10 Baby Cot Bed Tricks All Experts Recommend

Buying a Baby Cot Bed

Cot beds are a more durable option than cribs because they can be converted into an adult bed. They have removable sides, and an end panel can be removed to give access to your child.

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

4 Walls

Cot beds are the safety and security for your baby to sleep or rest at night. They feature high walls or rails to stop your baby from falling out, and most feature adjustable mattress heights that can be adjusted as your baby grows. A cot bed is perfect for both infants and toddlers. There are a variety of cot beds that are available, from simple and affordable models to those packed with extra features. In the end, it depends on your family's requirements and budget.

Any 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 baby is secure and comfortable and have a space that can be used for a long period of time. While cots can be a great option for newborns and are compact but they can also be difficult to accommodate in smaller spaces. They're typically only suitable for use until 18 months. A cot-bed is a more durable alternative and can be easily transformed into a toddler bed or a smaller single bed.

Snuz Cot Bed is a versatile, good-value cot. This is a basic but sturdy cot with an extra deep hood, which protects your baby from the elements of wind and sun. It has a storage area at the end, where you can store bedding and other necessities.

CuddleCo Nola Convertible Cot is an alternative. It's a traditional cot but can be turned into an infant bed or as a single bed due to an extension kit that is sold separately. It has three different mattress heights, so you can keep the mattress high up for newborns and small babies, and then lower it down as your child grows older.

The last alternative is a travel cot. They are designed for short-term use and might not offer the same level support like a traditional bed. Additionally, they usually have mattresses that aren't as sturdy or as thick as a standard one. They can be a useful alternative to a standard cot while you're travelling however, it's important to remember that they'll only last for a few years at most before your child is ready to move on to an even bigger bed.

Protect your mattress from water and dirt

Many people spend lots of time and effort choosing the right cot, but pay no attention to the mattress that your baby will sleep on. This is a very important purchase for your baby. We suggest buying an organic cotton crib.

You should ensure that your baby's cot bed is not cluttered with blankets, pillows or toys. They can block the air flow around your child. Also, keep the bed or cot clear of heaters, radiators windows, plug sockets, and cables.

The Mamas&Papas Franklin Cot Bed is a popular choice among our mom testers. It comes in four colours, and the design looks like it'll last many years. It can also be transformed into a toddler's crib, so that your baby can use the crib up to four years old.

The SnuzFino Classic Cot Bed is another cot with great style and value (PS695 Mother and Baby). Our mum testers were amazed by its sleek design, stating that it was "simple but elegant and will last the long-term". It's designed to grow with your child. It comes with two different height settings so you can raise your newborn 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 larger than 25mm (1") between it and the sides and ends of the cot. This is to ensure that your baby cannot escape from the cot, or get trapped between the mattress and slats. Choose a mattress cover that is made of 100% organic cotton and GOTS certified to ensure that it is soft, breathable and waterproof.

If you'd rather an option that is high-tech, then the SNOO Baby Cot Smart Sleeper (PS355, Cuckooland) is an excellent option. It's a smart device that comes with an app for mobile devices, a weaning feature, and sleep experts. But,  best cot bed  and could be out of budget for many parents.

Blankets at the end of the Line

If you're planning to let your baby sleep on blankets in their crib or cot, make sure you have plenty of blankets to rotate through the wash. This will prevent the sheets from becoming too dirty and uncomfortable for your baby and also help to keep their bedding clean and fresh. Three to four sets of sheets should be sufficient.

A good set of organic muslin blankets will allow you to change the sheets often without worrying about them getting too dirty. They also breathe, which helps to keep your baby's skin healthy and happy. You can choose from a wide range of sizes and shades to find the best one for your baby.

The best blankets are soft, cosy and comfortable. A blanket that is too heavy and bulky could cause your baby to drown. A blanket made of organic cotton muslin is ideal, as it is light and comfortable to breathe. A thermal blanket is a good option. These are great for balmy summer days when your baby will need an easy-to-wear cover to keep them warm.

Generally speaking it is recommended you do away with blankets in the crib of your child at 18 months of age or earlier if you can. This is because they can be dangerous if allowed to climb on them. This could result in accidents like falling out of the crib or in bed. If your child is swaddled from birth or is sleeping in a sleeping bag specifically designed for babies, you might want to keep the blanket until they are ready to transition to a duvet.

Many parents use milestone blankets to mark the development and growth of their child, typically with numbers that indicate the age of the child. This is a great way to keep 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 is both warm and cozy, but also breathable.

Easy to Assemble

While a baby cot bed is one of the most important furniture pieces for the nursery, it's also a substantial investment. Therefore, it's worth taking time to select one that looks as attractive as it is durable and practical. The cot must match the look of the room. You'll also want to consider whether the cot could be converted to a toddler bed and, in the event that it does, how easy this is to do.

When selecting a cot you should choose a cot with robust frames with sturdy rails, as well as smooth surfaces. It is also recommended to stay clear of models with curved edges, which may pose a risk of strangulation. Also, be sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully, and don't use any tool that could cause damage. Don't be afraid to ask for help. Assembly is usually easier when it's done by two people, so ask your partner or family member to help you.

Many co-occurring beds are paired with furniture for the nursery that can really bring the style of your room together. However, if you don't have the funds for this, there are numerous high-quality standalone options available. The Elementary cot-bed from John Lewis Anyday comes in white and is made of solid FSC pine, which makes it a durable option. It has three mattress height options, meaning it can be used right from the age of. It can also be removed when your child is able to begin standing (usually around 18 months).

The Stokke Coxley cot is another excellent option. It has a neutral grey finish as well as a handmade style that can be incorporated into any room. It's simple to put together and can be inserted into standard door frames, which is useful in the event that you need to move it around your home. With the addition of a simple kit that allows it to be transformed into a stylish toddler bed in a bench style. It's light enough to fit in a bag to carry when you go on vacation. Parents who were part of our panel agreed that it was "easy to assemble" and "looks stunning". The parents also loved the fact that the base of the mattress can be moved either up or down, so you can keep your baby's head up during naps and stop them from falling over at night.