Small Cot Beds 10 Things I'd Like To Have Known Earlier

Buying Small Cot Beds

When shopping for a small cot bed, it's easy to get caught up on the spec and safety features, but you should also consider the design too. A well-designed bed can make the small space appear bigger and less cluttered.

Stroller-style, and quite light this model is a great crib 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 needs. They can be used from birth or until your toddler is able to transition to a junior bed (around the age of 2). Some models can be transformed into a chic couch bed to use with older children.

To help you maximize your space, look for an item that is compatible with the furniture in your bedroom or one that can easily take apart and reassemble when you want to accommodate other baby items. It is also possible to consider a cot that is compact bed that has built-in storage or an all-purpose design that incorporates a chest of drawers as well as a changing unit and bench seat into a single piece of furniture.

Our selection of small cots and cribs includes a variety of sizes, meaning there's something for every space. Many of the designs on our list have mattresses that are fitted which helps keep your baby's bedding tidy and clean.

When selecting 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 purchasing. It is also important to consider the gap between the bars as this should not be more than 6.5cm for safety reasons.

Silver Cross Nostalgia is a crib that takes a 120 x 60cm standard mattress and features a beautiful sleigh style frame. It's designed to last, with a sturdy build and quality materials, and is easy to adjust to your baby's needs as they grow. It is more expensive than the other cots offers in our list and you will need to purchase a separate mattress.

The Mamas & Papas Franklin cot which we believe to be the most value cot, is a great option for a compact nursery. It's loaded with extra features, including teething rails. There are also two height positions which can be adjusted to accommodate the baby's development. It's also easy to assemble. It includes a mattress but you'll need to buy another one to convert it into a toddler.

Comfort

As a parent you want your baby to have a comfortable, safe sleeping environment. One of the most beneficial options to ensure they get a good night's sleep is to pick a smaller crib bed with a comfortable mattress. They are designed to be more firm than the traditional cot mattress but still soft enough that your child will have the rest of the night.

They are cushioned to prevent the accumulation of heat that can cause discomfort in some babies. The materials used on the mattress are also free of irritants and chemicals to ensure they don't cause irritation to the baby's sensitive skin.

These mattresses are a good option for side and back sleepers, since they provide good support for the neck, head and body. They can be used in conjunction with the built-in cradle of the cot, which is beneficial for reflux or colic.

It is essential to determine the mattress's size and make sure that it can fit into the base of the cot prior buying a cot that is small. You can also find out whether there are specific rules and regulations you need to adhere to when buying a cot mattress including the minimum thickness.

If you're in search of a cot bed that can expand with your child, then consider this adaptable design from Vox. It's initially an cot, but it can be converted into an infant bed, saving you from having to buy another bed when your baby is ready for it.

The simple configuration of this cot was highly praised by our panel. Mum Grace noted 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, with no complicated mechanisms to work with. It's also lightweight and compact and fits neatly into a carry bag that's smaller than a camping chair's case and ideal for taking it to grandparents' homes.

Despite being larger than other models in our tried-and-tested line-up, this cot is incredibly comfortable. It is designed to feel like a mattress with plenty of padding, and a springy bottom that absorbs the weight, without making your child feel as if they are in a bouncer. It's a stable, solid option for back and side sleepers. Senior editor Nick Belcaster did note that stomach sleepers could be a bit uncomfortable with it.

Safety

It is crucial to ensure that the cot you select is safe for your child. Check for the BS EN 716 code, or BS 8509 if it's converted into an infant bed. Also, make sure it's the correct size for your nursery and has enough room for a safe sleep for your baby. It should measure 140cm by 70cm and have no gaps around the corners or edges.

Make sure the mattress is flat and firm. It could be dangerous to suffocate when it is squishy or old, or damaged. Examine the mattress to determine whether it bounces back quickly after pressing. When you press down on the middle of a good quality cot-mattress, it should feel firm.

Keep the cot free of toys, smudges and other things that could be a choking danger. Babies should be able to move around easily and roll during their sleep, so it's essential that the cot doesn't have raised corner posts or cut-outs that they could use as footholds to climb out. If your crib has a drop side be sure to check it regularly to ensure that the mechanism locks securely.

It's recommended to avoid placing a cot near the sun or a radiator because they may get too hot or wake up with a sunburn. Keep the cot away from cords that hang on wall-mounted curtains, baby monitor cables, and other decorative items that have long cords. Cords that are strangled by babies, and older children could reach out to grab bars from the cot or pull themselves up.

This cot is well worth the extra cost for those who want an Scandi-style design and a high quality finish. The instructions are easy to follow, and the wood feels solid. It takes a while to put together. It's not expensive, but it'll keep your child safe through their toddler years and look stunning in any nursery.

Design

It is important to keep in mind that you are likely investing in long-term furniture when shopping for a small bed. In contrast to cribs, which are only used for a brief period of time, cots can be used from the moment a child is born until they are able to easily transition to an adult bed or a single bed. To ensure that the cot you buy will last, search for a design with adjustable base heights. This feature allows you to lower the mattress height as your child grows, ensuring they stay safe and comfortable for longer.

One of the most useful features of the design is the ability to remove cot bars in sections. This is an excellent way to provide your little one a feeling of independence when they begin to playing, and can assist them in and out of their bed with ease. For even greater flexibility the cribs, like the Leander Luna Baby Cot can also be converted into a comfortable sofa by taking the front off of the bed.

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 the quality of sleep and help ensure that your baby has a good sleep.

A small cot, or bed for cots, is a fantastic investment for your baby’s security and sleep habits. It can also be a lovely addition to any nursery. With so many styles to choose from, it's always worth taking the time to explore the wide range of cots and beds available at Cuckooland to find a style that suits you.

For each cot, you'll find various accessories, including soft duvets, plus premium bedding. This makes it easy to create a cozy and comfortable environment for your baby to enjoy the best quality sleep, and ensures they're enjoying every aspect of their new home.