Buying Small Cot Beds
When shopping for a small cot bed it's easy to get caught up in the specifications and safety features but consider the aesthetics too. A well-designed cot will make the space appear larger and less clutter-filled.
Stroller-style, and quite light, this model is an excellent choice for smaller bedrooms. It's the simplest flatpack assembly.
Space-saving
Cot beds are scaled down versions of traditional cots however, they still offer all the safety and comfort features your baby deserves. They can be used until your toddler is ready to move on to a junior bed around the age of 2. Some models can be turned into a stylish couch bed to use with older kids.
To maximize your space, choose the right model that will fit with your existing bedroom furniture or one that you can easily dismantle and reassemble if you need to make room for other baby objects. You might also want to consider a cot that is compact bed with built-in storage, or multi-functional designs that combine an armoire with a changing table and bench seat into a single piece of furniture.
Our selection of small cots and cribs has a range of sizes, so there is something for every space. A lot of the cribs on our list have a fitted mattress that makes it easier to keep your baby's bedding tidy and clean.
When selecting a cot, it's important to take measurements of the space in your nursery and verify the dimensions to make sure it's appropriate before you purchase. Also, you should consider the space between the bars since this should not be greater than 6.5cm for safety reasons.
Our real moms loved the Silver Cross Nostalgia cot which can fit a standard 120x60cm mattress and comes with a beautiful frame that resembles a sleigh. It's designed to last, with a sturdy build and quality materials, and it's 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 if you choose this model.
The Mamas & Papas Franklin cot which we believe to be the most value cot, is a excellent option for a small nursery. It's stuffed with extra features including teething rails, as well as two height positions that can be adjusted as your baby grows, and it's incredibly easy to put together too. 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 easy mattress. This will allow your baby to sleep comfortably. They are more firm than standard cot mattresses, but soft enough to ensure your child gets a good night's sleep.
These mattresses are cushioned to help prevent the retention of heat, which can cause discomfort in certain babies. The materials used in the mattress are free of allergens, chemicals and other substances that can cause irritation to your baby's skin.
These mattresses are a good alternative for back and side sleepers, since they provide adequate support for the head, neck and body. These mattresses can be used together with the built-in cradle of a cot, which is beneficial for reflux or colic.
When selecting a cot bed with cushions, it's important to check the dimensions of the mattress and if it can be placed inside the base of the cot. Find out if the cot mattress has any particular rules or regulations, such as the minimum thickness.
If you're in search of an cot that can grow with your child, then consider this adaptable design from Vox. It's a cot which converts to an infant bed. This can save you the expense of purchasing a new bed for your child once they are ready.
Our panel of test participants loved this cot's easy setup The mom tester Grace noting that it "came out of the box and unfolded like a camping chair". The middle joints snap into place and the cot folds down without a complicated mechanism to work with. It is also compact and light, fitting in a carry case that is larger than the case of the 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 feels extremely comfortable. It's designed to feel like a mattress with plenty of padding and a bouncy bottom that can absorb the weight without making your child feel like they are in the bouncer. cots to tots 's a stable, solid option for back and side sleepers. Senior editor Nick Belcaster did note that stomach sleepers could have a problem with it.
Safety
It's vital to ensure that the cot you choose is safe for your child. You should look for the BS EN code or BS8509 if you want to convert it into a toddler's bed. Also, make sure it's the correct size for your nursery and has enough space for a secure sleep for your little one. It should measure 140cm by 70cm and should not have gaps around the corners or edges.
Make sure that the mattress is flat and firm. It can be an entrapment hazard if it is soft, old, or damaged. Check the mattress to see whether it springs back rapidly after pressing. When you press on the middle of a quality cot-mattress, it will feel firm.
Keep the cot free of toys, stickers, and anything else which could cause choking. It's important that babies can be able to move around freely and rotate during sleep. If your cot is equipped with drop-sides, make sure you check it frequently to ensure that the mechanism locks securely.
It's important to avoid placing a cot near an open window or a radiator in case they become too hot or awake with sunburn. Make sure the cot is kept away from cords on wall mounted curtains, baby monitor cables, and other accessories with long cords. Cords that are strangled by babies and older children might reach out to grab bars for their cot or pull themselves up.
For Scandi style and a top-quality finish the cot is worth the cost over other cheaper options. The instructions are easy to follow and the wood feels solid. It takes a while to assemble. It's not expensive, but it will last into their toddler years.
Design
When shopping for a small cot bed, it's crucial to remember that you're likely purchasing something that will last for years. Unlike cribs which are used for a limited period of time, cots and cot beds are suitable from birth until the time when a child can easily transition into a toddler or kids single bed. Choose a cot with an adjustable height base to ensure it will last. This feature allows you lower the mattress height to accommodate your child's growing needs, while keeping them safe and comfy.
Another design element to keep an eye out for is the capability to take off sections of cot bars. This is an excellent way to provide your baby a sense of independence once they start walking around, and can aid them in getting into and out of their bed with ease. Some cot beds, such as the Leander Luna Baby Cot, can be transformed into a sofa simply by removing the front.
Many cots feature slatted designs that are perfect for small spaces, as they allow air to circulate and regulate the temperature of your infant. This can make a huge difference when it comes to comfort and can make all the difference in trying to ensure your baby gets an adequate night's rest.
A compact cot, also known as a cot-bed, is a great investment in your baby's safety and sleeping habits. It's also an ideal addition to any nursery. With so many styles to pick from, it's worth the effort to explore the wide range of cots and beds that are available at Cuckooland to find a style that's perfect for you.
For each cot, there's a variety of accessories, including soft duvets, plus premium bed linen. This makes it easy to create a cozy and welcoming environment for your baby to get the best possible rest, and ensures they're enjoying every aspect of their new home.