Buying a Baby Cot Bed
Cot beds are a more long-term option than cribs since they can be transformed into a toddler bed. They have removable sides, and an end panel can be dropped to allow access to your child.
The majority of cribs can be used from birth until around 2 years, or until your child starts to climb out. Then, it is time to switch to junior beds.
4 Walls
Cot beds offer an ideal and safe space for your baby to sleep in at night or even during naptime. They are equipped with high walls or rails to stop your child from falling out, and a majority of them have adjustable mattress heights that can be lowered as your baby grows. A cot bed is perfect for both infants and toddlers. There are a myriad of cot bed models that range from simple and inexpensive to those that come with a variety of features. The choice ultimately is based on the family's budget and needs.
Choosing the right baby sleeping arrangement is an important choice for any new parent. You must ensure that your baby is safe and comfortable and have a space that can be used for a long 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 longer-term use and is easily converted into a toddler or a small single bed.
If you're looking to buy a low-cost cot that is versatile we suggest the Snuz Cot Bed. This is a simple but sturdy cot that comes with an extra deep hood which shields your child from the elements of wind and sun. It also has a handy storage area at the end of the cot so you can keep bedding and other items close by.
Another good choice is the CuddleCo Nola Convertible Cot. The cot is designed to be a traditional cot but can be converted into a toddler bed or even a single bed, because of an extension kit that's available separately. It comes with three different mattress heights so that you can alter it according to your child's age.
The final option is a travel cot. They are typically only suitable for short-term use and may not provide the same degree of support as a standard cot. They often have mattresses that aren't as strong or as thick as the standard ones. They can be a good alternative to a standard cot if 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.
Waterproof Mattress Protector
Often a amount of thought is given to purchasing a cot, but little thought is given to the mattress that your baby will sleep on. This is a very important purchase for your baby. We recommend investing in organic cotton bedding for your baby.
As new research shows restricted airflow may be the cause of SIDS and SUDI, you'll need to ensure your baby's bed is free of pillows, toys blankets, muslin cloths, blankets or cot bumpers that can hinder the circulation of air around your baby. Ideally, you will also position the cot or cot bed away from heaters, radiators windows as well as plug sockets and cables that could create danger.
The Mamas & Papas Franklin Cot Bed is a very popular choice for our mum testers. It is available in four colors and the design appears like it's going to last for a long time. It can also be converted into a toddler bed, so your child can use it up until the age of four.
The SnuzFino Classic Cot Bed is another cot with great style and value (PS695, Mother&Baby). Our mom testers were impressed by its sleek design and stated that it was "simple but stylish and will last for a long time". It's designed to develop with your child and has two different height settings so you can put your baby in a higher position and lower it once they are capable of sitting on their own.
It is important to remember that the mattress shouldn't have a gap larger than 25mm (1") between it and the ends and sides of the cot. This will ensure that your baby won't get out of the crib or get trapped between the mattress slats. Also, you should use a mattress protector that is 100 100% cotton and GOTS Certified Organic, to ensure it's breathable and soft but totally waterproof and to prevent any leaks!
Alternatively, if you prefer a high-tech option, then the SNOO Baby Cot Smart Sleeper (PS355, Cuckooland) is an excellent option. It's a smart piece of equipment that includes a mobile app, weaning feature as well as access to sleep specialists and much more. It is expensive and out of reach for many parents.
Blankets at the End of The Road
If you're planning on letting your baby sleep with blankets in their crib or cot, make sure you have plenty of additional blankets to rotate through the wash. This will prevent sheets from becoming excessively dirty and uncomfortable for your child and also help to keep their bed clean and fresh. Three to four sheets should be enough.
A good quality set of organic muslin blankets allows you to wash the sheets regularly without worrying about them becoming too dirty. They are also breathable which helps keep your baby's delicate skin healthy. They are available in various sizes and colours and sizes, so you can choose the perfect one for your baby's requirements.
The most comfortable blankets are soft, cosy and comfortable. You shouldn't choose a blanket that is too heavy and bulky, as it could cause the risk of suffocation to your baby. A blanket made from organic cotton muslin is a great choice because it is light and airy. Another good alternative is a blanket that is thermal. They are an excellent choice for warm summer days when your baby will need an easy-to-wear cover to keep them warm.
In general, it is recommended that you stop using blankets in the crib of your child at 18 months of age or earlier if you can. It is because they become risky if children climb over them. This could result in accidents such as falling out of the crib or in bed. If your baby is swaddled from birth or is sleeping in a sleeping bag designed for babies, you might want to keep the blanket until they are ready to switch to a duvet.
Many parents use milestone blankets to record their child's growth and progress. These blankets are usually numbered in accordance with the child's age. This is a great method to keep family and friends informed of your baby's progress, and also capture precious moments. The Monica + Andy Always Blanket is a gorgeous double layer blanket that provides warmth and comfort, while still being comfortable and breathable.
Easy to Assemble
A baby cot bed although one of the most important pieces of nursery furniture is also a significant investment. It's important to choose one that is beautiful and robust. The cot should be in line with the style of the room. You should also consider if the cot can be converted into a toddler bed and if it is possible be done, how easy to do so.
When you are choosing a cot you should look for models with robust frames solid rails and 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 avoid using any tool that could cause damage. Don't be shy to ask for assistance. It's usually easier to get things done when it's done with 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 make your room more cohesive. If you don't have the budget for this, there are numerous high-quality standalone options available. go now -bed from John Lewis Anyday comes in white and is made of solid FSC pine, which makes it a sturdy option. It also comes with three mattress height positions so it's suitable for use from birth and can be lowered when your child is ready for standing (usually at about 18 months).).
Another great alternative is the Scandi-style Coxley cot by Stokke, which has a stunning hand-crafted feel and a neutral grey finish that will suit any interior. It's easy to set up and fits through standard door frames which is helpful in the event that you need to move it around your home. With the addition of a simple kit, it can be converted into a chic toddler bed in the bench-style. It's lightweight enough to fit in a carry bag when you go on vacation. Our panel of parents said it was "a dream to put together" and "looks gorgeous". They also loved the fact that you are able to move the base position of the mattress up or down so that you can keep your baby's head elevated during nap time and stop them from rolling off at night.