10 Baby Cot Bed Tricks Experts Recommend
Buying a Baby Cot Bed
Cot beds can be converted to toddler beds, which makes them a more durable option than cribs. They also have removable sides and an end panel that can be pulled down to allow access to your child.
Most cribs are suitable for use from birth to around 2 years, or until your baby starts trying to climb out. Then, it is time to switch to junior beds.
4 Walls
Cot beds offer a safe, secure place for your baby to rest or sleep at night. They have high walls or rails to keep your baby from falling out, and most feature adjustable mattress heights that can be lowered as your baby grows. This makes a cot bed suitable for toddlers and infants alike. There are a myriad of cot bed models, ranging from simple and inexpensive to models with numerous additional features. The final decision depends on the needs of your family and the budget you have set.
Selecting the best baby sleeping arrangement is a crucial decision for any parent who is about to become a. You must make sure that your child will be comfortable and safe, as well as having a space that can be used for a long time. While cots are great for newborns and are compact, they can also be difficult to squeeze into smaller spaces. They're typically only suitable for use from 18 months.
affordable cots -bed is a much more durable option that can be easily transformed into a toddler bed or a smaller single bed.
If you're looking for a good-value cot that is versatile we suggest the Snuz Cot Bed. It's a sturdy, simple crib with an extended hood that can shield your baby from wind and sun. It also features a handy storage area at the end of the cot, so you can keep bedding and other necessities close by.
Another good choice is another option is the CuddleCo Nola Convertible Cot. It can be converted from a cot into a single or toddler bed by using an extension kit which is sold separately. It has three mattress heights so that you can alter it to fit your child's age.
The last alternative is a travel bed. They are only suitable for use on short-term basis and don't provide the same level support as a standard bed. They usually have mattresses that aren't as sturdy or thick as traditional ones. While they can be a great alternative to a standard mattress while traveling, it is important to remember that your child will only use them for a couple of years before he or she is ready for a larger bed.
Waterproof Mattress Protector
Many people spend lots of time and effort selecting the right cot, but pay no focus on the mattress your baby will be sleeping on. This is a crucial purchase for your baby. We recommend purchasing organic cotton bedding for your baby.
New research suggests that restricted airflow could be the cause of SIDS and SUDI, you will want to make sure your baby's bed is free from toys, pillows blankets, muslin sheets or cot bumpers that can hinder the flow of air around your child. It is recommended to position the cot or cot bed away from heaters, radiators windows plug sockets, and cables that could be risk.
If you're looking for a chic 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 colors and the design appears like it will last for an extended period of time. It can also be converted into a toddler bed, so your baby can use it until the age of four.
The SnuzFino Classic Cot Bed is another cot with great style and value (PS695, Mother&Baby). Our mum testers were amazed by its sleek design, and said it was "simple but elegant and will last the long-term". 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 when they are able to sit up on their own.
It is important to remember that the mattress should not have a gap greater than 25mm (1") between it and the sides and ends of the cot. This will ensure that your baby can't escape from the crib or be trapped between the slats on the mattress. Use a mattress cover made of is 100 organic cotton and GOTS certified to ensure it is breathable, soft and waterproof.
You can also opt for a more high-tech option and opt for the SNOO Smart Sleeper Baby Cot (PS355, Cuckooland). It's a smart product that comes with an app that can be downloaded on mobile devices as well as a weaning feature and sleep experts. It's costly and out of reach for many parents.
Blankets at The End
If you're thinking of letting your baby sleep with a blanket in their cot or crib ensure that you have plenty of extras to rotate through the wash. This will keep the sheets fresh and clean and prevent them from becoming dirty and uncomfortable for your baby. A minimum of three to four sets should suffice.
You can change your sheets more frequently with a set of organic muslin bedding. They also breathe and help keep your baby's skin healthy and happy. They are available in different sizes and colours and sizes, so you can choose the right ones to meet your baby's requirements.
The best blankets are soft, warm and airy. You don't want blankets that are heavy and bulky as it could cause a suffocation risk for your baby. It is best to pick a blanket made from organic cotton muslin, which is lightweight and breathable. A thermal blanket is a excellent alternative. 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 advised to remove a blanket in your child’s crib by the age of 18 months or earlier, if possible. This is because they could become dangerous if they are allowed to climb on them, which can lead to accidents such as falls out of bed or the crib. However, if your baby is used to sleeping on blankets and has been covered from birth or sleeps in a sleeping bag for babies it is best to leave it in place until they are ready to move to a duvet.
Many parents utilize milestone blankets to track their child's development and growth. These blankets are typically numbered according to the baby's age. It is a great way to keep your family and friends updated about your baby's progress and capture precious memories. The Monica + Andy Always Blanket is a gorgeous double layer blanket that offers warmth and comfort and is air-conditioned.
Easy to Assemble
A baby cot bed, while one of the most essential furniture pieces for nursery is also a major investment. It's important to choose a model which is both elegant and sturdy. The cot must match the decor of the room. It is also important to think about whether the cot could be converted to a toddler bed and, If so, how simple it will be to do.
When selecting a cot you should look for models with robust frames solid rails and smooth edges. It's also best to avoid models with curving edges, which could pose a risk of strangulation. Also, be sure to follow the instructions of the manufacturer carefully, and avoid using any tool that could cause damage. Don't be shy about asking for help. It's usually easier to get things done when it's done by two people, so make sure to ask your spouse or a family member to assist you.
Many cots come with matching furniture for the nursery, which can help to bring 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 range is a good example. It comes in a modern white finish and is made out of solid FSC pine to provide a long-lasting option. It also comes with three mattress heights, which means it's suitable from birth. It can also be lowered when your child is ready to begin standing (usually at around 18 months).
Another alternative is the Scandi-style Coxley cot from Stokke that has a stunning hand-crafted feel and a neutral grey color that is perfect for any interior. It's easy to set up and fits into standard door frames and is ideal when you need to shift it around your home. With the addition of an easy kit that can transform it into a chic toddler bed in a bench style. It's light enough to fit into its own bag for trips away. Our panel of parents agreed that it was "a dream to put together" and "looks beautiful". The parents also loved the fact that the base of the mattress can be moved up and down, allowing you to keep the baby's head raised during nap time and prevent them from rolling over in the night.