Buying a Baby Cot Bed

Cot beds can be converted into toddler beds, making them a better option for long-term use than cribs. They come with removable sides, and the end panel can be removed to give access to your child.

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

4 Walls

Cot beds offer 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 come with adjustable mattress heights. This makes a cot bed perfect for toddlers and infants alike. There are many different types of cot beds available that range from basic and inexpensive models to those packed with extra features. The final decision depends on the family's budget and needs.

Selecting the best baby sleeping arrangement is an important decision for any new parent. You need to ensure that your baby will be comfortable and safe and have a space that can be used for a prolonged period of time. While cots are ideal for infants but they're also quite small and can be difficult to fit into smaller spaces. They're generally only suitable for use until 18 months. A cot bed is the best option for a longer-term usage and can easily be converted into a toddler or small single bed.

Snuz Cot Bed is a multi-functional, high-value cot. It's a sturdy, simple crib with an extended hood to protect your baby from the elements of wind and sun. It also features a handy storage space at the bottom of the cot so you can keep bedding and other essentials in a convenient place.


CuddleCo Nola Convertible Cot is another option. This cot can be converted from a cot into a toddler or single bed using an extension kit, that is available separately. It has three different mattress heights so that you can keep the mattress high up for newborns and small babies, before lowering it as your child gets older.

The final option is a travel cot. They are typically only suitable for short-term use and may not offer the same degree of support as the regular cot. They usually come with mattresses which are not as firm or as thick as the regular ones. They can be a good alternative to a standard cot while you're travelling but you should remember that they'll last only a few years at most before your child is ready to move on to a bigger bed.

Mattress Protector Waterproof

Many people spend lots of time and effort in choosing a cot, but pay little focus on the mattress your baby will be sleeping on. This is one of the most important purchases you make for your baby. we suggest investing in a high-quality organic cotton baby mattress.

As new research shows restricted airflow could be a cause of SIDS and SUDI, you will need to ensure your baby's bed is free of pillows, toys blankets, muslin cloths, blankets or cot bumpers which can hinder the flow of air around your child. It is recommended to place the cot bed away from radiators, heaters, windows as well as plug sockets and cables that could create risk.

If you are seeking a stylish cot the Mamas & Papas Franklin Cot Bed (PS375, Cuckooland) is an extremely popular choice among our mum testers. It is available in four colors and features a beautiful design that looks like it's built to stand the test of time. It can also convert into a toddler bed, so your child can use it up to the age of 4.

The SnuzFino Classic Cot Bed is another cot that has great style and value (PS695 Mother and Baby). Our mum testers were amazed by its sleek design, and said it was "simple but stylish and will last the long-term". It's designed to expand with your child, too. It has two height settings for the mattress, so you can keep your newborn raised and then lower it once they begin to sit up without assistance.

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

Alternatively, you could go for a more technological alternative and select the SNOO Smart Sleeper Baby Cot (PS355, Cuckooland). It's a clever piece of equipment that comes with an app for mobile devices, a weaning feature, access to sleep consultants and much more. It's expensive and is out of reach for many parents.

Blankets at the End

If you're thinking of letting your baby sleep with blankets in their cot or crib be sure to have plenty of blankets to rotate through the wash. This will prevent the sheets from becoming overly dirty and uncomfortable for your baby, as well as help to keep their bed clean and fresh. Three to four sets of sheets should be sufficient.

A good set of organic muslin blankets will allow you to wash the sheets regularly without worrying about them getting too dirty. They are also breathable, which helps to keep your baby's skin healthy and happy. You can pick from a wide range of sizes and colors to find the right one for your baby.

The best blankets for babies are soft and cosy but also airy. A blanket that is too heavy and bulky could cause your baby to suffocate. It is best to pick a blanket made from organic cotton muslin that is lightweight and breathable. A thermal blanket is a great alternative. These are great for those balmy summer days when your baby needs a lightweight cover that will keep them warm.

Generally speaking it is recommended you stop using blankets in your child's cot at the age of 18 months, or earlier if possible. They can become dangerous if allowed to climb on them, which can lead to accidents like falling from the crib or bed. If your baby has been swaddled since birth or is sleeping in a sleeping bag specifically designed for babies, you may wish to keep the blanket until they are able to switch to a duvet.

Many parents use milestone blankets 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 and capture precious memories. The Monica + Andy Always Blanket is a stunning double layer blanket that provides warmth and coziness, and is breathable.

Easy to Assemble

While a baby cot bed is one of the most essential furniture pieces for the nursery, it's also a substantial investment. It's worth the effort to choose a model that looks as appealing as it is strong and practical. The most important thing to consider is that the cot should match the overall look of the room your baby is in. Also, you should consider if the cot can be converted into a bed for toddlers, and if it can be done, how simple it is to accomplish.

When choosing a cot look for models that have solid frames, sturdy rails, and smooth edges. Also, avoid models with curved edges which could be a source of strangulation. Also, make sure to follow the manufacturer's directions carefully, and never use any tool that can cause harm. Don't be shy about asking for assistance. Assembly is generally easier when you have two people, so you can ask your partner or a family member to assist you.

cots 4 tots come with matching nursery furniture, which can really pull the look of your room together. However, if you don't have the funds for this, there are many good-quality alternatives that can be used as a stand-alone. The Elementary cot-bed from John Lewis Anyday comes in white with solid FSC pine, which makes it a durable option. It has three mattress height settings, which means it can be used right from the time of birth. It can also be adjusted to lower the height once your child is ready to start standing (usually around 18 months).

The Stokke Coxley cot is a excellent alternative. It has a neutral grey finish and a handcrafted feel that will suit any interior. It's easy to put together, and it fits through standard doorframes. This is perfect for moving around the home. With the addition of a simple kit that can transform it into a stylish toddler bed in the bench style. It's light enough to fit in a bag to carry when you travel. Parents who were part of our panel said that it was "easy to put together" and "looks stunning". The parents also liked the fact that the mattress's base can be moved up or down, so you can keep the baby's head raised throughout the day and stop them from rolling over in the night.