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 also have removable sides as well as an end panel that can be pulled down to provide access to your child.

Most cribs are suitable for use from birth until around 2 years, or until your child starts to climb out. Then you should switch to a junior bed.

4 Walls

Mini Cot Bed beds offer an ensconced, safe space for your baby to sleep or sleep at night. They have high walls or rails to prevent your baby from falling out, and most feature adjustable mattress heights that can be lowered as your baby grows. A cot bed is suitable for toddlers as well as infants. There are many different types of cot beds that are available, from simple and affordable models to those packed with additional features. Ultimately, the decision depends on your family's needs and budget.

Choosing the right baby sleeping arrangement is an important choice for any new parent. You need to ensure that your child will be comfortable and safe, as well as having the space to be used for a prolonged period of time. While cribs are great for babies however, they're also very compact and may be difficult to fit into smaller spaces. Additionally, they're not suitable until your child is 18 months old or at the earliest. 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 to buy a low-cost cot that can be used in a variety of ways, we recommend the Snuz Cot Bed. This is a basic but sturdy cot with a hood that is extra-deep 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 items close at hand.

CuddleCo Nola Convertible Cot is an alternative. The cot is designed to be a traditional cot and can be converted into an infant cot bed bed or as a single bed thanks to an extension kit that is sold separately. It has three mattress heights so that you can alter it to fit your child's age.

The last option is a bed for travel. They are only suitable for short-term usage and may not provide the same level support as a standard bed. They usually have mattresses that aren't as sturdy or thick as standard ones. They can be a good alternative to a standard cot when you travel, but it's worth remembering that they'll only last a few years at most 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 buying a cot, however less thought is given to the mattress that your baby will sleep on. This is one of the most important purchases you will make for your baby, and we recommend investing in a good quality organic cotton baby mattress.

As new research shows airflow restriction could be a cause of SIDS and SUDI, you'll be looking to ensure that your baby's bed is free from toys, pillows, blankets, muslin cloths or cheap cot bed bumpers that can hinder the flow of air around your little one. You should also ensure that the bed or cot is clear of radiators, heaters, windows plug sockets, and cables.

If you are seeking a stylish cot, the Mamas&Papas Franklin Cot Bed (PS375, Cuckooland) is one of the most popular choices among our mum testers. It is available in four colours and has an attractive design that appears like it will stand the test of time. It is also able to be converted into a toddler's crib, so that your child can use the crib up to four years old.

Another cot with great style and value is the SnuzFino Classic Cot Bed (PS695 Mother & Baby). Our mum testers loved its sleek design and said it was "simple but stylish and will endure the test of time". It's designed to grow with your child too and comes with two height settings for the mattress so that you can keep your baby elevated and then lower it once they begin to sit up without assistance.

It is crucial to remember that the mattress shouldn't have a gap greater than 25mm (1") between it and the ends and sides of the cot. This will ensure that your baby cannot climb out of the cot, or get trapped between the mattress and slats. You should also always use mattress protectors that are 100 100% cotton and GOTS Certified Organic, to ensure it is breathable and soft but completely waterproof and to avoid any unwanted leaks!

If you prefer, you can go for a more technological option and choose the SNOO Smart Sleeper Baby Cot (PS355, Cuckooland). It's a smart piece of kit which has an app that is mobile, a weaning feature, access to sleep consultants and more. It is expensive and not accessible to many parents.

Blankets at the End of The Road

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

You can change your bedding more frequently with an 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 perfect one for your baby's needs.

The best blankets for babies are soft and cosy, yet airy. You shouldn't choose a blanket that is too heavy and bulky as it could create the risk of suffocation to your baby. A blanket made of organic cotton muslin is a great choice, as it is light and breathable. Another good option is a thermal blanket. These are great for balmy summer days when your baby will need an easy-to-wear cover to keep them warm.

In general, it's recommended that you stop using a blanket in your child’s crib by the age of 18 months or earlier, if you can. They can become dangerous if they are allowed to climb on them, leading to accidents, such as falling out of the bed or the crib. If your baby is swaddled from birth or is sleeping in a sleeping bag specifically designed for infants, you might want to keep the blanket until they are ready to switch to a duvet.

Many parents use milestone blankets to mark the development and growth of their child usually with numbers that reflect the age of the child. This is a wonderful way to keep your family and friends up-to-date about the progress of your child and also capture precious memories. 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 among the most essential furniture pieces for the nursery, it's also a substantial investment. Therefore, it's worthwhile to take the time to choose one that looks as attractive as it is durable and practical. The most important consideration is that the cot must match the overall look of the room your baby is in. It is also important to consider whether the cot can be converted into a toddler bed and if it is possible be done, how easy to do so.

When choosing a cot, you should choose a cot with sturdy frames, sturdy rails and smooth edges. Avoid cots with curved corners because they could pose strangulation risks. Make sure you read the instructions of the manufacturer and avoid making use of any tools that could cause damage. Don't be afraid to ask for assistance. Assembly is usually easier when it's done by two people, so you can ask your spouse or a family member to help you.

Many co-occurring beds are paired with furniture for your nursery which can help pull the style of your room together. However, if you don't have the money for this, there are many good-quality standalone options to choose from. The Elementary cot-bed from John Lewis Anyday comes in a white finish with solid FSC pine, making it a durable option. It comes with three mattress height settings, so it can be used from the age of. It can also be lowered once your child is ready for standing (usually around 18 months).).

Another option is the Scandi-style Coxley cot from Stokke that is a gorgeous hand-crafted look and a neutral grey finish that suits any decor. It's easy to assemble and can be inserted into doors with standard frames and is ideal in the event that you need to move it around your home. It can also be converted into a chic, toddler bed using the addition of a basic kit. It's also light enough to fit in its own bag for trips away. Parents who participated in our panel agreed that it was "easy to assemble" and "looks gorgeous". Parents also appreciated the fact that the mattress's base can be moved up or down, allowing you to keep your baby's head elevated during naps and stop them from rolling over in the night.