Buying a Baby Cot Bed

Cot beds are a better long-term choice than cribs as they can be converted to an adult bed. They also have removable sides and an end panel that can be pulled down to allow access to your child.

Most affordable cots can be used from birth to approximately 2 years old, or until your child is old enough to attempt to climb out. Then, it is time to switch to junior beds.

4 Walls

Cot beds offer a safe, secure place for your baby to sleep or rest at night. They are equipped with high walls or rails to prevent your baby from falling, and many have adjustable mattress heights. This makes a cot bed perfect for toddlers and infants alike. There are a variety of cot beds that are available that range from basic and inexpensive models to those with extra features. The decision ultimately comes down to the family's budget as well as their needs.

The right baby sleep arrangement is an important choice for any new parent. You want to ensure that your baby is secure and comfortable, as well as having an area that can be used for a long time. While cots can be a great option for newborns and are compact, they can also be difficult to fit in smaller spaces. In addition, they're typically only suitable for use up to the point that your child reaches the age of 18 months or that is. A cot-bed is a more durable option that can be easily transformed into an infant bed or a small single bed.

If you're looking to buy a low-cost cot that is versatile, we recommend the Snuz cot for sale Bed. It's a sturdy and simple crib with a hood that extends to shield your baby from wind and sun. It also has a handy storage space at the bottom of the cot so you can keep bedding and other essentials close by.

Another good choice is another option is the CuddleCo Nola Convertible Cot. The cot is designed to be an ordinary cot, but can be converted into a toddler bed or even one bed, because of an extension kit, which is sold separately. It has three different mattress heights, so you can keep the mattress up for newborns and small infants, and then lower it as your child grows older.

The last option is a travel bed. They're only suitable for short-term usage and may not provide the same level of support as a standard bed. They often come with mattresses which are not as firm or thick as standard ones. They can be a great alternative to a standard cot if you travel but you should remember that they'll only last for several years before your child is ready for a bigger bed.

Protect your mattress from water and dirt

Many parents spend lots of time and effort in choosing the right cot, but pay no attention to the mattress your baby will be sleeping on. This is an essential purchase for your baby. We recommend purchasing organic cotton bedding for your baby.

Recent research has revealed that restricted airflow may be the cause of SIDS and SUDI, you'll need to ensure your baby's bedroom is free of pillows, toys blankets, muslin cloths, blankets or cot bumpers that can restrict the circulation of air around your little one. Ideally, you should place the cot bed away from radiators, heaters, windows as well as plug sockets and cables that could pose danger.

The Mamas & Papas Franklin Cot Bed is a very popular choice for our mum testers. It comes in four colors and features a an attractive design that appears like it's built to endure the test of time. It can also convert into a toddler bed, which means your baby can use it up until the age of four.

Another cot that has great design and value is the SnuzFino Classic Cot Bed (PS695, Mother & Baby). Our mom testers were awed by its sleek design, stating that it was "simple but stylish and will last the long-term". It's designed to grow with your child too and offers two levels of height for the mattress so that you can keep your newborn raised and then lower it once they are able to sit unaided.

It is important to remember that the mattress shouldn't have a gap larger than 25mm (1") between it and the edges and sides of the cot. This is to ensure your baby cannot climb out of the cheap cot bed or become trapped between the mattress and slats. You should also always use mattress protectors that are 100 100% cotton and GOTS certified Organic, to ensure it's breathable and soft but also completely waterproof to prevent any leaks!

Alternatively, you could choose a more advanced alternative and select the SNOO Smart Sleeper Baby Cot (PS355, Cuckooland). It is a clever product that comes with an app that can be downloaded on mobile devices as well as a weaning feature and access to sleep consultants. It's expensive and is out of reach for many parents.

Blankets at The End

If you plan to let your baby sleep in a crib or cot with a blanket, make sure you have enough blankets so you can wash them regularly. This will keep sheets from becoming excessively dirty and uncomfortable for your baby and also help to keep their bed clean and fresh. Three to four sheets should be sufficient.

A good quality set of organic muslin blankets allows you to change the sheets often without worrying about them getting too dirty. They are also breathable which helps keep your baby's delicate skin healthy. They are available in a variety of sizes and colors which means you can find the perfect ones for your baby's requirements.

The best blankets for babies are soft and cosy and airy. You shouldn't choose blankets that are heavy and bulky, as it could pose a suffocation risk for your baby. A blanket made of organic cotton muslin is the best choice, as it is light and airy. A thermal blanket is a good option. These are a great choice for balmy summer days when your baby will require a lightweight cover to keep them warm.

In general, it is recommended to stop using a blanket in your child’s crib by the age of 18 months or earlier, if possible. This is because they can become dangerous if allowed to climb onto them, which could lead to accidents like falling out of bed or the crib. However, if your child is used to sleeping on blankets and is swaddled from birth or sleeping in a baby sleep bag it is best cots to keep the blanket in place until they are ready to transition to a duvet.

Many parents use the milestone blanket to track the development and growth of their child, typically with numbers that indicate the age of the child. It is a great way to keep your family and friends up-to-date about the progress of your child, as well capture some precious memories. The Monica + Andy Always Blanket has a double layer that is warm and cozy, while also being breathable.

Easy to Assemble

While a baby cot bed is among the most essential furniture pieces for the nursery but it's also a significant investment. As such, it's worthwhile to take the time to choose one that looks as attractive as it is durable and practical. The most important consideration is that the cot should be in harmony with the overall design of the baby's room. It is also important to consider whether the cot could be transformed into a toddler bed and if it is possible, how easy it is to do so.

When choosing a cot, you should look for models that have sturdy frames solid rails and smooth edges. Also, avoid models with curving edges, which could be a source of strangulation. Be sure to follow the instructions of the manufacturer carefully, and avoid using any tools that could cause damage. Don't be afraid to ask for assistance. Ask your friend or family member to help you.

Many cots come with matching furniture for the nursery that can help make your room more cohesive. If you don't want to spend a lot of amount, there are plenty of excellent options for a standalone bed that are of good quality. The Elementary cot bed from John Lewis' Anyday range, for example, comes with a modern white finish and is constructed from solid FSC pine to provide a long-lasting choice. It also has three mattress height positions, so it's suitable from the time of birth and can be adjusted when your child is ready to begin standing (usually at about 18 months).).

Another great option is the Scandi-style Coxley cot by Stokke It has a stunning hand-crafted feel and a neutral grey finish that will suit any decor. It's easy to set up and fits into doors with standard frames, which is useful when you have to move it around your home. It also converts into a stylish toddler bed using the addition of a basic kit. It's lightweight enough to fit in a carry bag when you go on vacation. Our panel of parents agreed that it was "a dream to put together" and "looks beautiful". Parents also appreciated the fact that the base of the mattress can be moved either up or down, so you can keep the baby's head raised during naps and stop them from falling over at night.