Buying a Baby Cot Bed

Cot beds are a more long-term option than cribs since they can be converted into an adult bed. They also come with removable sides and an end panel that can be dropped down to make it easier for your child.

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

4 Walls

Cot beds are an ideal and safe space for your baby to rest in at night or even during naptime. They are equipped with high walls or rails to prevent your baby from slipping out, and most feature adjustable mattress heights that can be adjusted as your baby grows. A cot bed is suitable for both infants and toddlers. There are many different types of cot beds available in a range of styles, from basic and budget-friendly models to those packed with additional features. The final decision is based on the needs of your family and the budget you have set.

Every new parent will find it essential to make the right choice in deciding on a baby's sleep arrangement. You must ensure that your child is secure and comfortable and have the space to be used for a prolonged period of time. While cots are great for infants and are small but they can also be difficult to fit in smaller spaces. They're generally only suitable for use until 18 months. A crib-bed is a more sturdy alternative and can be easily transformed into an infant bed or a small single bed.

Snuz Cot Bed is a flexible, affordable cot. This is a simple but sturdy cot that comes with a hood that is extra-deep which shields your child from the elements of wind and sun. It has a storage space towards the end, so you can put away bedding and other essentials.

CuddleCo Nola Convertible Cot is another option. The cot is designed to be an ordinary cot, but can be turned into an infant bed or a single bed, due to an extension kit that's sold separately. It has three different mattress heights so that you can keep the mattress up for infants and infants, and then lower it as your child grows older.

The final option is a travel bed. These are usually only suitable for short-term use and may not provide the same degree of support as a regular cot. In addition, they often have mattresses that aren't as sturdy or as thick as a standard cot. They can be a useful alternative to a standard cot when you're travelling, but it's worth remembering that they'll only last for a few years at most before your child is ready for an even 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 that your baby will sleep on. This is a crucial purchase for your baby. We recommend investing in organic cotton bedding for your baby.

New research suggests that restricted airflow could be a reason for SIDS and SUDI, you will be looking to ensure that your baby's bedroom is free of toys, pillows, blankets, muslin cloths or cot bumpers that could hinder the flow of air around your baby. Ideally, you will also position the cot or cot bed away from radiators, heaters windows as well as plug sockets and cables that could be a hazard.

If you are looking for a chic cot, the Mamas&Papas Franklin Cot Bed (PS375, Cuckooland) is a popular choice among our mum testers. It comes in four colors and features a a lovely design that looks like it's going to stand the test of time. It is also able to be converted into a toddler's crib, so that your baby can use the crib until they are four years old.

The SnuzFino Classic Cot Bed is another cot with great style and value (PS695, Mother&baby cots online). Our mom testers loved its sleek design and stated that it was "simple but stylish and will endure the test of time". It's designed to expand with your child too and comes with two levels of height for the mattress so that you can keep your baby raised and then lower it when they start to sit up without assistance.

When you are choosing a cot it is important to keep in the mind that there should be no more than 25mm (1 inch) space between the mattress and the cot's sides and ends. This will ensure that your child won't climb out of the crib or get caught between the slats of the mattress. Use a mattress cover made of is made of 100% organic cotton and GOTS certified to ensure that it is soft, breathable and waterproof.

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 clever piece of equipment that includes an app for mobile devices, a weaning features, access to sleep consultants and more. It's costly and is out of reach for many parents.

Blankets at the End of the Road

If you plan to allow your baby to sleep in a cot or a crib with a blanket, make sure to have enough extras so you can wash them frequently. This will keep the sheets fresh and clean and prevent them from becoming dirty and uncomfortable for your baby. Three to four sets of sheets should be enough.

You can change your sheets more frequently with a set of organic muslin bedding. They also breathe, which helps to keep your baby's skin healthy and happy. You can pick from a wide range of sizes and colors to find the perfect one for your baby.

The most comfortable blankets are soft, cosy and comfortable. You don't want a blanket that is too heavy and bulky, as it could pose an obstructive risk to your baby. A blanket made from organic cotton muslin is ideal, as it is light and comfortable to breathe. Another alternative is a blanket that is thermal. These are great for those warm summer days, when your baby needs an easy-to-wear cover that will keep them warm.

In general it is recommended you do away with blankets in your child's cot at 18 months of age or earlier if it is possible. This is because they can become dangerous if allowed to climb onto them, which can lead to accidents like falling from the bed or the crib. If your child is used to sleeping with blankets and is covered from birth or sleeps in a baby sleeping bag it is best cots for newborns to leave it in place until they are ready to transition to a duvet.

Many parents utilize milestone blankets to mark their baby's growth and development, typically with numbers that represent the age of the child. It is a great way to keep family and friends informed of your baby's progress, and also capture precious moments. The Monica + Andy Always Blanket is a beautiful double layer blanket that offers warmth and comfort and is comfortable and breathable.

Easy to Assemble

While a baby cot bed is among the most essential pieces of nursery furniture but it's also a significant investment. It's worthwhile to take the time to choose one that looks as attractive as it is durable and practical. The most important consideration is that the cot must match the overall look of the room your baby is in. You should also consider whether the cot could be converted into a toddler bed, and if so, how easy it will be to do.

When choosing a cot make sure you choose a model with strong frames, solid rails, and smooth surfaces. It's also best to avoid models with curved edges, which may pose a risk of strangulation. Make sure you read the instructions provided by the manufacturer and avoid using any tools that could cause harm. Don't be shy about asking for assistance. Ask your family or friend member to help you.

Many top rated cots have matching furniture for the nursery, which can help to connect your room. If you don't want spend the cost, there are a number of high-quality standalone options. The Elementary cot-bed from John Lewis Anyday comes in white and is made of solid FSC pine, which makes it a sturdy option. It has three mattress height settings, which means it can be used right from the age of. It can also be lowered once your child is ready for standing (usually around 18 months).

Another great alternative is the Scandi-style Coxley cot by Stokke, which is a gorgeous hand-crafted look and a neutral grey finish that suits any interior. It is easy to assemble and fits into doors that have standard doorframes. It is ideal to move around the home. With the addition of a simple kit that can transform it into a chic toddler bed in the bench-style. It's lightweight enough to fit in a carry bag when you travel. Our panel of parents agreed that it was "a dream to put together" and "looks gorgeous". They also loved the fact that you can change the position of the base of the mattress upwards or downwards - so you can keep your baby's head elevated during nap time and stop them from falling asleep at night.