Front Rail Left, Right or Removed? How to Set Up Your Montessori Floor Bed
"Can the front rail go on the other side?" and "Can I take it off?" are two of the questions we're asked most often. The answer to both is yes. Every Snuglee bed comes with a short front rail that you can fit on the left, on the right, or leave off altogether. This guide explains each set-up and how to choose the one that suits your room and your child.
What is the short front rail?
Our beds have low rails around the frame that hold the mattress and bedding neatly in place. Along the open side there is one short front rail. It covers part of that side and leaves the rest open, so your child can climb in and out on their own, one of the key ideas behind a Montessori floor bed.
The front rail is always included in the box. How you use it is up to you.
Option 1: Front rail on the left
With the rail at the left end, the opening sits on the right. This works well when the door or the main space of the room is to the right of the bed, so your child steps straight out towards it.
Option 2: Front rail on the right
Swap the rail to the right end and the opening moves to the left. Choose this when the room flows the other way, or when you'd like the opening away from a radiator, window or piece of furniture.
A simple rule: put the opening on the side your child will naturally walk to, and the rail on the side you'd rather they didn't climb out.
Option 3: No front rail
Leave the rail off and you have a fully open floor bed. Many Montessori families prefer this look because it gives children complete freedom to get in and out. Others start with the rail fitted and remove it later as their child becomes more confident. The bed sits low to the ground either way.
How to choose the right set-up
- Room layout: Where is the door? Which side faces the wall? Place the opening where your child has clear, safe floor space.
- How your child sleeps: If they move around a lot at night, the rail gives a more enclosed, cosy feel along part of the bed.
- Their confidence: Children who already climb in and out easily often enjoy the fully open set-up.
- Family time: An open side makes it easier for a parent to sit or lie alongside at story time.
There is no wrong answer, and you are not locked in. Set it up for today and change it later.
Changing the set-up later
You can move or remove the front rail after the bed is assembled. Follow our assembly instructions, and after any change, check that all fittings are tight before your child uses the bed again. Keep any parts you remove somewhere safe, out of reach of children.
Floor bed or low-rise bed: the rail works on both
The front rail options apply across our range, whether you choose a floor bed that sits close to the ground or a low-rise bed on 20cm legs. If you're weighing up the two, read when to add legs to a floor bed. Both come in three sizes:
- Single floor bed (90 × 190 cm mattress)
- Small double floor bed (120 × 190 cm mattress)
- Double floor bed (135 × 190 cm mattress)
Quick safety reminders
- Keep the bed away from radiators, heaters, blind cords and curtain cords.
- Leave clear floor space on the open side, ideally with a soft rug.
- Check fittings regularly, especially after moving the rail.
For more on sizes, rails and safety, read our complete UK guide to Montessori floor beds.
FAQs
Is the front rail included?
Yes. Every bed comes with its short front rail, whichever set-up you choose.
Can I change sides after the bed is built?
Yes. You can move the rail to the other end or take it off at any time.
Can I buy an extra front rail?
If you'd like an additional rail, get in touch with our team and we'll help.
