Best cot beds: these are the 11 top options according to parent-testers
Ace their sleep space from baby to toddlerhood and beyond with the best cot beds
Choosing between the best cot bed for your baby is no easy task — but that's where our parent-approved guide comes in.
The best cot beds do it all. Some double up as brilliant storage spaces for stashing spare bedding, most come with an adjustable mattress base so that it’s easier to reach your baby and others look like a work of art, while making for a comfy and safe spot to rest your little one’s head.
But aside from this, how do cot beds differ from conventional cots? Or the best beside cribs? Getting more bang for your buck, cot beds allow your baby to continue to sleep in it long after toddlerhood. A standard cot typically needs to be replaced with a bed once your child is around three years old, whereas you can simply convert a cot bed into a bed at this stage. So it's pretty handy, right?
But how do you find the best cot bed for your little one? Of course, the best cot bed for your baby is one that fits your budget, taste and wish list of features. Whether that’s in terms of size, style or storage space.
So, to help you work out which one to consider buying, we shortlisted our pick of the best cot beds and then assembled a panel of parents to put them to the test. All the cot beds featured are suitable from birth and we asked our testers to try out the cot beds for several weeks with their babies, aged between 12 weeks and two years old. Here’s what they had to say...
Heidi Scrimgeour is a mum of three and an experienced parenting and lifestyle journalist. She originally wrote this buying guide in 2020 before joining Goodto as Consumer Editor in 2021. In June 2023 Heidi rewrote this guide, refreshing the advice on how to choose the best cot bed and adding some new cot bed reviews.
The best cot beds
Best overall
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.
Buy it if: You're looking for a timeless, stylish, and robust cot bed. "There is a real sense of class about this cot bed - it oozes quality and you can tell it will last many years," says our tester Donna, mum to seven-month-old Daisy. It's also a good buy if you're a fan of easy assembly items. "I put it together on my own during one of Daisy’s shorter naps," adds Donna. "After initially putting the base too low by mistake, I then had practice changing the height and found it really straightforward to adjust."
Don't buy it if: You need a budget-friendly, affordable cot bed. However, if your budget can stretch to this, it's a worthwhile investment. "It has a solid pine frame and sturdy plywood base, and with the recommended Nutkin mattress (sold separately - £125) you'll have a beautiful, well-made cot bed that will last for years," adds Donna. "I looked at cheaper mattresses costing around £50 and the difference in quality is vast - it's well worth spending more money for better quality."
Best design appeal
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.
Buy it if: You're looking for a striking cot bed that will make a stylish centrepiece in the nursery. "I was curious to see it as colours can look different online but I wasn't disappointed," says our tester, Gemma Fromage-Crawford, mum to Boden, 13 months. "It's a beautiful shade of green. Previously, I had only 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 piece that looks great in a modern nursery."
Don't buy it if: You'd prefer a basic, inexpensive cot bed and you prioritise value for money over design aesthetics. That said, it's super robust and easily stood up to the ‘trampoline test’ inflicted on it by our tester. "Boden loves to hold onto the frame and bounce up and down," says Gemma. "He also uses the bars to pull himself to standing so the frame takes a lot of his weight. You can't always judge how robust baby furniture will be, but the Willox is very sturdy and well made."
Disclaimer: this is out of stock. We'll update the link as soon as the product is available.
Best for longevity
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.
Buy it if: You're a big fan of Scandi-chic design and want to invest in a beautiful cot bed that will last your child for years - right up until the age of 10 if you're happy to pay extra for the extension kit. "It has three mattress height settings which is a bonus and although it's not cheap, it's actually significantly less expensive than many other similar Scandi-inspired cots," says tester Kate, mum to Blake, aged six months. "And the fact that it can be used up to age four (or even ten) makes it a true investment piece."
Don't buy it if: You hate DIY as the assembly is tricky - but worth the effort. "It took two of us 90 minutes to put together," explains Kate. However, once it was eventually assembled she did conclude that it looks "amazing" in her baby's nursery. The finish on the wood isn't flawless - but it's made from natural beech wood with no MDF or veneer so that's to be expected. Do note that the mattress and extension kit have to be purchased separately so factor in the additional expense.
Best build quality
An elegant, timeless design with a smart, panelled look. The cot has adjustable height levels for your baby's safety. It is functional, beautiful, and good value for money if you factor in the years that it will be in use.
Buy it if: You're a fan of classic design and want a highly crafted cot bed that could be passed down to future generations. "It's a good choice if you have a boisterous toddler," adds our tester. "It's a safe and sturdy cot that is immovable by toddlers who might try to rock it." It's also very easy to build and took our tester just 12 minutes to assemble.
Don't buy it if: You'd prefer an inexpensive cot bed that you won't reuse or pass down. "This cot bed feels very solid and sturdy - it's comforting that there is no way my toddler can tip it over," says our tester. "It's expensive but it could take your baby from birth to four years, making it an investment piece of nursery furniture that can evolve with your family's needs.
Best value
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.
Buy it if: Value for money is your priority. "I didn't expect a storage drawer on an inexpensive cot bed but it's so useful and helps make a toddler's mess more manageable," says Emma. "I felt confident loading it with blankets, toys, and anything I want to hide neatly out of sight. The sleek, minimal design isn't spoiled as an extra panel covers the drawer.
Don't buy it if: A flawless finish matters to you and value for money is less important. The cot rattled when our tester's baby was restless and the finish isn't perfect. "The screws are visible on the edges of the wood, which detracts a little from the overall minimal, stylish look," says Emma. "The edge of the bed guard also seems a little sharp on the corners."
Disclaimer: this is out of stock. We'll update the link as soon as the product is available.
Best for assembly
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.
Buy it if: You have plenty of space and want a cot bed that's relentlessly sturdy - a good choice if you hope to grow your family. "This is a beautiful, stylish cot bed that'll save you money and hassle," says tester Annie Quinn, mum to Leo, 12 weeks. "The storage drawer is a lifesaver with limited storage space. I keep sheets, blankets, swaddles, and towels in it."
Don't buy it if: You're short on space because this is bulkier than other cot beds. Overall, however, Annie feels it's a classy and well-made cot bed. "It's a bit pricey 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."
Best budget buy
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.
Buy it if: "We tested this as a toddler bed and our daughter took to it really well." says Gabrielle, mum to Milla, aged two. "I think she likes the feeling of being in a cot with the accessibility of a bed. She's had six nights' undisturbed sleep, which is a miracle!" Highly affordable, it's available in four colours with lots of accessories available to coordinate your look.
Don't buy it if: You don't like budget buys or think they're sometimes a false economy because you end up replacing it when it doesn't stand the test of time - although 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 a lot, this is the best cot bed for money savers.
Best cot with wheels
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.
Buy it if: You want a compact cot bed that fits beside your bed and is easy to move when the time comes for your little one to sleep in their own room. It's also "exceedingly easy" to put together according to our tester, Jill Reilly, mum to Grace, aged six months. "The shape also means it can take centre stage in a child's bedroom, rather than being shoved up against a wall."
Don't buy it if: You'd prefer a conventional toddler bed. "You remove one end (and later have the option of turning it into a child's sofa) so I'm nervous that entry via the foot of the bed may be slightly bizarre for a toddler," says Jill. "Also, it may be tricky to get out of bed quickly. However, you don't have to buy a separate bed guard or worry about falling out of bed."
Best for small rooms
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.
Buy it if: You want a cot bed that's robust enough to suit an energetic toddler. "It feels very solid and well built, with very little 'give' in the structure," says our tester, Catherine Lofthouse, mum to Robin, 19 months. "My wriggly toddler thrashes about at night and tries to wobble the sides when he wakes up but it has coped with everything he's thrown at it."
Don't buy it if: You'd prefer a full-sized cot. The finish isn't perfect either. "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," says Catherine. "It's also easy to move into another bedroom in the future."
- Read our full Little Wren Cot Bed review
5 things to consider
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.
- Size - Measure the space where you'll be using the cot, factoring in that you may wish to use it from birth and that the safest place for your baby to sleep during the first six months is in a bed of their own in the room where you sleep. After six months, your baby could sleep in a cot in a room of their own.
- 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 space, but consider whether it's a design feature that you're happy to pay more for.
Cot Bed Safety
How can you make sure a cot bed is safe?
All cots and cot beds sold must comply with British safety standards. If it bears the code BSEN716, the cot is safe to use. 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 cot 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 to allow air to circulate freely around your baby.
Not only does the cot 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 is compatible with the cot 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 - and babies - 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?
Why you can trust GoodTo. Our experienced Consumer Editor & parent reviewers spend hours testing products to help you make the best choice. Find out how we test and review products.
We believe the Ickle Bubba Coleby Mini Cot Bed makes for the best baby cot 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 cot is suitable from birth until around 4 years old and is ideal for those who are working with small spaces, sloped ceilings or for anyone who doesn’t want to eat into floor space. Then, when you’re ready, you simply 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 so there's a best cot bed recommendation here to suit all budgets. Then, we called on our pool of reliable parent testers and assigned each of them a cot bed to review with their baby. They tested the product rigorously for at least ten days.
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 (how easy is it to assemble and move between rooms), 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 so 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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As a parenting specialist for more than 15 years, Heidi has written for most national newspapers and for a wide range of consumer magazines, including Mother & Baby where she was the Shopping Editor for six years, looking after regular consumer features including buying guides and gift roundups.
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