Buying Small Cot Beds

It's easy to focus on the safety and spec features when looking for a smaller bed. However, don't forget to consider the aesthetics. A well-designed cot can help make the space appear larger and less cluttered.

Stroller-style, and quite light this model is a great option for bedrooms with smaller spaces. It's also the most simple flatpack to put together.

Space-saving

Cot beds are a smaller versions of traditional cots, but they still have all the safety and comfort features your baby requires. They can be used from the time of birth, or until your toddler is old enough to transition to a junior bed (around the age of 2). Some models convert to an elegant sofa bed to use with older children, too.

Choose a model that can be easily dismantled, then reassembled in case you want to make space for other baby items. You may also want to consider a compact cot bed that has built-in storage or multi-functional designs that combine the drawers of a chest as well as a changing unit and bench seat into a single piece of furniture.

There is a wide variety of sizes in our small cot beds and cribs roundup and, therefore, whether you have a tiny nursery or a large playroom, there's something to suit your space. A lot of the cribs on our list come with mattresses that are fitted that helps keep your Baby Crib's bedding tidy and clean.

When selecting a cot, it is essential to take measurements of the space in your nursery and check the dimensions to make sure it will fit before purchasing. The gap between the bars shouldn't be greater than 6.5cm. This is for safety reasons.

Silver Cross Nostalgia is a cot which takes a 120 x 60cm standard mattress and features stunning sleigh-style frames. It's built to last with a sturdy build and high-quality materials, and it's simple to adjust as your baby grows. It is more expensive than the other cribs on our list, and you'll need to buy a mattress separately.

The Mamas & Papas Franklin cot, which we consider to be the best cot bed value cot, is a excellent option for a small nursery. It comes with a variety of extra features such as teething rails. There are two height positions which can be adjusted to suit your baby's growth. It's also easy to put together. The mattress is included, however a second one is required for the toddler conversion.

Comfort

As a parent, you want your child to enjoy a comfortable, safe sleeping environment. One of the best ways to ensure an adequate night's sleep is to select a small cot bed with a comfy mattress. They are designed to be more firm than the traditional cot mattress but still soft enough that your child will have a good night's rest.

The cushioning of these mattresses also helps to prevent heat retention, which can cause discomfort for certain babies. The materials used in the mattress are free of allergens chemical compounds and other substances that could cause irritation to the skin of your baby's.

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

It is important to measure the mattress's size and make sure that it fits in the base of the cot prior to purchasing a small cot. Find out if the cot mattress is subject to any specific rules or regulations, for instance a minimum thickness.

The adaptable design from Vox is a great option for parents who are looking for an cot that can grow with their child. It starts out as a cot but can later be transformed into an infant bed, saving you from having to buy a new bed when your baby is ready for it.

The simple configuration of this cot was praised by our panel. Mum Grace said that it "came out of the box and was unfolded like an outdoor chair". The middle joints snap into place and the cot folds down without any complicated mechanisms to deal with. It's also small and lightweight, fitting into a carry case that is larger than the case of a camp chair. This makes it ideal for transporting this cot to grandparents at their homes.

Despite being heavier than other models in our tried and tested line-up, this cot is incredibly comfortable. It's 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're 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

For your baby's safety, it is essential to ensure that a cot bed meets the UK standards it claims to meet. Check for the BS EN code or BS8509 if you want to transform it into a toddler's bed. Check that it is the correct size for your nursery and is big enough for your child to be safe. It should measure 140cm by 70cm and should not have gaps around the edges or corners.

Make sure the mattress is flat and firm. It could pose a suffocation hazard in the event that it is soft, old, or damaged. Examine for any sagging areas that could be dangerous and test how the mattress springs back when pressing on it. A high-quality mattress for cots should be solid and flat when you press it down on the centre of it.

Make sure the cot is free of any toys, stickers and anything else that could pose a choke hazard. It's important that babies can move around freely and roll over during sleep. If your cot features drop-sides, be sure to check them frequently to ensure that the mechanism is secure.

It's also a good idea to avoid placing a cot next to the sun or a radiator in case they become too hot or awake with sunburn. It is also important to keep the cot clear of cords for curtains that are mounted on the wall as well as baby monitor cables and decorative accessories with long cords. Babies could be strangled by these cords, while older children could get themselves caught on them or reach out to grab the bars for the cot.

For Scandi style and a high-quality finish, this cot is worth the cost over the cheaper alternatives. It's a bit laborious to assemble however the instructions are clear and the wood feels sturdy. It's not cheap but it will last your child into their toddler years.

Design

When looking for a compact cot bed, you need to keep in mind that you're investing in a long-term piece of furniture. Unlike cribs which are used only for a brief 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 a single bed. Find a cot that has an adjustable height base to ensure that it will last. This feature allows you lower the mattress height to accommodate your child's development, ensuring they are safe and comfy.

A great design feature is the capability to remove the cot bars into sections. This will provide your child with an impression of independence once they begin to play and make it easier to help them get into and out of the bed. For even greater flexibility, some cribs, like the Leander Luna Baby Cot can also be converted into a cozy sofa by taking off the front of the bed.

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

A small cot or bed is an excellent investment for your baby cots online's sleep habits and safety, and can be a beautiful addition to any nursery setting. Cuckooland has a wide range of cots and beds for you to choose from.

For each cot, you'll find various accessories like soft duvets, plus premium bed linen. This allows you to create a welcoming and cosy environment for your child, ensuring they get the best cot beds rest possible.