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 have removable sides and an end panel that can be pulled down to make it easier for your child.

The majority of online cots are suitable for use from birth until around 2 years, or until your baby starts trying to climb out. Then you should switch to a junior bed.

4 Walls

Cot beds are secure and safe for your baby to rest in at night or during naptime. They have high walls or rails that stop your baby from falling and many come with adjustable mattress heights. This makes a cot bed perfect for infants and toddlers 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 comes down to the family's budget as well as their needs.

Selecting the best baby sleeping arrangement is a major decision for any parent who is about to become a. You want to make sure that your child is safe and comfortable and have a space that can be used for a long time. While cots are great for newborns, they're also quite compact and may be difficult to fit into smaller spaces. In addition, they're typically only suitable for use until your child reaches the age of 18 months or at the earliest. A crib-bed is a more sturdy alternative and can be easily converted into a toddler bed or a smaller single bed.

If you're looking to buy a low-cost, versatile cot, we recommend the Snuz Cot Bed. This is a sturdy, simple cot that has an extended hood to protect your baby from wind and sun. It also has a storage space at the end, so you can put away bedding and other necessities.

Another option is an alternative is the CuddleCo Nola Convertible Cot. This cot starts out as a traditional cot but can be converted into an infant bed or one bed, thanks to an extension kit that is sold separately. It has three different mattress heights, meaning you can keep the mattress up for newborns and young babies, before lowering it as your child gets older.

The last option is a travel cot. These are usually only suitable for temporary use and don't provide the same level of support as the standard cot. They typically come with mattresses which aren't as sturdy or thick as regular ones. While they may be a great alternative to a standard bed while traveling but it is important to remember that your child will only be using them for a couple of years before they is ready for a bigger bed.

Protect your mattress from water with a waterproof mattress

Often a lot of thought is put into purchasing a cot, but little thought is given to the mattress your baby will sleep on. This is a very important purchase for your baby. We suggest purchasing organic cotton bedding for your baby.

You should ensure that your baby's crib is free of blankets, toys, or pillows. They can block the airflow around your child. You should also keep the bed or cot away from any heaters, radiators windows, cable sockets, and plugs.

The Mamas & Papas Franklin Cot Bed is a popular option among our mum testers. It comes in four colours, and the design looks like it's going to last for an extended period of time. It is also able to be converted into a toddler's crib, to allow your baby to use the crib until four years old.

The SnuzFino Classic Cot Bed is another cot that has great style and value (PS695 Mother and Baby). Our mum testers were amazed by its sleek design, and said it was "simple but stylish and will last the long-term". It's designed to grow with your child. It has two different height settings, so you can increase the height of your baby and lower it once they are able to sit up on their own.

It is crucial to remember that the mattress shouldn't have a gap of more than 25mm (1") between it and the sides and ends of the cot. This will ensure that your baby cannot get out of the cot or become trapped between the mattress and slats. It is also recommended to use a mattress protector that is 100% cotton and GOTS certified Organic, to ensure it's breathable and soft but totally waterproof and to avoid any unwanted leaks!

Alternatively, if you prefer something more modern, the SNOO Baby Cot Smart Sleeper (PS355, Cuckooland) is an excellent choice. It's a smart device that comes with an app for mobile devices and a weaning function, and access to sleep consultants. However, it's expensive and might be out of reach for many parents.

Blankets at The End

If you're thinking of letting your baby sleep on blankets in their cot or crib ensure that you have plenty of extras to rotate through the wash. This will stop the sheets from becoming too soiled and uncomfortable for your child as well as helping to keep their bedding clean and fresh. Three to four sets of sheets should be sufficient.

You can change your bedding more often with an organic muslin bedding. They are also breathable, which will help keep your baby's delicate skin healthy. They are available in different sizes and colors which means you can find the perfect ones for your baby's needs.

The best baby blankets are soft and comfortable and ventilated. A blanket that is too heavy and bulky could cause your baby to drown. A blanket made from organic cotton muslin is the best choice because it is light and comfortable to breathe. Another good option is a thermal blanket. They are ideal for those balmy summer days, when your baby requires a light cover to keep them warm.

Generally speaking it is recommended that you do away with blankets in your child's cot when they reach the age of 18 months or earlier if you can. They can be dangerous if children are allowed to climb on them. This could result in accidents such as falling out of the crib or bed. If your child is swaddled from birth or is sleeping in a sleeping bag specifically designed for babies, you may wish to keep the blanket until they are ready to switch to a duvet.

Many parents utilize milestone blankets to mark the development and growth of their child, 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 your baby's development, as well capture some precious memories. The Monica + Andy Always Blanket is a gorgeous double layer blanket that offers warmth and comfort while still being breathable.

Easy to Assemble

While a baby cot bed is one of the most important furniture pieces for the nursery however, it's also an expensive investment. As such, it's worth the effort to choose the one that looks good as it is sturdy and practical. The most important thing to consider is that the cot should match the overall look of the room your baby is in. You'll also want to consider whether the cot can be converted to a toddler bed and, if so, how easy it is to do.

When choosing a cot look for models that have robust frames, sturdy rails and smooth finishes. Avoid models with curved corners as they can pose the risk of strangulation. Be sure to follow the directions of the manufacturer and avoid using any tools that may cause damage. Don't be afraid to seek help. It's usually easier to get things done when it's done by two people, so you can ask your partner or family member to help you.

Many cribs come with matching furniture for the nursery that can really bring the look of your room together. If you don't want spend a lot of money, there are many excellent options for a standalone bed that are of good quality. The Elementary cot 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, which is a sturdy choice. It also comes with three mattress heights, which means it's suitable for use starting from the time of birth and can be adjusted when your child is ready to begin standing (usually at around 18 months).

The Stokke Coxley cot is a great alternative. It comes with a neutral grey finish as well as a handcrafted feel that will suit any room. It's easy to put together and can be inserted into doors that have standard doorframes. This is perfect to move around the house. It can also be converted into a chic bench-style toddler bed with the addition of a simple kit. It's also light enough to fit into its own bag for trips away. Parents who took part in our panel agreed that it was "easy to assemble" and "looks beautiful". They also appreciated the ability to move the base position of the mattress up or down - so you can keep your baby's head elevated during naps and prevent them from falling asleep at the end of the night.