See What Baby Cot Bed Tricks The Celebs Are Using

Buying a Baby Cot Bed

Cot beds can be transformed to toddler beds, making them a better long-term option than cribs. They come with removable sides, and an end panel that can be dropped to allow access to your child.

Most best cots can be used from birth until about 2 years old or until your child is old enough to want to climb out. Then, you can switch to a junior bed.

4 Walls

Cot beds are a safe and secure space for your baby to sleep in at night or during nap time. They have high walls or rails that prevent your baby from falling and many come with adjustable mattress heights. A cot bed is perfect for toddlers and infants alike. There are many cot bed models, which range from the basic and affordable to those that come with a variety of features. The choice ultimately is based on the family's budget and requirements.

Choosing the right baby sleeping arrangement is a major choice for any new parent. You want to ensure that your baby is safe and comfortable, as well as having the space to be used for a prolonged period of time. While cots can be great for newborns and are compact however, they can be difficult to fit in smaller spaces. They're typically only suitable for use up to 18 months. A cot bed is a better option for long-term use and can be easily transformed into a toddler bed or a small single bed.

If you're looking to buy a low-cost, versatile cot, we recommend 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 has a handy storage area at the top of the cot, so you can keep bedding and other necessities close at hand.

CuddleCo Nola Convertible Cot is another option. This cot can be converted from a cot into a single or toddler bed with the help of an extension kit that is available separately. It has three mattress heights, so you can alter it to fit your child's age.

The final alternative is a travel cot. They're only suitable for short-term usage and may not provide the same level support as a regular bed. Additionally, they usually have mattresses that aren't as firm or as thick as a standard cot. They can be a good alternative to a standard cot when you travel, but it's worth remembering that they'll only last just a few years before your child is ready to move on to larger beds.

Waterproof Mattress Protector

Many parents spend lots of time and effort selecting the right cot, but pay no attention to the mattress that your baby will be sleeping on. This is one of 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 the crib is free of blankets, toys, or pillows. They can impede the air flow around your child. Ideally, you will also place the cot bed away from heaters, radiators, windows, plug sockets and cables that could be danger.

If you are looking for a stylish cot that is stylish, the Mamas&Papas Franklin Cot Bed (PS375, Cuckooland) is one of the most popular choices among our mum testers. It comes in four different colors and has an attractive design that appears like it's going to endure the test of time. It can also be transformed into a toddler's bed, to allow your baby to use the crib up to four years old.

Another cot with great design and value is the SnuzFino Classic Cot Bed (PS695 Mother&Baby). Our mum testers were impressed by its sleek design, saying it was "simple but elegant and will last the test of time". It's designed to grow along with your child. It comes with two different height settings, so you can increase the height of your baby and lower it once they're able to sit up on their own.

It is crucial to remember that the mattress should not have a gap of more than 25mm (1") between it and the edges and sides of the cot. This will ensure that your baby can't climb out of the crib or be trapped between the mattress slats. Use a mattress cover that is made of 100% organic cotton and GOTS certified to ensure that it is soft, breathable and waterproof.

If you prefer, you can choose a more advanced alternative and select the SNOO Smart Sleeper Baby Cot (PS355, Cuckooland). It's a great kit that includes an app for mobile devices, a weaning feature, and access to sleep consultants. However, it's expensive and may be out of budget for many parents.

Blankets at the End

If you're planning to let your child sleep on blankets in their crib or cot be sure to have plenty of additional blankets to rotate through the wash. This will prevent sheets from becoming excessively soiled and uncomfortable for your baby and also help to keep their bedding clean and fresh. A minimum of three or four sets should suffice.

A high-quality set of organic muslin blankets will allow you to change the sheets often without worrying about them becoming too dirty. They are also breathable and help keep your baby's skin healthy and happy. They are available in a variety of sizes and colors which means you can find the right ones to meet your baby's requirements.

The best crib blankets are soft cosy and airy. A blanket that is heavy and bulky can cause your baby to drown. It is recommended to select a blanket made from organic cotton muslin that is breathable and lightweight. Another good alternative is a blanket that is thermal. These are great for those warm summer days when your baby needs a light cover to keep them warm.

Generally speaking it is recommended you stop using blankets in your child's crib at the age of 18 months, or earlier if possible. This is because they could become dangerous if allowed to climb onto them, which can lead to accidents, such as falling from the crib or bed. However, if your child is used to sleeping with a blanket and has been covered from birth or sleeps in a baby sleeping bag then you might want to leave it in place until they are ready to transition to a duvet.

Many parents utilize milestone blankets to track their child's development and growth. These blankets are usually designated in accordance with the child's age. This is a great way to keep your family and friends informed of your baby's progress, as well as capture precious moments. The Monica + Andy Always Blanket has a double layer that is warm and cozy, yet comfortable to wear.

Easy to Assemble

While a baby cot bed is one of the most essential pieces of nursery furniture however, it's also an expensive investment. Therefore, it's worth the effort to choose a model that looks as good as it is sturdy and practical. The cot should be in line with the decor of the room. You'll also want to consider whether the cot can be converted into a toddler bed, and if so, how easy this is to do.

When choosing a cot ensure that it has strong frames, solid rails, and smooth edges. It's also best baby cots to avoid models with curving edges, which may pose a risk of strangulation. Also, be sure to follow the manufacturer's directions carefully, and don't use any tools that could cause harm. Don't be shy about asking for help. It's usually easier to get things done when you have two people, so you can ask your spouse or a family member to help you.

Many cribs come with matching furniture for the nursery, which can help to bring your room together. If you don't want to spend the amount, there are plenty of good quality standalone options. The Elementary cot-bed from John Lewis Anyday comes in white with solid FSC pine, making it a durable choice. It also has three mattress heights, which means it's suitable for use starting from the time of birth and can be adjusted when your child is ready for standing (usually at about 18 months).).

The Stokke Coxley cot is another excellent option. It has an unassuming grey finish and a handmade feel that will suit any room. It's simple to put together and fits into doors with standard frames and is ideal in the event that you need to move it around your home. With the addition of a simple kit, it can be converted into a stylish toddler bed that is in the bench-style. It's lightweight enough to fit in a bag to carry when you go on vacation. Our panel of parents agreed that it was "a dream to put together" and "looks beautiful". Parents also appreciated the fact that the base of the mattress can be moved up and down, so you can keep your baby's head elevated during naps and stop them from falling over at night.