On testFirst beds
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Hauck
Berlin Cotbed |
Ellen
Junior Bedstead |
Little
Tikes Cozy Cottage |
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About this test
Our panel of six mums have spent a mammoth three months putting a variety of first beds to the test. These include cot beds ('great if you're on a budget and want to use it from birth'), junior beds ('perfect for increasing independence and potty training') and novelty beds ('good if bedtime is an issue').
Our bed-savvy panel agreed that safety and comfort are the most important factors to consider with quality coming a close third. As one panel member put it: 'A high quality, safe, comfortable and supportive bed is essential for your growing child and will ensure years of good use'.
We tested for
- Construction
- Design/Style
- Quality
- Value for Money
- Longevity
- Practicality
Points to consider
Design : Toddler beds vary massively so it's important to select one that suits your tot's nature. Designs like the Natural toddler bed have a built in bed rail to provide extra security for your child and help prevent them from roaming the house at night.
This is a great feature for wriggly kids and can provide extra reassurance for you, but bear in mind that you won't be able to remove it once your child gets older. A good temporary option is the Tomy Folding Bed Rail which attaches to the side of the bed until your toddler no longer requires it.
Another important point to consider is the distance to the floor. Our panel found that the bed heights 'varied greatly' and as a general rule of thumb 'would prefer to opt for something that's low to the ground to allow your child easy access and a safer sleep'.
Size: Toddler beds come in lots of different shapes and sizes so it's important to check out the dimensions first. Longer beds are best for longevity and if you have an especially tall child or they like lots of space for teddies and playtime, you might even want to think about investing in a standard sized single like the Treehouse Kids Scroll Bed. Our panel liked its 'roomy feel', describing it as a 'great quality investment that will last your child for years'.
Cot beds are a more compact option but should still last your child for at least 2 years once the bars have been removed. They also offer great value for money as you can use them from birth, saving you hundreds of pounds if you invest in the right model.
Quality: What toddler doesn't love jumping marathons and rough and tumble games?! If yours is particularly prone to bouts of bouncing excitement, investing in a good quality bed will be a smart move. Our panel felt that the 'slightly more expensive models offered more in terms of quality' and advised to 'check on wood quality, structure and the sturdiness of the base before you buy'.
Another important factor to consider is the standard of the mattress. Where possible, buy a high quality sprung and well ventilated mattress that will provide plenty of support for your growing child. 'It's important for your child's health' according to our panel, and 'one of those things you simply have to spend money on'.
Awards - which products won
Our panel gave the Best Buy award to the Ellen Junior Bedstead for its 'comfortable, classic and safe design that eases the transition from cot to bed'. Best Value went to the Mothercare Suffolk Cotbed - 'a gorgeous, high quality bed that provides excellent value for money'.
Where to next?
- Full test results
- Read the reviews:
Hauck Berlin Cotbed 7/10
Ellen Junior Bedstead 9/10
Little Tikes Cozy Cottage 7/10
Mothercare Suffolk Cot bed 8.5/10
Natural Toddler Bed 8/10
Treehouse Kids Scroll Bed 8/10
- Read our features on sleeping
- Read our reviews of bedtime products and sleep aids
- Add a review and you could win a prize
- About our Product Tests
- Visit the babyworld shop
