Cots and Cot Beds

The difference between a cot and a cot bed is primarily about size and longevity. While both are beds for a baby, a cot bed is a larger, more versatile option that can be converted into a toddler bed, extending its lifespan.

Here is a breakdown of the key differences:

Cot

• Size: A standard cot is typically smaller and more compact. The most common mattress size for a cot is around 60cm x 120cm.
• Lifespan: A cot is designed to be used from birth until your child outgrows it. This usually happens around 2-3 years of age, or when your child becomes mobile enough to attempt to climb out of it, which can be a safety hazard. Once they outgrow the cot, you will need to purchase a separate toddler or “junior” bed.
• Design: The sides of a cot are usually fixed, though the mattress height is often adjustable. You start with the mattress at the highest position for a newborn to save your back, then lower it as your baby grows and becomes more mobile.
• Best for: Parents with limited space in the nursery or those who want a more affordable, short-term solution.

Cot Bed

• Size: A cot bed is larger than a standard cot, with the most common mattress size being 70cm x 140cm. This extra space provides more room for your growing child.
• Lifespan: This is the main selling point of a cot bed. It is designed to be used from birth and then converted into a toddler bed once your child is ready. This means it can last your child until they are around 4-5 years old, and sometimes even longer with the use of extension kits.
• Design: A cot bed has removable sides and often an end panel that can be taken off to create a small, low-lying bed that a toddler can get in and out of independently. It also has an adjustable mattress height like a cot.
• Best for: Parents who are looking for a long-term, cost-effective investment and have enough space in the nursery to accommodate the larger size. It also helps with the transition from a cot to a “big bed,” as the child is already familiar with the frame.

While assembling a cot or cot bed is a manageable task for most people, it’s not a “quick job.” It requires careful attention to the instructions and a bit of time. If you follow the manual step-by-step and have a helper, the process should be fairly smooth. Many parents find it’s a rewarding part of setting up the nursery!

A cot bed requires an additional assembly step when converting it from a cot to a toddler bed. This process involves removing the side panels and sometimes one of the end panels and replacing them with smaller, more open sides. However, the instructions for this conversion are usually straightforward and included in the original manual.