Buying a Baby Cot Bed

Cot beds are a more long-term choice than cribs as they can be converted into a toddler bed. They have removable sides and an end panel that can be dropped to allow access to your child.

Most cribs are suitable for use from birth to around 2 years or until your baby starts trying to climb out. Then, you can change to junior beds.

4 Walls

Cot beds are an ideal and safe space for your baby to rest in at night or even during naptime. They feature high walls or rails to stop your child from falling out, and most feature adjustable mattress heights that can be adjusted as your child grows. This makes a cot bed ideal for infants and toddlers alike. There are a myriad of cot bed models, which range from the simple and affordable to models with numerous additional features. Ultimately, the decision depends on your family's requirements and budget.

The right baby sleep arrangement is a crucial choice for any new parent. You need to ensure that your baby is comfortable and secure. It must also be a space that you can use for a long time. While cribs are great for babies, they're also quite compact and may be difficult to fit into smaller spaces. Additionally, they're not suitable until your child reaches 18 months or at the earliest. A cot bed is a better choice for a longer-term usage and can easily be converted into a toddler or a small single bed.

If you're looking for a good-value Mini Cot Bed that can be used in a variety of ways we suggest the Snuz Cot Bed. This is a sturdy, simple crib with an extended hood to shield your baby from wind and sun. It also has a convenient storage area at the top rated cots of the cot, so that you can keep bedding and other necessities close by.

CuddleCo Nola Convertible Cot is another option. The cot can be transformed from a cot to a toddler or single bed with the help of an extension kit which is sold separately. It has three different mattress heights, meaning you can keep the mattress up for infants and babies, before lowering it as your child gets older.

The final option is a travel bed. These are typically intended for short-term use, and may not provide the same level of support as the standard cot. They usually have mattresses that are not as firm or thick as traditional ones. They can be a great alternative to a standard cot if you travel but you should remember that they'll last only just a few years before your child is ready for an even bigger bed.

Waterproof Mattress Protector

Many parents spend lots of time and effort selecting a cot but pay less attention to the mattress that your baby will be sleeping on. This is an essential purchase for your baby. We recommend buying an organic cotton baby bed.

As new research shows restricted airflow may be the cause of SIDS and SUDI, you'll want to make sure your baby's bed is free of toys, pillows, blankets, muslin cloths or cot bumpers which can restrict the flow of air around your child. You should also keep the bed or cot clear of radiators, heaters, windows cables, and plug sockets.

If you're seeking a stylish cot the Mamas & Papas Franklin Cot Bed (PS375, Cuckooland) is an extremely popular choice among our mom testers. It is available in four colours and has an attractive design that appears like it's built to last for a long time. It can also be transformed into a toddler's bed, so that your child can use the crib until they are four years old.

Another cot with excellent style and value is the SnuzFino Classic Cot Bed (PS695, Mother & Baby). Our mom testers loved its sleek design and said it was "simple yet stylish and will endure the test of time". It's designed to develop with your child. It comes with two different height settings so that you can raise your newborn and lower it when they're able to sit up on their own.

When selecting a cot it is worth bearing in mind that there should not be more than 25mm (1 inch) space between the mattress and the sides and ends. This will ensure that your baby can't climb out of the cot or become trapped between the mattress and the slats. Choose a mattress cover that is made of 100 organic cotton and GOTS certified to ensure it is breathable, soft and waterproof.

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 a smart device that comes with an app for mobile devices, a weaning feature, as well as access to sleep specialists. But, it's costly and might be out of reach for many parents.

Blankets at The End

If you plan to let your baby sleep in a cot or a crib sets with a blanket, make sure to have enough bedding so you can wash them regularly. 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.

A high-quality set of organic muslin blankets can allow you to change the sheets frequently without worrying about them becoming too dirty. They are also breathable which will help keep your baby's delicate skin healthy. They are available in different sizes and colors, so you can find the perfect ones for your baby's needs.

The best crib newborn blankets are soft, cosy and airy. A blanket that is too heavy and bulky can cause your baby to choke. It is best to choose a blanket made from organic cotton muslin that is breathable and lightweight. A thermal blanket is a great option. These are great for those hot summer days, when your baby requires a lightweight cover that will keep them warm.

In general, it's advised to remove a blanket in your child’s crib by the age of 18 months or earlier if it is possible. This is because they can be dangerous if allowed to climb over them. This can lead to accidents such as falling from the crib or in bed. If your child is used to sleeping with blankets and is covered from birth or sleeps in a sleeping bag for babies, you may want to leave it in place until they are ready to move to a duvet.

Many parents use a milestone blanket to mark their baby's growth and development, typically with numbers that represent the age of the child. It is a great method to keep your family and friends informed about your baby's development, as well capture some precious memories. The Monica + Andy Always Blanket is a gorgeous double layer blanket that offers warmth and comfort yet is still comfortable and breathable.

Easy to Assemble

A baby cot bed being one of the most essential furniture pieces for nursery is also a significant investment. As such, it's worth the effort to choose one that looks as appealing as it is strong and practical. The cot should match the look of the room. You'll also want to consider whether the cot can be converted to a toddler bed and If so, how simple it will be to accomplish.

When choosing a cot, make sure you choose a model with robust frames, sturdy rails and smooth surfaces. Avoid models with curved corners, because they could pose strangulation risks. Also, be sure to follow the manufacturer's directions carefully, and don't use any tool that can cause damage. Don't be afraid to ask for help. Ask your friend or family member to assist you.

Many cribs come with matching furniture for your nursery that can really bring the design of your room together. If you don't wish to spend a lot of cost, there are a number of high-quality standalone options. The Elementary cot bed from John Lewis' Anyday range, for example, comes in a modern white finish and is constructed of solid FSC pine to provide a long-lasting choice. It also has three mattress height positions so it's suitable from birth. It can also be lowered when your child is ready to begin standing (usually at around 18 months).

Another option is the Scandi-style Coxley cot from Stokke, which has a stunning hand-crafted feel and a neutral grey finish that suits any room. It's simple to put together and fits into standard door frames, which is useful when you need to shift it around your home. It can also be converted into a chic, bench-style toddler bed with the addition of a simple kit. It's lightweight enough to fit in a carry bag when you travel. Parents who participated in our panel agreed that it was "easy to assemble" and "looks gorgeous". 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 in the night.