Cheap Cot Beds
The sleigh-style cot is beautiful and will last for years with two height settings for the mattress base. Our 2022 Gold award-winning model can be converted into a toddler bed, and even has teething rails.
The sturdy wooden frame is also easy to assemble and comes with clear instructions. It can also be converted into a chic bench-style bed for older children.
Great Little Trading Company Little Wren Cot Bed
Our judges were impressed by this beautifully designed cot-bed. They were enthralled by the Scandi-inspired design and the soothing combination of white with natural ash-wood sourced sustainably. Small dimensions, three height settings and the ability to convert it to a Junior or Toddler bed make it a fantastic choice for small spaces. It also ranks highly in terms of safety, since it is one of the two cots in this guide with an integrated teething bar to stop your child from chewing on the sides.
This cot includes an Ickle Bubba sprung mattress made of high-quality, dent-resistant nursery foam and a matching under-cot drawer with castors, so you can store all your essential baby items close to hand without having them out in the open. This is a simple purchase that won't cost you a budget. It will also work well in any nursery because it comes in white, gray or a mix of both.
Mamas & Papas has a fantastic selection of cots that are affordable and come with a lot of extras. It is simple and uncluttered with a grey-brown or a white finish. A removable panel transforms it into an infant bed. It's simple to assemble and has two different mattress bases. The only drawback is that you'll have to purchase the mattress separately. However, cots 4 tots considering if all extras are included at an affordable price.
This is an excellent option for those on a tight budget who wish to furnish their nursery. It comes with the changing table as well as an storage drawer. Our reviewer Carolyn loved the way it slides effortlessly into the base of the cot, and that it offered plenty of room for a changing mat as well as a basket of nappies, wipes, and creams. However, she did mention, that it can be tricky to put together and that the instructions aren't always clear. It was also heavy for our testers, so be aware of that if you plan to move it yourself.
John Lewis Anyday Elementary Cot Bed
For a budget option that doesn't sacrifice quality, this cot bed from John Lewis is a great choice. It has 3 mattress height positions, so your baby can use it from birth and includes teething rails. The cot also has the nappy changing station as well as a storage drawer. It's simple to put together and comes with clear instructions. However, should you be worried about putting it together yourself, John Lewis offers an assembly service for a cost of PS60 which includes fixing it to the wall (if necessary) and the removal of all packaging.
The cot is stylish and modern. It is also easy to clean. The side panels can be moved to various positions to allow you to adjust it to your child as they grow and develop. It's a great value and is made from FSC pine and you can be sure that it will last.
A lot of parents choose to buy an cot bed that will convert to a toddler bed when they are ready. They are more expensive than a standard crib but they will last longer and can be used as a sofa or a daybed for your child.
Cots that convert into beds can cost as low as PS40 however, you'll need to buy a separate mattress. If you're looking for a low-cost cot that will last, try the Ikea Sniglar Cot Bed, which is the most affordable cot on this list according to our MadeForMums 2022 awards. It can also accommodate a standard cot bed mattress (not included).
Another great cot bed in our round-up is the SnuzKot. It starts off as a compact cot then transforms into an elegant toddler bed, before becoming a sofa or daybed that can be used as a bed. It's a great option for smaller nurseries and can be upgraded with an extension kit that allows it to last up to 10 years.
La Redoute Willox Adjustable Cot Bed
With rattan's resurgence in interiors, this beautiful cot bed from French retailer La Redoute is sure to add texture and warmth to your nursery. It might not be the cheapest crib available (you'll require an additional mattress) but it looks far more expensive than it is and it will grow with your child until it becomes a toddler bed, then a junior sofa, and eventually a full-size bed.
It's a gorgeous choice for a retro-inspired nursery and would also work well with more modern schemes. The neutral colors can be used with all room palettes and there's plenty of scope to make changes as your child gets older.
Cot beds come in a variety of different styles and sizes, so it's essential to think about what type will best suit your space. You should also consider what features you'd like to invest in such as an storage drawer, teething rails and adjustable heights to make them last longer.
A cot that can be converted into a toddler bed, sofa or even a bed is the ideal choice if you intend to keep it in use for as long as you can. This stunning sleigh by British brand Obaby might not be the cheapest but it's an elegant option with a stunning look. It's also durable and safe and comes with a variety of mattress positions to keep it at the appropriate height as your child grows.
All cots and cot beds should meet certain safety standards, so make sure that the one you select is built with a solid frame, a stable base that doesn't have gaps, and bars that aren't bent or broken. Look for cots with additional safety features such as anti-drop bar to prevent your child from falling off the bed.
Most cots and cot beds will need to be purchased with a mattress that is suitable that is usually included in the price or can be purchased separately. Check that the mattress is of the right size for the cot you are considering, as incorrect dimensions can cause discomfort or sagging. Some cots are constructed of wood, while others could be constructed from MDF. If you decide to purchase a wooden cot, ensure that the slats are made of birch or plywood, not MDF. These are more durable.
Mamas & Papas Little Angel Cot Bed
This Mamas and Papas cot bed is a stylish option with a variety of features. It is easy to assemble, looks great and features a curved edge that is perfect for the baby. There are also practical hanging rails on either side for blankets or dummies. The cot can be adjusted to three heights and can be transformed into a toddler bed. It's durable enough to last your child for the first four years. The sides of the cot are fixed, which makes it more stable than traditional dropside cots. Teething rails are included to protect your child's paintwork from being chewed on.
Megan, a panellist from Parent Approved is a fan of this cot-bed for its beautiful design and added functionality. She particularly loves the base drawer which is perfect for storing blankets and bedding. It is easy to open and shut, and has a soft-close finish to avoid the baby from being disturbed while they sleep. The cot has high sides that protect your baby from climbers from climbing, and teething rails at both ends. The dummy hanger is especially helpful for those late night feedings, and there's plenty of space underneath to keep books and toys too.
This Mamas and Papas Metro cot bed is a great choice for parents looking to purchase a chic cot that will fit into a smaller nursery. It features three adjustable cot bases, so that your baby can rest comfortably as they develop. It also converts into a toddler's bed, saving the cost of furniture upgrades when the growth spurts begin. Its sleek, minimalist design is sturdy and safe for your baby. It's also decorated in a two-tone color scheme that will match any design.
The only downside to this cot is that it does not include a drop mechanism. This could be a problem when your child grows into an adult and you have to put them in the cot without having to disturb them. However, you can buy a cheap mattress separately to be used with it, that will offer the same functionality as any other cot.