Cheap Cot Beds
This sleigh-style crib is stunning and will last for many years. It comes with two height settings on the mattress base. It was the winner of our 2022 Gold Award. It can be converted into a toddler's bed, and includes teething bars.
The sturdily-made wooden frame also is easy to put together, and comes with clear instructions. It can also be transformed into a chic bed that can be used as an adult bench.
Great Little Trading Company Little Wren Cotbed
Our judges were awestruck by this beautifully designed cot-bed. They were impressed by the Scandi-inspired design as well as the soothing combination of white with natural ash-wood sourced sustainably. Its compact proportions, three height positions and the possibility of converting it into a toddler or Junior bed make it a great choice for smaller spaces. It also scores highly for safety, as it's one of only cots in our list with an integrated teething rail that protects your child from gnawing on the sides.
This crib is equipped with an Ickle Bubba sprung mattress made of premium dent-resistant nursery foam, and an under-cot drawer with castors which allows you to keep all the essential baby items close to hand without leaving them out in the open. This is a minimalistic purchase that won't break the budget. It will also work well in any nursery since it is available in gray, white, or a combination of both.
If you're looking to buy a cheap cot that has extras look no further than this mama-approved choice from Mamas & Papas. It's minimalist and clean with a grey-brown or white finish and an easily removed panel that transforms it into an infant bed. It's easy to assemble too and has two mattress base positions. The only drawback is that you must buy the mattress separately, but it's worth a look for those who want all the additional features for a price that doesn't break the bank.
This is a great choice when you're planning to outfit your nursery on a shoestring and includes a changing table and a handy storage drawer. Carolyn the reviewer loved that it was simple to place on the crib's base and was spacious enough to accommodate a changing table and baskets for nappies, creams, and wipes. However, she did mention, that it can be tricky to put together and the instructions aren't always clear. It also was heavy for our testers, so be aware of that if you intend to move it yourself.
John Lewis Anyday Basic Cot Bed
If you're looking for a budget-friendly option that doesn't sacrifice the functionality, this cot 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 includes a nappy changing station and a storage drawer. It's easy to put together and has clear instructions. However, should you be worried about putting it all together yourself, John Lewis offers an assembly service for a cost of PS60 which includes fixing it to the wall (if necessary) and the disposal of all packaging.
The design of this cot makes it look very stylish and modern and is easy to clean. The sides can be moved to different positions to allow you to accommodate your baby as they grow and develop. It's a great value for money and is constructed from FSC pine, so you can be sure that it's sturdy too.
Many parents choose a cot-bed that can be converted into a toddler bed when they are ready. They are more expensive than a standard crib, however they will last longer and can be used as a sofa or daybed for your child.
There are cots that convert to beds for just PS40. However you'll need to purchase a separate mattress. If you want an affordable cot and will last for many years then the Ikea Sniglar Cot Bed is the best option. It also accommodates a standard cot-bed mattress (not included).
Another great bed for a cot in our list is the SnuzKot. It begins as an extremely compact cot that transforms into an elegant toddler bed before turning into a sofa or daybed that can be used as a bed. It's an excellent choice for smaller nursery rooms and can be upgraded with an extension kit that allows it to last for up to 10 years.
La Redoute Willox Adjustable Cot Bed
With rattan's resurgence in interiors, this gorgeous crib bed from French retailer La Redoute is sure to bring warmth and texture to your nursery. It's not the cheapest cot (you must purchase a mattress separately), but it looks much more expensive than it actually is. It will also grow with your child and become an infant bed, then an adult couch, and then a full-size bedroom.
It would work beautifully with a vintage nursery, but also in a more modern scheme. The neutral colors can be used with all rooms and there's plenty of scope to redecorate when your child grows older.
Cot beds come in a variety of different designs and sizes, so it's crucial to think about which will best suit your space. Consider the features you'd like to see - some cot beds come with teething rails as well as a drawer for storage and adjustable heights.
A cot that can be converted into a toddler bed, a sofa and even a larger bed is the ideal option if you plan to use it for as long as possible. This gorgeous sleigh from British brand Obaby isn't the cheapest but it's a stylish option that has a stunning design. It's also sturdy and safe, and comes with a range of mattress bases so you can modify it to the perfect size for your child as they develop.
All cots should meet safety standards. Make sure that the cot you select is solid and has an unmovable foundation that has no gaps, and bars that can't be bent or broken. Some cots have additional safety features, such as bars that prevent your baby from falling out of the bed, so be sure to look for these when shopping.
Most cots and cot beds require purchase with a mattress which is typically included in the cost or can be purchased separately. The mattress must be the right size for the cot you select because the wrong measurements could result in discomfort and sagging. Some cots are made from wood, while others could be constructed from MDF. If you opt for a wood cot, ensure that the slats are comprised 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 selection with lots of features. It is easy to assemble, looks great and has a curvaceous end that's ideal for babies. There are also hanging rails on either side to hang dummies or blankets. The cot can be adjusted to three heights, and can be converted into a toddler bed. It will last for your child's first four years. The sides of the cot are fixed, which makes it more sturdy than dropside cots that are more traditional. Teething rails are included to safeguard your child's painting from chewing.
Parent Approved Panellist Megan is a huge fan of this cot for its beautiful appearance and its added function, especially the drawer at the base that is ideal to keep blankets and bedding in. It's easy to open and close and has a soft close finish to avoid disturbing your baby during sleep. The cot also features high sides to prevent babies from climbing up and teething rails on both ends. The dummy hanger is useful for nighttime feeds and there's plenty space underneath to keep toys and books too.
This Mamas and Papas Metro cot bed is the perfect option for parents who want to purchase a stylish cot that fits into the smaller nursery. It features three heights that can be adjusted so your baby can enjoy comfortable slumbers as they grow. It it can also transform into a toddler bed, saving you money on furniture upgrade during growth surges. Its simple design is elegant and minimalist, but robust enough to ensure that your baby is protected, and it's finished with a lovely two-tone colour scheme that is sure to match any style of decor in your home.
The only drawback is the lack of a drop mechanism which could be a problem when your baby becomes a toddler and you're trying to get them into the cot without disturbing them awake. good cribs can purchase a cheap mattress to use with it that will provide the same functions as other cots.