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 design too. A well-designed bed can help make smaller rooms appear larger and less clutter-filled.
This model is perfect for bedrooms with smaller spaces. It's light and stroller-style. It's the simplest flatpack assembly.
Space-saving
Cot beds are smaller versions of traditional cots but still provide all the security and comfort features your baby deserves. They are suitable from birth, or until your toddler is able to move up to a junior bed (around the age of 2). Some models convert into an elegant sofa bed to use with older children too.
Choose a model that can be easily dismantled and rebuilt in the event that you need to store other baby things. It is also possible to think about a compact cot bed with built-in storage, or an all-purpose design that incorporates the drawers of a chest with a changing table and bench seats into one piece of furniture.
Our roundup of small cots and cribs features a range of sizes, so there is something to fit in every space. A lot of the designs in our roundup have an adjustable bed, making it easier to keep your child's bedding neat and tidy.
It's important that you measure the space available in your nursery before purchasing a crib. Also, you should consider the space between the bars since this needs to be no greater than 6.5cm for safety reasons.
Silver Cross Nostalgia is a crib that can accommodate a 120 x 60cm standard mattress and has stunning sleigh-style frames. It's designed to last, with a sturdy construction with high-quality materials, and is simple to adjust as your child grows. It's however a more expensive option than the other cots we've reviewed, and you'll need to purchase a mattress separately if you choose this model.
The Mamas & Papas Franklin cot that we believe to be the best value cot, is a ideal choice for a smaller nursery. It has a lot of extra features such as teething rails. There are two height positions that can be adjusted to accommodate the growth of your baby. It is also super easy to assemble. It comes with a mattress, however, you'll need a second to convert it into a toddler.
Comfort
Choose a small cot with a comfortable mattress. This will help your baby rest comfortably. These mattresses are firmer than standard cot mattresses however they are soft enough to ensure that your baby gets a good night's sleep.
The cushioning on these mattresses can also help to reduce heat retention, which can cause discomfort for some babies. The materials used in the mattress are also free of irritants and chemical to ensure that they don't irritate your baby's sensitive skin.
These mattresses are a good option for side and back sleepers, as they offer adequate support for the head, neck and body. They can also be used with the cot's built in cradling system, which many parents find to be beneficial for colic and reflux.
It is essential to determine the mattress size and ensure that it fits in the base of the cot before purchasing a small cot. Find out if the mattress has any specific rules or regulations, such as the minimum thickness.
If you're looking for a cot bed that can expand with your child take a look at this adaptable design from Vox. It is initially a cot but can later be transformed into an infant bed, saving you from having to buy an entirely new bed once your baby is ready to use it.
Our panel of test participants loved this cot's easy setup, with mum tester Grace noting that it "came out of the box and unfolded like a camping chair". The middle joints snap in place, and the cot folds into itself. No complicated mechanisms are required. It's also small and lightweight, 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' homes.
This cot is extremely comfortable despite being bigger than other models in our tried and tested line-up. It's designed to feel like a mattress, with plenty of padding and a soft bottom that absorbs the weight, without making your child feel like they're in the bouncer. It's also a sturdy and stable choice for back and side sleepers though senior editor Nick Belcaster noted that stomach sleepers might have trouble with it.
Safety
To ensure the safety of your baby it is essential to ensure that a cot bed meets the UK standards it claims to comply with. You should look for the BS EN code or BS8509 when you're looking to transform it into a toddler's bed. Also, make sure it's the correct size for your nursery and has 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 flat and firm. It could be dangerous to suffocate when it is squishy or worn out. Check the mattress to see if it springs back quickly after pressing. A good quality mattress for cots should be firm 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 be a danger to choking. Babies must be able to move around easily and roll in their sleep, so it's important that the cot doesn't have raised corner posts or cut-outs that could be used as footholds to climb out. If your crib has a drop side check it frequently to ensure the mechanism locks securely.
It's also a good idea to avoid placing a cot close to a radiator or sunny window because they may become too hot or awake with sunburn. Also, keep the cot clear of cords for curtain rods that hang from the wall or baby monitor cables, as well as decorative accessories that have long cords. Cots 4 Tots could be strangled by these, and older children may get themselves caught 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 extra investment over the cheaper alternatives. The instructions are easy to follow and the wood is solid. It takes time to put together. It's not cheap but it'll last until their toddler years and look great in any nursery.
Design
It's important to remember that you're likely to invest in furniture that will last a long time when you shop for a bed that is small. Unlike cribs which are used for a limited period of time, cots and cot beds are suitable from the time the time when a child can safely transition into a toddler or kids single bed. Choose a cot with an adjustable base height to ensure it lasts. This feature lets you lower the mattress's in height as your child grows, helping them stay safe and comfortable for longer.
A useful design feature is the ability to remove the cot bars into sections. This will provide your child with a sense of independence when they begin to play and will make it easier for them to get in and out of bed. Some crib beds, like the Leander Luna Baby Cot, can be transformed into a sofa simply by removing the front.
Many cots come with slatted designs which are ideal for small spaces, as they allow air to circulate and regulate the temperature of your baby. This makes a large difference when it comes to comfort, and can make all the difference in trying to ensure your baby gets a restful night's sleep.
A compact cot, also known as a cot-bed, is a great investment in your baby's security and sleeping habits. It's also a lovely addition to any nursery. Cuckooland has a wide range of cots and beds for you to choose from.
For each crib, you'll find a variety of accessories such as soft duvets and high-end bedding. This lets you create a an inviting and cozy environment for your baby, ensuring they get the best rest possible.