Buying a Baby Cot Bed

Cot beds are a more durable option than cribs because they can be converted into a toddler bed. They have removable sides and an end panel that can be removed to give access to your child.

Most cots can be used from birth to about 2 years old or until your child starts to want to climb out. Then, it is time to switch to junior beds.

4 Walls

Cot beds are a safe and secure space for your baby to sleep in at night or even during naptime. They are equipped with high walls or rails to stop your child from falling out, and most feature adjustable mattress heights that can be lowered as your baby grows. A cot bed is ideal for both infants and toddlers. There are a myriad of cot bed models, ranging from the simple and affordable to those that come with a variety of features. Ultimately, the decision depends on your family's needs and budget.

The right baby sleep arrangement is an important decision for any new parent. You must ensure that your baby is secure and safe. It should also be a space that you can use for a long time. While cots can be a great option for newborns and are compact however, they can be difficult to accommodate in smaller spaces. In addition, they're generally not suitable until your child reaches 18 months or so. A cot bed is the best rated cribs option for a longer-term usage and is easily transformed into a toddler bed or small single bed.

Snuz mini cot beds Bed is a flexible, affordable cot. This is a simple but sturdy cot that comes with a hood that is extra-deep, which protects your baby from the elements of wind and sun. It has a storage area towards the end, so you can store bedding and other necessities.

CuddleCo Nola Convertible Cot is another good option. This cot can be converted from a cot into single or toddler beds with the help of an extension kit which is sold separately. It has three mattress heights, so you can alter it according to your child's age.

The final option is a travel cot. They are designed for short-term use and may not provide the same level of support as a regular bed. In addition, they typically have mattresses that aren't as firm or as thick as a standard one. While they can be a good alternative to a standard mattress when you are travelling but it is important to remember that your child will only be using them for a couple of years before he or she is ready for a larger bed.

Protect your mattress from water with a waterproof mattress

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

New research suggests that restricted airflow may be the cause of SIDS and SUDI, you'll want to make sure your baby's bed is free of pillows, toys blankets, muslin sheets or cot bumpers that could hinder the flow of air around your little one. Also, ensure that the bed or cot is away from any radiators, heaters, windows, plug sockets, and cables.

The Mamas&Papas Franklin Cot Bed is a popular choice among our mom testers. It is available in four colors and the design appears like it'll last many years. It can also be transformed into a toddler's bed to allow your baby to use the crib until they are four years old.

Another cot with 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 stand the long-term". It's designed to develop with your child and has two different height settings so that you can raise your newborn and lower it once they're able to sit up on their own.

When choosing a cot, it is important to keep in the mind that there should not be more than 25mm (1 inch) gap between the mattress and the cot sides and ends. This will ensure that your baby can't get out of the crib or get trapped between the slats on the mattress. Choose a mattress cover that is made of 100% organic cotton and GOTS certified to ensure that it is breathable, soft and waterproof.

If you prefer, you can choose a more advanced option and choose the SNOO Smart Sleeper Baby Cot (PS355, Cuckooland). It's a great product that comes with a mobile application as well as a weaning feature as well as access to sleep specialists. However, it is expensive and could be out of reach for many parents.

Blankets at the End of The Road

If you're planning to allow your baby to sleep in a cot or crib with a blanket, make sure you have enough blankets to clean them regularly. This will prevent the sheets from becoming too soiled and uncomfortable for your child, as well as help to keep their bedding clean and fresh. A minimum of three to four sets should suffice.

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

The best blankets for babies are soft and cozy, yet airy. A blanket that is too bulky and heavy could cause your baby to suffocate. It is best to pick an organic blanket made of cotton muslin that is lightweight and breathable. Another good alternative is a blanket that is thermal. They are ideal for those balmy summer days when your baby needs an easy-to-wear cover that will keep them warm.

In general, it is advised to remove a blanket in your child’s cot by 18 months, or earlier if it is possible. They can be risky if children climb them. This could lead to accidents like falling out of the crib or bed. However, if your child is used to sleeping with blankets and is covered from birth or sleeps in a baby sleep bag, you may want to keep it in place until they are ready to move to a duvet.

Many parents use milestone blankets to mark their baby's growth and development usually with numbers that indicate the age of the child. This is a wonderful way to keep your family and friends informed about your baby's progress and capture precious memories. The Monica + Andy Always Blanket is a beautiful double layer blanket that gives warmth and coziness, yet is still comfortable and breathable.

Easy to Assemble

While a baby cot bed is one of the most important furniture pieces for nursery cots but it's also a significant investment. It's worth taking time to select a model that looks as attractive as it is durable and practical. The cot must match the style of the room. It is also important to consider whether the cot can be converted into a toddler bed and if so, how easy it is to do so.

When choosing a cot, you should select a model with robust frames with sturdy rails, as well as smooth edges. It is also recommended to stay clear of models with curved edges, which could be a source of strangulation. Be sure to read the instructions provided by the manufacturer and avoid making use of any tools that could cause harm. Finally, don't be afraid to ask for help. It's usually easier to get things done when you have two people, so you can ask your partner or family member to assist you.

Many cribs come with matching furniture for the nursery which can help connect your room. However, if you don't have the money for this there are plenty of good-quality alternatives that can be used as a stand-alone. The Elementary cot-bed from John Lewis Anyday comes in white and is made of solid FSC pine, making it a durable choice. It comes with three mattress height settings, which means it can be used from the age of. It can also be adjusted to lower the height once your child is ready to start standing (usually around 18 months).

The Stokke Coxley cot is another fantastic alternative. It has a neutral grey finish and a handmade style that can be incorporated into any interior. It's simple to put together and fits into door frames that are standard, which is useful when you need to shift it around your home. With the addition of a simple kit, it can be converted into a chic toddler bed that is in the bench-style. It's light enough to fit in a carry bag when you travel. Parents who participated in our panel said that it was "easy to put together" and "looks stunning". They also loved the fact that you can change the position of the base of the mattress up or down so that you can keep your baby's head up during naps and prevent them from rolling off at the end of the night.