Buying Small Cot Beds
It's easy to get caught up in the safety and features when shopping for a small bed. However, don't forget to consider the aesthetics. A well-designed cot can make the space appear larger and less cluttered.
Stroller-style, and quite light This model is a good choice for smaller bedrooms. It's also the easiest flatpack to assemble.
Space-saving
Cot beds are smaller versions of traditional cots that still provide all the safety and comfort features your baby deserves. They can be used until your toddler is ready for an adult bed around the age of 2. Some models convert to an elegant sofa bed for use with older children, too.
Look for a model which can be easily dismantled, then reassembled in the event that you need to make room for other baby items. It is also possible to consider a cot that is compact bed with built-in storage, or an all-purpose design that incorporates an armoire with a changing table and bench seat into a single piece of furniture.
Our list of cots for small children and cribs features a range of sizes, so there's something for every space. Many of the designs featured in our roundup have a fitted bed, making it easier to keep your child's bed neat and tidy.
When choosing a cot, it's important to measure the space in your nursery and check the dimensions to make sure it will fit before purchasing. The gap between the bars should not be more than 6.5cm. This is for safety reasons.
Our real mums loved the Silver Cross Nostalgia cot, that can accommodate the standard 120 x 60cm mattress and features a gorgeous sleigh-style frame. It's built to last, with a solid construction and quality materials, and is simple to adjust as your baby grows. However, it's a more expensive option than some of the other cots on our list and you'll have to purchase a mattress in the event you opt for this model.
The Mamas & Papas Franklin cot is another great choice for a small nursery, and it's our pick of the most value-for-money cot. It's loaded with extra features including teething rails as well as two height positions that can be adjusted as your child grows, and it's super-easy to put together. It comes with a mattress, however, you'll need another one to convert it into a toddler.
Comfort
Pick a small cot that has an easy mattress. This will help your baby sleep comfortably. These are designed to be more firm than a traditional cot mattress but are still soft enough so that your baby will enjoy the rest of the night.
These mattresses are cushioned to reduce the retention of heat, which can cause discomfort for some babies. The materials used in the mattress are free of irritants chemical compounds and other substances that can cause irritation to your baby's skin.
Typically, these mattresses are a great option for back and side sleepers as they provide good support for neck, head and body. They can also be used with the cot's built in cradling system, which many parents find to be beneficial for reflux and colic.
If you are considering a crib bed with a cushioned mattress, it's important to check the size of the mattress and whether it can be placed inside the base of the cot. Find out if the mattress is subject to any specific rules or regulations, for instance a minimum thickness.
This adaptable design from Vox is a great choice for parents who are looking for a cot that grows with their child. It's a cot that can be converted into a toddler bed. This can save you the cost of buying an entirely new bed for your child once they are ready.
The user-friendly configuration of this cot was praised by our panel. Mum Grace noted that it "came out of the box and unfolded just like a camping chair". The middle joints snap into place, and the cot folds into itself without any complicated mechanisms to deal with. It's also light and compact and fits neatly into a carry bag that's slightly larger than a camp chair's case and ideal for taking it to grandparents' homes.
This cot is extremely comfortable despite its size being higher than other models in our tried-and tested line-up. It is designed to feel 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 sturdy, stable option for back and side sleepers. Senior editor Nick Belcaster did note that stomach sleepers could have issues with it.
Safety
It is crucial to make sure that the cot you select is safe for your baby. Look for the BS EN code or BS8509 in case you're planning to transform it into a toddler's bed. It is also important to ensure that it's the right size for your nursery and has enough space for a secure sleeping environment for your child. It should be 140cm by 70cm, and not have any gaps around the corners or edges.
Make sure the mattress is firm and lies flat inside the cot. If it's a bit soft, old or damaged, it could create a risk of suffocation. Look for any areas of sagging which could be hazardous and test how the mattress springs back after pressing down on it. When you press on the middle of a quality cot-mattress, it will feel solid.
Keep the cot clear of toys, stickers, and anything else which could pose a choking risk. It's essential that babies be able to move around freely and rotate while they sleep. If your cot has a drop side check it frequently to ensure that the mechanism is locked securely.
It's recommended to avoid placing a cot near the sun or a radiator because they may become too hot or get sunburned upon waking up. It is also important to keep your cot away from wall mounted curtain cords or baby monitor cables, as well as decorative accessories that have long cords. Cords that are strangled by babies and older children might reach out to grab cot bars or pull themselves up.
For Scandi style and a premium finish This cot is well worth the extra investment over other cheaper options. The instructions are easy to follow and the wood is sturdy. It takes some time to put together. It's not expensive but it'll last until their toddler years and look great in any nursery.
Design
It is important to remember that you are likely investing in long-term furniture when shopping for a bed that is small. In contrast to cribs that are used only for a short period of time, cots and beds are suitable from the time the time a child is old enough to easily transition into a toddler or kids single bed. To ensure the cot you purchase will last, look out for a model with adjustable base heights. This feature lets you lower the mattress in height to suit your baby's growing needs, while keeping them secure and comfortable.
One of the most useful features of the design is the capability to remove cot bars in sections. This is an excellent way to provide your little one a feeling of independence once they start playing, and can aid them in getting into and out of their bed with ease. Some crib beds, like the Leander Luna Baby Cot , can be converted into a sofa by removing the front.
The slatted design of a lot of cots is a great option for a small space, in addition, it assists to circulate air and regulate your baby's temperature. This can make a big difference in terms of comfort and will ensure that your baby gets a restful night.
A small cot, or bed for cots, is a fantastic investment in your baby's security and sleeping habits. It can also be an excellent addition to any nursery. With so many options to choose from, it's worth taking the time to explore the wide range of cots and cot beds on offer at Cuckooland to find one that's perfect for you.
For each crib, you'll find various accessories, including soft duvets and premium bedding. This allows you to create a welcoming and cosy environment for your baby, ensuring they get the best rest possible.