Buying a Baby Cot Bed

Cot beds can be transformed into toddler beds, making them a better long-term option than cribs. They also have removable sides and an end panel that can be pulled down to allow access to your child.

The majority of cribs can be used from the time of birth until approximately 2 years old, or until your child starts to try to climb out. Then, you can switch to a junior bed.

4 Walls

Cot beds provide an ensconced, safe space for your baby to nap or sleep at night. They feature high walls or rails to prevent your child from falling out, and a majority of them have adjustable mattress heights that can be reduced as your child grows. A cot bed is perfect for both infants and toddlers. There are a variety of cot beds to choose from, from simple and affordable models to ones that are packed with additional features. The final decision is based on your family's needs and budget.

Anyone who is a new parent will discover it crucial to make the right choice in deciding on a baby's sleep arrangement. You need to ensure that your child will be comfortable and safe and have a space that can be used for a long time. While cots are ideal for infants, they're also quite compact and may be difficult to fit into smaller spaces. They're also only usually suitable for use from 18 months. A cot bed is a better option for long-term use and can be easily converted into a toddler or small single bed.

If you're looking to buy a low-cost cot that is versatile, we recommend the Snuz Cot Bed. It's a sturdy, simple crib with an extended hood that can shield your baby from wind and sun. It also has a storage space towards the end, so you can store bedding and other essentials.

Another option is another option is the CuddleCo Nola Convertible mini cot beds. The cot can be transformed from a cot to a single or toddler bed with the help of an extension kit which is sold separately. It has three different mattress heights, so you can keep the mattress up for newborns and small infants, and then lower it as your child gets older.

The last option is a travel cot. They are typically only suitable for short-term use, and may not provide the same degree of support as a regular cot. Additionally, they usually come with mattresses that aren't as strong or as thick as a standard one. While they may be a great alternative to a standard mattress while traveling but it is important to remember that your child will only use them for a couple of years before he or she is ready to move on to a bigger bed.

Mattress Protector Waterproof

Often a amount of thought is given to buying a cot, but less thought is given to the mattress that your baby will sleep on. This is a very important purchase for your baby. We recommend buying organic cotton bedding for your baby.

As new research shows airflow restriction could be the cause of SIDS and SUDI, you will be looking to ensure that your baby's bed is free from toys, pillows blankets, muslin cloths, blankets or cot bumpers which can restrict the flow of air around your child. It is recommended cribs to position the cot or cot bed away from heaters, radiators, windows, plug sockets and cables that could be danger.

The Mamas & Papas Franklin Cot Bed is a popular option among our mum testers. It comes in four colours and looks like it's going to last for an extended period of time. It also converts into a toddler bed so your baby can use it right up until the age of four.

The SnuzFino Classic Cot Bed is another cot that is stylish and value (PS695 Mother&Baby). Our mum testers were impressed by its sleek design, saying it was "simple but elegant and will stand the long-term". It is designed to grow with your child and offers two different heights for the mattress so that you can keep your baby elevated and then lower it once they are able to sit without assistance.

It is essential to keep in mind 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 baby can't climb out of the cot or get trapped between the mattress and the slats. Also, you should make sure to use a mattress protector that is 100 100% cotton and GOTS Certified Organic, so that it's breathable and soft but completely waterproof and to avoid any unwanted leaks!

You can also opt for a more high-tech alternative and select the SNOO Smart Sleeper Baby Mini Cot Bed (PS355, Cuckooland). It's a smart piece of kit which has a mobile app, weaning feature and access to sleep experts and much more. It is expensive and 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 crib with a blanket, be sure to have enough bedding to wash them frequently. This will keep sheets from becoming excessively soiled and uncomfortable for your baby and also help to keep their bed clean and fresh. Three to four sheets should be enough.

A good set of organic muslin blankets allows you to change the sheets often without worrying about them getting too dirty. They also breathe, which will help keep your baby's delicate skin healthy. You can pick from a wide range of sizes and colors to find the perfect one for your baby.

The best blankets for babies are soft and cozy but also breathable. A blanket that is heavy and bulky could cause your baby to suffocate. A blanket made from organic cotton muslin is a great choice because it is lightweight and airy. 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's advised to remove blankets in your child's cot by 18 months, or earlier, if possible. This is because they can become dangerous if allowed to climb on them, which could lead to accidents, such as falling out of bed or the crib. If your baby has been swaddled since birth or is sleeping in a sleeping bag designed for infants, you might want to keep the blanket until they are ready 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. 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 has a double layer that's both warm and cozy, while also being 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. It's important to choose one that is attractive and sturdy. The most important factor to consider is that the cot needs to be in keeping with the overall style of your baby's room. Also, you should consider if the cot can be turned into a bed for toddlers, and if so, how easy it is to accomplish.

When choosing a cot, ensure that it has strong frames, solid rails, and smooth finishes. It's also best to avoid models with curved edges which could pose a risk of strangulation. Be sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully, and never use any tool that can cause damage. Don't be afraid to ask for assistance. Assembly is generally easier when you have two people, so ask your spouse or a family member to assist you.

Many cots 4 tots have matching furniture for the nursery, which can help to connect your room. If you don't want spend a lot of money, there are many good quality standalone options. The Elementary cot bed from John Lewis' Anyday range is a good example. It comes in a modern white finish and is made of solid FSC pine to provide a long-lasting option. It also has three mattress heights, which means it's suitable from birth. It can also be lowered when your child is ready to start standing (usually at about 18 months).).

The Stokke Coxley cot is a great alternative. It has a neutral grey finish as well as a handcrafted style that can be incorporated into any interior. It's easy to put together and can be inserted into doors with standard frames. It is ideal for moving around the house. With the addition of an easy kit that allows it to be transformed into a chic toddler bed that is in the bench style. It's light enough to fit into its own carry bag for trips away. Parents who participated in our panel remarked that it was "easy to put together" and "looks beautiful". The parents also loved the fact that the base of the mattress can be moved up or down, which means you can keep your baby's head elevated during naps and stop them from falling over at night.