See What Baby Cot Bed Tricks The Celebs Are Using

Buying a Baby Cot Bed

Cot beds can be transformed into toddler beds, which makes them a better option for long-term use than cribs. They also have removable sides as well as an end panel that can be pulled down to provide access to your child.

The majority of cribs can be used from birth to around 2 years or until your baby begins to climb out. Then you should switch to a junior bed.

4 Walls

Cot beds provide a safe and secure space for your baby to rest in at night or even during naptime. They have high walls or rails to prevent your baby from falling and many have adjustable mattress heights. A cot bed is ideal for toddlers as well as infants. There are a myriad of cot bed models, ranging from simple and inexpensive to models with numerous additional features. The final decision comes down to the family's budget and requirements.

Every new parent will find it essential to make the right decision when it comes to choosing a baby's sleeping arrangement. You need to ensure that your child is safe and comfortable, as well as having a space that can be used for a long period of time. While cribs are great for babies but they're also quite small and can be difficult to fit into smaller spaces. Additionally, they're only suitable for use up to the point that your child reaches 18 months or at the earliest. A crib-bed is a more sturdy alternative and can be easily converted into a toddler bed or small single bed.

If you're looking for a good-value cot that is versatile we suggest the Snuz Cot Bed. This is a basic but sturdy cot with a large hood that shields your baby from the elements of wind and sun. It also features a handy storage area at the top of the cot so you can keep bedding and other necessities close at hand.

Another good choice is the CuddleCo Nola Convertible Cot. This cot starts out as a traditional cot but can be transformed into an infant bed or a single bed, due to an extension kit, which is available separately. It has three mattress heights, so you can alter it to fit your child's age.

The final option is a bed for travel. They are typically only suitable for temporary use and don't provide the same degree of support as the regular cot. Additionally, they usually come with mattresses that aren't as firm or as thick as a standard one. While they can be a good alternative to a standard mattress while traveling, it is important to keep in mind that your child will only use them for a few years before he or she is ready for a larger bed.

Mattress Protector Waterproof

Many parents spend much time and effort in choosing a cot, but pay little focus on the mattress your baby will sleep on. This is one of the most important purchases you make for your baby, and we suggest investing in a good quality organic cotton baby mattress.

Recent research has revealed that restricted airflow could be a cause of SIDS and SUDI, you'll be looking to ensure that your baby's bed is free of pillows, toys, blankets, muslin cloths or cot bumpers that could hinder the flow of air around your baby. It is also important to ensure that the bed or cot is away from any radiators, heaters, windows cables, and plug sockets.

If you are looking for a chic cot that is stylish, the Mamas&Papas Franklin Cot Bed (PS375, Cuckooland) is an extremely popular choice among our mum testers. It comes in four colours and the design appears like it will last for a long time. It can also be converted into a toddler bed so your child can use it right up until the age of 4.

The SnuzFino Classic Cot Bed is another cot that is stylish and value (PS695 Mother and Baby). Our mom testers were impressed by its sleek design and stated that it was "simple but stylish and will last for a long time". It is designed to grow with your child, too. It comes with two levels of height for the mattress so that you can keep your baby elevated and then lower it when they begin to sit up unaided.

When selecting a cot it is important to keep in the mind that there shouldn't be more than 25mm (1 inch) gap between the mattress and the cot's sides and ends. This is to ensure your baby can't climb out of the cot or get trapped between the mattress and the slats. You should also always make sure to use mattress protectors that are 100% cotton and GOTS certified Organic, so that it's breathable and soft but also completely waterproof to prevent any leaks!

You can also opt for a more high-tech alternative and select the SNOO Smart Sleeper Baby Cot (PS355, Cuckooland). It's an innovative piece of kit which has an app for mobile devices, a weaning feature and access to sleep experts and much more. It is expensive and is out of reach for many parents.

Blankets at the end of the Line

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

You can change your sheets more often by using a set of organic muslin bedding. They are also breathable which can help keep your baby's skin healthy and happy. They are available in different sizes and colours which means you can find the right ones to meet your baby's needs.

The best blankets are soft comfortable and airy. You don't want blankets that are too heavy cots and tots bulky as it could cause the risk of suffocation to your baby. A blanket made from organic cotton muslin is the best choice, as it is light and airy. Another alternative is a thermal blanket. They are ideal for those balmy summer days when your baby needs an easy-to-wear 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 could be dangerous if children are allowed to climb onto them, leading to accidents, such as falling out of the 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 milestone blankets to mark their child's progress and growth. They are typically marked according to the baby's age. This is a wonderful way to keep your family and friends up-to-date about your baby's development, as well capture some precious memories. The Monica + Andy Always Blanket has a double layer that is warm and cozy, but also airy.

Easy to Assemble

While a baby cot bed is one of the most essential furniture pieces for the nursery however, it's also an expensive investment. It's crucial to choose a model which is both attractive and durable. The cot should be in line with the decor of the room. It is also important to consider whether the cot can be converted into a toddler bed, and if so be done, how easy to do so.

When choosing a cot, ensure that it has robust frames, sturdy rails and smooth edges. Avoid affordable cots with curved corners as they can pose the risk of strangulation. Also, make sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully, and don't use any tools that could cause harm. Don't be shy about asking for assistance. It's usually easier to get things done when you have two people, so make sure to ask your partner or family member to help you.

Many cot beds come with matching furniture for the nursery, which can really pull the style of your room together. If you don't want to spend a lot of money, there are many high-quality standalone options. The Elementary cot beds for sale bed from John Lewis' Anyday range, for example, comes in a modern white finish and is constructed of solid FSC pine for a durable choice. It has three mattress height settings, which means it is suitable for use from the age of. It can also be adjusted to lower the height once your child is ready for standing (usually around 18 months).

Another great option is the Scandi-style Coxley cot from Stokke It is a gorgeous hand-crafted look and a neutral grey finish that suits any interior. It's simple to put together and fits into doors with standard frames and is ideal when you have to move it around your home. With the addition of an easy kit, it can be converted into a chic toddler bed that is in the bench style. It's light enough to put in a bag to carry when you go on vacation. Our panel of parents said it was "a dream to put together" and "looks beautiful". Parents also appreciated the fact that the mattress's base can be moved up and down, which means you can keep the baby's head raised throughout the day and stop them from rolling over at night.