7 Things About Mini Cot Beds You'll Kick Yourself For Not Knowing
tots and cots cot beds can be an excellent alternative to traditional cots particularly in the case of a smaller nursery. They are designed to last until your child is the age of four. They are available in a variety of colors and styles.
Our mum testers loved this cozy baby cot from Boori. It's easy to assemble, looks stunning and has a lot of additional features, including teething rails, a drawer for storage and is a stylish.
Style and Design
It's easy to become caught up in the safety and specifications when choosing your baby's cot but don't forget the design. You want a cot that is stylish and will fit in with your nursery, regardless of whether it's a traditional or modern setup.
The Obaby Maya Mini Cot Bed is our top choice in this category because it's a gorgeous piece that's super-easy to put together and looks great in the room. It's also very sturdy and the only cot we test that we believe will endure the test of time. The bars are narrow, which means there aren't any nooks or crevices to collect dust in, making cleaning as easy as is possible. The base that is lower is great for babies and, as your baby becomes more active, you can lower it to keep them from climbing out, while the teething rails keep them safe from their sharp teeth.
Another stunning piece is the Silver Cross Nostalgia - a gorgeous sleigh-style cot that's ideal from birth and can be transformed into a bed for toddlers using an extension kit (sold separately). The three different heights will keep your child in a comfortable position as they grow up, but the arduous assembly process might put some people off. It's also expensive but it is worth it if you're looking for a timeless design which will last for a long time. Tested by: Gemma, mum to Boden 13 months old.
Durability
When you are buying a mini-cot it is essential to consider the quality because the furniture will last for a long time into toddlerhood. We have tested a variety of cribs to ensure that they are durable and built to last. We also have looked at the design and style, as well as the latest innovations, comfort and convertability and storage as well as additional features to aid you in making the right choice for your family.
If you're seeking a stylish option or an edgier twist, we have the most suitable cot beds to suit your nursery decor. We have selected a variety of designs and finishes that are suitable for all budgets and tastes. From basic and practical, to extravagant and expensive. We've even tested a few convertible cot beds to ensure that you can get great value for money and use this piece of furniture well into your child's toddler years.
This elegant solid oak cot from Clair de Lune is a double-framed masterpiece that's designed to be much more than just a place to sleep your baby. The wood is high-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 designed so that there were no leftover parts. This cot does come with a mattress, but you'll have to purchase it separately.
Innovation
Created with efficiency in mind. Many mini cot beds feature innovative design features that optimize space and functionality. For example, some models come with a built-in diaper change station that makes it easier to change your baby. This helps to improve the comfort of both you and your baby during the diaper changing process and also makes it more secure by keeping all the essential supplies at hand.
Other innovative designs include cribs that fold into a compact unit, or a crib that has built-in trundle drawers for extra storage space. These compact designs are ideal for homes with tight spaces or where the nursery doubles as another bedroom. Some models also convert into a sofa, giving additional flexibility and functionality for your growing child.
In terms of safety, the majority of mini cots are designed to protect your child's health and wellbeing by providing features like side rails with safety and non-toxic finishes. This will ensure that they are safe and comfortable throughout their first years.
For a modern, stylish crib bed with a stunning design and safety features take a look at the Obaby Nika mini cot. The cot is smaller than its larger counterpart, but it doesn't sacrifice the functionality, offering three mattress bases to accommodate your growing child and even teething rails. Moreover, our reviewer found it easy to set up and move around the room after it was completed, and its unique oval design means it is able to fit into doors that have standard frames, a major plus for time-stretched parents.
Comfort
When you are preparing your nursery for your baby, it's easy to get caught-up in the safety and specification features. However it is equally important to consider comfort. If your child will be spending the majority of their time in the cot they choose it is essential that they feel safe and comfortable.
It's particularly important if you are considering using a Moses basket as an alternative. It is recommended that infants be with their parents for the first six months. A comfortable, cozy crib can allow them to do this while still being 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 smaller spaces, however, one that allows your baby to grow and develop into a toddler. It's not cheap, but it comes with a one-year warranty and provides a good value for money since you can use it right up until toddlerhood.
The Mamas & Papas Franklin cot bed is another option to consider if you're looking at a cot that comes with features like a drawer, teething rails, and two adjustable height positions. It was easy to put together and Jill was impressed with how it fitted through standard door frames. But, keep in mind that you'll need to purchase sheets and a mattress separately.
Convertibility
Cot beds are made to last longer than standard cots, providing your child with the bed they need from birth right through to toddler years. This makes cot beds a popular option than a crib and can be a cost-effective investment since you won't have to purchase a new infant bed for your child once they outgrow it.
Some cots and cot beds are also designed to adapt to the needs of your child, and transform into junior beds or even small sofa beds. The Stokke Sleepi for example can be used until age 2 and beyond by purchasing the junior conversion kit and mattress extender (sold separately). It's easy to make and looks great in any nursery, although you'll need an adjustable sheet that can fit the cot bed, not a cot since the gaps between the bars are quite large.
If you're looking for a less complicated alternative, consider the Obaby Nika mini cot bed suitable from birth until approximately four years old. It's small and has a contemporary nursery feel with a smooth finish in oak. It has three mattress bases for your baby's growing needs, as well as teething rails that protect the baby from harm.
At Pram Centre, you'll find an array of stylish and innovative cots to create a comfortable nursery for your child. Our selection includes a variety of unique designs from top brands like Mamas & Papas and Obaby and includes a variety of adjustable features that can change as your baby grows. You can also find a variety of extras to help keep your baby safe and comfortable, such as an infant guard that is padded to keep them from falling out, or a breathable fitted cot mattress that promotes healthy sleeping habits.
Storage & Extra Features
Look into a model that can be converted into the bed of a toddler in the event that you are a potential parent seeking a cot that will last for a long time after your child has outgrown it. This will save you money purchasing separate furniture for your toddler and will assist your child to make a smooth transition from their cot to their bed.
The Katie mini sleigh cot bed from Silver Cross is an example of a compact cot with built-in storage. It is possible to store bedding nappies, sleepsuits, and other bedding in a neatly organized way. This is a great feature for the first few months of your baby's life, when you will have to change them often.
Another great option for parents who are looking for an option with storage for their cot is the Obaby Maya continental cot bed. It is designed to be used from birth until about four years of age. It has a 2-tone design. It can be transformed into a bed for toddlers by removing one side panel and comes with the toddler rail. A range of under-cot storage drawers are available for this model too.

Explore the Pram Center's collection of mini cots to see our stunning designs. We offer a range of options from leading brands such as Babymoov and Mamas & Papas to suit any nursery. We also have a large range of nursery furniture that can complement your cot and create a perfect sleeping space for your child.