Buying a Baby Cot Bed

Cot beds can be converted into toddler beds, which makes them a better long-term option than cribs. They also have removable sides and an end panel that can be dropped down to allow access to your child.

Most cribs can be used from birth to 2 years, or until your baby begins to climb out. Then you should move to a junior bed.

4 Walls

Cot beds are the safety and security for your baby to nap or sleep at night. They are equipped with high walls or rails that stop your child from falling, and many come with adjustable mattress heights. This makes a cot bed suitable for infants and toddlers alike. There are a myriad of cot bed models, ranging from the simple and affordable to those with many additional features. The decision ultimately comes down to the family's budget as well as their needs.

The right baby sleep arrangement is a crucial choice for any new parent. You need to make sure that your child will be comfortable and safe, as well as having a space that can be used for a long period of time. While cots can be great for newborns and are compact however, they can be difficult to fit in smaller spaces. Additionally, they're not suitable until your child is 18 months old or that is. A crib sets-bed is a more sturdy alternative and can be easily transformed into an infant bed or a small single bed.

If you're looking for a good-value, versatile cot, we recommend the Snuz Cot Bed. This is a sturdy, simple cot that has an extended hood that can protect your baby from the elements of wind and sun. It has a storage area at the end, so you can put away bedding and other items.

Another good choice is another option is the CuddleCo Nola Convertible Cot. It's a traditional cot and can be transformed into a toddler bed or even a single bed, due to an extension kit that's sold separately. It includes three different mattress heights so you can adjust it to suit your child's age.

The final option is a travel cot bed sales. These are typically intended for short-term use, and may not offer the same degree of support as the regular cot. They usually come with mattresses which are not as firm or as thick as the traditional ones. While they may be a good alternative to a standard mattress while traveling but it is important to consider that your child will only use them for a few years before they is ready for a bigger bed.

Protect your mattress from water and dirt

Many people spend lots of time and effort selecting the right cot, but pay no attention to the mattress your baby will sleep on. This is an essential purchase for your baby. We suggest buying organic cotton bedding for your baby.

Recent research has revealed that airflow restriction could be a reason for SIDS and SUDI, you'll want to make sure your baby's bedroom is free of toys, pillows blankets, muslin sheets or cot bumpers that can hinder the circulation of air around your child. Also, ensure that the bed or cot is clear of heaters, radiators windows, cables, and plug sockets.

The Mamas&Papas Franklin Cot Bed is a very popular choice for our mum testers. It comes in four colors, and the design looks like it's going to last for a long time. It also converts into a toddler bed so your child can use it right up to the age of 4.

The SnuzFino Classic Cot Bed is another cot that is stylish and value (PS695, Mother and Baby). Our mom testers were awed by its sleek design, and said it was "simple but stylish and will stand the test of time". It's designed to grow with your child and comes with two different heights for the mattress, so you can keep your newborn raised and then lower it once they are able to sit unaided.

When choosing a cot, it is important to keep in your mind that there should be no more than 25mm (1 inch) gap between the mattress and the cot's sides and ends. This is to ensure that your baby cannot escape from the cot, or get trapped between the mattress and slats. You should also always utilize mattress protectors that are 100 100% cotton and GOTS Certified Organic, to ensure it is breathable and soft but also completely waterproof to stop any leaks!

If you'd prefer an option that is high-tech, then the SNOO Baby Cot Smart Sleeper (PS355, Cuckooland) is a great choice. It's a clever piece of kit which has a mobile app, weaning features and access to sleep experts and much more. It is expensive and out of reach for many parents.

Blankets at the End of The Road

If you're planning on letting your baby sleep on a blanket in their crib or cot ensure that you have plenty of additional blankets to rotate through the wash. This will prevent sheets from becoming excessively soiled and uncomfortable for your child, as well as help to keep their bedding clean and fresh. Three to four sheets should be enough.

A good set of organic muslin blankets can allow you to wash the sheets regularly without worrying about them becoming too dirty. They also breathe and help keep your baby's skin healthy and happy. You can pick from a wide range of sizes and colors to find the right one for your baby.

The best blankets are soft, comfortable and comfortable. You shouldn't choose blankets that are bulky and heavy as it could create the risk of suffocation to your baby. A blanket made from organic cotton muslin is a great choice, as it is light and airy. A thermal blanket is another good alternative. These are great crib for those balmy summer days, when your Baby beds requires a light cover to keep them warm.

In general, it's recommended to stop using a blanket in your child’s cot by 18 months, or earlier, if you can. They can become dangerous if allowed to climb onto them, which can lead to accidents like falling out of bed or the crib. If your child is used to sleeping with a blanket and has been swaddled from birth or sleeping in a baby sleep bag it is best cots uk to keep the blanket in place until they are ready to move to a duvet.

Many parents utilize a milestone blanket to mark the baby's development and growth, typically with numbers that reflect the age of the child. This is a great method to keep your family and friends informed of your baby's progress and also capture precious moments. The Monica + Andy Always Blanket is a gorgeous double layer blanket that offers warmth and comfort, and is comfortable and breathable.

Easy to Assemble

While a baby cot bed is one of the most essential pieces of nursery furniture, it's also a substantial investment. It's worth the effort to choose a model that looks as appealing as it is strong and practical. The cot should match the style of the room. You'll also want to consider whether the cot will convert to a toddler bed and if so, how easy this is to accomplish.

When choosing a cot, ensure that it has robust frames, sturdy rails and smooth surfaces. Also, avoid models with curved edges, which may pose a risk of strangulation. Be sure to read the instructions of the manufacturer and avoid making use of any tools that could cause harm. Don't be shy about asking for assistance. Assembly is usually easier when it's done with two people, so ask your partner or family member to assist you.

Many cots come with matching furniture for the nursery which can help make your room more cohesive. If you don't have the money for this there are numerous high-quality standalone options to choose from. The Elementary cot bed from John Lewis' Anyday range for instance, is available with a modern white finish and is constructed of solid FSC pine, which is a sturdy option. It comes with three mattress settings, which means it can be used from the age of. It can also be lowered once your child is ready to start standing (usually around 18 months).).

Another alternative is the Scandi-style Coxley cot by Stokke that has a stunning hand-crafted feel and a neutral grey finish that will suit any decor. It is simple to put together, and it fits through doors with standard frames. This is perfect to move around the house. With the addition of an easy kit that allows it to be transformed into a stylish toddler bed that is in the bench style. It's also light enough to fit in its own bag for trips away. Our panel of parents said it was "a dream to put together" and "looks gorgeous". They also appreciated the ability to change the position of the base of the mattress up or down to keep your baby's head elevated during naps and prevent them from rolling off at night.