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 consider the aesthetic too. A well-designed cot can make the space appear larger and less cluttered.
Stroller-style and extremely light this model is a good choice for smaller bedrooms. It's the simplest flatpack assembly.
Space-saving
Cot beds are smaller versions of traditional cots however, they still offer all the safety and comfort features your baby deserves. pop over to these guys can be used until your toddler is ready to move on to a junior bed around the age of 2. Some models convert to an elegant sofa bed to use with older children, too.
To help you make the most of your space, choose an item that is compatible with your existing bedroom furniture, or one that you can easily disassemble and reassemble if you want to put in other baby objects. Think about a cot bed that is compact and has built-in storage, or a multi-functional design that includes a changing unit, chest of drawers and bench seat in one piece of furniture.
There is a wide variety of sizes in our cots for small spaces and cribs roundup which means that regardless of whether you have a tiny nursery or a huge playroom there's a bed that will suit your space. Many of the designs on our list have an adjustable mattress which makes it easier to keep your baby's bedding tidy and clean.
It's important that you measure the space available in your nursery prior to purchasing a cot. It is also important to consider the space between the bars since this should not be more than 6.5cm to ensure safety.
Silver Cross Nostalgia is a crib that takes a 120 x 60cm standard mattress and has a beautiful sleigh style frame. It's built to last, with a sturdy build and quality materials, and is easy to alter as your baby grows. However, it's a more expensive option than some of 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, which we consider to be the best value cot, is another ideal choice for a smaller 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 super-easy to put together. It includes a mattress, however, you'll need an additional one to convert it into a toddler.
Comfort
Select a cot that is small and has an incredibly comfortable mattress. This will allow your baby to sleep well. These mattresses are firmer than traditional cot mattresses but are soft enough to ensure that your baby gets a good night sleep.
They are cushioned to help prevent the accumulation of heat that can cause discomfort for some babies. The materials used on the mattress are free of chemicals and irritants to ensure they don't cause irritation to your baby's delicate skin.
These mattresses are a great option for side and back sleepers, as they offer good support for neck, head and body. They can be used in conjunction with the built-in cradle that comes with a cot, which can be useful for those suffering from reflux or colic.
When selecting a cot bed with a cushioned mattress it is important to determine the dimensions of the mattress as well as whether it will fit into the cot's base. Find out if the mattress has any specific rules or regulations, for instance a minimum thickness.
If you're looking for an cot bed that will 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 cost of buying a new bed for your child when they are ready.
Our panel of test participants was impressed by the simple setup of this cot, with mum tester Grace noting that it "came out of the box and unfolded like a chair for camping". The middle joints snap in place and the cot then collapses on itself. There are no complicated mechanisms required. It's also small and lightweight, fitting into the carry case, which is slightly larger than the case of the camp chair. This makes it ideal for transporting the cot to grandparents' homes.
Despite being larger 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 soft bottom that absorbs the weight, without making your child feel as if they are in the bouncer. It's a stable, solid option for back and side sleepers. Senior editor Nick Belcaster did note that stomach sleepers may be a bit uncomfortable with it.
Safety
It is essential to make sure that the cot bed you select is safe for your child. Look out for the BS EN 716 code, or BS 8509 if it transforms into an infant bed. Verify that it's appropriate for the nursery and is big enough for your child to rest comfortably. It should be at minimum 140cm x 70cm and there shouldn't be gaps around the edges or corners.
Make sure the mattress is firm and laid flat in the cot. It could be a suffocation hazard in the event that it is soft or old, or damaged. Look for any sagging areas which could be hazardous and then test how quickly the mattress springs back after pressing on it. A high-quality cot mattress should feel solid and flat when you press it down on its centre.
Keep the cot clear of toys, smudges and other items that could pose a choking risk. It's essential that babies move freely and turn over while they sleep. If your cot has a drop-side, check it frequently to ensure that the mechanism is secure.
Do not place the cot next to a radiator or a bright window. They could get too warm or awake with sunburn. You should also keep your cot away from wall mounted curtain cords, baby monitor cables and decorative accessories that have long cords. The cords could strangle infants and older children may reach out to grab cot bars or pull themselves up.
For Scandi style and a high-quality finish This cot is well worth the cost over other cheaper options. The instructions are clear and the wood feels solid. It takes a while to put together. It's not cheap, but it'll last until their toddler years and will look great in any nursery.
Design
When you're looking for a small cot bed, it's important to remember that you're purchasing a long-term piece of furniture. Unlike cribs, which are only used for a short period of time, cots are appropriate from the moment a baby is born until they're able to easily transition to an adult bed or a single bed. Choose a cot with an adjustable height base to ensure that it will last. This feature allows you lower the mattress in height to suit your baby's growing needs, while keeping them secure and comfortable.
One of the most useful features of the design is the ability to take out cot bars in sections. This is an excellent way to provide your child a sense of independence once they begin toddle, and will help them get in and out of their bed quickly. Some crib beds, like the Leander Luna Baby Cot, can be converted into a sofa by taking out the front.
The slatted style of many cribs is a good option for small spaces, too, as it helps to circulate air and regulate your baby's temperature. This is a significant difference in comfort, and could make all the difference when trying to ensure your baby gets an adequate night's rest.
A compact cot, also known as a cot-bed, is a great investment for your baby's security and sleep habits. It can also be a lovely addition to any nursery. Cuckooland has a wide range of beds and cots to choose from.
For each cot, there's a variety of accessories such as soft duvets and premium bedding. This lets you create a an inviting and comfortable environment for your baby, ensuring they get the best rest possible.