Mini Cot Beds
Mini cot beds are an ideal alternative to traditional cots, particularly if you have smaller rooms in your nursery. These beds are made to last until your child reaches the age of four and come in a variety of colours and styles.
Our mum testers were enthralled by this comfy baby cot from Boori. It's easy to assemble, looks stunning, and has many extra features like teething rails, storage drawers, and is very stylish.
Style and Design
It's easy to get caught up in the specifications and safety features when you are choosing a crib for your baby but don't forget about 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 best crib choice in this category as it's a gorgeous piece that's super-easy to put together and looks fantastic in the room. It's also very durable and the only cot that we tested we felt would be able to stand the test of time. The narrow bars ensure that there are no nooks and crevices for dust to accumulate and make cleaning as simple as possible. The base that is lower is great for babies and, as your baby grows more active you can lower it to prevent them climbing out, while the teething rails keep them safe from sharp teeth.
Another stunning piece is the Silver Cross Nostalgia - a beautiful sleigh-style cot that's suitable 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, however the fiddly assembling process may put some people off. It's also costly but it is worth it if your goal is a timeless design which will last for a long time. Tested by: Gemma mother to Boden, 13 months.
Durability
When it comes to buying a mini cot bed, quality is key because it will be an item of furniture that will last for the toddler years too. We have tested a variety of cribs to ensure they are robust and built to last. We have also looked at style and design, the latest innovations, comfort and convertability and storage and extra features to aid you in making the right choice for your family.
Whether you are seeking a chic option or an edgier twist, we have uncovered the top crib beds that will fit the decor of your nursery. We've picked a range of designs and finishes that will suit every budget and taste. From basic and practical, to extravagant and expensive. We've even tested a few convertible cot beds, so that you get the best cot beds value for money and use this piece of furniture into the toddler years of your child.
This beautiful solid oak cot made by Clair de Lune is an exquisite double-framed piece that's designed to be much more than just a place for your baby to sleep for your child. The wood is high-quality and was crafted with precision to ensure durability and longevity. Grace the MFM tester found the assembly to be easy and the packaging was designed to ensure there were no pieces left behind. However, it's important to know that this cot doesn't include a mattress, and you will need to purchase a mattress separately.
Innovation
A lot of mini cots are designed with efficiency in mind. They are designed with innovative elements that maximize space and functionality. For instance, some models come with an integrated diaper changing station that makes it simpler to change your baby. This can improve the comfort of both you and your baby while changing diapers, while also making it more secure by keeping all the essential supplies at hand.
Other designs that are innovative include a crib that has built-in trundles for additional storage or a cot which can fold down into a compact unit. These compact designs are ideal for homes with tight spaces or where the nursery doubles as a bedroom. Some models can also be converted into a sofa, offering even more flexibility and function for your growing child.
In terms of safety, many mini cot beds are designed to ensure your child's wellbeing with features like secure side rails and non-toxic finishes. This will ensure they are safe and comfortable throughout their first years.
For a premium, modern-looking cot bed that is a masterpiece of design and safety features, look no further than the Obaby Nika mini cot. The cot is smaller than its larger counterpart, but it doesn't sacrifice functionality, featuring three mattress base positions to accommodate your growing child and even teething rails. Our reviewer also found it simple to assemble, and then move around the room, once it's all set. Its unique oval shape makes it possible to fit through standard door frames.
Comfort
When you are planning your baby's nursery, it is easy to get caught up in the safety and specification features. But comfort is equally important. If your little one is going to spend a lot of time in their mini cot bed and crib, they must be secure and comfortable.
It's particularly important when you're considering using a Moses basket as an alternative. It is recommended that babies sleep with their parents during the first six months. A cosy, comfortable crib can allow them to do this while being close to you.
The Great Little Trading Company Little Wren Cot Bed will be an ideal choice if are looking for a high-end bed for small spaces yet one that will allow your baby to grow and develop into toddlerhood. It's not cheap cot bed but it does come with a one-year guarantee and provides a great value for money seeing as it can be used from birth right up to the age of toddlerhood.
The Mamas & Papas Franklin cot-bed is another option if you are looking for a cot with additional features such as a drawer, teething bars and two adjustable positions. It was easy to assemble and Jill loved the way it fit through standard door frames. You will need to buy an oval mattress separately.
Convertibility
Cot beds last longer than cribs that are standard and provide your child with an appropriate bed from birth until toddlerhood. This makes cots a better choice over cribs. They also are more affordable, as you don't have to purchase a brand new bed for your child after they're old enough to use it.
Some cots or cots to tots can also be adapted to your child. They can be turned into junior beds or small sofas. The Stokke Sleepi for example can be used until age 2 and beyond by purchasing an upgrade kit for juniors and a mattress extender (sold separately). It's simple to put together and looks lovely in any nursery, however you'll need a fitted sheet that fits the bed of a cot rather than a cot as the gaps between the bars are large.
For a simpler option, you can opt for the Obaby Nika mini cot bed, suitable from birth to about four years old. It's compact and has a modern nursery look with a smooth finish in oak. It comes with 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 a variety of fashionable and modern cots that will create a comfortable nursery for your child. Our collection includes a range of bespoke designs from leading brands such as Mamas & Papas and Obaby and includes a variety of adjustable features to change as your baby grows. You can also purchase extras that will ensure your baby is comfortable and safe, such as a toddler-friendly padded guard to prevent them from falling out of the cot or an upholstered cot mattress made of breathable material to promote healthy sleeping habits.
Storage & Extra Features
If you're a new parent looking for a cot bed that will last long after your child has outgrown it, think about buying one that can be converted into a toddler bed. This will save you money buying separate toddler furniture and will help your child to get through the transition from sleeping in their cot into their bed.
The Katie mini sleigh cot bed from Silver Cross is an example of a compact cot with built-in storage. This allows you to keep nappies, bedding and sleepsuits neatly organized. This is a fantastic feature for the first few months of your baby's life when you'll need to change them often.
The Obaby Maya continental bed cot is another great option for parents looking for a cot that includes storage. The cot is modern with a two-tone design and is designed to be used from birth up to about four years old. It can be made into a bed for a toddler by taking off a side panel. It also includes an infant rail. The model also comes with a variety of under-cot drawers.
If you're looking for a mini cot, browse the Pram Centre collection to discover our selection of stunning designs. We offer a variety of top brands like Babymoov, Mamas & Papas and Obaby to match every nursery. We also carry a variety of nursery furniture that will complement your best crib newborn bed and create the perfect sleeping space for your child.