Buying a Baby Cot Bed
Cot beds are a better long-term option than cribs since they can be converted to an adult bed. They come with removable sides, and the end panel can be removed to give access to your child.
The majority of cribs can be used from the time of birth until approximately 2 years old, or until your child begins to want to climb out. Then, you can switch to a junior bed.
4 Walls
Cot beds are a safe, secure place for your baby to rest or rest during the night. They have high walls or rails to prevent your baby from falling and many have adjustable mattress heights. This makes a cot bed suitable for infants and toddlers alike. There are a variety of cot bed models, which range from the basic and affordable to models with numerous additional features. Ultimately, the decision is based on the needs of your family and the budget you have set.
Choosing the right baby sleeping arrangement is a crucial decision for any parent who is about to become a. You want to ensure that your baby is safe and comfortable and have the space to be used for a prolonged period of time. While cots can be a great option for infants and are small, they can also be difficult to fit in smaller spaces. They're also only usually suitable for use from 18 months. A cot bed is a better option for a longer-term usage and can be easily transformed into a toddler bed or small single bed.
If you're looking for a good-value cot that is versatile we suggest the Snuz Cot Bed. This is a basic but sturdy cot that comes with a hood that is extra-deep, which protects your baby from the sun and wind. It also has a convenient storage area at the top of the cot, so you can keep bedding and other necessities close by.
CuddleCo Nola Convertible Cot is an alternative. This cot can be converted from a cot to a toddler or single bed by using an extension kit that is available separately. It comes with three different mattress heights so that you can alter it to fit your child's age.
The final option is a bed for travel. They are only suitable for short-term usage and may not provide the same level of support like a traditional bed. They typically have mattresses that aren't as strong or as thick as the regular ones. While they can be a great alternative to a traditional bed when you are travelling however, it is important to keep in mind that your child will only use them for a few years before they is ready to move on to a bigger bed.
Waterproof Mattress Protector
Many parents spend a lot of time and effort in choosing a cot, but pay little attention to the mattress your baby will be sleeping on. This is one of the most important purchases you will make for your baby, and we recommend purchasing a high-quality organic cotton baby mattress.
It is important to make sure that your baby's crib is free of toys, pillows or blankets. They could block the air flow around your child. It is also important to keep the bed or cot clear of heaters, radiators windows, cable sockets, and plugs.
The Mamas & Papas Franklin Cot Bed is a popular choice among our mom testers. It comes in four colours and has an attractive design that appears like it's going to last for a long time. It can also convert into a toddler bed, so your baby can use it right up until the age of four.
The SnuzFino Classic Cot Bed is another cot that is stylish and value (PS695 Mother&Baby). Our mom testers loved its sleek design and stated that it was "simple but stylish and will last for a long time". It is designed to grow with your child too and has two levels of height for the mattress, so you can keep your baby elevated and then lower it when they begin to sit up without assistance.
It is important to remember that the mattress shouldn't have a gap of more than 25mm (1") between it and the edges and sides of the cot. This will ensure that your baby won't climb out of the crib or be trapped between the slats on the mattress. Choose a mattress cover that is made of 100% organic cotton and GOTS certified to ensure it is breathable, soft and waterproof.
Alternatively, if you prefer a high-tech option, then the SNOO Baby Cot Smart Sleeper (PS355, Cuckooland) is an excellent choice. It's a smart piece of kit which has an app for mobile devices, a weaning feature and access to sleep experts and more. But, it's costly and could be out of budget for many parents.
Blankets at The End
If you're planning to let your child sleep on a blanket in their crib or cot, make sure you have plenty of blankets to rotate through the wash. This will keep the sheets clean and fresh and prevent them from becoming dirty and uncomfortable for your baby. A minimum of three or four sets is sufficient.
A high-quality set of organic muslin blankets allows you to change the sheets often without worrying about them getting too dirty. They also breathe and help keep your baby's skin healthy and happy. You can choose from a variety of sizes and colors to find the perfect one for your baby.
The best baby blankets are soft and cosy and breathable. A blanket that is too heavy and bulky can cause your baby to drown. A blanket made from organic cotton muslin is a great choice because it is light and comfortable to breathe. A thermal blanket is a great option. They are ideal for those balmy summer days when your baby needs a light 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 it is possible. This is because they could become dangerous if allowed to climb on them, leading to accidents such as falls out of crib or bed. If your baby has been swaddled since birth or is sleeping in a sleeping bag designed for infants, you might want to keep the blanket until they are ready to switch to a duvet.
Many parents utilize milestone blankets to mark the development and growth of their child typically using numbers that reflect the age of the child. This is a great method to keep your family and friends informed of your baby's progress and also capture precious moments. The Monica + Andy Always Blanket has a double layer that is both warm and cozy, while also being breathable.
Easy to Assemble
While a cot for a baby 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 appealing as it is strong and practical. The most important consideration is that the cot should be in harmony with the overall design of your baby's room. You should also consider whether the cot will convert to a toddler bed and in the event that it does, how easy it will be to accomplish.
When selecting a cot, ensure that it has robust frames, sturdy rails and smooth edges. Avoid models with curved corners, as they can pose strangulation risks. Be sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully, and never use any tool that could cause damage. Finally, don't be afraid to ask for assistance. Assembly is generally easier when it's done with two people, so ask your partner or family member to help you.
Many cots have matching furniture for the nursery that can help bring your room together. If you don't wish to spend the amount, there are plenty of excellent options for a standalone bed that are of good quality. The Elementary cot bed from John Lewis' Anyday range for instance, is available with a modern white finish and is constructed out of solid FSC pine to provide a long-lasting choice. It also comes with three mattress heights, which means it's suitable for use from the time of birth and can be adjusted when your child is ready to start standing (usually at around 18 months).
Another alternative is the Scandi-style Coxley cot from Stokke that is a gorgeous hand-crafted look and a neutral grey finish that suits any interior. It's easy to assemble and fits into door frames that are standard which is helpful in the event that you need to move it around your home. It can also be converted into a chic bench-style toddler bed with the addition of a simple kit. It's light enough to fit into a bag for when you travel. Parents who were part of our panel said that it was "easy to put together" and "looks stunning". cots to tots liked the fact that the base of the mattress can be moved up and down, allowing you to keep your baby's head up during naps and stop them from rolling over at night.