Cot Bed in short...

A cot bed is both a baby crib and a toddler bed in one. Right from the start, you get a piece of furniture ready to transform into a low toddler bed — no need to buy another one later. With adjustable mattress height, removable sides, and solid wooden construction, this “crib that grows with your child” serves you for years while keeping the nursery uncluttered and cost-efficient.

What is a cot bed, and who is it best for?

In simple words: a cot bed is a larger baby crib, usually around 140×70 cm, which, once the sides are removed, becomes a low bed for toddlers. This format gives your little one more space to sleep and grow, and gives you peace of mind that one solid crib will last through several stages.

Compared with a standard 120×60 crib, a cot bed extends usability up to 4–5 years of age — a smart solution for parents who value long-term, practical purchases.

This option is especially great for:

  • a room designed to “grow” with your child without constant furniture replacements,

  • parents planning an ergonomic, budget-conscious setup,

  • families who care about cohesive, minimalist interiors — a Scandinavian-style cot bed fits most décor schemes.

Safety first: standards and best practices

When choosing a cot bed, don’t just look at the style. Safety standards and design details are key.

  • EN 716 standard – European crib standard specifying minimum side heights. With the mattress in its highest position, the gap between the mattress base and the side must be at least 300 mm, and in the lowest position, the internal height must be at least 600 mm. This reduces the risk of climbing out or falling.

  • Slat spacing – gaps should not exceed 6–6.5 cm, preventing a child’s head from getting stuck.

  • Child-safe finishes – surfaces in contact with children should meet EN 71-3 requirements (migration of elements), ensuring paints and coatings are non-toxic.

  • Safe sleep rules – official guidelines recommend that babies sleep in the same room as parents for the first 6 months. Choose the right “tog” sleeping bag for room temperature (16–20°C is ideal).

In practice, a solid cot bed with rounded edges, a snug-fitting mattress, and adjustable height is not just convenient — it supports everyday safe sleep routines.

Size, ergonomics, and mattress: how to choose the right set?

Most cot beds use a 70×140 cm mattress, a common European size that ensures longer comfort. When the time comes, removing one or two sides transforms the cot into a low toddler bed — without new purchases.

Key ergonomic factors to check:

  • Perfect mattress fit – no gaps where a head could get stuck; firm, flat, waterproof cover preferred.

  • Adjustable base height – higher for newborn care, lower later to ensure safety for active toddlers (EN 716 defines the minimum safe clearances).

  • Stability after conversion – smooth edges and low profile help your child climb in and out independently and safely.

Why is a cot bed a smart investment?

Choosing a cot bed means planning for years, not months. Instead of replacing furniture every stage, you pick one model that evolves with your child. Benefits include:

  • Versatility – from newborn crib to toddler bed, with a natural transition.

  • Comfort – more space for sleeping and play compared to 120×60 cribs.

  • Aesthetics – timeless design that doesn’t look outgrown after one year.

  • Eco & budget-friendly – one purchase instead of two, fewer resources used for production and transport.

How to choose the right cot bed? Key criteria that matter

  1. Construction & materials

    • sturdy wood with strong load-bearing parts,

    • smooth, rounded edges with no sharp corners,

    • child-safe paints and finishes (EN 71-3 compliant).

  2. Adaptability for different stages

    • multiple mattress height settings,

    • removable slats or full side conversion,

    • low height after conversion for toddler independence.

  3. Everyday convenience

    • easy assembly/disassembly with no wobbles,

    • protective teething rails available,

    • silent, sturdy frame with no creaks.

  4. Safe sleep compliance

    • breathable, open-sided structure,

    • sleep sack or light quilt appropriate for room temperature (“tog” value),

    • crib positioned in parents’ bedroom for the first 6 months.

Why choose a cot bed from PPM?

PPM combines expertise in baby furniture design with attention to details that truly matter in daily life. From natural materials and clever construction to simple height adjustment and easy toddler-bed conversion, every cot bed is built to last.

The result: a solid, stylish piece that looks at home in both nurseries and toddler rooms.

Visit the cot bed — crib that grows with your child section to see available models, conversion options, and tips on choosing the right mattress and accessories.

Care & maintenance – how to make your cot bed last

  • Dust and wipe slats with a soft cloth, avoid harsh cleaners.

  • Check screws every few months, especially after conversion.

  • Monitor mattress condition — it should remain firm and flat.

  • Keep nursery at 16–20°C; adjust sleeping bag weight seasonally.

Styling ideas – how to design a nursery with a cot bed

Cot beds suit Scandinavian-style interiors perfectly, but they are highly adaptable. Try:

  • light walls, natural wood, cozy rug, and soft night lighting,

  • neutral base (white, beige, gray) with pastel or earthy textiles,

  • modular wardrobes and storage arranged to leave floor space for play and independence.

FAQ: most common questions about cot beds

When should I convert a cot bed into a toddler bed?
Usually between 18 months and 3 years, when your child starts climbing out and seeks independence. Signs of readiness (walking steadily, wanting to climb in/out) matter more than age. You can keep a small guard rail at first.

Is a cot bed safer than a standard crib?
Safety depends on compliance with standards, not the name. A well-designed cot bed with proper side heights, slat spacing, and child-safe finishes is just as safe — with the bonus of longer usability.

What bedding is best for a cot bed?
A firm, flat mattress with a fitted sheet. For babies under 1 year, avoid pillows and duvets — use a sleeping bag with the right tog rating. If using a blanket, place the baby’s feet at the foot of the cot.

Is 140×70 always the best choice?
It’s the most popular and usually lasts until 4–5 years old. If you want even longer use, check the manufacturer’s maximum age/weight and stability after conversion.

Conclusion

A cot bed is a crib that grows with your child — practical, stylish, and built for safe sleep. Choosing a model with adjustable base height, safe slat spacing, and EN 71-3 compliant finishes means a furniture investment that will last for years.

To see available solutions and check technical details, visit the cot bed section and find the perfect match for your nursery.

Sources (non-commercial):

  • NHS (UK): “What you’ll need for your baby” – mattress fit, slat spacing.

  • NHS Start for Life: “Safe sleep advice for babies” – tog ratings vs. room temperature.

  • NHS Inform (Scotland): “Sleeping safely” – room-sharing for 6 months.

  • The Lullaby Trust: “Room temperature” – 16–20°C recommendations; “Mattresses and bedding”.

  • EN 716-1:2017 + AC:2019 – crib safety requirements.

  • Wikipedia: “Toddler bed” – typical size ranges (70×140 cm, 78×180 cm).