Buying a Baby Cot Bed

Cot beds can be converted to toddler beds, making them a more durable option than cribs. They also have removable sides and an end panel that can be lowered down to make it easier for your child.

Most cribs are suitable for use from birth to 2 years or until your child starts to climb out. Then, you should switch to junior beds.

4 Walls

Cot beds offer an ensconced, safe space for your baby to sleep or sleep at night. They have high walls or rails that stop your child from falling, and many come with adjustable mattress heights. This makes a cot bed perfect for toddlers and infants alike. There are a myriad of cot bed models, which range from simple and inexpensive to those that come with a variety of features. The final decision comes down to the family's budget and requirements.

Any new parent will find it important to make the right decision when it comes to choosing a baby's sleeping arrangement. You must ensure that your baby is secure and safe. It should also be a space that you can use for a long time. While cheap cots are ideal for infants, they're also quite compact and may be difficult to fit into smaller spaces. They're generally only suitable for use from 18 months. A cot bed is a better option for long-term use and can be easily transformed into a toddler bed or small single bed.

If you're looking for a value cot that is versatile, we recommend the Snuz Cot Bed. It's a simple, but sturdy cot that comes with an extra deep hood that shields your baby from the elements of wind and sun. It also has a handy storage space at the bottom of the cot, so you can keep bedding and other necessities in a convenient place.

Another good choice is the CuddleCo Nola Convertible Cot. This cot starts out as an ordinary cot, but can be converted into a toddler bed or even one bed, due to an extension kit that's sold separately. It comes with three mattress heights so that you can keep the mattress up for newborns and young babies, and then lower it as your child gets older.

The final alternative is a travel bed. They are only suitable for short-term usage and don't provide the same level of support like a traditional bed. They typically have mattresses that aren't as strong or thick as traditional ones. They can be a useful alternative to a standard cot while you're travelling but you should remember that they'll only last several years before your child is ready for a bigger bed.

Protect your mattress from water with a waterproof mattress

A lot of thought goes into buying a cot, however little thought is given to the mattress that your baby will sleep on. This is a very important purchase for your baby. We suggest buying an organic cotton crib.

As new research shows airflow restriction could be a reason for SIDS and SUDI, you'll be looking to ensure that your baby's bed is free from pillows, toys, blankets, muslin cloths or cot bumpers that could restrict the circulation of air around your little one. You should also keep the cot or bed clear of radiators, heaters, windows, plug sockets, and cables.

The Mamas&Papas Franklin Cot Bed is a very popular choice for our mum testers. It is available in four different colors and has beautiful design that looks like it's built to stand the test of time. It can also be converted into a toddler bed which means your baby can use it up until the age of 4.

The SnuzFino Classic Cot Bed is another cot that has great style and value (PS695, Mother&Baby). Our mom testers loved its sleek design and stated that it was "simple yet stylish and will endure the test of time". It's designed to grow along with your child. It comes with two different height settings, so you can put your baby in a higher position and lower it when they are in a position to sit on their own.

It is crucial to remember that the mattress should not have a gap larger than 25mm (1") between it and the edges and sides of the cot. 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 100 organic cotton and GOTS certified to ensure it is soft, breathable and waterproof.

Alternatively, you could go for a more technological option and choose the SNOO Smart Sleeper Baby Cot (PS355, Cuckooland). It's a smart piece of kit which has an app for mobile devices, a weaning features as well as access to sleep specialists and much more. It's costly and out of reach for many parents.

Blankets at the end of the Line

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 prevent sheets from becoming excessively soiled and uncomfortable for your little one and also help to keep their bed clean and fresh. A minimum of three to four sets should be sufficient.

A high-quality set of organic muslin blankets can allow you to wash the sheets regularly without worrying about them getting too dirty. They also breathe, which will help keep your baby's delicate skin healthy. They are available in different sizes and colors and sizes, so you can choose the right ones to meet your baby's requirements.

The Best cot for newborn blankets are soft cosy and breathable. A blanket that is too bulky and heavy could cause your baby to suffocate. It is best to pick an organic blanket made of cotton muslin, which is lightweight and breathable. A thermal blanket is a great alternative. They are an excellent choice for summer days that are warm and sunny. your baby will require a light cover to keep them warm.

In general, it is recommended that you stop using blankets in your child's cot by 18 months, or earlier, if possible. It is because they become dangerous if children are allowed to climb on them. This can lead to accidents like falling out of the crib or bed. If your child is used to sleeping on blankets and is swaddled from birth or sleeping in a baby sleeping bag it is best to leave the blanket in place until they are ready to transition to a duvet.

Many parents utilize the milestone blanket to track the baby's development and growth typically using numbers that reflect the age of the child. It is a great way to keep family and friends informed of your baby's progress, as well as capture some precious moments. The Monica + Andy Always Blanket is a gorgeous double layer blanket that gives warmth and comfort, while still being comfortable and breathable.

Easy to Assemble

While a baby cot bed is among the most essential pieces of nursery furniture, it's also a substantial investment. As such, it's worth the effort to choose one that looks as good as it is sturdy and practical. The most important consideration is that the cot needs to be in keeping with the overall style of your baby's room. You'll also want to consider whether the cot can be converted to a toddler bed and, if so, how easy it will be to accomplish.

When choosing a cot look for models that have solid frames, sturdy rails, and smooth edges. Also, avoid models with curving edges, which may pose a risk of strangulation. Be sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully, and don't use any tool that can cause damage. Don't be afraid to ask for assistance. It's usually easier to get things done when you have two people, so you can ask your partner or a family member to assist you.

Many cots come with matching furniture for the nursery, which can help to make your room more cohesive. If you don't have the funds for this, there are plenty of good-quality alternatives that can be used as a stand-alone. The Elementary cot-bed from John Lewis Anyday comes in white and is made of solid FSC pine, which makes it a durable choice. It also comes with three mattress height positions, so it's suitable for use from birth. It can also be lowered when your child is ready to begin standing (usually at about 18 months).).

Another option is the Scandi-style Coxley cot by Stokke that is a gorgeous hand-crafted look and a neutral grey finish that suits any interior. It is easy to assemble, and it fits through standard doorframes. This is great for moving around the house. It can also be converted into a chic toddler bed using the addition of a simple kit. And it's lightweight enough to be transported in its own carry bag for trips away. Our panel of parents said it was "a dream to put together" and "looks gorgeous". Parents also appreciated the fact that the base of the mattress can be moved up or down, which means you can keep your baby's head up throughout the day and stop them from falling over in the night.