Buying a Baby Cot Bed

Cot beds are a better long-term option than cribs since they can be converted into a toddler bed. 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 cribs are suitable for use from birth to 2 years, or until your baby starts trying to climb out. Then, you can change 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 stop your child from falling out, and a majority of them have adjustable mattress heights that can be lowered as your baby grows. This makes a cot bed perfect for toddlers and infants alike. There are many different types of cot beds that are available, from simple and affordable models to those with additional features. The choice ultimately depends on the family's budget and needs.

Any new parent will find it crucial to make the right choice when choosing a baby's sleeping arrangement. You need to ensure that your baby will be comfortable and safe and also have a space that can be used for a long time. While cots are ideal for infants but they're also quite small and can be difficult to fit into smaller spaces. They're typically only suitable for use from 18 months. A infant cot bed-bed is a more durable option and can easily be transformed into a toddler bed or small single bed.

Snuz Cot Bed is a multi-functional, high-value cot. It's 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 also has a convenient storage area at the end of the cot, so you can keep bedding and other necessities close by.

Another good choice is another option is the CuddleCo Nola Convertible Cot. The cot can be transformed from a cot into single or toddler beds using an extension kit, which is sold separately. It has three different mattress heights so that you can keep the mattress high up for newborns and young babies, and then lower it down as your child gets older.

The final option is a bed for travel. They are only suitable for short-term usage and might not offer the same level support like a traditional bed. In addition, they often come with mattresses that aren't as firm or as thick as the standard one. While they can be a good alternative to a standard bed while traveling however, it is important to keep in mind that your child will only use them for a few years before they is ready for a larger bed.

Protect your mattress from water with a waterproof mattress

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

It is important to make sure that your baby's crib is free of toys, pillows or blankets. They can impede the airflow around your child. It is recommended to place the cot bed away from heaters, radiators, windows as well as plug sockets and cables that could be risk.

The Mamas&Papas Franklin Cot Bed is a popular option among our mum testers. It is available in four different colors and has an attractive design that appears like it will last for a long time. It can also be transformed into a toddler's bed, so that your baby can use the crib until they are four years old.

The SnuzFino Classic Cot Bed is another cot that has great style and value (PS695, Mother and Baby). Our mum testers loved its sleek design and said it was "simple yet elegant and will stand the test of time". It's designed to expand with your child too and offers two height settings for the mattress so you can keep your newborn raised and then lower it when they are able to sit without assistance.

It is essential to keep in mind that the mattress should not have a gap larger than 25mm (1") between it and the sides and ends of the cot. This is to ensure your baby cannot get out of the cot, or get trapped between the mattress and the slats. It is also recommended to use a mattress protector that is 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 rather an option that is high-tech, then the SNOO Baby Cot Smart Sleeper (PS355, Cuckooland) is an excellent choice. It's a smart piece of kit which has an app that is mobile, a weaning features as well as access to sleep specialists and much more. But, it's costly and could be out of reach for many parents.

Blankets at the End

If you're planning to let your baby sleep in a crib or cot with a blanket, be sure you have enough blankets so you can wash them regularly. This will keep the sheets clean and fresh and prevent them from becoming too dirty and uncomfortable for your baby. Three to four sets of sheets is enough.

A good set of organic muslin blankets allows you to change the sheets frequently without worrying about them getting too dirty. They are also breathable which can help keep your baby's skin healthy and happy. You can pick from a variety of sizes and colors to find the right one for your baby.

The best baby blankets are soft and cozy, yet airy. You don't want a blanket that is too bulky and heavy as it could cause a suffocation risk for your baby. A blanket made of organic cotton muslin is the best cots choice, as it is light and breathable. Another alternative is a blanket that is thermal. These are great for balmy summer days when your Baby Crib will require a light cover to keep them warm.

In general, it's advised to remove a blanket in your child’s cot by 18 months, or earlier, if possible. It is because they become dangerous if allowed to climb them. This could lead to accidents such as falling out of the crib or the bed. If your child is swaddled from birth or is sleeping in a sleeping bag for babies, you might want to keep the blanket until they are ready to switch to a duvet.

Many parents use a milestone blanket to mark the development and growth of their child, typically with numbers that indicate the age of the child. This is a great way to keep family and friends updated on your baby's progress as well as capture some precious moments. The Monica + Andy Always Blanket has a double layer that is warm and cozy, while also being comfortable to wear.

Easy to Assemble

While a Baby Cot Bed [read the full info here] is one of the most important furniture pieces for nursery, it's also a substantial investment. Therefore, it's worth taking time to select a model that looks as good as it is sturdy and practical. The most important consideration is that the cot should be in keeping with the overall style of your baby's room. It is also important to think about whether the cot could be converted to a toddler bed and, in the event that it does, how easy this is to do.

When selecting a cot, make sure you choose a model with robust frames, solid rails, and smooth finishes. Avoid cots that have curved corners, as they can pose strangulation risks. Be sure to follow the instructions of the manufacturer and avoid using any tools that could cause damage. Don't be afraid to ask for help. Assembly is generally easier when it's done by two people, so ask your spouse or a family member to help you.

Many cots and tots come with matching furniture for the nursery, which can help to make your room more cohesive. If you don't want spend the money, there are many high-quality standalone options. The Elementary cot-bed from John Lewis Anyday comes in a white finish with solid FSC pine, which makes it a sturdy option. It comes with three mattress height settings, which means it is suitable for use from the age of. It can also be lowered once your child is able to begin standing (usually around 18 months).

Another option is the Scandi-style Coxley cot from Stokke that is a gorgeous hand-crafted look and a neutral grey finish that will suit any interior. It is easy to assemble and can be inserted into doors with standard frames. This is great for moving around the home. With the addition of an easy kit that can transform it into a chic toddler bed in a bench style. And it's lightweight enough to fit into its own bag for trips away. Our panel of parents agreed that it was "a dream to put together" and "looks gorgeous". They also appreciated the ability to move the base position of the mattress up or down so that you can keep your baby's head up during naps and prevent them from rolling away at the end of the night.