A How-To Guide For Baby Cot Bed From Start To Finish

Buying a Baby Cot Bed

Cot beds can be converted into toddler beds, which makes them a more durable option than cribs. They also come with removable sides and an end panel that can be dropped down to make it easier for your child.

Most cribs can be used from birth to around 2 years old or until your child is old enough to want to climb out. Then, you should change to junior beds.

4 Walls

Cot beds provide secure and safe for your baby to sleep in at night or even during naptime. They feature high walls or rails to prevent your baby from falling and many come with adjustable mattress heights. This makes a cot bed suitable for toddlers and infants alike. There are a variety of cot beds to choose from in a range of styles, from basic and budget-friendly models to those packed with additional features. The final decision is based on your family's needs and budget.

Choosing the right baby sleeping arrangement is an important decision for any new parent. You must make sure that your child will be comfortable and safe and also have an area that can be used for a prolonged period of time. While cots can be great for newborns and are compact but they can also be difficult to squeeze into smaller spaces. They're generally only suitable for use until 18 months. A cot bed is a better choice for long-term use and can be easily converted into a toddler or a small single bed.

Snuz Cot Bed is a multi-functional, high-value cot. It's a sturdy and simple cot that has an extended hood that can protect your baby from wind and sun. It also has a storage space towards the end, so you can put away bedding and other items.

Another good choice is another option is the CuddleCo Nola Convertible Cot. The cot can be transformed from a cot into a toddler or single bed using an extension kit, which is sold separately. It has three different mattress heights, so you can keep the mattress high up for infants and babies, and then lower it as your child gets older.

The last alternative is a travel cot. They're only suitable for use on short-term basis and don't provide the same level of support like a traditional bed. Additionally, they usually have mattresses that aren't as strong or as thick as a standard one. While they can be a good alternative to a standard bed when you are travelling however, it is important to remember that your child will only use them for a few short years before he or she is ready to move on to a bigger bed.

Protect your mattress from water with a waterproof mattress

Often a lot of thought is put into purchasing a cot, but less thought is given to the mattress your baby will sleep on. This is an essential purchase for your baby. We recommend buying an organic cotton baby bed.

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 from pillows, toys blankets, muslin sheets or cot bumpers which can hinder the flow of air around your little one. It is recommended to place the cot bed away from heaters, radiators, 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 comes in four colours and the design appears like it'll last many years. It is also able to be converted into a toddler's bed to allow your baby to use the crib until four years old.

The SnuzFino Classic Cot Bed is another cot that has great style and value (PS695, Mother&Baby). Our mum testers were impressed by its sleek design, and said it was "simple but stylish and will last the test of time". It's designed to expand with your child and comes with two levels of height for the mattress so that you can keep your newborn raised and then lower it once they are able to sit unaided.

When choosing a cot, it is worth bearing in the mind that there shouldn't be more than 25mm (1 inch) space between the mattress and the cot's sides and ends. This will ensure that your baby can't climb out of the crib or get caught between the slats on the mattress. It is also recommended to utilize a mattress protector that is 100% cotton and GOTS certified Organic, to ensure it is breathable and soft but also completely waterproof to prevent any leaks!

If you'd rather an option that is high-tech, then the SNOO Baby Cot Smart Sleeper (PS355, Cuckooland) is a great choice. It is a clever kit that includes a mobile application as well as a weaning feature as well as access to sleep specialists. It's expensive and is out of reach for many parents.

Blankets at The End

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

You can change your bedding more often by using organic muslin bedding. They are also breathable which helps keep your baby's delicate skin healthy. You can choose from a variety of sizes and shades to find the best one for your baby.

The best blankets are soft comfortable and comfortable. A blanket that is bulky and heavy could cause your baby to choke. It is best to pick a blanket made from organic cotton muslin that is breathable and lightweight. A thermal blanket is also a great alternative. They are an excellent choice for balmy summer days when your baby will need an easy-to-wear cover to keep them warm.

In general it is recommended that you remove blankets from your child's cot when they reach the age of 18 months or earlier if you can. They can be dangerous if allowed to climb over them. This could result in accidents such as falling from the crib or the bed. If your child is swaddled from birth or is sleeping in a sleeping bag for babies, you may wish to keep the blanket until they are ready to switch to a duvet.

Many parents utilize milestone blankets to track their child's progress and growth. These blankets are typically numbered in accordance with the child's age. It is a great way to keep your family and friends up-to-date about your baby's development and capture precious memories. The Monica + Andy Always Blanket is a gorgeous double layer blanket that gives warmth and comfort, and is air-conditioned.

Easy to Assemble

While a cot for a baby is one of the most important pieces of nursery furniture but it's also a significant investment. Therefore, it's worth taking time to select a model that looks as attractive as it is durable and practical. The most important factor to consider is that the cot should match the overall look of the baby's room. It is also important to consider whether the cot can be turned into a toddler bed, and if it can be done, how simple it is to do so.

When choosing a cot, ensure that it has strong frames, sturdy rails and smooth finishes. Avoid models with curved corners, because they could pose the risk of strangulation. Be sure to read the instructions provided by the manufacturer and avoid using any tools that could cause harm. Don't be afraid to ask for assistance. Assembly is generally easier when it's done with two people, so make sure to ask your partner or family member to assist you.

Many cots have matching furniture for the nursery that can help connect your room. If you don't want to spend a lot of money, there are many high-quality standalone options. The Elementary cot-bed from John Lewis Anyday comes in a white finish with solid FSC pine, making it a durable option. It also has three mattress height positions, so it's suitable from the time of birth and can be adjusted when your child is ready for standing (usually at about 18 months).).

Full Statement  is the Scandi-style Coxley cot by Stokke that is a gorgeous hand-crafted look and a neutral grey finish that suits any interior. It's simple to put together and fits into door frames that are standard, which is useful when you need to shift it around your home. With the addition of a simple kit that can transform it into a stylish toddler bed in the bench-style. It's also light enough to fit into its own carry bag for trips away. Our panel of parents said 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 either up or down, which means you can keep the baby's head raised during nap time and prevent them from rolling over at night.