Mini Cot Beds
mini cot beds (
www.cots4Tots.co.uk) are a great alternative to traditional cots, especially when you have a smaller nursery. They're designed to last until your child is around four years old and come in a range of colors and styles.
Our mum testers were enthralled by this cozy baby cot from Boori. It's simple to put together and looks gorgeous. It also has numerous extra features, including teething rails and storage drawers.
Style & Design
When it comes to choosing a cot your baby It's easy to get caught-up in the safety and spec features. But don't forget the design. You want something that's fashionable and will fit in with your nursery, regardless of whether you have a modern or traditional arrangement.
The Obaby Maya Mini Cot Bed is our top pick in this category because it's a gorgeous piece that's easy to build and looks stunning in the room. It's also very sturdy and the only cot that we have tested that we believe will be able to endure the test of time. The narrow bars allow for easy cleaning since there aren't any crevices or nooks where dust could accumulate. The lower base is ideal for babies and, as your baby becomes more active you can lower it further to prevent them getting out, and the teething rails keep them safe from their sharp teeth.
Another beautiful piece is the Silver Cross Nostalgia - a gorgeous sleigh-style cot that's ideal from birth and can be made into a bed for toddlers using an extension kit (sold separately). The three different heights will keep your baby comfortable as they grow but the arduous assembly process might turn off some. It's also costly, but it's worth the extra cost if you're looking for a timeless design that will last for many years to be. Gemma is the mother of Boden, aged 13 months.
Durability
When it comes to purchasing a mini cot bed it is essential to choose a high-quality product since it is a piece of furniture that will last the toddler years too. We have tested a broad selection of cot beds to ensure that they offer the best quality of durability and are built to last. We also considered design and style, ingenuity features, comfort, convertible storage, and other features to help you select the right cot bed for your family.
If you're looking for an elegant solution or one with a more modern twist we have found the best cot beds that can fit into the decor of your nursery. We've picked a range of designs and finishes that can meet all budgets and tastes. From simple and practical, to luxurious and expensive. We've tested several convertible cot-beds to ensure you get the best value and use the furniture until your child's toddler age.
We love this gorgeous solid oak cot from Clair de Lune This cot is a double-framed work of art designed to be more than just a place for your baby to sleep. The wood is of the highest quality and has been crafted precisely to ensure longevity and durability. Our MFM test participant Grace found it easy to put together, and the packaging was constructed to ensure that there are no pieces left. It's important to note that this cot doesn't come with a mattress and you will need to purchase one separately.
Innovation
A lot of mini cots are designed with efficiency in mind. They feature innovative design elements that maximise space and functionality. Some models include a built-in changing station to facilitate your ability to change your baby. This enhances the comfort of both you and your child during the diaper changing process. It is also safer since all the necessary items are easily accessible.
Other designs that are innovative include cribs that fold to make a smaller unit or a crib with a built-in trundle drawer for extra storage space. These compact designs are ideal in homes with a limited space or where the nursery can also be used as an additional bedroom. Some models can be transformed into a sofa to give your child more flexibility.
Most mini cots are designed with safety in mind. They have features such as secure side rails, non-toxic finishes, and more. This will ensure they are safe and comfortable during their early years.
For a premium, modern-looking crib bed with a stunning design and safety features take a look at the Obaby Nika mini cot. The cot is smaller than the full-sized version however it doesn't compromise functionality. It has three mattress positions to accommodate your growing baby as well as teething rails. Our reviewer also found it easy to put together and then move around the room, after it's been assembled. Its unique oval shape makes it possible to fit through doors with standard frames.
Comfort
It can be easy to become caught up in the details of spec and safety features when kitting out your baby's nursery, but comfort is also a major factor. If your child will spend a great deal of time in the mini cot they choose, it is important to ensure that they are secure and comfortable.
It's especially important when you're considering using a Moses basket instead. It is recommended that babies rest with their parents during the first six months, so a warm, comfortable cot will allow them to do this while keeping them close to you.
The Great Little Trading Company Little Wren Cot Bed will be an ideal choice if are looking for a top quality bed for small spaces yet one that will allow your baby to develop and grow into a toddler. It's not cheap, but it comes with a one-year warranty and is a great value for money considering that you can use it from birth until toddlerhood.
The Mamas & Papas Franklin cot bed is another good option if you're looking for an cot with added extras like a handy drawer, teething rails, and two height positions that can be adjusted. Our tester Jill found it easy to put together and she was impressed by how it fits through standard door frames. But keep in the mind that you'll have to purchase an oval mattress and sheets separately.
Convertibility
Cot beds will last longer than standard cribs and provide your child with a bed from birth to toddlerhood. This makes cots more durable over cribs. They're also a more cost-effective option since you don't need to purchase a new bed for your child when they're old enough to use it.
Some cots and cot beds are designed to adapt to the needs of your child, transforming into junior beds or small sofa beds. The Stokke Sleepi for example can be used up to age 2 and beyond with the purchase of a junior conversion kit and mattress extender (sold separately). It's simple and looks great in any nursery. However, you will need a fitted sheet for a cot-bed rather than a crib as the gaps are quite large.
For a more simple alternative, consider the Obaby Nika mini cot bed, suitable from birth to about four years old. It's compact and has a modern nursery feel with a textured finish made of oak. It comes with three mattress bases for your growing baby, and teething rails to safeguard them.
At Pram Centre, you'll find various stylish and innovative cots to create a comfortable nursery for your child. Our selection includes a range of unique designs from leading brands like Mamas & Papas, Obaby and many more. A lot of them have adjustable features that can be adjusted to accommodate your child's needs. You can also pick up various accessories to keep your baby secure and comfortable, such as the toddler guard with padding to prevent them falling out, or a breathable fitted cot mattress that promotes healthy sleeping habits.
Storage & Extra Features
Look into a model that could be used as a toddler's bed if you are a future parent seeking a cot that can last for many years after your child is outgrown it. This will save you money on separate furniture for toddlers, and aid your child in making the transition from their cot to bed.
The Katie mini-sleigh cot made by Silver Cross is a great illustration of a small bed with storage built-in. This lets you keep extra bedding, nappies and sleepsuits in order. This is a useful feature to have in your baby's early months when you'll need to change them often.
The Obaby Maya continental bed cot is another option for parents who are looking for a cot which comes with storage. It is designed for use from birth to about four years of age. It comes with a two-tone design. It can be transformed into a toddler bed by removing one side panel and includes a toddler rail. A variety of under-cot storage drawers are available for this model too.
If you're shopping for a mini cot, browse the Pram Centre collection to discover our stunning designs. We have options from leading brands like Babymoov, Mamas & Papas and Obaby to fit the needs of every nursery. We also have a wide selection of nursery furniture that can make your cot look more attractive and create the perfect sleeping environment for your child.