Comfy, easy to put together and packed full of style, the best cot beds keep your baby snug, safe and (hopefully) sleeping easily.
Any new parent will know, there are hundreds of baby must-haves to consider. From the best newborn prams and the best sleepsuits to the best baby monitors and the best Moses baskets. And choosing between the best bed for your little one joins this list.
First up: you might be wondering what’s the difference between the best bedside cribs and the best cot beds. Well, the former can only be used up until your baby can sit up or raise themselves up onto their hands and knees. Whereas, a cot bed lasts longer than a traditional cot which needs to be replaced with a bed once your child is around two or three years old. That’s because, as its name suggests, a cot bed converts to a first toddler bed once your baby is ready to leave the bars behind.
In today’s market, there is a never-ending amount of cot beds to choose from. Some come with clever under-the-bed storage where you can stash bedding or nighttime essentials, like nappies. While others come with an adjustable base to prevent your baby from climbing out. Then comes the overall style of the sleep solution.
Using our more than 20 years’ of knowledge in the industry, we’ve compiled a list of the best cot beds you can buy in 2024. So keep scrolling to find out our pick of the best tried and tested cot beds, all suitable from birth.
This article has been updated to reflect changes in the price of some of the cot beds featured. We have also fact-checked the product details, updated product information where necessary, and checked all items are still in stock and available to buy.
The quick list
In a hurry to find the best cot bed? Here’s a quick overview or you can scroll further down the page for more in-depth tried-and-tested reviews.
Made from solid pine, this cot bed has three mattress height settings, so you can lower the base as your baby gets older, making it easy to reach your newborn but also helping to prevent an adventurous toddler from climbing out.
A beautifully-designed, vintage-style cot bed that’s impressively sturdy with three height positions so you can adjust it as your baby grows. Remove the bars to create a bench-style bed. It’s available in off-white or stylish green.
3. SnüzKot Skandi Cot Bed
The perfect cot bed if you love contemporary design and can handle a fiddly assembly process. Longevity is its standout feature, as it’s suitable from birth to age four, or until your child is 10 years old if you buy the extension kit.
This simple but stylish solid pine cot bed is suitable from birth to three years. It comes with a mattress and has an in-built storage drawer. In terms of value for money, this is one of the best cot beds you could choose.
This sturdy cot bed has a storage drawer and a handy hanging rail. Teething rails are included and the adjustable base has two height positions. Assembly is a dream thanks to alphabetically labelled parts and great instructions.
A minimalistic cot that’s brilliant value for money yet made from high-quality beech with a removable panel to transform it into a toddler bed. It has an impressive range of mattress base positions too – seven in total.
This curved, compact cot bed is made from sustainable solid wood and has two base heights. Unlike any of the other cot beds we tested, this has lockable castors so it’s easy to move between rooms or position close to your bed at night.
An inexpensive, compact cot bed that’s ideal for smaller bedrooms, impressively sturdy and yet highly affordable. It’s a good choice if you’re looking for a neutral cot bed that will look good alongside existing nursery decor or furniture.
10. Ickle Bubba Snowdon Classic Cotbed
This stylish, slimline cot is a modern twist on a classic sleigh bed design and it comes with under-bed storage drawer so you can keep all baby must-haves out of sight but in reach. It’s good value, well-built and can be used for years to come.
11. Stokke Sleepi cot bed
Stokke can help you bring some Scandi-style to your nursery thanks to this impressive oval-shaped cotbed that can be adjusted as your child grows as it’s suitable for use up to the age of five, as a day bed.
12. Obaby Stamford Luxe Sleigh Cotbed
The Obaby Stamford Luxe Sleigh Cotbed ticks all the boxes including: design, aesthetics and usability. There are loads of great extras too, including a gigantic storage drawer, teething rail and adjustable heights.
Best cot bed 2024 — tried and tested by parents
Best cot bed overall
(Image credit: Great Little Trading Company)
Buy it if
✅ You want a long-lasting cot bed: Thanks to its trio of mattress height settings, you can use it in three ways to accommodate the different ages – from newborn to toddlerhood.
✅ You want a sturdy and super safe cot bed: As you’d expect, this offering meets both the cot bed safety standard (BS EN 716) and the single bed safety standard (BS 8509). But what’s more — the paint has been tested to EN71-3 safety standards. So you can sleep easy.
✅ An easy assembly is required: “It’s surprisingly easy to build,” our tester told us. All you need is an Allen key and an hour to put this together thanks to the easy-to-follow instructions.
Don’t buy it if:
❌ You’re tight on funds: This cot bed will set you back around £450. This puts it in the mid to high-end price range, but our tester feels it’s worthy of the price tag due to its durability and excellent quality. If you’re after a more affordable option, check out the Amburgey or the Mokee Midi which we named our best budget buy.
❌ Storage is important: You can get an under-the-bed drawer with this cot, but just note: it’s sold separately. If storage is a necessity (and you don’t want to get it at any extra cost), the Obaby Stamford Luxe Sleigh Cotbed includes a gigantic storage drawer, so should tick all your boxes.
The bottom line
🔎 Great Little Trading Company Little Wren Cot Bed This is not a budget buy — it’s priced at £450 — but we think it’s really good value for money seeing as you can use this cot bed from the newborn stages and throughout toddlerhood. It has a premium look and feel to it, but just in case anything isn’t up to scratch it’s covered by a one-year warranty. ★★★★★
Tested by: Donna and her seven-month-old Daisy.
Our baby gear expert says: Suitable from birth to four years old, the Little Wren Cot Bed from the Great Little Trading Company is built from solid pine with a white painted finish. It has three mattress height settings, so you can lower the base as your baby gets older. This makes it easy to reach your newborn but also guards against an adventurous toddler from climbing out. The cot has fixed side panels and converts to a first bed, with a toddler rail included. The recommended mattress is sold separately (£125).
This is a timeless, stylish, and robust cot bed. It will look beautiful in any nursery, according to our tester Donna, who is mum to seven-month-old Daisy.
Our tester, Donna, says: “There is a real sense of class about it. It oozes quality and you can tell it will last many years.” Donna found the instructions easy to follow when it came to assembling the cot bed. “I put it together on my own during one of Daisy’s shorter naps,” she says. “After putting the base too low to start with, I had practice changing the height. It was really straightforward to adjust.”
To convert the cot into a toddler bed, you simply remove one of the cot’s side panels and attach the toddler rail supplied. Under-cot storage drawers and a range of matching furniture are available to buy separately if you like the coordinated look.
Verdict: “The stand-out feature of this cot is how robust it is,” says Donna. “It’s sturdy but light enough to move around when I’m changing Daisy’s cot sheets. And it really is beautiful to look at.” What more could your little sleeper need?
Read more: Great Little Trading Company Little Wren Cotbed review
Best premium cot bed
(Image credit: La Redoute)
Buy it if
✅ You’re after a unique vintage-looking design that doesn’t skimp on features: The vintage-style wooden cot bed has an adjustable base which is easy to change between three different height positions. It’s also simple to convert from a cot bed to a stylish bench-style bed for an older toddler.
✅ You want a sturdy design: It’s made from solid birch oak, which means it’s sturdy and robust. But here’s a word of warning: this makes it heavy. So keep that in mind if you’re shifting it yourself after it’s been delivered. Plus, according to our tester, it also passes the ‘trampoline test, which is always handy to know.
Don’t buy it if:
❌ You’re shopping on a budget: Priced at around the £575 mark, this is not the most affordable cot bed in our guide. Look to the Mokee Midi which costs £140, for the best budget buy or Amburgey’s £187.99 offering.
❌ You want a cot bed with storage: Unfortunately, this is a feature that the Willox lacks. However, if storage is on your mind, the Amburgey is great value for money because it has a built-in drawer and it also comes with a mattress.
The bottom line
🔎 La Redoute Willox Adjustable Cot Bed Stylish, sturdy and suitable for both babies and toddlers — this cot bed will last and last. The fact it delivers on comfort and features, thanks to its trio of different height positions and its ability to turn into a bench-style bed is another great selling point. But its main hang up? The high price point. ★★★★★
Tested by: Gemma who is mum to Boden, 13 months.
Our baby gear expert says: This is a sturdy and stylish cot bed with three adjustable heights so that you can adjust it as your baby grows. Eventually, you can remove the bars altogether to create a bench-style bed. Our tester Gemma built the cot bed in an hour and found the instructions easy to follow. “The Willox Adjustable Cot Bed is available in two colours – off-white or green – and we opted for green as it looked very unique,” she explains.
Our tester, Gemma, says: “I was curious to see the colour in real-life as colours can look different online but I wasn’t disappointed. It’s a beautiful shade of green. Previously, I had only ever considered a traditional white cot bed but this has totally changed my mind. And even though it’s described as vintage, it’s a stunning, stylish piece that would look great in a modern nursery.”
At bedtime, the cot bed easily stood up to the ‘trampoline test’ inflicted on it by our little tester. “Like many other little ones, Boden loves to hold onto the frame and bounce up and down,” says Gemma. “He also uses the bars to pull himself up to a standing position, so the frame takes a lot of his weight. From an online description or photo, you can’t always judge how robust baby furniture will be, but the Willox seems very sturdy and well made.”
Verdict: Overall, Gemma was wowed by this cot. “Boden seemed very happy and content in it – he drifted off easily and slept well,” she says. “The cot is a beautiful, unique addition to our nursery. The only problem is that now we’re tempted to buy all the matching furniture!”
Read more: La Redoute Willox Adjustable Cot Bed review
Best for longevity
(Image credit: Snüz)
Buy it if
✅ You want longevity: This cot bed is suitable from birth to age four, which is a year longer than most other products on the market. Plus, you could make this cot bed last until your child is 10 years of age if you purchase the extension kit.
✅ You want choice: Available in 16 different designs, you’re spoilt for choice and colourways when it comes to the SnüzKot Skandi Cot Bed.
✅ You want a stylish (and affordable) Scandi-inspired cot bed: Our tester found this to be significantly less expensive than many other similar Scandi-inspired cots.
Don’t buy it if:
❌ You’re short on time: This cot bed took our tester around 90 minutes to assemble.
❌ You’re on a tight budget: This isn’t the most affordable cot bed in our guide. If you’re after a more budget-friendly design, look to the £140 Mokee Midi or Amburgey’s £187.99 cot bed.
The bottom line
🔎 SnüzKot Skandi Cot Bed Not only does this sleep solution look beautiful, but it will last for a pretty long time too. Priced at £379, this mid-range cot bed isn’t the most expensive on the market but it does come with a lot of ticks — like its stylish design, sturdy frame and long shelf life. ★★★★
Tested by: Kate and her son, Blake, aged six months.
Our baby gear expert says: The SnüzKot Skandi Cot Bed is an elegant cot bed available in 16 different designs and an array of different colours. Longevity is its standout feature, as it can be used from birth up to age four, or until your child is 10 years old if you buy the extension kit (sold separately). The cot has three mattress settings, so you can adjust the height as your little one grows.
Our tester, Kate, says: “It took a while to assemble, but it was worth the effort. It took two of us about 90 minutes to put together but now it’s assembled, it goes really well in our nursery and looks amazing.
“We’re really happy with it. My baby seems to like sleeping in it. I feel she’s really safe as it’s so sturdy. The recommended mattress (£150) is an expensive additional expense but it is very good quality.” Although this is a fairly expensive cot bed, our tester thinks it compares well with other similar designs. “It’s significantly less expensive than many other similar Scandi-inspired cots, but the fact that it can be used up to age four (or even ten) makes it a true investment piece,” she says.
Verdict: The finish on the wood wasn’t flawless, according to Kate, but that’s likely due to the fact that it’s made from natural beech wood with no MDF or veneer.
The assembled cot looks “really beautiful” and Kate feels it looks more expensive than it is. “This is the ideal cot bed for anyone who loves stylishly designed products – if you can cope with it being a little fiddly to assemble,” she says.
“And if you’re looking for a contemporary cot bed that’s the perfect balance of aesthetics and long-lasting functionality, this is it.”
Best quality
(Image credit: Silver Cross)
Buy it if:
✅ You want a stylish and premium-style cot bed: With its sleek sleigh-style finish and white satin coating, the Silver Cross Nostalgia cot bed is the epitome of style, all packaged up into a timeless design.
✅ You want an easy assembly process: Our tester took just 12 minutes to build this sturdy cot. To help her do so, Silver Cross throws in a bespoke Allen key which makes reaching the corner screws easy. Plus, the slats for the mattress are already fixed.
✅ Longevity is important: This lasts up until the age of four as it has three base heights, which can be easily adjusted as your newborn grows.
Don’t buy it if:
❌ You want a cot bed that comes with a mattress: You’ll have to buy a separate mattress with the Silver Cross Nostalgia cot bed. Depending on which style you go for, expect to pay anywhere between £129 to £229.
❌ You’re watching your spend: The RRP is £650 but we’ve spotted it on the manufacturer’s website for £350 so if you intend to buy, wait for a deal. If you want to pay under £200, check out the Mokee Midi which costs £140 or Amburgey’s £187.99 offering.
The bottom line
🔎 Silver Cross Nostalgia cot bed If you really value quality products, this sleigh-style cot bed will be a welcome addition to your nursery. It’s beautifully-designed frame is sturdy, well made and will last (and last). It’s also easy to put together and even easier to adjust as and when your newborn grows. The high price tag might put some parents off, but Silver Cross does have regular deals so keep your eyes peeled for a sale. ★★★★
Tested by: Michelle and her son Finn
Our baby gear expert says: Classic in its design, kitted out with a smart panelled look and painted in a timeless matt cream, we named the Nostalgia Cot bed as the best pick for build quality. And it’s all thanks to the quality of the solid, sturdy wood materials used.
Like many of the other cot beds in this guide, this nursery addition can be used from newborn to toddlerhood — but this cot will take sleepers right up until the age of four. To do so, you’ll just have to adjust the height levels for your baby’s safety and comfort and then, when they’re ready, adapt into a cot bed for your toddler.
Our tester, Michelle, says: “I would recommend the cot bed to friends who have boisterous toddlers this is a safe and sturdy cot that is immovable by toddlers who might grab the sides and try to rock it.”
Another plus point was the assembly process. “It came with a bespoke Allen key which was really handy for the trickier-to-reach corner screws,” Michelle explains. With clear instructions and a simple build, the cot was built in just twelve minutes. “I like that the slats for the mattress are fixed, that gives it a quality feel and it wasn’t fiddly to line them up or secure them in place,” she adds.
However, our tester found one fault with this product and that’s the extensive packaging. “The cot arrived in two tall and heavy cardboard boxes which had everything we needed to build the item,” Michelle told us.
Verdict: “The cot bed is sturdy and feels solid which is comforting to know that there is no way my toddler could tip it or rock it,” Michelle says. “We were impressed by the overall finish.” It comes with a £650 RRP, so it’s an expensive addition to any nursery. But this is a price our tester thought was ‘good value for money’ when you factor in the years that it will be in use for. “Knowing it could take your baby from newborn to four years old makes it an investment piece of nursery furniture that can evolve with your family needs,” she says. “Overall it is so smart and elegant to look at and I was excited for my son to get cosy and comfortable in his new bed,” Michelle adds.
Best Budget
(Image credit: Wayfair)
Buy it if
✅ You don’t want to spend a fortune: You absolutely don’t have to dig deep in your pockets for your little one’s cot bed. At just over £170, this design from Mack + Milo has impressive features at an affordable price.
✅ You want value for money: Unlike many other products featured in our guide to the best cot beds, the price you pay includes storage and a mattress.
Don’t buy it if:
❌ You want a sturdy design: Our tester found that the cot rattled when her toddler shook the sides, which could start to grind on you if this is a habit your little one has picked up. The finish is also a little less luxurious than other cots.
❌ You struggle with flat-pack furniture: According to our tester, the instructions are a little complicated to follow.
The bottom line
🔎 Mack + Milo Amburgey Cot Bed with Mattress Priced at £173.99, there’s a lot to love about this simple sleep solution. Coming with a drawer and the mattress included, if you’re pressed for cash, this is a great option. But just be warned: the instructions aren’t the easiest to follow so do set time aside (and patience)! ★★★★
Tested by: Emma and her one-year-old son Charlie.
Our baby gear expert says: This simple but stylish solid pine cot bed is suitable from birth to three years. It comes with a mattress included and has an in-built storage drawer. In terms of value for money, this is one of the best cot beds you could buy.
Our tester wasn’t expecting this to be a premium product. However, she was pleasantly surprised when she put it to the test with her one-year-old son, Charlie.
Our tester, Emma, says: “The quality was beyond what I expected for the price,” she says. “It’s a lovely, simple design that looks great in my son’s room.”
The cot bed was easy to assemble, although the instructions are a little complicated. However, adjusting the base height and converting the cot to a toddler bed is very straightforward.
But the large storage drawer and adjustable base are what make this one of the best cot beds if you’re on a budget. “A storage drawer is a feature I’d expect on a premium cot bed, not a budget model – it’s so useful and helps make a busy toddler’s mess a bit more manageable,” she says. “I felt confident loading it with blankets, toys and all sorts of things I want hide neatly out of sight. I really like that there’s an extra base panel for when the mattress position is higher, too. This keeps the contents of the drawer covered, so the sleek, minimal design isn’t spoiled.”
Emma found the cot rattled when her toddler shook the sides. The finish is also a little less luxurious than other cots – something we’d expect, given that this cot bed costs less than £150. “The screws that hold the bed together are visible on the edges of the wood, which detracts a little from the overall minimal, stylish look,” she says. “The edge of the toddler bed guard also seems a little sharp on the corners.”
Verdict: That said, if you’re buying a cot bed on a budget and want more than the basics in terms of style and design without spending more, this is definitely one of the best cot beds for you.
Best for assembly
(Image credit: Mamas & Papas)
Buy it if
✅ You want more than just a cot bed: If you purchase this sleep solution, you’ll also get an under-bed storage drawer to help save space, and a handy hanging rail for storing muslins or blankets. There are also teething rails.
✅ You want an easy assembly process: Our tester said that putting the cot together was a doddle and named it as the ‘easiest’ flatpack to assemble. That’s because every piece is labelled alphabetically, making it foolproof.
✅ Quality and craftsmanship is important: Mamas & Papas is known for its sturdy and well-trusted babywear and this cotbed is another great example of that.
Don’t buy it if:
❌ You want a cotbed with a mattress included: Along with the £489 price tag for the bed, you’ll need to buy a separate mattress to use with it.
The bottom line
🔎 Mamas & Papas Franklin cot bed If extra features are your thing, this is the best cot bed for you. We love the fact it comes with all the added extras — like a handy drawer, teething rails and two height positions that can be adjusted as your little one grows. It’s also easy as can be to put together, which makes it all the more brilliant. You do, however, need to buy a mattress separately so that’s something to keep in mind. ★★★★★
Tested by: Annie and her 12-week-old Leo.
Our baby gear expert says: Mamas & Papas Franklin Cot Bed is available in white or grey. It has an under-bed storage drawer to help stash away bedding and a handy hanging rail for storing muslins or blankets. It’s suitable from birth to four years, and the adjustable base has two height positions. Teething rails are included.
Our tester, Annie, says: “My first impressions were that it looked very stylish and the drawer would come in very handy. The whole process from delivery to assembly couldn’t have been easier. This is a beautiful, stylish cot bed that will save you money and a lot of hassle in the long run.”
Happily, putting the cot together was a doddle. “We’ve put together many many flat packs in the past, but none of those compares to how easy this was to assemble,” Annie says. “The instructions were so easy to read and every element was labelled alphabetically, making it foolproof – even for those who’ve never put together flat-pack furniture!”
Our tester’s favourite feature is the storage drawer. “This may seem like a minor detail, but when you have limited storage space in your home, a drawer beneath the cot is a major help. I keep bed sheets, blankets, swaddles and towels in it.”
Verdict: Overall, Annie feels this is a classy and well-made cot bed. “At first glance, this seems a bit pricey, especially if you’re on a budget,” she says. “But you can see the quality and craftsmanship the moment you look at it. It’s a real statement piece. I haven’t stopped talking about it or taking photos of it. I am genuinely so happy with this cot bed and would recommend it to anyone.”
Best budget buy
(Image credit: Mokee)
Buy it if
✅ You want longevity: This is suitable for your little one from birth up until the age of five, which is above average when comparing this to other cot beds listed in our guide.
✅ You suffer with back pain: We say this because the Mokee Midi cot bed has seven different adjustable heights so this makes checking up on baby even easier (and puts less strain on your back).
✅ Value for money is important: Our tester found this cotbed combines affordability with style and safety — which, in our opinion, should be the cornerstone of every baby product. Priced at £299, this special buy essentially costs just under £60 per year if you use it from newborn up until the age of five.
Don’t buy it if:
❌ You want a traditional sleigh bed style: It was hard to pinpoint any negatives about this cot bed. And while this simple yet stylish-looking frame comes in four colourways with lots of matching accessories available to buy separately, it’s more modern looking than it is classic. If you’ve got your heart set on a sleigh bed style, check out the Ickle Bubba Snowdon Classic Cotbed.
The bottom line
🔎 Mokee Midi cot bed If you want to customise the height of your little one’s cot (whether that’s to make it easier for you to check up on them or save yourself from back pain) this product is for you as it has an impressive range of mattress base positions (seven in total). It’s priced at under £300 but we’ve spotted it for half price. The fact you can use this until the age of five, makes it a steal! ★★★★
Tested by: Gabrielle and her daughter Milla, aged two.
Our baby gear expert says: The Midi Cot Bed from Mokee impressed us with its longevity – it’s suitable from birth up to age five. Highly affordable, it comes in four colours with lots of matching accessories available to buy separately. That’s handy if you’re kitting out a nursery and want to coordinate your look to match your cot. It’s made from high-quality beechwood with a removable panel to transform the cot into a toddler bed. It also has an impressive range of mattress base positions (seven in total), depending on the age and size of your baby.
Our tester, Gabrielle, says: “The open, slatted design makes it easy to check on your sleeping child, and the mattress seems very good quality and comfortable. We tested this as a toddler bed by removing the panel, and our daughter took to it really well. I think she likes the feeling of being in a cot whilst having the accessibility of a bed. She’s now had six nights’ undisturbed sleep, which is a miracle!”
There are times when a budget buy can be a false economy. There’s little point in buying a cheaper model if you’ll only end up replacing it because it doesn’t stand the test of time. But that’s not an issue with this cot bed. Whether you’re kitting out the nursery on a budget or just don’t want to spend over the odds on the cot, this is the ideal cot bed solution for saving money.
Verdict: When it comes to value for money, Gabrielle was particularly impressed with this cot bed. “It combines affordability with style and safety, which is obviously so important with baby products. It’s excellent value for money but it looks great in our baby’s room,” she told us.
Best cot with wheels
(Image credit: Boori)
Buy it if
✅ You want a compact style: This is one of the main selling points of the Boori Oasis Oval Cot — the fact it comes with a distinct circular shape which makes it more compact than many of the other cot beds in our guide. Our tester found that it could fit through standard door frames so would be easy to transport into a nursery when the time comes for your little one to sleep in their own bedroom.
✅ Easy assembly is a must: Nobody likes flat-pack furniture. But our tester found this ‘exceedingly easy’ to put together.
Don’t buy it if:
❌ You want a budget buy: While it might look appealing, sadly, oval bedding and mattresses are expensive extras. If you’re buying on a budget, check out the Mokee Midi which you can pick up for less than £150 (if you’re quick) or the Amburgey which we named as the best cot bed for value.
The bottom line
🔎 Boori Oasis Oval Cot Overall, this is a stylish looking cot bed that’s easy to put together and compact. If you’re short on space, this could be a great option for your little sleeper. Just be prepared to pay a little extra for an oval mattress and the correct fitting sheets. ★★★★
Tested by: Jill who is mum to Grace, aged six months.
Our baby gear expert says: The Oasis Oval Cot by Boori is a distinctive, curved cot bed made from sustainable solid wood. It has two base heights; a high setting for babies and a lower level for pre-toddlers. It converts easily from a cot to a stylish toddler bed or sofa. Unlike any of the other cot beds we tested, this has lockable castors. This means it’s easy to move between rooms. Alternatively, you can position it close to your bed at night instead of using a Moses basket or bedside crib.
Our tester, Jill, says she found the cot “exceedingly easy” to put together. “That’s a real bonus for a time-stretched parent,” she says. The oval design was a particular hit. “When Grace rolls around in the cot, she doesn’t get stuck in a corner as she might in a rectangular cot,” she says.
“The shape also means the cot bed can take centre stage in a child’s bedroom, rather than being shoved up against a wall. It’s also smaller than many cots, so it’s good for a smaller nursery. Also, the fact that it’s suitable from birth is a huge selling point. Since it’s so compact, it doesn’t feel too overbearing next to the bed. This means you could realistically use it instead of a bedside crib.”
Another advantage of the size and shape of this cot is the fact that it fits through standard door frames. This means it’s super easy to move into a nursery or toddler bedroom when the time comes for your little one to sleep in their own room.
And when your child becomes a toddler, one end can be removed and you can add a foot bar so the child can climb in and out. Later on, you’ll also have the option of removing the side to turn the bed into a child’s sofa. “I am a little nervous that entry via the foot of the bed may be slightly bizarre for a toddler,” says Jill. “Also, it may be tricky when she needs to get out of bed quickly. However, it’s great that you don’t have to worry about little ones falling out of bed, or buy a separate bed guard.”
Verdict: Thanks to its compact design, this Oasis Oval Cot by Boori is a great fit for those short on space and love the look of something a bit different. It will also suit little sleepers who tend to move around in their sleep, as the oval design means they won’t get ‘stuck’.
Best for small rooms
(Image credit: Ickle Bubba)
Buy it if
✅ You’re on a budget: At £209 the Ickle Bubba Coleby Mini is one of the the most affordable options in our guide.
✅ You want a cot bed that’s small in size: Measuring in at 95 x 65 x 124 cm, this is slightly smaller than many other cot beds on the market. This makes it ideal if space is tight.
Don’t buy it if:
❌ You value quality finishes: Our tester found that the paint finish was a little patchy in places and upon expection, one of the screw holes hadn’t been drilled all the way through. If you’re after a high-end cot bed with more innovative features, the Willox or Nostalgia could be a better fit.
The bottom line
🔎 Ickle Bubba Colby mini cotbed We’d say this suits those who want a small sleep solution for their little dreamer. It does what it needs to and doesn’t have lots of fancy innovations but that’s reflected in the £200 price. ★★★★
Tested by: Catherine and her son Robin, aged 19 months.
Our baby gear expert says: This ‘mini’ model is smaller than standard cot beds, so it’s ideal for smaller bedrooms. It’s also a good choice if you’re looking for a neutral cot bed that will look good alongside existing nursery decor or furniture.
The Coleby Mini Cotbed is designed for use up to around four years of age. It has three mattress positions, meaning you can lower the base to prevent your little one from climbing out. When it’s time to move on from a cot, it’s easy to convert to a toddler bed. For extra storage, an under drawer is sold separately. A cot top changer is also available in the same range.
Our tester, Catherine liked the compact design and neutral colour. In addition, she found it easy to assemble.
Our tester, Catherine, says: “It’s a sleek and stylish cot bed that would look good in any nursery. It’s also narrow enough to fit through a standard doorway without needing to be taken apart and reassembled. That means it’s handy if you plan to move it into another bedroom in future.
“However, one of the screw holes hadn’t been drilled all the way through and the paint finish was a little patchy in places, but I had this assembled by myself in less than 50 minutes.”
If you’re looking for a cot bed that’s robust enough to suit an energetic toddler, this is one of the best cot beds you could go for. “It feels very solid and well built, with very little ‘give’ in the structure,” says Catherine. “My ‘wriggle bum toddler puts it through its paces by thrashing about at night and trying to wobble the sides when he wakes up. So far, it has coped with everything he’s thrown at it.”
Verdict: Overall, this is a good choice if you have a small nursery or bedroom. It’s impressively sturdy and built to last, yet super affordable.
10. Best sleigh bed design
(Image credit: Ickle Bubba)
Buy it if:
✅ You want a stylish design: It’s good value, well-built and can be used for years to come. If you ask us, cot beds don’t come any more timeless than that!
✅ Having storage is key: And let’s face it, when is it not? Like a handful of other cot beds in this guide, the Ickle Bubba Snowdon comes kitted out with a space-saving under-bed, wheel-out storage drawer.
Don’t buy it if:
❌ You have thick carpet: Our tester found that the wheels on the drawer made it difficult to roll over carpet. If drawers are a must, the Obaby Stamford Luxe Sleigh Cotbed, which comes with a gigantic under-the-cot drawer, might be a better fit.
The bottom line:
🔎 Ickle Bubba Snowdon Classic Cotbed This is a modern twist on a classic sleigh bed design, that’s height-adjustable so you can easily reach your newborn but also lower the base as your little one grows. If you want a 21st-century spin on the classic sleigh bed minus the usual cumbersome and bulky feel these designs can often come with, this is the best match. ★★★★
Tested by: Vicky and her six-month-old baby, Alicia.
Our baby gear expert says: The Snowdon is a sleigh bed in style, but it doesn’t have the bulky, chunky feel that you usually get from this type of cot bed. Instead, it has a slim, streamlined aesthetic but it doesn’t skimp on space-saving storage which is neatly tucked away under the bed with a wheel-out storage drawer.
This cot bed is also easy to assemble and it has a bed base that’s adjustable through three different settings as your child grows.
Our tester, Vicky, says: “The Snowdon is a sleigh bed that doesn’t take up the entire room. And it’s great that it adapts to become a toddler bed, so we’ll get years of use out of it.
“My son has just turned three and is still in the bed part of his old cot, so a cot bed is a good investment for several years. I also really like the look of the Snowdon Classic when it’s set up as a toddler bed.”
The under-bed storage drawer also makes it a good option if you’re battling with a smaller space. “Babies need so much stuff that you end up having to pack things under their cot,” our tester says. “Having the drawer means you can put it away neatly and roll it back out for access, rather than scrabbling around under the cot to find things stored there.”
While the Ickle Bubba Snowdon Cotbed is on the pricier side, its value comes in the years of use you’ll get from it. “It’s not cheap,” says Vicky. “But it has a simple, stylish design, and the storage drawer is genuinely useful, particularly if you need a cot bed for a small nursery.”
Verdict: The higher price point wouldn’t put Vicky off from recommending it to friends: “It’s stylish but not too bulky, and overall it looks and feels of good quality. It will last for years so it’s good value.”
11. Best Scandi style
(Image credit: Stokke)
Buy it if:
✅ You want a well-made bed: Stokke has earned itself a brilliant rep in baby world and this cot bed is a testament to that. Crafted with 100% beech wood, the brand’s quality-led Scandinavian design shines through in this oval-shaped creation.
✅ You’re looking for longevity: Thanks to the adjustable height positions, this will serve you and your baby up until the age of five.
Don’t buy it if:
❌ You’re on a budget: Priced at over £500, this isn’t a budget-buy. Therefore, this is best suited to parents who are happy to spend a little bit more on a premium product that’s stylish and a long-term investment. If you like the oval look and feel, at £439 the Oasis Oval is slightly more affordable than Stokke’s offering.
The bottom line:
🔎 Stokke Sleepi cot bed The Stokke Sleepi crib is a stylish and premium cot that grows with your baby. It’s easy to put together, it looks great and the quality is second to none. We love the oval finish, but it’s important to highlight this might limit the choice of bed sheets available to you. Priced at £563, it’s an investment buy, but our tester thinks it’s worth it. ★★★★
Tested by: Charlie and her 13 month old, Seb.
Our baby gear expert says: Stokke is a premium brand for children’s products such as high chairs and nursery equipment and the Stokke Sleepi Cot Bed is another great example of this quality-led Scandi business.
Made from 100% beech wood and coming with a smooth oval finish, this is a premium product. Stokke produces the ‘Mini’ cot, which is suitable from birth. The Sleepi is the next size up, and is suitable for children up to five years old. Our tester particularly liked the look of this cot bed and also the way it can ‘grow’ with the child – as the side can be removed to turn it into a toddler bed.
Our tester, Charlie, says: “Once put together, the design was very stylish — the natural colourway looked great in Seb’s room, and I think it would work well with most nursery palettes. The quality of the mattress felt really good – it was firm, and even withstood a few bouncing sessions from Seb!”.
“The quality of the wood was also really good – again, with a toddler who has a tendency to chew on things, it retained its freshness while we were reviewing it and didn’t come away with too many scratches and dents.”
Verdict: This is perfect for someone who is happy to spend a little bit more on a premium product that’s stylish and a long-term investment. “I have – friends who are expecting I’ve suggested getting the Mini and then expanding it to the Sleepi so that they have a product that’ll last their little one for years and they’re not spending out on multiple cots like many of us do,” Charlie says. “It’s more expensive than some other cots but lasts a long time and is really good quality.”
12. Best for storage
(Image credit: Obaby)
Buy it if:
✅ You’ve got a big nursery: “One of my favourite things about the cot is actually the drawer underneath,” parent tester Grace Holliday said. “Not only does it have a huge 77L capacity, split in two with a divider, it is really smooth to pull out and put back.”
✅ You’re after a cot bed with added extras: Along with the gigantic storage drawer, this product comes with a teething rail and adjustable heights.
Don’t by if:
❌ You have nowhere to store the extra cot bed parts: “Because it goes up to four years, there are some additional pieces you’ll need to have space to store away for use down the line,” our tester explained. “When she outgrows it, we plan to use it as a day bed for her to play on in the other corner of her room,” she said.
The bottom line:
🔎 Obaby Stamford Luxe Sleigh Cotbed This is a larger-than-usual sleigh-style cot bed with a huge storage drawer underneath that slides out smoothly. This cot bed gets bonus points because it comes with a teething rail and three adjustable height settings. This means you can use this bed from birth up until the age of four. ★★★★
Tested by: Grace and her 11 month old daughter.
Our baby gear expert says: It’s important to note that this cot bed is very large in size. So if you have a small nursery, this might not be the best cot bed for you. Size aside, this roomy cot bed has an impressive (and traditional) sleigh design. We love the fact that it comes with plenty of great extras like a gigantic storage drawer, a teething rail and three adjustable heights. This means it grows with your child up to the age of four.
Our tester, Grace, says: “We knew the Obaby Stamford Luxe Sleigh Cot Bed was going to be generously sized by looking at the measurements online before its arrival, but we were still surprised to see it arrived in three separate, and very large, boxes.”
Despite its bulky size, Grace found the cot bed easy to assemble. “All the pieces were well packaged, with no damage or dents. It took us about ten minutes to unpack everything, and take all the empty boxes outside,” she said.
“It only took 20-30 minutes to put together, as each side piece and base can be reassembled. There were no slats to put into place ourselves. Everything we needed, aside from a screwdriver, was in the box, including an Allen key. The drawer was also easy to put together.”
Grace liked the subtle teething rail – essential when little ones start gnawing on everything in sight. “On this top bar comes a plastic rail, which was already attached, and is especially made to be safe for baby or child to chew on while they’re teething. This means that their teeth are protected, and the wood of the cot is protected too!”
Verdict: It’s worth noting that, while you get everything you need with this large cot, you don’t need it all at the same time and there will be parts that you’ll have to store away.
Therefore, due to its relatively large size, it would be better for someone who has a larger nursery and plenty of space. Grace thought that the Obaby Stamford Luxe Sleigh Cotbed would also suit ‘someone who is looking for a long-lasting cotbed that doesn’t scrimp on appearance or bonus features.’
5 things to consider before buying a cot bed
1. A cot bed saves you money
The benefit of a cot bed is obvious; it converts from a cot to a bed. This means you won’t need to buy a toddler bed when your baby outgrows the cot and is ready to start sleeping in a big bed. In other words, you’ll save money. And who doesn’t like doing that?!
2. A cot bed helps your child cope with change
But the other advantage of a cot bed is that it can help your little one to make the transition from sleeping in a cot to moving into a bed. It’s a big change for a little one, and the familiarity of going to sleep in the same piece of furniture can help to smooth this important transition.
3. Check the cot bed dimensions before you buy
Before you decide which is the best cot bed, remember that your baby should sleep in the same room as you for the first six months of life. That means it’s important to check the dimensions of the cot bed to ensure it will fit in your bedroom if you plan to use if from birth. Some cot beds are bulkier than others so if you’re short on space in your room, choose one of the more compact models. Alternatively, you could use a Moses basket beside your bed for the first six months and then move your baby into a cot bed in the nursery.
4. Don’t forget to think about the visuals
It’s easy to get caught up in the spec or the safety features when you’re shopping for the best cot bed but don’t forget to consider the design and style of your baby’s room. Since a cot bed will be in use for longer than a standard cot, choose one that will suit the look and feel of your little one’s first bedroom.
5. Location, location, location
Also, think about where you plan to position your baby’s cot or toddler’s cot bed. A cot or cot bed should be kept well away from radiators to reduce the risk of your baby overheating. Never place a cot near windows or looped window blind cords either if you have them, as these are a safety risk.
How to choose the best cot bed
There are three factors to take into consideration when deciding which is the best cot bed for you:
- Price – Work out your budget, taking into account that you won’t need to fork out for a toddler bed at a later date if you choose a cot bed.
- Size – Measure the space where you’ll be using the cot. The safest place for your baby to sleep during the first six months is in a bed of their own in same room as you, but after six months your baby can sleep in a cot in a room of their own. Don’t forget to check it fits both rooms!
- Functionality – Decide which features are essentials and which you can live without. A storage drawer is handy for keeping spare bedding, nappies and sleepsuits, especially if you’re short on storage space, but think carefully about this is an important design feature that you’re willing to pay more for.
Cot bed safety
How can you make sure a cotbed is safe?
All cots and cot beds on sale must comply with British safety standards and should bear the code BSEN716. When buying a cot mattress, look out for the BSI number BS 1877-10:1997.
There are several important things to keep in mind when shopping for a cotbed for your baby, including the following:
- Cot bars: These should be vertical, with a distance of no more than 6.5cm between the bars. This is to ensure your baby’s limbs don’t get stuck between the bars.
- Depth and space: The distance between the top of the mattress and the top of the cot sides should be at least 50cm, to help prevent your baby from climbing out of the cot.
- Circulation: Some experts recommend cots with four sides that have bars (instead of just two and two enclosed sides) to allow air to circulate freely around your baby.
Not only does the cotbed need to comply with a variety of rules and regulations; the mattress does too.
- New is best: Buying a new mattress is strongly recommended. It must be clean, dry, free from cracks and tears with no sagging.
- Firm: Choose a firm mattress rather than a soft one, and make sure it’s no thinner than 8cm.
- Size matters: There are two sizes of cot mattresses – standard and continental. Check which one will fit the cotbed you choose.
- Hygiene: It’s a good idea to choose a mattress with a removable, machine-washable cover. We hate to mention it, but nappies sometimes leak! A mattress protector is also a good idea for the same reason.
What about cot bed mattress safety?
For more information on both cot and mattress safety, our baby bed safety guide has all the info you need in regards to keeping your little one as safe as possible.
So-called budget brands are sometimes a cause for debate. It goes without saying that safety is a priority when shopping for a cot, but cheaper brands still have to pass product quality and safety tests and are sometimes manufactured by the same companies as more exclusive cot brands.
Second-hand cots are okay but do check that they comply with the latest British safety standards.
What is the best baby cot for small spaces?
We believe the Ickle Bubba Coleby Mini Cot Bed makes for the best cotbed for small spaces thanks to its compact size and its sturdy stature. Measuring in at 95cm high, 65cm wide and with a diameter of 124cm, this mini cot really is small in size.
This cotbed is suitable from birth until around 4 years old and is ideal for those with smaller bedrooms, sloped ceilings or for anyone who doesn’t want a cotbed taking up too much floor space. Then, you just need to split the ends to convert the cot into a bed fit for your toddler.
Our review process
Our Deputy Editor Heidi Scrimgeour came up with a shortlist of cot beds based on her product knowledge and industry research. She looked at the latest offering from the market-leading brands – and as a mum of three and a parenting journalist for 15 years, what she doesn’t know about baby products isn’t worth knowing.
Next, she selected the final product line-up from a broad range of price points to ensure there’s a best cot bed recommendation here to suit all budgets. Then, we called on our pool of reliable parent testers and assigned them each a cot bed to review with their baby. They tested the product rigorously for at least two weeks but often much longer.
After this, our parent testers gave each product a rating out of five for overall performance. We also asked for comprehensive feedback on key factors including design appeal, functionality, sturdiness, value for money, and how easy each cot bed was to assemble and convert to a toddler bed. We used all of this feedback to create this best cot bed buying guide and the accompanying in-depth product reviews.
Read more about how we test to see why you can rely on our guidance.
Once you’ve settled on the best cot bed, take a look at our guide to choosing the best cot mattress. If you’re not convinced a cot bed is right for you, read about the best Moses baskets and the best bedside cribs instead. And to prep for some seriously sound sleeping, check out the best baby monitors and the best baby sleeping bags.
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