10 of the best cots and cot beds for babies and toddlers 2024

Lucy Shrimpton advises parents to think practically when choosing a sleep product. She says, “Know where you want your child to sleep: for example do you want something that will last from newborn to 3 years and above, or do you want something smaller that you can upgrade? Really understand your objectives, the life of the product and where it’s going to fit.”

Best cots and cotbeds for babies at a glance

• Best cotbed for convertibility: Boori Eton Convertible Plus Cotbed, £599
• Best cotbed for integrated toddler bed guard: Obaby Maya Cotbed, £350
• Best cotbed for simplicity: John Lewis & Partners Anyday Elementary Cotbed, £155
• Best cotbed for easy assembly: Babymore Luno Cotbed, £339
• Best budget cot: Ikea Sniglar Cot, £69
• Best cotbed for colour options Tutti Bambini Modena Cotbed, £249
• Best cotbed for a modern look: SnuzKot Skandi Cotbed, £349
• Best cot for newborns: Kinderkraft Koya Baby Cot, £329
• Best luxury investment cotbed: Stokke Sleepi Cotbed, £563
• Best cotbed for extra storage space: Obaby Stamford Classic Sleigh Cotbed, £268.76

In our list, you'll from options for different budgets and different sized rooms, and various designs with a plethora of functions to suit every family. You'll find cots that convert into beds for use long past the baby stage, and others that offer great value for those first couple of years only. Each one is best for a different kind of family and situation.

If you're also considering what bedding to pick we have a list of bedding sets for cot beds and toddler beds too. Additionally, if your baby is sleeping in a separate room to you, it's worth thinking about a good baby monitor to keep an eye (or ear) on them. If you need a comfy pillow for yourself, have a look at our list of recommendations. Looking for a great deal? We've found the best Prime Day baby deals and Prime Day toy deals for you.

Which should I choose - a cot or cotbed?

Cot – Cots will typically last you until your child is around 2 years old. They tend to be slightly smaller than cotbeds – so good if you’re short of space. Cots are also normally cheaper than cotbeds. “We got a cot rather than a cotbed mainly due to the lack of space in the nursery,” sais parent tester Anita. “We couldn't have fitted anything even slightly bigger.”

Cotbed – You use cotbeds for the first 2 years or so as a cot, and then transform them into a toddler bed when your child is ready to move into their first bed. The bed can then last for another couple of years, or longer with expansion packs. “We went for a cotbed as we wanted something that was long lasting and durable,” explained parent tester Rebecca.

Due to their longevity, cotbeds tend to be a bit more popular. Of the parents we spoke to, who bought a cot or cotbed for their baby, 64% chose a cotbed.

What to look for when buying a cot or cotbed

Length of use – If you have money to invest now, you may want to buy a cotbed that will convert to a toddler bed for more longevity. These do tend to be more expensive as they need to hold more weight for longer: some cotbeds are even versatile enough to last for 10 years or beyond but may require an extension kit. If you’re on a tight budget, you may wish to look for a good value cot instead.

Size – The most popular dimensions are 60 x 120cm for a cot, and 70 x 140cm for a cotbed. However, some brands (including some featured here) make their cots in slightly different sizes, which can affect your mattress and bedding choices. Check the cit will fit into your desired room and ensure there’s room to move around it. Remember that safe sleep guidelines state that your baby should sleep in the same room as you for the first 6 months. If a cot or cotbed won't fit in your room, consider a smaller bedside "next to me" crib or a moses basket until your child is old enough to sleep in their own room.

Mattress – The mattress is one of your most important baby purchases – it should be flat and firm and fit snugly with no gaps on any of the sides. Some cots and cotbeds are sold with mattresses, but do check the quality: it may be better to buy one separately.

Mattress heights – There’s a lot of bending over involved in putting your baby into a cot or cotbed. Many come with different base heights, enabling you to start with your newborn at a higher level. You then lower the level as your baby grows, especially once they start wanting to pull themselves up. Having different heights can be particularly helpful if you’ve had a caesarean.

Safety – The gap between the bars of cots and cotbeds should not exceed 6.5cm – any more and there may be a risk of babies getting their limbs or head trapped in between. Cots and cotbeds should meet the latest safety standard: BS EN716-1:2008+A1:2013. Mattresses should be checked for the standard BS 1877-10:2011+A1:2012 and/or BS EN 16890:2017+A1:2021.

Extra features – Some cots come with extra storage, which can be handy if your room is on the smaller side. Many cotbeds come with the option of buying a toddler bed guard to prevent your child from falling out of their bed. Some cots also come with a teething rail – you’d be surprised how many babies like to chew on cot sides and this can protect the edges.

Cost – Cots can start from around £40 and go up to around £500 for a high-end luxury model. Cotbeds tend to cost more, starting from around £200, but bear in mind that they’re designed to last longer that a cot, so may be more economical in the long run. Don’t forget the additional cost of a mattress. These can range from anywhere between £20 to £250.

Here are the best cots and cotbeds for babies and toddlers in 2023

1. Boori Eton Convertible Plus Cotbed, £595.80

– Best for convertibility

Suitable age: from birth and beyond to adult-sized bed (conversion kit sold separately for £199) | Mattress size: 132cm x 70cm | Mattress base positions: 2 | Size: L147cm x H90cm x D84cm

While most cot beds can be transformed into a toddler bed, with the help of a conversion kit (sold separately), the Boori Eton Convertible Plus Cot Bed goes one better and turns into an adult-sized double bed (L207cm x W147cm x H90cm) or a daybed/sofa, making it the longest-lasting choice on our list.

Parent tester Becki says her Boori cot "has lasted 3 children and is still in amazing condition and so strong and sturdy," so for longevity, this cot really seems to deliver. It has a traditional style that will work in most rooms, and is made from sustainably sourced Australian Araucaria and New Zealand Radiata wood.

With the cot you get the feeling each conversion has really been thought through. When you convert it from a cot to toddler bed, you can leave 3 sides up for reassurance, and add a toddler rail as an extra safety feature. As a double bed, it looks so timeless you'd never believe it was once a cot.

Pros: Will take you right up to adult-sized double bed, sturdily built
Cons: Have to buy toddler guard and extension kit separately

Available from: Boori

2. Obaby Maya Cotbed, £340

– Best for integrated toddler bed guard

Suitable age: from birth - 4 years old (approx.) | Mattress size: 140cm x 70cm | Mattress base positions: 3 | Size: L75cm x H89m x D145cm

It's no surprise that the Obaby Maya cot bed is a previous MadeForMums Awards winner, it's a stylish cotbed option with some lovely features and a beautiful, two-tone Scandinavian inspired look that rivals the SnuzKot (although this one only comes in 2 colourways). "The product is absolutely beautiful and worth the money," said MFM home tester Samantha, who tested the Maya with her 3 month old and was really impressed by the design of the cot. She continued, "the cot itself is very stylish and modern — it's lovely to look at."

Although it's an investment and one of the pricier options on our list, our testers thought that it offers real value which makes the price worth it. MFM home tester Sinead, who used the Maya in toddler bed mode with her 2 year old (pictured), was really impressed by the cotbed and said "it is well made and definitely worth the money. The quality and style are definite selling points." Her daughter, Sorcha, was equally impressed too as Sinead said "my daughter is very happy in the bed. It is the perfect height for her to get in and out by herself and she loves the independence it gives her."

It has an adjustable three-position base height and the side is removable so it can easily turn into a toddler bed, lasting up until age 4. It also includes an integrated safety rail, to assist in the transition to toddler bed. It doesn't come with a mattress, but since it takes a standard 120cm x 60cm one, it’s easy to find a suitable cotbed mattress.

Although relatively easy to build and set up — taking about 30 minutes — our testers did report that the instructions could have been clearer, especially when it comes to adjusting the mattress to the different levels.

If you're short on space, it's also available as a mini cotbed (£285).

Pros: Statement-making design, 3 heights, toddler rail included
Cons: Expensive, instructions could be clearer

Available from: Baby Planet, Amazon and Obaby

3. John Lewis & Partners Anyday Elementary Cotbed, £155

– Best for simplicity

Suitable age: from birth to 4 years | Mattress size: 140cm x 70cm | Mattress base positions: 3

For a budget option that doesn’t skimp on quality design and build, you can’t go far wrong with the Elementary cotbed from John Lewis's Anyday range.

Like many of its higher priced competitors, it comes with 3 mattress height positions for use from birth until age 4, plus teething rails for protection. The bars of the cot extend all the way round, which gives a good view into the cot from all angles. It’s also made from FSC pine so it's a sturdy choice, and with a modern white finish it has a simple yet contemporary feel.

The cot comes with clear instructions, but if you're concerned about being able to put it together – or simply don't have time – John Lewis offers an assembly service for an addition £60 which also includes fixing it to the wall (if required) and disposal of all packaging.

Pros: Affordable, modern finish
Cons: May be difficult to assemble by yourself

Available from: John Lewis

4. Babymore Luno Cot Bed, £339

– Best for easy assembly

Suitable age: from birth to 4 years | Mattress size: 140cm x 70cm | Mattress base positions: 3 | Size: L 149cm x D 76cm x H 88cm

Our testers were really impressed by the solid construction and modern design of this cot bed. "It looks more expensive than it is," said MFM home tester Laura, who added, "the oak and white finish is quite pretty and fits in well with my daughter's bedroom."

The optional storage drawer, teething rails, and 3 adjustable heights ensure this cot is practical as well as stylish, and it also earned points for being simple to construct. "It was extremely easy to put together...the instructions were very clear and easy to read with pictures," said MFM tester Gina.

It takes a standard cotbed mattress, although this is not provided. The underbed drawer also comes as an added extra: it'll set you back £69, but there are other matching items too, including a cot-top changer and furniture.

Pros: Stylish, easy to put together
Cons: Accessories cost extra

Available from: Samuel Johnston and Babymore

5. Ikea Sniglar Cot, £69

– Best budget buy

Suitable age: from birth to 2 years | Mattress size: 60cm x 120cm/70cm x 140cm | Mattress base positions: 2 | Size: L124cm x H80cm x D66cm

Ikea is a one-stop-shop for anyone on a budget and the Sniglar cot is no exception. Launched in 2008, the simple design has proved to be a major winner with parents, as it’s been a bestseller ever since.

At just £40, it’s the best value cot on our round-up by quite a margin and with a slim profile and neat frame, it’s just the ticket if you’re tight on space or if you need a more permanent sleeping arrangement at a grandparent’s house.

This was a feature our MFM reviewer praised, saying, “The dimensions of the Sniglar, with its ever-so-slim profile and neat frame – are as small as you can manage in a full-size cot, making it perfect for cramped flats or small spaces.”

The simple design will sit perfectly in most nurseries with customers saying they didn’t feel like they were sacrificing quality for a budget price. One customer says, “I bought it when my baby had to move from ‘next to me’ to a real crib so I fixed it on the lowest position straight away. It really works for us and I couldn’t fault it.”

Pros: Budget option, two sizes available
Cons: Only one colour option

Read our full MadeForMums review of the Ikea Sniglar cot

Available from: Ikea

6. Tutti Bambini Modena Cotbed, £229

– Best for colour options

Suitable age: from birth to 6 years | Mattress size: 140cm x 70cm | Mattress base positions: 3 | Size: L148cm x H85cm x D75cm

Tutti Bambini’s Modena Cotbed is designed to take you all the way up to 6 years and beyond, converting first into a junior bed, then a stylish sofa bed. It’s a great all-rounder with fixed teething rails on both sides and a 3-position adjustable base.

Depending on your preference there are 3 stylish colour options available, combining white, oak and grey woods to suit all kinds of nursery.

It’s simple and quick to build, with a solid construction that’ll withstand boisterous toddlers. It fits a standard cotbed mattress (140cm x 70cm).

Pros: Quick and easy to assemble, lasts from birth to 6 years
Cons: No bedguard on junior bed

Available from: Amazon, Wayfair and Tutti Bambini

7. SnuzKot Skandi Cotbed, £322

– Best for a modern look

Suitable age: from birth | Mattress size: 117cm x 68cm | Mattress base positions: 3 | Size: L133cm x H89cm x D72cm

The SnuzKot comes in a number of different colour and style variations, all with the brand's signature curvy shape. It transforms to a minimal-looking toddler bed, with an interim 3-sided option to help with the transition. An extension kit and mattress extender can then be purchased separately to take it up to 10 years.

For a cotbed, the SnuzKot has a compact footprint that makes it great for smaller nurseries. The downside of this is the non-standard mattress size (68cm x 117cm) which essentially means you have to buy the matching SnuzSurface mattress. However, we like this mattress so much it was among the Editor's Choice winners in the 2022 MadeForMums Awards. You may struggle to find fitted sheets that fit perfectly too; even Snuz's own are made to fit cotbeds up to 140cm x 70cm, so they still have to be carefully tucked in.

Putting this cot together takes some time, with our reviewer Carolyn stating, "The instructions don’t seem to flow very well." Once constructed, it's easy to move and there are 3 height levels for growing babies before you convert it to a bed.

Pros: Cool Scandinavian-inspired design, a good compact cotbed option
Cons: Mattress is non-standard in size, instructions are hard to follow.

Available from: Snuz, Samuel Johnston, John Lewis, Amazon

8. Kinderkraft Koya Baby Cot, £279

– Best for newborns

Suitable age: from birth to 2 years | Mattress size: 90 x 60 cm and 120 x 60 cm | Mattress base positions: 3 | Size: up to L124.1cm x H81.4cm x D63.6cm | Awards: Bronze – Baby cot/cotbed, MadeForMums Awards 2022

If you're keen to only buy one item from birth but you're not sure about putting a newborn straight into a full-sized cot, this cot offers the best of both worlds. It begins life as a compact cot that works fastened to your bed frame as a bedside crib, offering a drop-side function for easy access to your baby. This is a smaller and more cosy option for newborns that may work in small spaces.

Parent tester Tanpreet said, "The size of the cot is perfect for my little one, and also the fact that it can be extended is a bonus, as we can use it longer instead of buying another one."

Once your child is older it can be converted into a cot that takes a standard 120 x 60cm mattress (not provided). However, it's worth noting the the manufacturer advises that it's only suitable for use to around the age of 2, meaning you may need to move up to a toddler bed earlier than with some of the other models on this list.

Pros: Works as a bedside crib, wheels make it easy to move
Cons: Only suitable up to age 2, extra mattress needed

Available from: Kiddies Kingdom, Baby Planet and Pramworld

9. Stokke Sleepi Cotbed, £563

– Best luxury investment

Suitable age: from birth to 10 years (with conversion kit sold separately for £70) | Mattress size: 122cm x 70cm (bed mattress)/166cm x 74cm (junior mattress) | Mattress base positions: 2 | Size: L127cm x H86cm x D74cm

The Stokke Sleepi expands from cot to toddler bed as your child grows with the option to buy a junior conversion to take it all the way up to 9 years.

For easy manoeuvrability the Sleepi comes with lockable swivel wheels, which parent tester Elizabeth found helpful. She says, “Its wheels meant when our daughter was tiny we could use it in the living room for daytime naps.”

Unlike many other cots and cotbeds the mattress is included in the price, saving you having to find one to fit its oval shape. Stokke also says the included mattress is perforated to provide extra ventilation for your baby.

Pros: Lockable wheels, mattress included in the price
Cons: No teething rail

Read the full MadeForMums Stokke Sleepi Review

Available from: Stokke and Natural Baby Shower

10. Obaby Stamford Luxe Sleigh Cotbed, £268.76

– Best for extra storage space

Suitable age: from birth to 4 years | Mattress size: 140cm x 70cm | Mattress base positions: 3 | Size: L160cm x H100cm x D77cm | Awards: Silver – Baby cot/cotbed, MadeForMums Awards 2022

The Stamford Luxe Sleigh cot bed from Obaby comes with lots of nifty features including a handy drawer (with a 77L capacity) that slides underneath, as well as teething rails to protect your baby’s gums.

Parent tester Hayley said, "this is a very stylish, elegant looking cot. It is very heavy wood, beautifully finished with streak free paint, and the curves of the sleigh shape are very well designed and carved. It is obviously made from quality wood and the drawer is strong and easy to use even though it is quite heavy."

As a cot, it feels sturdy and looks classic and traditional. When you want to move your child into a bed, the sides can be removed to progress up to the next stage, without needing to purchase a separate extension kit. There's a transitional mode where 3 sides can be left up, which parent tester Ruth tested with her 2.5 year old. She described this as "a huge plus over other models" and said "it gave us and her confidence during the transition from her cot."

This solid and durable option will definitely last, and if you want to coordinate your nursery there's a whole host of other furniture options that coordinate with it.

It is worth noting that the drawer doesn’t come with wheels so it may be harder to slide out if you’ve got thick carpet.

Pros: Drawer for extra storage, no extension kit needed
Cons: Drawer tricky to manoeuvre

Available from: Amazon and Wayfair

Are drop-side cots safe?

If you suffer from a bad back or have had a caesarean, a cot which comes with drop down sides could be useful. These cots come with sides that slide down, making it easier to lift out your baby which helps to prevent strain on your back and stomach.

Drop-side cots are legal in the UK provided they have met the required safety standards, but nowadays you will tend to find that fixed sides are more popular. The potential danger with drop-down sides is that if the side gets stuck at a lower level, a young child could become stuck between the cot and mattress, or climb out of the cot entirely.

Cots with drop-sides are currently banned in the USA after instances where they caused a number of baby and toddler deaths. However, it’s important to remember that cots and cot beds in the UK are manufactured under different safety standards, and cannot be compared like for like.

We spoke to the UK’s Baby Products Association (BPA), who explained that in the UK there have been no reported instances of deaths involving drop-side cots that they are aware of. The BPA says that current safety standards for cots involve rigorous testing, including impact testing, which differ from the standard in the USA.

We also spoke to the CEO of the sleep charity The Lullaby Trust, Jenny Ward, who says, “Any drop down sides should only be lowered when you need to access and look after your baby, and the side should always be fully up when your baby is asleep or left unattended for a short period.”

Providing you follow the manufacturer’s instructions and use them correctly, drop down sides are a safe feature to have in the UK.

What mattress is best for my cot or cotbed?

Before deciding on a mattress, it’s crucial to check that it fits the dimensions of your cot or cotbed, which can be done by following the manufacturer's recommendations.

There shouldn’t be any gaps larger than 4cm between the mattress and cot or cotbed, to ensure your baby doesn’t become stuck.

Sleep consultant Lucy Shrimpton says, “The number one piece of advice here is to make sure it is safe with a flat, firm mattress that is not next to a radiator or near blinds.”

If your mattress is too soft there is a risk of suffocation if your baby rolls onto their front, so it’s important to check the firmness of your mattress when choosing one. It’s also important to check for any choking hazards like free hanging zips, though these should be covered when you use a fitted sheet over your baby’s mattress.

Take a look at our detailed guide to baby mattresses for further expert advice, and check out our 10 of the best baby and toddler mattresses for parent-tested recommendations.

Should I get a bedside crib or moses basket first before a cot or cotbed?

Many parents choose the option of having a bedside crib for moses basket for their baby for the first 6 months. These allow you to have your baby closer to your bed, but still follow the safety guidelines of keeping your baby in a separate cot or crib.

Bedside cribs feature sides that can be temporarily removed, which can be handy for night feeds and make it easier to soothe your baby.

Take a look at our detailed guide to the best bedside cribs for further information, where we’ve rounded up the best options that have been tried and tested by parents.

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