Buying a Baby Cot Bed
Cot beds are a more long-term choice than cribs as they can be converted to a toddler bed. They have removable sides, and an end panel that can be removed to provide access to your child.
The majority of cribs can be used from birth to about 2 years old or until your child is old enough to try to climb out. Then, you should change to junior beds.
4 Walls
Cot beds are a safe and secure space for your baby to rest in at night or during nap time. They feature high walls or rails that prevent your child from falling, and many have adjustable mattress heights. A cot bed is perfect for toddlers as well as infants. There are a myriad of cot bed models that range from the basic and affordable to those that come with a variety of features. The decision ultimately depends on the family's budget as well as their needs.
Anyone who is a new parent will discover it important to make the right decision when choosing a baby's sleeping arrangement. You want to ensure that your baby is secure and comfortable and also have the space to be used for a long time. While cots offers are great for newborns but they're also quite small and may be difficult to fit into smaller spaces. They're generally only suitable for use from 18 months. A cot bed is a better option for long-term use and is easily converted into a toddler or small single bed.
If you're looking to buy a low-cost, versatile cot, we recommend the Snuz Cot Bed. It's a sturdy and simple cot that has an extended hood to shield your baby from wind and sun. It has a storage space at the end, so you can store bedding and other items.
Another good choice is another option is the CuddleCo Nola Convertible Cot. It can be converted from a cot to single or toddler beds by using an extension kit that is available separately. It comes with three mattress heights, meaning you can keep the mattress high up for newborns and small infants, and then lower it as your child grows older.
The final alternative is a travel cot. They are typically only suitable for short-term use and may not offer the same level of support as the regular cot. They typically come with mattresses which aren't as sturdy or thick as regular ones. They can be a great alternative to a standard cot while you're travelling but you should remember that they'll only last for several years before your child is ready to move on to larger beds.
Waterproof Mattress Protector
Often a lot of thought goes into buying a cot, but little thought is given to the mattress your baby will sleep on. It is among the most important purchases you will make for your baby. we recommend investing in a good quality organic cotton baby mattress.
Recent research has revealed that restricted airflow could be the cause of SIDS and SUDI, you will be looking to ensure that your baby's bed is free from toys, pillows blankets, muslin sheets or cot bumpers which can restrict the flow of air around your baby. You should also keep the bed or cot clear of radiators, heaters, windows, cables, and plug sockets.
If you are seeking a stylish cot the Mamas & Papas Franklin Cot Bed (PS375, Cuckooland) is one of the most popular choices among our mom testers. It comes in four colors and the design appears like it will last for many years. It can also be converted into a toddler bed so your child can use it up to the age of 4.
The SnuzFino Classic Cot Bed is another cot that is stylish and value (PS695 Mother&Baby). Our mum testers loved its sleek design and said it was "simple but stylish and will stand the test of time". It's designed to grow along with your child and has two different height settings so that you can put your baby in a higher position and lower it once they're able to sit up on their own.
It is essential to keep in mind that the mattress should not have a gap greater than 25mm (1") between it and the edges and sides of the cot. This will ensure that your baby can't climb out of the crib or get trapped between the slats on the mattress. It is also recommended to use a mattress protector that is 100% cotton and GOTS certified Organic, to ensure it is breathable and soft but also completely waterproof to avoid any unwanted leaks!
If you prefer, you can choose a more advanced option and choose the SNOO Smart Sleeper Baby Cot (PS355, Cuckooland). It's a smart kit that includes an app for mobile devices as well as a weaning feature and sleep experts. However, it is expensive and might be out of the budget for many parents.
Blankets at the end of the Line
If you're planning to let your baby sleep in a cot or crib with a blanket, be sure you have enough blankets so you can clean them regularly. This will keep the sheets fresh and clean and will prevent them from becoming dirty and uncomfortable for your baby. Three to four sets of sheets should be sufficient.
You can change your sheets more often by using a set of organic muslin bedding. They are also breathable and help keep your baby's skin healthy and happy. You can pick from a variety of sizes and colors to find the perfect one for your baby.
The best blankets for babies are soft and cosy and ventilated. A blanket that is bulky and heavy could cause your baby to choke. A blanket made from organic cotton muslin is a great choice because it is lightweight and airy. A thermal blanket is a excellent alternative. These are perfect for those warm summer days when your baby needs an easy-to-wear cover that will keep them warm.
Generally speaking it is recommended that you remove blankets from your child's cot at 18 months of age, or earlier if possible. They can be risky if children climb on them. This can lead to accidents such as falling out of the crib or in bed. However, if tots and cots is used to sleeping with blankets and has been covered from birth or sleeps in a baby sleeping bag it is best to leave it in place until they are ready to move to a duvet.
Many parents utilize the milestone blanket to track the baby's development and growth, typically with numbers that indicate the age of the child. It is a great way to keep your family and friends up-to-date about your baby's progress and also capture precious memories. The Monica + Andy Always Blanket is a stunning double layer blanket that gives warmth and coziness, yet is still breathable.
Easy to Assemble
A baby cot bed being one of the most essential furniture pieces for the nursery, is also a significant investment. Therefore, it's worth taking time to select a model that looks as good as it is sturdy and practical. The cot should be in line with the decor of the room. You should also consider whether the cot could be converted into a toddler bed, and If so, how simple it will be to do.
When you are choosing a cot you should look for models that have sturdy frames, sturdy rails and smooth finishes. Avoid cots that have curved corners, because they can create a strangulation risk. Be sure to read the instructions of the manufacturer and avoid using any tools that could cause damage. Don't be afraid to ask for assistance. Ask your friend or family member to help you.
Many cribs come with matching furniture for the nursery which can help pull the look of your room together. If you don't want to spend a lot of amount, there are plenty of excellent options for a standalone bed that are of good quality. The Elementary cot-bed from John Lewis Anyday comes in white and is made of solid FSC pine, which makes it a durable choice. It also comes with three mattress height positions so it's suitable for use starting from birth and can be lowered when your child is ready to start standing (usually at around 18 months).
The Stokke Coxley cot is another excellent alternative. It has a neutral grey finish and a handcrafted look that is perfect for any decor. It is simple to put together, and it fits through doors that have standard doorframes. This is great to move around the home. It can also transform into a chic toddler bed using the addition of a simple kit. It's light enough to put into a bag for when you go on vacation. Our panel of parents said it was "a dream to put together" and "looks gorgeous". They also loved the ability to move the base position of the mattress upwards or downwards so that you can keep your baby's head elevated during naps and prevent them from rolling away at the end of the night.