Buying a Baby Cot Bed

Cot beds can be converted to toddler beds, making them a better long-term option than cribs. They also have removable sides as well as an end panel that can be dropped down to provide access to your child.

The majority of cots can be used from the time of birth until approximately 2 years old, or until your child starts to attempt to climb out. Then, you should change to junior beds.

4 Walls

Cot beds are the safety and security for your baby to sleep or sleep at night. They are equipped with high walls or rails to keep your baby from falling out, and a majority of them have adjustable mattress heights that can be adjusted as your child grows. A cot bed is ideal for toddlers and infants alike. There are many different types of cot beds available, from simple and affordable models to those with additional features. Ultimately, the decision depends on the needs of your family and the budget you have set.

Any new parent will find it essential to make the right decision when it comes to choosing a baby's sleeping arrangement. You want to ensure that your baby will be comfortable and safe and also have a space that can be used for a prolonged period of time. While cribs are great for babies however, they're also very compact and may be difficult to fit into smaller spaces. Additionally, they're only suitable for use up to the point that your child reaches 18 months or so. A crib-bed is a more sturdy option that can be easily transformed into a toddler bed or small single bed.

Snuz Cot Bed is a multi-functional, high-value cot. It's a sturdy and simple cot that has a hood that extends to protect your baby from the elements of wind and sun. It has a storage area towards the end, so you can store bedding and other necessities.

CuddleCo Nola Convertible Cot is an alternative. The cot is designed to be a traditional cot but can be turned into a toddler bed or even as a single bed due to an extension kit that's sold separately. It comes with three mattress heights, meaning you can keep the mattress high up for newborns and young babies, before lowering it down as your child grows older.

The final option is a travel cot. They're only suitable for use on short-term basis and might not offer the same level of support as a standard bed. They typically have mattresses that are not as firm or as thick as the regular ones. They can be a good alternative to a standard cot while you travel however, it's important to remember that they'll only last just a few years before your child is ready for a bigger bed.

Waterproof Mattress Protector

Often a lot of thought is put into buying a cot, but less consideration is given to the mattress your baby will sleep on. This is an essential purchase for your baby. We suggest investing in an organic cotton crib.

You should ensure that the cot bed is free of toys, pillows or blankets. They can block the airflow around your child. It is recommended to position the cot or cot bed away from radiators, heaters windows as well as plug sockets and cables that could create risk.

If you're seeking a stylish cot, the Mamas&Papas Franklin Cot Bed (PS375, Cuckooland) is an extremely popular choice among our mum testers. It comes in four colours and has a lovely design that looks like it will stand the test of time. It can also be converted into a toddler bed which means your baby can use it until the age of 4.

Another cot with great style and value is the SnuzFino Classic Cot Bed (PS695 Mother and Baby). Our mum testers loved its sleek design and said it was "simple yet elegant and will last for a long time". It is designed to grow with your child, too. It offers two levels of height for the mattress so you can keep your newborn raised and then lower it once they start to sit up unaided.

When selecting a cot it is important to keep in your mind that there should not be more than 25mm (1 inch) gap between the mattress and the cot's sides and ends. This will ensure that your baby cannot escape from the cot, or get trapped between the mattress and slats. Also, you should make sure to use a mattress protector that is 100 100% cotton and GOTS certified Organic, to ensure it is breathable and soft but totally waterproof and to avoid any unwanted leaks!

If you'd rather an option that is high-tech, then the SNOO Baby mini cot beds Smart Sleeper (PS355, Cuckooland) is a great choice. It's a clever piece of kit which has an app for mobile devices, a weaning feature, access to sleep consultants and much more. It's costly and out of reach for many parents.

Blankets at the End of the Road

If you're thinking of letting your child sleep on blankets in their cot or crib, make sure you have plenty of extras to rotate through the wash. This will keep the sheets clean and fresh and keep them from becoming too dirty and uncomfortable for your baby. A minimum of three or four sets is sufficient.

You can change your sheets more often with organic muslin bedding. They also breathe and help keep your baby's skin healthy and happy. You can pick from a variety of sizes and shades to find the best one for your baby.

The best cot newborn blankets for babies are soft and cosy and ventilated. A blanket that is too heavy and bulky can cause your baby to drown. A blanket made of organic cotton muslin is a great choice because it is light and airy. Another option is a thermal blanket. These are great for those hot summer days when your baby requires a lightweight cover that will keep them warm.

Generally speaking, it is recommended that you remove blankets from your child's cot at the age of 18 months or earlier if you can. They can become dangerous if allowed to climb onto them, which can lead to accidents such as falls out of crib or bed. If your baby is swaddled from birth or is sleeping in a sleeping bag specifically designed for babies, you might want to keep the blanket until they are able to switch 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. This is a great method to keep family and friends informed of your baby's progress as well as capture precious moments. The Monica + Andy Always Blanket is a stunning double layer blanket that provides warmth and comfort yet is still comfortable and breathable.

Easy to Assemble

While a baby cot bed is one of the most essential pieces of nursery furniture, it's also a substantial investment. Therefore, it's worth the effort to choose a model that looks as appealing as it is strong and practical. The cot should be in line with the decor of the room. It is also important to think about whether the cot can be converted to a toddler bed and if so, how easy it will be to do.

When choosing a cot ensure that it has solid frames, solid rails, and smooth finishes. Avoid models with curved corners, because they can create strangulation risks. Be sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully, and never use any tool that could cause harm. Finally, don't be afraid to seek help. Assembly is generally easier when it's done with two people, so ask your partner or a family member to assist you.

Many cot beds come with matching furniture for your nursery that can really bring the design of your room together. However, if you don't have the funds for this there are plenty of good-quality standalone options to choose from. The Elementary cot bed from John Lewis' Anyday range for instance, is available in a contemporary white finish and is made from solid FSC pine for a durable choice. It comes with three mattress settings, which means it can be used right from the age of. It can also be removed when your child is ready to start standing (usually around 18 months).).

The Stokke Coxley cot is a fantastic alternative. It comes with an unassuming grey finish and an elegant look that is perfect for any decor. It is easy to assemble, and it fits through standard doorframes. It is ideal to move around the house. It also converts into a chic toddler bed using the addition of a simple kit. And it's lightweight enough to fit into its own bag for trips away. Parents who were part of our panel agreed that it was "easy to put together" and "looks beautiful". They also loved the fact that you are able to move the base position of the mattress upwards or downwards so that you can keep your baby's head up during naps and prevent them from rolling off at the end of the night.