Joybuy Insights

Buying a Baby and Children’s Bed: Safety Features, Sizes and Suitable Models Compared

A baby and children’s bed should offer more in everyday use than simply a place to lie down. Expectant parents look for a suitable sleeping size, a safe construction and straightforward use. Later on, adjustable height, castors or conversion into a children’s bed may become important.

However, unnecessary costs often arise when buying because product descriptions do not make important details immediately clear. Three typical pitfalls are particularly relevant:

  • Multifunctionality without a suitable period of use: A 3-in-1 or 4-in-1 bed sounds versatile. What matters, however, is the age and weight range for which each function is actually intended.
  • Unclear dimensions: The external dimensions of a bed differ from its sleeping area. A 70 x 140 cm children’s bed also requires a mattress measuring exactly that size.
  • Equipment is confused with safety: Bed linen, a canopy, castors or a bumper may increase what is included, but they do not replace stable assembly, suitable spacing and regular checks.

Check these criteria before buying

1. Sleeping size and suitable mattress

The mattress must fit the stated sleeping area. With a baby bed with mattress, check whether the mattress is actually included and what size it is. Common dimensions include:

  • 45 x 90 cm: a compact solution for a baby’s first months
  • 60 x 120 cm: a common size for bedside cots and cots
  • 70 x 140 cm: a larger sleeping area for toddlers and children

There should be no dangerous gaps between the mattress and the sides of the bed. Only use the size specified by the manufacturer and follow the guidance on mattress height.

2. Height adjustment and fastening

An adjustable-height baby bed can make it easier to align with the parents’ bed. The actual height range matters, not just the number of positions. When used as a baby bedside cot, the bed must be stable and attached to the parents’ bed in accordance with the instructions.

Check the following before buying:

  1. Is the height compatible with the mattress on the parents’ bed?
  2. Is the fastening suitable for the existing bed construction?
  3. Is there a maximum thickness for the side panel or bed frame?
  4. Does the bed remain stable at different settings?

One example from the selection can be adjusted between 22 and 42 cm in six stages and is designed for a bed-side thickness of up to 4.5 cm. Check these details against your own bed before placing an order.

3. Construction, standards and mobility

With a cot, all components should be assembled correctly, the bars must not be damaged and the connections should be checked regularly. Standards stated in the product details, such as EN 716 for children’s beds or EN 1130 for certain baby beds, provide an important point of reference. They do not replace checking the specific assembly and instructions for use.

A baby bed with castors is practical if it needs to be moved around the home. The castors should have locking brakes. The bed should only be placed on castors on a level, hard surface and must be secured against rolling away unintentionally.

A Montessori children’s bed also requires an age-appropriate environment. The low entry supports independent access, but it requires a child-safe room without hazards that are easy to reach.

Our selection for different family profiles

Suitable for: Budget-conscious first-time buyers
roba Multifunctional Bed Star Grey with mattress and accessories

roba Multifunctional Bed Star Grey

Why this product suits this profile: This 3-in-1 model combines a bedside cot, cot and toddler bed with a sleeping area of 60 x 120 cm. According to the product details, the mattress, slatted base, bed guard and canopy are included.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The six height settings and clearly stated mattress dimensions make it easier to compare the bed with the parents’ bed and existing accessories.

Main benefit & strengths

Sleeping area 60 x 120 cm; six-way height adjustment from 22 to 42 cm; stated as suitable from 0 to 5 years and up to 50 kg.

Suitable for: Buyers with high quality standards
roba Paw Patrol children’s bed 70 x 140 cm with bed linen

roba Paw Patrol children’s bed 70 x 140 cm

Why this product suits this profile: This children’s bed combines a larger sleeping area with two side guard rails and an open entry based on the Montessori principle. According to the product description, bed linen and a slatted base are included.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The precise sleeping size of 70 x 140 cm prevents you from accidentally planning for a smaller mattress or unsuitable bed linen.

Main benefit & strengths

Sleeping area 70 x 140 cm; two side guard rails; cotton bed linen with washable cover; stated as suitable from 0 to 7 years and up to 35 kg.

Suitable for: Specific uses & frequent use
roba 4-in-1 baby bed Woodland Buddies with textiles and castor option

roba 4-in-1 Wooden Crib Woodland Buddies

Why this product suits this profile: According to the supplier, this compact 45 x 90 cm model can be used as a cradle, bedside cot and for other specified functions. It can be assembled with or without castors.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The six height positions, supplied fastening strap and clearly stated 45 x 90 cm mattress help with planning.

Main benefit & strengths

Six-way height adjustment from 42.5 cm; storage shelf underneath; textiles, mattress and canopy included; suitable from birth.

Suitable for: Mobile families and small spaces
Costway 3-in-1 baby bed with adjustable height and castors

Costway 3-in-1 Baby Bedside Cot

Why this product suits this profile: This lightweight model is designed for a baby’s first months and can be used as a bedside cot, cradle or Moses basket. Lockable castors and a carry bag support use on the go.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The clearly stated usage range of 0 to 5 months and up to 9 kg prevents the compact bed from being planned for too long.

Main benefit & strengths

Five height positions; breathable mesh sides; four braked castors; mattress size 76 x 43 cm; two fastening straps.

Looking for more options?

We have put together a complete, regularly updated list of products that fully meet these strict selection criteria and the safety regulations applicable in the EU.

Frequently asked questions about baby and children’s beds

How long can a baby and children’s bed be used?

This depends on the sleeping area, construction, weight limit and the manufacturer’s specifications. A 45 x 90 cm baby bed is usually designed for a baby’s first months. Models measuring 60 x 120 cm or 70 x 140 cm can be used for longer. However, the specific age and weight guidance, as well as the child’s stage of development, are always the deciding factors.

Is a bedside cot safe when attached to the parents’ bed?

Only if it is attached correctly in accordance with the instructions. Check that the height is suitable, that no gaps are left and that the fastening strap or designated brackets are securely attached to the bed frame. A bedside cot must not simply be placed loose against the parents’ bed.

How much does a baby bed with mattress and accessories cost?

The price depends on the sleeping size, materials, conversion design and what is included. A set with a mattress, slatted base, bed linen or canopy may replace the need to buy several components separately. Before comparing prices, make a list of everything required: mattress, bed linen, side guards, castors, fastening system and any assembly accessories.