Buying a Baby Cot Bed

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

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

4 Walls

Cot beds offer secure and safe for your baby to rest in at night or during nap time. They have high walls or rails to prevent your baby from falling, and many come with adjustable mattress heights. This makes a cot bed perfect for infants and toddlers alike. There are a variety of cot bed models that range from the simple and affordable to those with many additional features. The final decision depends on the family's budget as well as their needs.

Any new parent will find it essential to make the right decision when choosing a baby's sleeping arrangement. You need to ensure that your baby is comfortable and secure. It must also be a space you can stay in for a prolonged period of time. While cots can be great for infants and are small, they can also be difficult to squeeze into smaller spaces. Additionally, they're only suitable for use until your child reaches the age of 18 months or so. A cot-bed is a more durable alternative and can be easily transformed into a toddler bed or a smaller single bed.

Snuz Cot Bed is a versatile, good cribs-value cot. This is a simple but sturdy cot that comes with an extra deep hood which shields your child from the sun and wind. It also has a handy storage area at the top of the cot, so you can keep bedding and other essentials in a convenient place.

Another option is another option is the CuddleCo Nola Convertible Cot. This cot starts out as a traditional cot and can be transformed into an infant cot bed bed or as a single bed because of an extension kit, which is available separately. It comes with three different mattress heights so that you can alter it according to your child's age.

The last alternative is a travel bed. These are usually only suitable for temporary use and don't provide the same level of support as the regular cot. They usually have mattresses that aren't as strong or as thick as the regular ones. They can be a useful alternative to a standard cot when you travel 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 a bigger bed.

Waterproof Mattress Protector

Many people spend lots of time and effort choosing a cot, but pay little attention to the mattress that your baby will be sleeping on. This is a very important purchase for your baby. We suggest investing in an organic cotton crib.

Recent research has revealed that restricted airflow may be the cause of SIDS and SUDI, you'll be looking to ensure that your baby's bed is free from toys, pillows, blankets, muslin cloths or cot bumpers that can hinder the flow of air around your child. Ideally, you will also position the cot or cot bed away from radiators, heaters, windows plug sockets, and cables that could pose danger.

If you are looking for a chic cot, the Mamas&Papas Franklin Cot Bed (PS375, Cuckooland) is one of the most popular choices among our mum testers. It is available in four colors and features a an attractive design that appears like it's built to last for a long time. It is also able to be converted into a toddler's bed so that your baby can use the crib up to four years old.

Another cot with excellent style and value is the SnuzFino Classic Cot Bed (PS695 Mother and Baby). Our mum testers were impressed by its sleek design, saying it was "simple but stylish and will stand the test of time". It is designed to grow with your child too and has two different heights for the mattress so that you can keep your baby raised and then lower it once they start to sit up without assistance.

It is important to remember that the mattress should not have a gap of more than 25mm (1") between it and the edges and sides of the cot. This will ensure that your child won't get out of the crib or be trapped between the slats of the mattress. Also, you should use a mattress protector that is 100 100% cotton and GOTS certified Organic, so that it is breathable and soft but completely waterproof and to avoid any unwanted leaks!

Alternatively, if you prefer 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 equipment that includes an app that is mobile, a weaning feature and access to sleep experts and more. However, it is expensive and could be out of the budget for many parents.

Blankets at the End of The Road

If you're planning to allow your baby to sleep in a cot or a crib with a blanket, be sure to have enough extras to wash them regularly. This will keep the sheets from becoming overly dirty and uncomfortable for your baby and also help to keep their bedding clean and fresh. Three to four sheets should be enough.

A good set of organic muslin blankets will allow you to change the sheets often without worrying about them becoming too dirty. They are also breathable which helps keep your baby's delicate skin healthy. They are available in different sizes and colors, so you can find the right ones to meet your baby's requirements.

The best blankets for babies are soft and cosy but also ventilated. A blanket that is too bulky and heavy could cause your baby to choke. It is best cot beds to pick a blanket made of organic cotton muslin, which is lightweight and breathable. Another good option is a thermal blanket. They are an excellent choice for warm summer days when your baby will require a light cover to keep them warm.

In general, it's recommended that you stop using a blanket in your child’s cot by 18 months, or earlier if it is possible. They can become dangerous if they are allowed to climb onto them, which could lead to accidents, such as falling out of the crib or bed. However, if your child is used to sleeping with blankets and is swaddled from birth or sleeping in a sleeping bag for babies, you may want to leave it in place until they are ready to move to a duvet.

Many parents use milestone blankets to record their child's progress and growth. They are typically marked according to the child's age. It is a great way to keep your family and friends updated about the progress of your child and capture precious memories. The Monica + Andy Always Blanket is a gorgeous double layer blanket that gives warmth and comfort, and is breathable.

Easy to Assemble

While a baby cot bed is one of the most essential pieces of nursery furniture but it's also a significant investment. It is essential to select a model which is both attractive and sturdy. The most important factor to consider is that the cot must be in keeping with the overall style of your baby's room. It is also important to consider whether the cot can be turned into a toddler bed and if it can be done, how simple it is to do so.

When selecting a cot, look for models that have strong frames, solid rails, and smooth finishes. Avoid models with curved corners as they can pose strangulation risks. Also, be sure to follow the instructions of the manufacturer carefully, and avoid using any tool that could cause harm. Don't be afraid to ask for help. Ask your family or friend member to help you.

Many cots come with matching furniture for the nursery which can help bring your room together. However, if you don't have the funds for this you can find many good-quality alternatives that can be used as a stand-alone. The Elementary cot bed from John Lewis' Anyday range is a good example. It comes in a contemporary white finish and is made out of solid FSC pine to provide a long-lasting option. It comes with three mattress height settings, which means it is suitable for use from birth. It can also be lowered once your child is ready to start standing (usually around 18 months).

Another great option is the Scandi-style Coxley cot sets from Stokke, which has a beautiful hand-crafted feel and a neutral grey finish that will suit any decor. It's easy to set up and fits into door frames that are standard, which is useful when you have to move it around your home. It also converts into a stylish toddler bed using the addition of a simple kit. It's light enough to fit into its own bag for trips away. Parents who participated in our panel agreed that it was "easy to put together" and "looks beautiful". They also appreciated the fact that you are able to change the position of the base of the mattress up or down - so you can keep your baby's head up during naps and prevent them from rolling away at night.