How We Transitioned Our 19-Month-Old from a Crib to a Montessori Floor Bed
Why We Decided to Make the Switch
Over the last four weeks, I’ve been researching and planning exactly how to redecorate our daughter’s room. At just 18 months old, she started trying to climb in and out of her crib, and that immediately sent my mama brain into action.
I quickly went down a rabbit hole researching the safest way to transition her from a crib to a toddler bed at such a young age. I knew I didn’t want something temporary—I wanted a space that would grow with her while still feeling beautiful, cozy, and safe.
Our Priorities for a Safe Toddler Room
Before purchasing a single item, I made a list of the things that mattered most to us.
My biggest priorities were:
Finding a low-to-the-ground full-size bed with side rails that she could safely climb in and out of on her own.
Choosing a mattress with the right firmness to support her growing body while meeting safety standards similar to those of her crib mattress.
Securing everything in the room to the wall so she could safely explore her space independently.
And, of course, adding all the soft, cozy details that make a room feel special.
Choosing the Right Bed and Mattress
For the bed, I chose a beautiful whimsical design from Bed Bath & Beyond. I loved that it included a built-in bookshelf for her favorite books and stuffies. We chose this full-size floor bed because we wanted something that would allow our daughter to safely gain independence while still feeling cozy and secure.
We paired her Montessori-style floor bed with a low-profile, firm kid’s mattress from Brooklyn Bedding. I ultimately decided on BB after reviewing their safety standards for materials and reviews from other parents.
The mattress arrived rolled up, and I was genuinely impressed by how well it expanded over the two days I let it air out before setting everything up. It’s shallow enough that the bed still provides a secure railing without sacrificing comfort. To help support the mattress and protect its longevity, I also ordered a bunkie board from Amazon since the slats were spaced a little too far apart for a mattress alone.
Creating a Toddler-Friendly Space
Before decorating, I wanted to make sure the room was as safe as possible for our newly independent toddler. Since she now has the freedom to move around her room on her own, we took time to address every potential safety concern we could identify. We installed outlet covers throughout the room, including protective outlet box covers over plugs that remain in use so little hands can't pull cords or devices from the wall. We also secured cords to the wall with plastic stripping to ensure she couldn’t tug on them.
Every piece of furniture was securely anchored to the wall to prevent tipping, and we carefully evaluated the toys and books within her reach. Anything with small pieces, potential choking hazards, or items that require close supervision was removed and relocated. While no space can ever be completely risk-free, these simple updates gave us greater peace of mind and allowed us to feel more confident as she adjusts to the independence that comes with a floor bed.
Once we were done with the safety aspects, it was finally time for the fun part: decorating.
Our Target Shopping Date
A few weekends ago, my daughter and I made a girls’ date out of it and headed to Target. Armed with a Starbucks iced coffee for me, a juice box for her, and cake pops, we wandered straight to the Pillowfort section—and we did not hold back. We found the perfect quilt, two sheet sets (because if you know, you know), a few cheerful throw pillows, a cozy blanket, and a weighted stuffie we named Peggy the Pegasus. From there, all that was left was putting everything together.
After an afternoon spent taking things apart, dancing around an empty room, and styling the sweetest little big-girl space, we climbed into her new bed and read books together. It was one of those simple moments that makes you wish time would slow down just a little.
Saying Goodbye to the Nursery
As much as I loved creating this room, I wasn’t prepared for how emotional it would feel to say goodbye to the nursery. This room has held so many memories—from middle-of-the-night feedings and sleepy cuddles to first words and first steps. Watching it evolve into a toddler room feels like another reminder that childhood moves far too quickly.
How the Transition Is Going
After a few nights in her new bed, I’m happy to report that the transition has gone much more smoothly than I expected. She’s definitely enjoying her newfound freedom, but I’ve been pleasantly surprised that once bedtime rolls around, she happily stays in bed until I come get her in the morning.
Choosing products and making big transitions for your baby or toddler can feel overwhelming. I spent countless hours researching materials, safety standards, and recommendations for moving from a crib to a bed. While every child and every family is different, I’m grateful to have found an approach that works well for us, and I’m happy to share the products and resources that helped along the way.
For now, I’m simply soaking in this new season—one bedtime story, one snuggle, and one precious memory at a time.
Shop Our Toddler Room ✨
Toddler Bed: Montessori Floor Bed with Storage Bookshelf
🛒 Shop the bed:Bed Bath & Beyond link
Mama Tip: Before purchasing from Bed Bath & Beyond, always check for available coupons. They frequently offer promotions, including 20% off discounts. Military families and veterans may also qualify for additional savings.
Mattress: Brooklyn Bedding
🛒 Shop the mattress: BB Kids
Mama Tip: BB offers seasonal coupon codes. Right now they are running a back to school sale offering 25% off. Military families and veterans may also qualify for additional savings by logging in with ID.me. Check out more details on this at BB Military Discount.
Bunkie Board
🛒 Shop the bunkie board: Heavy Duty Full Size Bunkie Board
Quilt:
🛒 Shop the quilt: Full/Queen Box Stitch Microfiber Kids' Quilt Faded Rose - Pillowfort™
Sheets:
🛒 Shop the sheets: Full In the Garden Cotton Kids' Sheet Set and Full Vintage Floral Print Cotton Kids' Sheet Set
Throw Pillows & Weighted Stuffie ("Peggy the Pegasus")
🛒 Shop for a Peggy of your own: Pegasus Weighted Plush Kids' Throw Pillow Pink, Sunshine Kids' Pillow with Poms, and Round Bolster Kids' Pillow Pink
Throw Blanket:
🛒 Shop the throw blanket: Knit Flower Kids' Throw Blanket
