Buying
Small Cot BedsIt's easy to concentrate on the safety features and specifications when shopping for a small bed. However, don't forget to consider the aesthetics. A well-designed bed can make smaller rooms appear larger and less clutter-filled.
This model is perfect for bedrooms with smaller spaces. It's lightweight and stroller-style. It's the easiest flatpack assembly.
Space-saving
Cot beds are smaller versions of traditional cots however, they still offer all the comfort and safety features your baby deserves. They can be used from the time of birth, or until your toddler is ready to move up to a junior bed (around the age of 2). Some models convert into a stylish sofa bed for use with older children, too.
To maximize your space, choose the right model that will fit with your existing furniture in the bedroom or one that can easily take apart and reassemble if you want to accommodate other baby objects. Consider a cot-bed that is compact with built-in storage or a multifunctional design that includes a changing unit, chest of drawers and bench seat in one piece of furniture.
There's a broad range of sizes in our small cot beds and
cribs roundup which means that regardless of whether you have a tiny nursery or a huge playroom there's something to suit your space. Many of the designs on our list have an adjustable mattress which makes it easier to keep your baby's bedding clean and tidy.
It's important that you take measurements of the space in your nursery before purchasing a crib. Also, you should consider the space between the bars since this should not be more than 6.5cm for safety reasons.
Our real mothers loved the Silver Cross Nostalgia cot which can fit a standard 120x60cm mattress and is fitted with a gorgeous frame that resembles a sleigh. It's built to last, with high-quality materials and a sturdy structure. It's also simple to adapt to your child's changing needs. It is more expensive than other cribs on our list, and you'll need to buy a separate mattress.
The Mamas & Papas Franklin cot is another fantastic option for a smaller nursery and it's our pick for the best value cots. It comes with a variety of extra features that include teething rails. There are two height positions which can be adjusted to suit the growth of your
baby cots online. It is also super easy to assemble. The mattress is included, however another one is required to help with the toddler conversion.
Comfort
As a parent, you want your child to enjoy a comfortable, safe sleeping environment. One of the most beneficial ways to help them get an adequate night's sleep is to pick a smaller cot bed with a comfy mattress. These mattresses are firmer than the traditional cot mattress but are soft enough to ensure that your child has a comfortable night's sleep.
The cushioning of these mattresses also helps to prevent heat retention, which may cause discomfort for certain babies. The materials used in the mattress are not irritants chemical compounds and other substances that could cause irritation to the skin of your baby's.
Typically, these types of mattresses are also a good option for back and side sleepers as they provide good support for the neck, head and body. They can be used in conjunction with the built-in cradle that comes with a cot, which can be helpful for colic or reflux.
If you are considering a mattress cot bed that has a cushioned mattress, it's important to check the size of the mattress and whether it can be placed inside the cot's base. You should also determine if there are any other specific rules and regulations you need to adhere to when purchasing the mattress for a cot, such as the minimum thickness.
This adaptable design by Vox is a great choice for parents who are looking for a cot that grows with their child. It's initially a cot and then converts into a toddler bed, saving you from having to buy an entirely new bed once your child is ready for it.
The simple setup of this cot was praised by our panel. Mum Grace stated that it "came out of the box and unfolded just like an outdoor chair". The middle joints snap into place and the cot folds into itself 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 the cot to grandparents home.
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 springy bottom that can absorb the weight without making your child feel like they are in the bouncer. It's a sturdy, stable alternative for back and side sleepers. Senior editor Nick Belcaster did note that stomach sleepers could have a problem with it.
Safety
For your baby's safety, it's essential to verify that the cot bed is in compliance with the UK standards it claims to be compliant with. Look out for the BS EN 716 code, or BS 8509 if it's converted into an infant bed. You should also check that it's the right size for your nursery and has enough space for a secure sleeping environment for your child. It should be at least 140cm x 70cm and there shouldn't be gaps around the edges or corners.
Make sure that the mattress is firm and lies flat in the cot. It could pose an entrapment hazard when it is squishy or old, or damaged. Examine for any sagging areas that could pose a danger and test how the mattress will spring back after pressing it. A good quality mattress for cots should feel firm and flat when you press down on the centre of it.
Keep the cot clear of toys, smudges and other items that could cause choking. It is essential that babies move freely and turn over during sleep. If your cot has drop-sides, be sure to check them frequently to ensure that the mechanism locks securely.
Do not place a cot next to the heat source or a window that is sunny. They could get too hot or wake up with sunburn. Keep the cot far away from cords on wall mounted curtains as well as baby monitor cables and decorative accessories that have long cords. Babies could be strangled by these cords, while older babies could pull themselves up on them or reach out to grab the bars for the cot.
For Scandi style and a high-quality finish the cot is worth the cost over the cheaper alternatives. It's a bit laborious to put together however the instructions are clear and the wood feels solid. It's not cheap however it will keep your child safe through their toddler years and will look great in any nursery.
Design
When looking for a compact cot bed, it's important to remember that you're likely investing in a long-term piece of furniture. Contrary to cribs that are designed for a brief period of time, cots are appropriate from the moment a child is born until they're able to safely move to an adult bed or a single bed. To ensure that the crib you purchase will last, look for a model that has adjustable base heights. This feature lets you to lower the mattress's height to accommodate your child's development, ensuring they are safe and comfortable.
Another useful design feature to keep an eye out for is the capability to take off sections of cot bars. This will provide your child with a sense of independence when they begin to crawl and make it easier for them to get in and out of the bed. For even greater flexibility, some
cot beds, such as the Leander Luna Baby Cot can be transformed into a cosy sofa simply by taking off the front of the bed.
The slatted design of a lot of cots is an excellent choice for small spaces, in addition, it assists air circulate and regulate your baby's temperature. This can make a huge difference in terms of comfort and can help ensure that your baby enjoys a good sleep.