Cot Beds
Cot beds are one of the most popular nursery essentials for UK families, offering excellent value and long-term use. Designed to support your child from newborn through toddler years, a cot bed easily converts into a toddler bed, making it a smart and cost-effective investment.
At Wowcher, you’ll find cot beds that balance comfort, safety and style, helping you create a cosy sleeping space your child can grow into.
Types of Cot Beds
- Convertible Cot Beds: These cot beds transform into toddler beds by removing the side rails, making the transition smoother for your child.
- Wooden Cot Beds: Crafted from solid or engineered wood, wooden cot beds are sturdy, timeless and suit both modern and traditional nurseries.
- Space-Saving Cot Beds: Ideal for smaller UK homes and flats, these designs maximise comfort without taking up unnecessary space.
Key Features to Look for When Buying a Cot Bed
- Adjustable mattress base: A cot bed with multiple mattress height settings allows you to raise the base for easy access to a newborn and lower it as your baby begins to sit, roll or stand, helping to reduce the risk of falls.
- Teething rails: Protective teething rails along the top edges prevent damage from chewing while also safeguarding your baby’s gums during teething stages.
- Smooth edges and safe finishes: Rounded corners and non-toxic, baby-safe finishes help minimise the risk of injury and ensure the cot bed is suitable for everyday use.
- Standard UK mattress compatibility: Cot beds designed to fit standard UK mattress sizes make it easier to find safe, well-fitting replacements without leaving gaps around the edges.
- Strong and durable construction: A well-built cot bed made from quality materials ensures long-term stability and can safely support your child through multiple growth stages.
Cot Beds FAQs
What age is a cot bed suitable for?
A cot bed is typically suitable from birth until around 4 years of age. In the early months, the cot bed functions as a standard cot with raised sides for safety. As your child grows and becomes more mobile, the mattress base can be lowered, and eventually the side rails can be removed to convert it into a toddler bed.
Is a cot bed better than a standard cot?
A cot bed offers greater longevity than a standard cot, as it can be converted into a toddler bed rather than being replaced after the first couple of years. This makes cot beds a more cost-effective and practical option for many UK families, especially those looking to reduce long-term nursery expenses.
Do cot beds come with a mattress?
Some cot beds are sold as a complete bundle with a mattress, while others require the mattress to be purchased separately. If buying separately, it’s important to choose a mattress that fits snugly within the cot bed frame, as gaps can pose a safety risk. Always check product specifications before purchasing.
What size mattress does a cot bed need?
Most cot beds in the UK require a mattress measuring 140 x 70 cm, which is the standard cot bed size. However, sizes can vary slightly between manufacturers, so it’s essential to confirm the exact dimensions listed on the product page before buying.
Are cot beds safe for newborns?
Yes, cot beds are safe for newborns when used correctly. Ensure the mattress is firm, flat and well-fitted, and always follow safe sleep guidance by placing your baby on their back with no loose bedding, pillows or toys in the cot bed.
When should I convert a cot bed into a toddler bed?
Most parents choose to convert a cot bed into a toddler bed between the ages of 2 and 3, or when their child starts attempting to climb out. Removing the side rails at the right time can make the transition smoother and help your child feel more confident and independent.