Toddler pulling themselves up inside the Solid Oak Natural Cot Bed | Nursery Furniture | Parenting tips and advice - Clair de Lune UK

As a new parent, one of the most important decisions you will make is choosing the right sleeping arrangement for your little one. You want to ensure that your baby is safe and comfortable while they sleep, and that their sleep space will last them for as long as possible. Two popular options for newborns are traditional cots and cot beds, and today we’ll be exploring the differences between them.

A cot is typically the first sleeping arrangement that parents will consider for their newborn. It’s a small bed with high sides that is designed to keep your baby safe and secure. The sides are usually fixed, meaning that they cannot be lowered, and the mattress height can often be adjusted as your baby grows. Cots are ideal for babies from birth up until around 2 years old, or until they start to try and climb out.

Cot beds, on the other hand, are a larger and more versatile option. They are similar in design to cots, but the sides can be lowered to turn them into a toddler bed. This means that they can last your child up until they are around 4 years old, and sometimes even longer! Cot beds often have adjustable mattress heights too, so they can grow with your child.

White Essentials Cot Bed in a sage green Scandi nursery room | Cots, Cot Beds, Toddler & Kid Beds | Nursery Furniture - Clair de Lune UK

So, what are the main differences between cots and cot beds?

Firstly, the obvious difference is size. Cot beds are larger than cots, so they take up more space in the room. However, they can also be a great long-term investment as they will last your child for longer.

Another difference is that cot beds are more versatile. When your child outgrows their cot, you can simply remove the sides to turn it into a toddler bed. This means that you won’t have to buy a separate bed, saving you money in the long run.

Oak Cot Bed converted to a toddler bed n a Scandi Natural Nursery Room | Cots, Cot Beds, Toddler & Kid Beds | Nursery Furniture - Clair de Lune UK

Finally, cot beds tend to be more expensive than cots. This is because they are larger and more versatile, but the extra cost can be worth it if you’re looking for a long-term investment.

Ultimately, the decision between a cot and a cot bed will depend on your individual circumstances. If you’re short on space and only planning on having one child, a cot might be the best option for you. However, if you have more space and are looking for a long-term investment, a cot bed could be the perfect choice.

At Clair de Lune, we offer a range of cots and cot beds to suit every family’s needs. All of our products are designed with safety and comfort in mind, so you can rest assured that your baby is in the best possible hands.

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