Buying a Baby Cot Bed

Cot beds can be transformed into toddler beds, which makes them a better long-term option than cribs. They also come with removable sides and an end panel that can be pulled down to make it easier for your child.

The majority of cots can be used from the time of birth until approximately 2 years old, or until your child starts to want to climb out. Then, you should change to junior beds.

4 Walls

Cot beds provide secure and safe for your baby to rest in at night or even during naptime. They have high walls or rails to prevent your baby from falling and many have adjustable mattress heights. This makes a cot bed ideal for infants and toddlers alike. There are many cot bed models that range from the simple and affordable to those with many additional features. The final decision comes down to the needs of your family and the budget you have set.

Any new parent will find it important to make the right choice when it comes to choosing a baby's sleeping arrangement. You need to ensure that your baby will be comfortable and safe and have a space that can be used for a long period of time. While cots are ideal for infants however, they're also very compact and can be difficult to fit into smaller spaces. In addition, they're generally only suitable for use up to the point that your child reaches 18 months or so. A cot bed is a better option for a longer-term usage and is easily transformed into a toddler bed or a small single bed.

Snuz Cot Bed is a flexible, affordable cot. It's a simple, but sturdy cot with a large hood, which protects your baby from the elements of wind and sun. It also features a handy storage area at the top of the cot, so you can keep bedding and other items in a convenient place.

CuddleCo Nola Convertible Cot is another option. The cot can be transformed from a cot to single or toddler beds by using an extension kit which is sold separately. It has three different mattress heights, meaning you can keep the mattress up for newborns tots and cots small infants, and then lower it as your child grows older.

The last option is a bed for travel. They're only suitable for use on short-term basis and don't provide the same level of support like a traditional bed. They usually have mattresses that aren't as sturdy or as thick as the traditional ones. They can be a good alternative to a standard cot while you travel, but it's worth remembering that they'll last only several years before your child is ready for a bigger bed.

Protect your mattress from water with a waterproof mattress

Often a lot of thought is put into buying a cot, however less consideration is given to the mattress that your baby will sleep on. This is a very important purchase for your baby. We suggest investing in an organic cotton baby bed.

You should ensure that the cot bed is not cluttered with blankets, toys, or pillows. They can block the air flow around your child. Ideally, you should position the cot or cot bed away from radiators, heaters, windows as well as plug sockets and cables that could be a hazard.

The Mamas&Papas Franklin Cot Bed is a very popular choice for our mum testers. It comes in four different colors and has a lovely design that looks like it will endure the test of time. It can also convert into a toddler bed so your baby can use it until the age of 4.

The SnuzFino Classic cot sale Bed is another cot that has great style and value (PS695, Mother and Baby). Our mum testers were impressed by its sleek design, saying it was "simple but elegant and will stand the long-term". It's designed to grow with your child too and has two different heights for the mattress so you can keep your baby elevated and then lower it when they begin to sit up unaided.

It is crucial to remember that the mattress should not have a gap larger than 25mm (1") between it and the edges and sides of the cot. This will ensure that your child won't climb out of the crib or get caught between the slats of the mattress. Use a mattress cover that is made of 100 organic cotton and GOTS certified to ensure it is breathable, soft and waterproof.

Alternatively, if you prefer an option that is high-tech, then the SNOO Baby Cot Smart Sleeper (PS355, Cuckooland) is a great choice. It's a great product that comes with a mobile application and a weaning function, and sleep experts. However, it is expensive and may be out of the budget for many parents.

Blankets at The End

If you plan to allow your baby to sleep in a crib or cot with a blanket, make sure to have enough extras so you can wash them frequently. This will keep sheets from becoming excessively dirty and uncomfortable for your baby and also help to keep their bedding clean and fresh. A minimum of three to four sets should be sufficient.

You can change your sheets more frequently with a set of organic muslin bedding. They also breathe, which helps keep your baby's delicate skin healthy. They are available in different sizes and colours and sizes, so you can choose the perfect ones for your baby's requirements.

The best baby blankets are soft and cosy and airy. You shouldn't choose blankets that are heavy and bulky as it could cause a suffocation risk for your baby. A blanket made from organic cotton muslin is ideal, as it is light and airy. A thermal blanket is a good alternative. They are an excellent choice for balmy summer days when your baby will need a light cover to keep them warm.

In general, it's recommended that you stop using a blanket in your child’s crib by the age of 18 months or earlier if it is possible. They can be dangerous if allowed to climb them. This could lead to accidents like falling out of the crib or the bed. If your child has been swaddled since birth or is sleeping in a sleeping bag for infants, you might want to keep the blanket until they are ready to switch to a duvet.

Many parents use milestone blankets to mark their baby's growth and development, typically with numbers that reflect the age of the child. It is a great method to keep your family and friends up-to-date about the progress of your child and also capture precious memories. The Monica + Andy Always Blanket is a stunning double layer blanket that provides warmth and comfort while still being comfortable and breathable.

Easy to Assemble

While a baby cot bed is one of the most important furniture pieces for nursery but it's also a significant investment. 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 match the overall look of the room your baby is in. You should also consider whether the cot could be converted into a toddler bed, and in the event that it does, how easy this is to accomplish.

When selecting a cot, ensure that it has solid frames, sturdy rails and smooth finishes. It is also recommended to stay clear of models with curved edges which may pose a risk of strangulation. Also, be sure to follow the instructions of the manufacturer carefully, and never use any tool that could cause damage. Don't be shy to ask for assistance. Assembly is generally easier when you have two people, so you can ask your partner or family member to assist you.

Many cots have matching furniture for the nursery which can help make your room more cohesive. However, if you don't have the budget for this there are numerous high-quality standalone options to choose from. The Elementary cot-bed from John Lewis Anyday comes in white and is made of solid FSC pine, which makes it a durable option. It also has three mattress height positions so it's suitable for use starting from birth. It can also be lowered when your child is ready to start standing (usually at about 18 months).).

The Stokke Coxley cot is a fantastic option. It comes with a neutral grey finish as well as a handcrafted look that is perfect for any interior. It's simple to put together and fits through standard door frames, which is useful in the event that you need to move it around your home. It can also transform into a chic, toddler bed using the addition of a basic kit. And it's lightweight enough to fit in its own carry bag for trips away. Parents who were part of our panel said that it was "easy to assemble" and "looks gorgeous". They also appreciated the ability to change the position of the base of the mattress upwards or downwards so that you can keep your baby's head elevated during naps and prevent them from falling asleep at the end of the night.