take a closer look at the ALCUBE.
Moimhear crib
The Moimhear crib is a unique and stylish bed, designed in the shape of a small house. It is specially designed for children and offers them a comfortable and safe sleeping environment. Measuring 90 x 200 cm, the bed offers enough space for one person and can therefore be used until adolescence.
The cot is made from high-quality pine and is robust and durable. The wood is non-toxic and contains no harmful chemicals, which is essential for your child’s health. The bed is also easy to assemble and dismantle, making it easy to clean and rearrange the room.
It has an attractive design that will delight your children. It’s available in a range of colours to match any interior. The bed also has a high edge to protect against falls and provide extra safety for your child.
The Moimhear crib also has space for toys, books and other items that your child likes to have around. So they can keep their room tidy and their belongings within easy reach.
The bed is not only functional, it’s also aesthetically pleasing and will become the highlight of any child’s bedroom. It offers your child a comfortable and safe sleeping environment that they’ll love. The Moimhear crib is therefore an excellent choice for parents looking for a stylish and safe bed for their children.
Of course, we’ve also tested the VitaliSpa crib.
“NeedSleep – Scandinavian design home bed with fall protection
The “NeedSleep” home bed is a quality and stylish piece of furniture that combines both design and functionality in one bed. The bed has a Scandinavian design and is characterised by its clean lines, minimalist aesthetic and natural materials. It’s a perfect example of Nordic culture, combining simplicity, naturalness and functionality.
The Montessori bed is made from solid pine, a wood renowned for its durability, beauty and sustainability. The wood is carefully selected and sorted by hand to ensure a uniform texture and colour. The bed is available in different sizes to suit different needs.
The home bed is fitted with a fall protection system for added safety and comfort. The fall protection is made from a strong but flexible material, providing a safe environment for children or adults who tend to fall out of bed while sleeping.
The bed is easy to assemble and can be set up in a matter of minutes. It is also easy to maintain and clean, as it can be easily wiped down with a damp cloth and mild detergent.
The NeedSleep home bed is an ideal sleeping place for children and adults alike. It provides a comfortable and safe sleeping environment and is also a beautiful piece of furniture that adds a Scandinavian touch to any bedroom. Combining timeless design, premium quality and functionality, the “NeedSleep” home bed is an essential piece of furniture for any home.
Here we take a look at the NeedSleep.
Bellabino Tapi floor bed
The Bellabino Tapi floor bed is a high-quality children’s bed made from solid pine. With its dimensions of 90 x 200 cm, it offers enough space for children of all ages. The special feature of this bed is its Montessori design, which is characterised by its low height, encouraging children to get in and out of bed independently.
The frame of the bed is made from robust, hard-wearing pine wood, ensuring a long life. The surface of the bed has been treated with an eco-friendly, non-toxic varnish that protects the wood from scratches and dirt. This preserves the natural grain of the wood, giving the bed a warm, comfortable look.
The Montessori bed has a slatted base on which a 90 x 200 cm mattress can be placed. Thanks to the low height of the bed, no additional railings are required, ensuring greater safety. What’s more, the bed can also be used as an extra bed, as it is quick and easy to store.
The Montessori concept of the bed encourages children’sindependence and self-confidence. It allows children to get in and out of bed independently and discover their own abilities. Thanks to the bed’s low design, children feel protected and safe.
The Bellabino Tapi floor bed comes unassembled, but is easy to assemble. Illustrated instructions and all the necessary screws and tools are included. With its timeless design and quality finish, the Bellabino Tapi floor bed is an excellent choice for parents looking for a durable and safe bed for their children.
Solid wood bed for children’s and teenagers’ bedrooms
This model features a slightly modified design. It’s still based on the Montessori concept, but with a small space between the floor and the bed, so you can store items such as a mattress, but also small objects, toys and so on.
It offers what is known as a “fence”, which should be used as protection against falls.
It’s also impressive for its environmental friendliness, thanks to the use of FSC-certified pinewood.
It’s also easy to assemble, thanks to detailed instructions and the appropriate assembly tools.
The model is also available in a range of sizes.
Prices range from €149.99 to €229.99.
Conclusion of the Montessori bed
A Montessori bed offers a number of advantages for children, helping to promote their development and well-being. One advantage is that the bed is low enough for the child to get in and out easily. This encourages children to become more independent and self-reliant, as they don’t need help to get in and out of bed. Safety is also an important aspect, as a Montessori bed has no high side rails that can lock the child in. The child can get in and out freely without risk of injury.
Another advantage is that a Montessori bed offers space for the child’s creativity and imagination. It is often designed in the form of houses, tents or other interesting structures that the child can use as a playground and retreat. This stimulates the child’s imagination and gives them the opportunity to create their own world.
Another important aspect is the development of the child’s motor skills. The low design of the bed encourages motor development by strengthening the child’s muscles and coordination. Children can test and develop their physical abilities by getting in and out of bed without difficulty.
Finally, a Montessori bed can also help to improve a child’s sleep. It offers a safe and comfortable environment, adapted to the child’s level of development. Children feel secure and can relax more easily, which helps them to sleep better.
In short, a Montessori bed has many benefits for children, which can promote their development and well-being. It encourages children’s independence, safety, creativity, motor skills and quality of sleep, and provides them with a safe and comfortable space in which to learn and develop.
FAQ about Montessori beds
- What is a Montessori bed? A Montessori bed is a floor-level bed that allows children to get in and out freely. It encourages independence and self-care by allowing children to sleep and get up as they please.
- Why should I choose a Montessori bed for my child? Montessori beds encourage children’s independence and self-confidence. They allow children to explore their environment independently and determine their own bedtime, which can lead to a better quality of sleep.
- From what age are Montessori beds suitable? Montessori beds can be used as soon as a child can crawl and pull himself up safely. This generally happens at some point between 6 and 12 months. But ultimately it depends on the child’s individual development and abilities.
- Are Montessori beds safe? Yes, Montessori beds are safe, as long as the bedroom is safe for children. As the bed is flush with the floor, there is no risk of a high fall. Make sure the bedroom is free from small toys or other dangerous objects that the child could reach while exploring.
- What is the right size for a Montessori bed? The size of the Montessori bed depends on the age and size of the child. A young child can sleep in a smaller bed, but as they get older, a larger bed is needed. Some Montessori beds are available in standard bed sizes, allowing them to grow with the child.
- Do I need to buy special bedding for a Montessori bed? No, it is not necessary to buy special sheets. Standard sheets, adapted to the size of the bed, work well. We recommend using natural materials that are easy to clean.
- Can I build a Montessori bed myself? Yes, you can build a Montessori bed yourself. There are many DIY instructions and plans available online. Make sure that the finished product is safe and stable and has no sharp edges or corners.