ledikants

Ledikant is a bed designed for infants or young children, used in Dutch-speaking regions such as the Netherlands and Flanders. It is typically a small, freestanding bed with high sides or rails to prevent the child from falling out, and it is often placed in the parents’ bedroom during early infancy.

Construction and features vary, but ledikants are usually made of wood and come in a compact, sturdy form. Designs range from simple frames with vertical slats to more enclosed styles, sometimes with decorative elements that match other nursery furniture. Many models allow adjustments such as mattress height or have wheels to ease movement between rooms. The bed’s size is smaller than a standard adult bed and is intended for a child up to roughly the toddler years, after which families may transition to a regular bed.

Historical and cultural context: The ledikant has been part of nursery furniture in Dutch-speaking regions since at least the 18th century, evolving from earlier cradles and bassinets. It reflected domestic childcare practices of its era and was produced in various regional styles. The design and terminology have varied over time.

Modern usage: In contemporary Dutch and Flemish contexts, the term is still recognized, though many households now use modern cribs or bassinets for infants. In antique markets and among collectors, ledikants appear as historical furniture pieces and are sometimes preserved as heirlooms or decorative items.