Buying a Baby Cot Bed

Cot beds are a more long-term option than cribs since they can be transformed into a toddler bed. They also have removable sides as well as an end panel that can be lowered down to allow access to your child.

The majority of cribs can be used from birth until about 2 years old or until your child starts to want to climb out. Then, you should switch to junior beds.

4 Walls

Cot beds offer a safe and secure space for your baby to sleep in at night or even during naptime. They feature high walls or rails to keep your baby from slipping out, and a majority of them have adjustable mattress heights that can be adjusted as your child grows. This makes a cot bed suitable for toddlers and infants alike. There are a myriad of cot bed models, ranging from the basic and affordable cots to those that come with a variety of features. Ultimately, the 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 make sure that your child will be comfortable and safe and have an area that can be used for a long period of time. While cots are ideal for infants however, they're also very compact and may be difficult to fit into smaller spaces. They're typically only suitable for use from 18 months. A cot bed is a better choice for a longer-term usage and is easily transformed into a toddler bed or small single bed.

If you're looking for a good-value cot that is versatile we suggest the Snuz Cot Bed. This is a sturdy, simple cot with an extended hood that can protect your baby from wind and sun. It also has a convenient storage area at the end of the cot, so you can keep bedding and other essentials close by.

Another good choice is an alternative is the CuddleCo Nola Convertible Cot. This cot can be converted from a cot into a toddler or single bed by using an extension kit which is sold separately. It has three handy mattress heights, so you can keep the mattress high up for newborns and young babies, and then lower it down as your child grows older.

The final option is a bed for travel. These are typically intended for temporary use and don't provide the same degree of support as a regular cot. They usually come with mattresses which are not as firm or thick as traditional ones. They can be a great alternative to a standard cot if you're travelling however, it's important to remember that they'll only last for just a few years before your child is ready to move on to an even bigger bed.

Protect your mattress from water and dirt

Many people spend much time and effort choosing a cot but pay less focus on the mattress your baby will be sleeping on. This is a crucial purchase for your baby. We suggest buying an organic cotton baby bed.

You will want to make sure that your baby's cot bed is free of blankets, toys, or pillows. They can impede the air flow around your child. Ideally, you should position the cot or cot bed away from heaters, radiators, windows, plug sockets and cables that could create a hazard.

If you're looking for a chic mini cot beds, the Mamas&Papas Franklin Cot Bed (PS375, Cuckooland) is one of the most popular choices among our mom testers. It comes in four colours, and the design looks like it's going to last for an extended period of time. It can also convert into a toddler bed, Baby Cot Bed which means your baby can use it right up to the age of 4.

Another cot that has great design and value is the SnuzFino Classic Cot Bed (PS695, Mother and Baby). Our mum testers were amazed by its sleek design, saying it was "simple but elegant and will stand the long-term". It is designed to grow with your child too and has two levels of height for the mattress so that you can keep your baby elevated and then lower it when they are able to sit without assistance.

When you are choosing a cot it is worth bearing in your mind that there shouldn't be more than 25mm (1 inch) gap between the mattress and the cot's sides and ends. This will ensure that your baby can't escape from 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, so that it is soft and breathable but totally waterproof and to stop any leaks!

Alternatively, if you prefer an option that is high-tech, then the SNOO Baby Cot Smart Sleeper (PS355, Cuckooland) is an excellent option. It's a great kit that includes an app that can be downloaded on mobile devices, a weaning feature, as well as access to sleep specialists. It's costly and not accessible to many parents.

Blankets at the End

If you're planning on letting your baby sleep on blankets in their cot or crib, make sure you have plenty of additional blankets to rotate through the wash. This will keep the sheets from becoming too soiled and uncomfortable for your baby, as well as help to keep their bedding clean and fresh. A minimum of three to four sets is sufficient.

You can change your sheets more often with organic muslin bedding. They are also breathable which will help keep your baby's delicate skin healthy. You can choose from a variety of sizes and colors to find the perfect one for your baby.

The Best cot for newborn baby blankets are soft and cosy, yet ventilated. You shouldn't choose a blanket that is too heavy and bulky, as it could pose a suffocation risk for your baby. It is recommended to select an organic blanket made of cotton muslin that is breathable and lightweight. A thermal blanket is a great option. These are perfect for those hot summer days when your baby needs a light cover to keep them warm.

In general, it is recommended that you stop using blankets in the crib of your child at the age of 18 months or earlier if you can. This is because they can be risky if children climb over them. This can lead to accidents like falling out of the crib or bed. However, if your best baby cots is used to sleeping with a blanket and has been swaddled from birth or sleeping in a sleeping bag for babies then you might want to leave the blanket in place until they are ready to move to a duvet.

Many parents utilize milestone blankets to track their child's growth and progress. These blankets are usually marked in accordance with the baby's age. This is a great way to keep family and friends informed of your baby's progress as well as capture some precious moments. The Monica + Andy Always Blanket is a stunning double layer blanket that gives warmth and coziness, and is air-conditioned.

Easy to Assemble

While a baby cot bed is among the most important pieces of nursery furniture but it's also a significant investment. It's crucial to choose one that is beautiful and sturdy. The most important consideration is that the cot should match the overall look of the baby's room. You'll also want to consider whether the cot could be converted into a toddler bed, and If so, how simple this is to accomplish.

When selecting a cot, make sure you choose a model with strong frames, sturdy rails, and smooth edges. Avoid cots with curved corners because they can create the risk of strangulation. Also, be sure to follow the manufacturer's directions carefully, and never use any tool that can cause damage. Finally, don't be afraid to ask for assistance. Ask your family or friend member to assist you.

Many cots have matching furniture for the nursery, which can help to bring your room together. If you don't have the money for this there are many good-quality alternatives that can be used as a stand-alone. The Elementary cot sale bed from John Lewis' Anyday range is a good example. It comes in a contemporary white finish and is constructed out of solid FSC pine to provide a long-lasting option. It also has three mattress height positions, so it's suitable for use from birth and can be lowered when your child is ready to begin standing (usually at around 18 months).

Another great option is the Scandi-style Coxley cot from Stokke, which has a stunning hand-crafted feel and a neutral grey finish that will suit any room. It's simple to put together and fits into standard door frames and is ideal when you have to move it around your home. It can also transform into a chic bench-style toddler bed with the addition of a simple kit. It's also light enough to fit in its own bag for trips away. Parents who took part in our panel agreed that it was "easy to put together" and "looks stunning". Parents also appreciated the fact that the mattress's base can be moved up or down, which means you can keep your baby's head elevated during naps and stop them from rolling over at night.