Mini Cot Beds
If you're planning to furnish an area that is smaller or want an alternative to a traditional cot, mini cribs are a great alternative. They are made to last up until your child is four years old. They are available in a wide variety of colours and styles.
Our mom testers loved this comfy baby cot from Boori. It's simple to build and looks gorgeous. It also has plenty of extra features, like teething rails and storage drawers.
Style and Design
It's easy to become caught up in the spec and safety features when you are choosing a crib for your baby but remember the style. You want something that's fashionable and will fit in with your nursery, whether you have a traditional or modern setup.
Obaby Maya Mini Cot Bed, our top pick for this category, is a beautiful piece that's easy to assemble and looks stunning in any room. It's also extremely sturdy and the only cot we tried that we felt could be able to stand the test of time. The narrow bars make it easy to clean because there are no places where dust can collect. As your baby grows and gets bigger, you can lower the base to prevent them from climbing out. The teething rails shield them from sharp teeth.
Another gorgeous piece is the Silver Cross Nostalgia - a gorgeous sleigh-style cot that's ideal from birth and can be made into a toddler bed with an extension kit (sold separately). The three height options will keep your baby comfortable as they grow but the arduous assembly process may turn off some. It's also expensive but worth the extra cost when you're looking for an elegant design that will last for years to come. Gemma is the mother of Boden aged 13 months.
Durability
When you are buying a mini-cot it is essential to consider the quality as this piece of furniture will last for a long time into the toddlerhood. We have tested a wide selection of cot beds in order to ensure they provide the highest levels of durability and are built to last. We also have looked at design and style, innovation, comfort and convertability and storage, as well as other features to aid you in making the right choice for your family.
Whether you are looking for an elegant solution or something with more modern flair, we have uncovered the top cot beds that can fit into the decor of your nursery. We have selected a variety of styles and finishes that can meet every budget and taste. From basic and practical, to luxurious and expensive. We've tested several convertible cot-beds so you can find the best value and make use of this furniture up to your child's toddler age.
We love this gorgeous solid oak cot from Clair de Lune It is a double-framed work of art designed to be more than a place for your baby to sleep. The wood is of high quality and has been crafted with precision to ensure longevity and durability. Our MFM test participant Grace found it easy to assemble and the packaging was constructed to ensure that there are no leftover parts. However, it's worth noting that this cot does not include a mattress, and you'll need to purchase a mattress separately.
Innovation
Many mini cots have been designed with efficiency in mind. They feature innovative design elements that maximize space and function. For example, some models have a built-in diaper change station that makes it simpler to change your baby. This improves the comfort for both you and your child during the diaper-changing process. It also makes it safer as all the necessary supplies are easily accessible.
Other innovative designs 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 work great in homes with a limited space or where the nursery is also used as a bedroom. Some models can also convert into a sofa, giving an additional level of flexibility and function for your growing child.
Mini cots are generally designed with safety in mind. They have features such as safe side rails as well as 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. It's a bit smaller than its larger counterpart but doesn't skimp on functionality, featuring three mattress positions to accommodate your growing baby and even teething rails. Our reviewer also found it simple to assemble, and then move around the room once completed. Its unique oval shape makes it possible to fit into doors with standard frames.
Comfort
When you are preparing your baby's nursery, it's easy to get caught-up in the safety and specification features. However it is equally important to consider comfort. If cot sets will spend much of the time in the cot they choose it is crucial that they feel safe and comfortable.
This is particularly crucial when you're thinking of using the mini cot as an alternative to the traditional Moses basket. It's recommended that babies sleep close to their parents for the first six months, so a cosy and comfortable cot can ensure they can do that while keeping them close to you.
The Great Little Trading Company Little Wren Cot Bed will be a great option if you are looking for a high-end bed for small spaces but one that still allows your baby to develop and grow into a toddler. It's not cheap, but it comes with a one-year warranty and offers an excellent value for money seeing as you can use it from birth until toddlerhood.
The Mamas & Papas Franklin cot-bed is another option if are looking for a cot that has added features such as teething bars, a drawer and two adjustable positions. Our test subject Jill was able to put together, and she loved how it fits through standard door frames. However, do bear in mind that you'll need to purchase an oval mattress and sheets separately.
Convertibility
Cot beds are made to last longer than standard cots, ensuring your child with the bed they need from birth to the age of toddlers. This is why cots are better over cribs. They are also a more cost-effective option, as you don't have to buy a brand new bed for your child after they grow out of it.
Some cots and cot beds can also be adapted to your child. They can be converted into junior beds, or even small sofas. The Stokke Sleepi for example can be used until age 2 and beyond with the purchase of an upgrade kit for juniors and a mattress extender (sold separately). It's easy and looks great in any nursery. However, you will require a fitted sheet to make an cot-bed instead of a crib since the gaps are quite wide.
For a more simple option, you can opt for the Obaby Nika mini cot bed suitable from birth until around four years old. It's compact and offers a modern nursery look with a textured oak effect finish. It has three mattress base positions for your growing baby, and teething rails to safeguard them.
Find a range of stylish and innovative cots and cot beds to create a cozy nursery for your baby at Pram Centre. Our collection includes a range of unique designs from renowned brands like Mamas & Papas and Obaby, including many with adjustable features that can change as your baby grows. You can also buy additional items that will ensure your baby is comfortable and safe, such as a padded guard for toddlers to keep them from falling out of the cot, or an upholstered cot mattress made of air-tight material to encourage healthy sleeping habits.
Storage & Extra Features
If you're a mom-to-be looking for a cot that will last for a long time after your child has outgrown it, think about buying one that can be converted into a toddler bed. This will help you save money on purchasing separate furniture for your toddler and will allow your child move smoothly from sleeping in their cot into their bed.
The Katie mini-sleigh cot by Silver Cross is a fantastic example of a compact bed with storage built-in. This lets you keep nappies, bedding and sleepsuits in order. This is a great feature to have for your baby's early months when you'll need to change your baby's clothes frequently.
The Obaby Maya continental bed cot is another great option for parents who are looking for a cot which comes with storage. This cot is made for use from birth to about four years of age. It features a two-tone appearance. It can be made into a toddler bed by removing one side panel and comes with a toddler rail. It is also available with a range of drawers for under-cots.
If you're looking for a mini cot, browse the Pram Centre collection to discover our selection of stunning designs. We have options from leading brands including Babymoov, Mamas & Papas and Obaby to suit every nursery. We also carry a variety of nursery furniture to complement your crib bed and create the perfect sleep space for your baby.