See What Baby Cot Bed Tricks The Celebs Are Using

Buying a Baby Cot Bed

Cot beds can be converted into toddler beds, which makes them a better option for long-term use than cribs. They have removable sides, and the end panel can be removed to give access to your child.

The majority of cheap cots are suitable for use from birth to 2 years old or until your baby starts trying to climb out. Then, you can switch to a junior bed.

4 Walls

Cot beds offer an ideal and safe space for your baby to sleep in at night or even during naptime. They have high walls or rails to prevent your child from falling out, and many have adjustable mattress heights that can be lowered as your child grows. This makes a cot bed ideal for toddlers and infants alike. There are a myriad of types of cot beds to choose from that range from basic and inexpensive models to those packed with extra features. The final decision is based on the family's budget as well as their needs.

Any new parent will find it crucial to make the right decision when choosing a baby's sleeping arrangement. You must ensure that your baby is secure and comfortable, as well as having a space that can be used for a long period of time. While cots to tots are great for newborns, they're also quite compact and can be difficult to fit into smaller spaces. They're typically only suitable for use up to 18 months. A cot-bed is a more durable option and can easily be converted into an infant bed or a small single bed.

If you're looking for a value, versatile cot we suggest the Snuz Cot Bed. It's a simple, but sturdy cot with an extra deep hood, which protects your baby from the elements of wind and sun. It also has a storage space towards the end, so you can keep bedding and other essentials.

Another option is an alternative is the CuddleCo Nola Convertible Cot. It can be converted from a cot into a toddler or single bed using an extension kit, which is sold separately. It has three different mattress heights so that you can keep the mattress high up for newborns and small babies, and then lower it as your child gets older.

The final alternative is a travel bed. They are only suitable for short-term use and might not offer the same level of support as a standard bed. They often have mattresses that are not as firm or thick as standard ones. They can be a good alternative to a standard cot when you're travelling but you should remember that they'll only last just a few years before your child is ready to move on to an even bigger bed.

Protect your mattress from water with a waterproof mattress

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

You should make sure that your baby's cot bed is free of toys, pillows or blankets. They could block the airflow around your child. Ideally, you should position the cot or cot bed away from heaters, radiators, windows as well as plug sockets and cables that could create danger.

The Mamas&Papas Franklin Cot Bed is a popular option among our mum testers. It is available in four colors and the design appears like it will last for many years. It can also be transformed into a toddler's bed, so that your baby can use the crib until four years old.

The SnuzFino Classic Cot Bed is another cot with great style and value (PS695, Mother and Baby). Our mum testers were amazed by its sleek design, stating that it was "simple but stylish and will stand the long-term". It's designed to grow with your child and has two different height settings so that you can put your baby in a higher position and lower it when they're able to sit up on their own.

When choosing a cot, it is important to keep in the mind that there should be no more than 25mm (1 inch) gap between the mattress and the cot's sides and ends. This will ensure that your baby won't get out of the crib or get trapped between the mattress slats. It is also recommended to utilize mattress protectors that are 100 100% cotton and GOTS certified Organic, so that it is soft and breathable but also completely waterproof to stop any leaks!

Alternatively, if you prefer an option that is high-tech, then the SNOO Baby Cot Smart Sleeper (PS355, Cuckooland) is a great choice. It's an innovative piece of equipment that comes with an app that is mobile, a weaning feature, access to sleep consultants and more. However, it's expensive and may be out of the budget for many parents.

Blankets at the End of the Road

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

A good quality set of organic muslin blankets allows you to wash the sheets regularly without worrying about them becoming too dirty. They also breathe, which helps to keep your baby's skin healthy and happy. They are available in a variety of sizes and colours which means you can find the right ones to meet your baby's requirements.

The best baby blankets are soft and cosy and breathable. You don't want blankets that are too heavy and bulky, as it could create a suffocation risk for your baby. A blanket made of organic cotton muslin is the best choice because it is light and comfortable to breathe. Another good alternative is a thermal blanket. They are ideal for those warm summer days, when your baby requires a lightweight cover that will keep them warm.

Generally speaking it is recommended you remove blankets from your child's cot at the age of 18 months or earlier if you can. This is because they could be dangerous if children are allowed to climb onto them, which could lead to accidents like falling out of bed or the crib. If your baby has been swaddled since birth or is sleeping in a sleeping bag for infants, you might want to keep the blanket until they are able to switch to a duvet.

Many parents use the milestone blanket to track the baby's development and growth typically using numbers that reflect the age of the child. This is a wonderful method to keep your family and friends informed about your baby's development and also capture precious memories. The Monica + Andy Always Blanket has a double layer that's both warm and cozy, yet breathable.

Easy to Assemble

While a baby cot bed is among the most important furniture pieces for the nursery but it's also a significant investment. It is essential to select one that is attractive and sturdy. The cot should match the decor of the room. It is also important to think about whether the cot could be converted to a toddler bed and, in the event that it does, how easy this is to accomplish.

When selecting a cot you should choose a cot that have sturdy frames, sturdy rails and smooth surfaces. Also, avoid models with curving edges, which could pose a risk of strangulation. Make sure you read the directions of the manufacturer and avoid using any tools that may cause harm. Don't be afraid to ask for assistance. Ask your partner or family member to assist you.

Many cot beds come with matching furniture for your nursery, which can really pull the style of your room together. If you don't have the budget for this you can find many good-quality standalone options available. The Elementary cot bed from John Lewis' Anyday range, for example, comes with a modern white finish and is made from solid FSC pine, which is a sturdy option. It has three mattress height settings, which means it can be used from the age of. It can also be adjusted to lower the height once your child is ready to start standing (usually around 18 months).).

Another great crib option is the Scandi-style Coxley cot by Stokke that is a gorgeous hand-crafted look and a neutral grey finish that will suit any room. It's easy to assemble and fits into standard door frames and is ideal when you need to shift it around your home. It can also transform into a chic toddler bed using the addition of a simple kit. It's light enough to fit in its own bag for trips away. Parents who took part in our panel said that it was "easy to put together" and "looks gorgeous". Parents also appreciated the fact that the base of the mattress can be moved up or down, allowing you to keep your baby's head elevated during nap time and prevent them from rolling over at night.