It's easy to focus on the safety and spec features when you're looking for a compact bed. However, don't forget to consider the aesthetics. A well-designed cot can make the space appear larger and less cluttered.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 they still have all the comfort and cots4tots safety features your baby requires. 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 can be converted into a chic couch bed for older children.
To help you maximize your space, look for an item that is compatible with your existing bedroom furniture, or one that you can easily disassemble and reassemble when you need to accommodate other baby things. You may also want to consider a compact cot bed with built-in storage or a multi-functional design that combines a chest of drawers, changing unit and bench seat into a single piece of furniture.
Our roundup of small cots and cribs features a range of sizes, meaning there's something to fit in every space. A lot of the cribs that we have listed come with an adjustable mattress that makes it easier to keep your baby's bedding tidy and clean.
When choosing a cot, it's important to determine the size of your nursery. You should also check the dimensions to make sure it's appropriate before making your purchase. The gap between the bars shouldn't be greater than 6.5cm. This is to ensure safety.
Silver Cross Nostalgia is a crib that accommodates a 120x60cm standard mattress and comes with a beautiful sleigh style frame. It's built to last with a solid construction with high-quality materials, and is easy 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 in the event you opt for this model.
The Mamas Papas Franklin cot that we believe to be the best value cot, is another great option for a compact nursery. It has a lot of extra features such as teething rails. There are two height positions which can be adjusted to fit the growth of your baby. It's also easy to assemble. It includes a mattress, but you'll need to buy a second to convert it into a toddler.
Comfort
Choose a small cot with an incredibly comfortable mattress. This will help your baby rest comfortably. These mattresses are more rigid than the traditional cot mattress however they are soft enough to ensure that your baby gets a good night sleep.
The cushioning of these mattresses helps in preventing heat retention, which may cause discomfort for certain babies. The materials used on the mattress are free of chemicals and irritants so that they won't disturb your baby's sensitive skin.
These mattresses are a good option for side and back sleepers, since they provide excellent support for neck, head and body. They can also be used in conjunction with the cot's built in cradling, which parents have found to be helpful in cases of colic and reflux.
When selecting a cot 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 should also determine whether there are any specific rules and regulations you need to adhere to when buying a cot mattress like the minimum thickness.
The adaptable design from Vox is a great option for parents who are looking for a cot that will grow with their child. It's a cot that transforms into an infant bed. This will save you the expense of purchasing an entirely new bed for your child once they are ready.
Our test panel was impressed by the simple setup of this cot The mom tester Grace noting that it "came out of the box and unfolded like a chair for camping". The middle joints snap into place and the cot then collapses into 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 a camp chair. This makes it ideal for transporting the cot to grandparents at their homes.
This cot is extremely comfy despite its size being higher 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 as if they're in the bouncer. It's a solid, stable option for side and back sleepers. Senior editor Nick Belcaster did note that stomach sleepers may be a bit uncomfortable 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 meet. Look for the BS EN code or BS8509 when you're looking to transform it into a toddler's bed. Check that it is the correct size for your nursery and provides enough space for your child to be safe. 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 laid flat in the cot. If it's old, soft or damaged, this can cause suffocation. Check the mattress to see if it springs back quickly after pressing. When you press on the middle of a quality cot-mattress, it will feel firm.
Keep the cot free of any toys, stickers and other items that could pose a choking risk. Babies must be able to move easily and roll over during their sleep, so it's important that the cot does not have raised corner posts or cut-outs that they could use as footholds to climb out. If your cot is equipped with a drop-side, check it often to ensure that the mechanism is secured.
It's important 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 the cot away from cords for curtain rods that hang from the wall or baby monitor cables, as well as decorative accessories with long cords. These cords can strangle babies, and older children could reach out to grab bars for their cot or even pull themselves up.
For Scandi style and a high-quality finish, this cot is worth the cost over cheaper alternatives. It's a bit time-consuming to assemble but the directions are clear and the wood feels solid. It's not cheap but it will last your child into their toddler years.
Design
When shopping for a small cot bed, it's important to remember that you're likely investing in something that will last for years. Unlike cribs, which are designed for a short time, cots can be used from the time a child is born until they are able to safely move to the toddler bed or single bed. To ensure that the cot you purchase will last, look for a model with adjustable base heights. This feature allows you to lower the mattress's height to fit your baby's growth, keeping them secure and comfortable.
Another useful design feature to keep an eye out for is the capability to remove sections of the cot bars. This is a great way to give your baby a sense of independence when they begin to walking around, and can help them get in and out of their bed with ease. Some cribs, like the Leander Luna Baby Cot, can be converted into a sofa simply by removing the front.
Many cots feature slatted designs that are perfect for smaller spaces as they allow air to circulate and regulate the temperature of your infant. This can make a big difference in the quality of sleep and can help ensure that your baby has a good sleep.
A compact cot, also known as a cot-bed, is a great investment in your baby's security and sleep habits. It can also be a lovely addition to any nursery. With so many designs available to pick from, it's always worth taking the time to explore the wide range of cots and beds that are available at Cuckooland to find the style that is suitable for your needs.
For each crib, you'll find various accessories such as soft duvets and high-end bedding. This allows you to create a welcoming and cosy environment for your baby, ensuring they are getting the best quality sleep possible.
