Buying Small Cot Beds
When shopping for a small cot bed, it's easy to get caught up in the specs and safety features but consider the design too. A well-designed bed can help make smaller rooms appear larger and less clutter-filled.
This model is perfect for smaller bedrooms. It's lightweight and stroller-style. It's the most simple flatpack assembly.
Space-saving
Cot beds are scaled down versions of traditional cots, but they still have all the comfort and safety features your baby needs. They can be used until your toddler is ready for a junior bed at the age of 2. Some models convert into a stylish sofa bed for use with older children, too.
To help you make the most of your space, look for a model that fits in with your existing furniture in the bedroom or one that can easily take apart and reassemble when you want to make room for other baby things. It is also possible to consider a compact cot bed that has built-in storage or a multi-functional design that combines an armoire with a changing table and bench seat into a single piece of furniture.
Our list of cots for small children and cribs has a range of sizes, meaning there's something to fit in every space. A lot of the designs in our roundup come with an adjustable bed, making it easier to keep your child's bedding neat and tidy.
It's important that you take measurements of the space in your nursery prior to buying a cot. 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 has a beautiful sleigh style frame. It's designed to last, with a sturdy build and quality materials, and is simple to adjust as your baby grows. However, it's a much more expensive option than the other cots we've reviewed, and you'll need to buy a separate mattress in the event you opt for this model.
The Mamas & Papas Franklin cot, which we consider to be the most value cot, is a ideal choice for a smaller nursery. It comes with a variety of extra features such as teething rails. There are also two height positions that can be adjusted to accommodate the growth of your baby. It is also super easy to put together. It includes a mattress, but you'll need to buy a second for the toddler conversion.
Comfort
As a parent, you want your baby to have a comfortable, safe sleeping environment. One of the most beneficial options to ensure a good night's sleep is to select a small cot bed with a comfy mattress. They are more firm than standard cot mattresses, but soft enough to ensure that your baby gets a good night sleep.
These mattresses are cushioned to help prevent the retention of heat, which can cause discomfort for some babies. The materials used in the mattress are free of irritants, chemicals and other substances that could cause irritation to the skin of your baby's.
Typically, these kinds of mattresses are a great choice for side and back sleepers, as they provide great support for neck, head and body. They can also be used with the cot's built-in cradling system, which parents have found to be helpful in cases of reflux and colic.
When selecting a crib bed with cushions it is essential to verify the dimensions of the mattress and if it will fit into the base of the cot. You can also find out whether there are any specific rules and regulations you need to follow when purchasing mattresses for cots like the minimum thickness.
If you're looking for a cot bed that can grow with your child take a look at this adaptable design from Vox. It is initially a cot and then converts into a toddler bed, thereby saving you from the expense of buying another bed when your child is ready for it.
The easy-to-use setup of this cot was praised by our panel. Mum Grace noted that it "came out of the box and was unfolded like a camping chair". The middle joints snap into place and the cot then collapses on itself. No complicated mechanisms are required. It's also compact and light, fitting into a carry case that's slightly larger than the case of the camp chair. This makes it perfect for transporting this cot from grandparents home.
Despite being heavier than other models in our tried-and tested line-up, this cot feels extremely comfortable. It is 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're in the bouncer. It's also a solid and stable choice for back and side sleepers but senior editor Nick Belcaster noted that stomach sleepers may have issues with it.
Safety
For your baby's safety, it's essential to verify that a cot bed meets the UK standards it claims to be compliant with. Check for the BS EN code or BS8509 in case you're planning to convert it into a toddler's bed. You should also check that it's the correct size for your nursery and offers enough room for a safe sleeping environment for your child. It should be at minimum 140cm x 70cm, and there shouldn't be any gaps around the edges or corners.
Make sure that the mattress is level and firm. If it's soft, old or damaged, it could cause suffocation. Check the mattress to see whether it bounces back quickly after pressing. A high-quality cot mattress should feel firm and flat when you press down on its centre.
Keep the cot free of toys, smudges and anything else that could cause choking. It's essential that babies move around freely and roll over while they sleep. If your cot features a drop-side, check it frequently to ensure that the mechanism is secure.
It's recommended to avoid placing a cot near a radiator or sunny window, as they could get too hot or get sunburned upon waking up. Keep the cot away from cords that hang on wall-mounted curtains, baby monitor cables, and other accessories with long cords. Babies could be strangled by these cords, and older babies could climb up on them or reach out to grab the cot bars.
This cot is definitely worth the extra money If you're looking for the Scandi style and a top quality finish. It's not the easiest to put together however the instructions are clear and the wood is sturdy. It's not cheap, but it will last into their toddler years.
Design
It is important to keep in mind that you're likely to invest in long-term furniture when shopping for a small bed. Unlike cribs which are used only for a brief period of time, cots and beds are suitable from the time the time when a child can safely transition to a toddler or a single bed. To ensure that the cot you buy will last, look out for a model that has adjustable heights for the base. This feature lets you lower the mattress height to fit your baby's development, ensuring they are safe and comfy.
Another design element to look for is the ability to take sections of the cot bars. This is an excellent way to provide your child a sense of independence when they begin to toddle, and will aid them in getting into and out of their bed with ease. Some cribs, like the Leander Luna Baby Cot, can be converted into a sofa by removing the front.
Many cots have slatted designs which are ideal for smaller spaces, since they allow air to circulate and regulate the temperature of your baby. This can make a significant difference in terms of comfort and help ensure that your baby has an enjoyable sleep.
most recommended cribs , or bed for cots, is a fantastic investment in your baby's security and sleeping habits. It's also an excellent addition to any nursery. Cuckooland has a wide range of beds and cots to choose from.
For each crib, you'll find an array of accessories such as soft duvets and high-end bedding. This allows you to create an inviting and comfortable environment for your baby, making sure they are getting the best quality sleep possible.