Short Version – Key Points
Ultimately they both do the same thing. They offer a place for your baby to sleep. However, there are a few key differences.
- Cots and cot beds are both suitable for babies from birth, but cots are only meant as a short-term solution while cot beds can be used for longer.
- Cots are cheaper and smaller than cot beds; they take up less space and are more easily manoeuvrable.
- Cot beds have removable sides and end panels, so they can be converted into a bed for toddlers as they grow older.
Most parents let their circumstances dictate whether to buy a cot or a cot bed. If you plan on having children in quick succession, a cot would be better, as you can pass it on. Also If your room is small, a cot would be a better option. If you don’t plan on having more children and your room is big enough, a cot bed would be a good option for you.
Long Version
What is the difference between a cot and a cot bed?
A cot and a cot bed are both beds for babies and are suitable to use from birth, but there are differences between the two. A cot is generally considered a short-term solution, while a cot bed can be used for longer. Let’s take a closer look at the differences between these two types of baby beds so you can decide what the best option is for your little one.
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Cot vs. Cot Bed: Which Is Right for Your Family?
As a first-time parent, one of the most daunting tasks you’ll face is setting up a nursery for your new arrival. There are so many products on the market, and it can be hard to know which items are essential and which ones you can skip.
One of the most important purchases you’ll make for your nursery is a bed for your baby. But what type of bed should you choose? A cot or a cot bed? or even a Moses basket or bedside crib. In this blog post, we’ll discuss the key differences between both, offer some advice on which type of bed to buy, and summarise the pros and cons of both cots and cot beds.
| Cot | Cot Beds | |
|---|---|---|
| Size (Approx) | 65cm x 125cm | 75cm x 145cm |
| Mattress Size (Approx) | 60cm x 120cm | 70cm x 140cm |
| Age Range (Approx) | 0-3+ | 0-5+ |
Cots pros and cons
Pros
The main benefits of buying a cot are that they are cheaper, smaller, take up less space, and are more easily manoeuvrable compared to a cot bed. If you plan on having children in quick succession, you can use it for your next baby.
Cons
If you don’t plan on having more children, they have a limited lifespan, and your baby will quickly outgrow it. Many children often find the transition from a cot to a big bed difficult.
Cots beds pros and cons
Pros
Cot beds are possibly more cost-effective in the long run as they can be used for longer. They can also help with the transition to a bed, as your child will already be familiar with the bed.
Cons
Slightly more expensive. They are also bigger (this can also be a positive as your child will have more room), but you will need more space in your room.
Cot and Cot bed: The Key Differences
Both of these types of beds are suitable for use from birth. Cots are usually smaller than cot beds. The main distinction between cots and cot beds is that cots are intended for infants until they are about 2-3 years old, whereas cot beds are intended for both infants and toddlers up to about four years of age plus.
It’s worth noting that these age ranges can vary massively, ultimately, it will depend on the size of your child. (I don’t think my child moved out of her cot bed until she was seven!) Cot beds also have removable sides and an end panel, so they can be converted into a single bed for a toddler as they grow older. Here are the key differences between cots and cot beds:
- Size: cot beds are bigger.
- Cot beds have removable sides and end panels.
- Cots usually have fixed sides.
- Price: Cots are typically cheaper than cot beds.
- Cots are lighter and easier to move than cot beds.
- Features: Cot beds usually come with added features like teething rails, and adjustable bed bases. They can also have storage options underneath, which can be useful for storing blankets, sheets, toys, and other baby essentials.
Cot Bed Benefits
More space and can be used for longer. And as the bars and end panels simply need to be moved, they can also help with the transition process from cot to big bed.
Aesthetics:
Cots and cot beds come in a variety of styles, so you can choose the one that best fits your nursery’s aesthetic. There are classic wood cots, modern metal cots, and everything in between. Cot beds come in a similar range of styles. There are so many options available that you’re sure to find one that you love.
The price difference between a cot and a cot bed
On the whole, the average price of a baby cot tends to be cheaper. For example, at the time of writing, the cheapest cot on the Mamas and Pappas website was £99, while the cheapest cot bed was £299. It’s worth pointing out that these tend to be premium options.
On Amazon, they are a lot closer in price, with cot beds available for around £130. The main difference in cost is due to the fact that cot beds are larger and often have features like storage underneath, which can add to the overall cost. Both will require a mattress and bedding, so you will also need to factor that in, however, there are some available that come with a mattress included.
Which Kind of Bed Should You Get? A cot or a cot bed?
Now that we’ve discussed the key differences and the pros and cons between cots and cot beds, let’s offer some advice on which type of bed to choose based on your individual needs. If you’re on a budget or if you plan on having more children close in age, then a cot is a good option since you can pass it down (it’s recommended to buy a new mattress for each child).
The NHS and the Lullaby Trust both recommend that your baby should, for the first 6 months, sleep in your bedroom with you, as this can reduce the risk of SIDS (sudden infant death syndrome). We have left a link to the Safer Sleep for Babies guide below. So if you have limited space available in the room, a cot might be a better option.
If you want a bed that will last longer, then a cot bed is a good option since it will last from infancy through toddlerhood and beyond. However, please bear in mind that eventually, most children end up in full-size single beds anyway. Ultimately, the decision of whether to buy a cot or a cot bed comes down to personal preference, but it is a decision where some forward planning will come in handy.
Conclusion
When choosing a bed for your baby’s nursery, you have two main options: a standard cot or a cot bed. (A cot that converts into a bed.) Both types of beds have their own set of pros and cons. Standard cot beds are slightly more expensive, but the argument is that they work out cheaper because money is saved because a toddler bed will not need to be purchased.
Personally, I find this argument a little flawed, as sooner or later most children will eventually end up in a full-size single bed anyway. Ultimately, the decision of whether to buy a cot or a cot bed comes down to personal preference and needs, but taking these factors into account will help you make an informed choice for your family.
References
https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/baby/caring-for-a-newborn/helping-your-baby-to-sleep/
