Buying Small Cot Beds

When looking for a small cot bed It's easy to get caught up on the spec and safety features, but take into account the aesthetic too. A well-designed bed can help make the small space appear bigger and less overwhelmed.

This model is ideal for smaller bedrooms. It's lightweight and stroller-style. It's the simplest flatpack assembly.

Space-saving

Cot beds are smaller versions of traditional cots however they still provide all the comfort and safety features your baby requires. They can be used from the time of birth, or until your toddler is old enough to move up to a junior bed (around the age of 2). Some models can be turned into a stylish sofa bed to use with older kids.

To make the most of your space, consider an item that is compatible with the furniture in your bedroom or one that can easily dismantle and put up again when you want to put in other baby items. It is also possible to consider a compact cot bed with built-in storage or multi-functional designs that combine the drawers of a chest, changing unit and bench seat into a single piece of furniture.

You can find a wide selection of sizes in our small cot beds and cribs roundup, so no matter if you have a small nursery or a large playroom, there's something to suit your space. A lot of the designs in our roundup come with a fitted bed, making it easier to keep your child's bedding neat and tidy.

When selecting a cot, it is important to measure the space in your nursery. You should also check the dimensions to ensure it's appropriate before you purchase. The gap between the bars should be no more than 6.5cm. This is to ensure safety.

Silver Cross Nostalgia is a cot that accommodates a 120x60cm standard mattress and features a beautiful sleigh style frame. It's built to last, with a sturdy build with high-quality materials, and it's simple to adjust as your baby grows. It's more expensive than other cots in our list and you will need to buy a mattress separately.

The Mamas & Papas Franklin cot, which we consider to be the best infant cribs value cot, is a ideal choice for a smaller nursery. It's packed full of extra features, including teething rails and two height positions that can be adjusted as your child grows. It's also incredibly simple to put together. It includes a mattress but you'll need to buy an additional one to convert it into a toddler.

Comfort

As a parent you want your child to enjoy a comfortable, safe sleeping environment. One of the best options to ensure they get an adequate night's sleep is to choose a small cot bed with a comfy mattress. These mattresses are firmer than the traditional cot mattress however they are soft enough to ensure your baby gets a good night's sleep.

The cushioning of these mattresses helps in preventing heat retention, which may cause discomfort to some babies. The materials used in the mattress are not irritants chemical compounds and other substances that could cause irritation to your baby's skin.

Typically, these mattresses are also a good choice for side and back sleepers as they provide good support for the neck, head and body. These mattresses can be used in conjunction with the built-in cradle that comes with the cot, which is beneficial for reflux or colic.

When choosing a small mattress cot bed that has a cushioned mattress it is essential to verify the dimensions of the mattress as well as whether it can be placed inside the base of the cot. Find out if the cot mattress is subject to any specific rules or regulations, for instance a minimum thickness.

If you're looking for an cot that can adapt to your child's needs take a look at this adaptable design from Vox. It is initially a cot but can later be transformed into a toddler bed, saving you from having to buy a new bed when your baby is ready for it.

Our panel of test participants loved this cot's easy setup The mom tester Grace noting that it "came out of the box and folded like a camp chair". The middle joints snap into place and the cot collapses into itself. There are no complicated mechanisms required. It's also small and lightweight, fitting into a carry case that is larger than the case of the camp chair. This makes it perfect for transporting this cot to grandparents home.

Despite being larger than other models in our tried-and tested range, this cot is incredibly comfortable. It's designed to be like a mattress, with plenty of padding and a soft bottom that can absorb the weight without making your child feel as if they are in a bouncer. It's a solid, stable option for back and side sleepers. Senior editor Nick Belcaster did note that stomach sleepers might have a problem with it.

Safety

It is essential to ensure that the cot you pick is safe for your baby. You should look for the BS EN code or BS8509 if you want to convert it into a toddler's bed. Also, make sure it's the right size for your nursery and has enough space for a secure sleep for your baby. It should measure 140cm by 70cm, and not have any gaps around the corners or edges.

Make sure the mattress is firm and sits flat in the cot. If it's soft, old or damaged, it could create a risk of suffocation. Examine for any sagging areas which could be hazardous and test how the mattress will spring back after pressing it. A high-quality cot mattress should feel solid and flat when you press down on the middle of it.

Keep the cot clear of toys, smudges and anything else that could cause choking. It's essential that babies be able to move around freely and rotate during sleep. If your crib has a drop side be sure to check it regularly to ensure that the mechanism is locked securely.

Do not put your cot near the heat source or a bright window. They could get too warm or wake up with sunburn. You should also keep your cot away from wall mounted curtain cords as well as baby monitor cables and decorative accessories with long cords. Babies can be strangled by these cords, and older children may climb up on them or reach out to grab the cot bars.

This cot is well worth the extra cost if you want an Scandi-style design and a high quality finish. The instructions are clear and the wood feels solid. It takes time to assemble. It's not expensive but it'll last until their toddler years and will look fantastic in any nursery.

Design

When looking for a compact cot bed, it's important to remember that you're likely investing in something that will last for years. In contrast to cribs that are used only for a short period of time, cots and beds are suitable from birth until a child is able to safely transition into the toddler or single bed. To ensure the cot you buy will last, search for a model that has adjustable base heights. This feature lets you lower the mattress's height as your child grows, ensuring they stay secure and comfortable for a longer time.

A great design feature is the ability to take out cot bars in sections. This will provide your child with the feeling of independence as they begin to crawl and will make it easier to help them get into and out of bed. Some cot beds, such as the Leander Luna Baby cot beds for sale, can be converted into a sofa by removing the front.

The slatted design of a lot of cribs is a good option for a small space too, as it helps air circulate and regulate your baby's temperature. This makes a large difference when it comes to comfort, and can make the difference to ensure that your child gets a restful night's sleep.

A small cot, or the cot-bed, is an excellent investment for your baby’s security and sleeping habits. It's also a lovely addition to any nursery. Cuckooland offers a variety of cots offers and beds for you to choose from.

You'll also find that an array of accessories, like Baby beds bumpers, soft duvets, and premium bed linen, are available for every crib to make it look more complete. This allows you to create an inviting and cozy environment for your child, ensuring they get the best rest possible.