See What Baby Cot Bed Tricks The Celebs Are Using

Buying a Baby Cot Bed

Cot beds are a better long-term option than cribs since they can be converted to an adult bed. They come with removable sides, and an end panel can be dropped to allow access to your child.

Most cots can be used from birth to around 2 years old or until your child starts to want to climb out. Then you should move to a junior bed.

4 Walls

Cot beds are secure and safe for your baby to sleep in at night or even during naptime. They feature high walls or rails that stop your baby from falling, and many have adjustable mattress heights. This makes a cot bed perfect for infants and toddlers alike. There are a myriad of cot bed models, ranging from the basic and affordable to those with many additional features. Ultimately, the decision depends on your family's requirements and budget.

Anyone who is a new parent will discover it essential to make the right decision in deciding on a baby's sleep arrangement. You want to ensure that your baby is safe and comfortable and have a space that can be used for a prolonged period of time. While cots are great for newborns but they're also quite small and may 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 alternative and can be easily converted into a toddler bed or a smaller single bed.

Snuz Cot Bed is a versatile, good-value cot. This is a sturdy, simple cot that has an extended hood that can protect your Baby Crib from wind and sun. It also features a handy storage area at the end of the cot, so you can keep bedding and other necessities close by.

Another good choice is the CuddleCo Nola Convertible Cot. It can be converted from a cot to a toddler or single bed with the help of an extension kit that is available separately. It has three mattress heights so that you can adjust it to suit your child's age.

The final option is a travel bed. These are typically intended for temporary use and don't offer the same level of support as the regular cot. They usually have mattresses that aren't as strong or as thick as the standard ones. Although they can be a good alternative to a standard bed while traveling however, it is important to keep in mind that your child will only use them for a few short years before he or she is ready for a larger bed.

Protect your mattress from water with a waterproof mattress

A lot of thought goes into buying a cot, however less thought is given to the mattress your baby will sleep on. It is among the most important purchases you make for your baby, and we suggest investing in a high-quality organic cotton baby mattress.

It is important to ensure that your baby's crib is free of blankets, toys, or pillows. They can block the air flow around your child. You should also keep the bed or cot away from any radiators, heaters, windows, cable sockets, and plugs.

If you are seeking a stylish cot, the Mamas&Papas Franklin Cot Bed (PS375, Cuckooland) is one of the most popular choices among our mom testers. It comes in four colors and looks like it's going to last for many years. It is also able to be converted into a toddler's bed so that your child can use the crib until they are four years old.

The SnuzFino Classic Cot Bed is another cot with great style and value (PS695 Mother&Baby). Our mum testers were impressed by its sleek design, saying it was "simple but elegant and will last the long-term". It is designed to grow with your child and has two different heights for the mattress so you can keep your baby raised and then lower it when they are able to sit unaided.

When selecting a cot it is worth bearing in mind that there shouldn't be more than 25mm (1 inch) space between the mattress and the cot sides and ends. This is to ensure your baby is not able to climb out of the cot or become trapped between the mattress and the slats. It is also recommended to utilize mattress protectors that are 100 100% cotton and GOTS certified Organic, Best crib to ensure it is soft and breathable but totally waterproof and to stop any leaks!

You can also go for a more technological option and choose the SNOO Smart Sleeper Baby Cot (PS355, Cuckooland). It's a great device that comes with an app for mobile devices as well as a weaning feature and sleep experts. However, it's expensive and might be out of reach for many parents.

Blankets at the end of the Line

If you're thinking of letting your child sleep on blankets in their cot or crib ensure that you have plenty of extras to rotate through the wash. This will prevent the sheets from becoming too soiled and uncomfortable for your child as well as helping to keep their bed clean and fresh. A minimum of three to four sets is sufficient.

You can change your sheets more frequently with a set of organic muslin bedding. They are also breathable which will help keep your baby's delicate skin healthy. You can pick from a variety of sizes and colors to find the perfect one for your baby.

The best cot beds baby blankets are soft and cozy but also airy. You don't want a blanket that is too bulky and heavy as it could cause an obstructive risk to your baby. A blanket made from organic cotton muslin is the best cot bed choice, as it is light and comfortable to breathe. A thermal blanket is another great alternative. These are great for those balmy summer days when your baby needs an easy-to-wear cover that will keep them warm.

In general it is recommended that you stop using blankets in your child's cot at 18 months of age, or earlier if possible. They can be risky if children climb over them. This could result in accidents like falling out of the crib or in bed. If your child is used to sleeping on a blanket and has been wrapped from birth or is sleeping in a baby sleeping bag it is best to leave the blanket in place until they are ready to move to a duvet.

Many parents utilize a milestone blanket to mark their baby's growth and development typically using numbers that represent the age of the child. This is a great way to keep your family and friends updated on your child's progress, as well as capture some precious moments. The Monica + Andy Always Blanket has a double layer that's both warm and cozy, yet airy.

Easy to Assemble

While a baby cot bed is among the most important furniture pieces for nursery however, it's also an expensive investment. Therefore, it's worth the effort to choose a model that looks as attractive as it is durable and practical. The cot should be in line with the style of the room. It is also important to think about whether the cot will convert to a toddler bed and, in the event that it does, how easy it will be to do.

When choosing a cot, ensure that it has solid frames, solid rails, and smooth finishes. It is also recommended to stay clear of models with curved edges which could be a source of strangulation. Be sure to follow the directions of the manufacturer and avoid using any tools that could cause damage. Don't be afraid to ask for help. Ask your friend or family member to assist you.

Many cot beds come with matching furniture for your nursery, which can really pull the design of your room together. If you don't have the budget for this, there are many good-quality standalone options to choose from. The Elementary cot bed from John Lewis' Anyday range for instance, is available with a modern white finish and is made out of solid FSC pine, which is a sturdy choice. It also comes with three mattress height positions so it's suitable from birth and can be lowered when your child is ready for standing (usually at around 18 months).

The Stokke Coxley cot is another great option. It has an unassuming grey finish and a handcrafted style that can be incorporated into any interior. It's easy to assemble and can be inserted into standard door frames which is helpful when you have to move it around your home. With the addition of a simple kit that can transform it into a chic toddler bed in the bench-style. It's light enough to fit into a bag for when you go on vacation. Our panel of parents said it was "a dream to put together" and "looks beautiful". They also loved the fact that you can change the position of the base of the mattress upwards or downwards to keep your baby's head elevated during naps and prevent them from rolling off at the end of the night.