Buying a Baby Cot Bed
Cot beds are a better long-term option than cribs since they can be transformed into an adult bed. They also have removable sides and an end panel that can be pulled down to provide access to your child.
The majority of cots can be used from birth until approximately 2 years old, or until your child begins to want to climb out. Then, you can change to junior beds.
4 Walls
Cot beds offer a safe and secure space for your baby to rest in at night or during naptime. They feature high walls or rails to prevent your baby from falling, and many have adjustable mattress heights. This makes a cot bed perfect for infants and toddlers alike. There are a variety of cot beds available that range from basic and inexpensive models to ones that are packed with extra features. Ultimately, the decision is based on your family's needs and budget.
Selecting the best baby sleeping arrangement is a crucial decision for any new parent. You must ensure that your child is secure and comfortable and also have the space to be used for a prolonged period of time. While cots can be a great option for newborns and are compact but they can also be difficult to accommodate in smaller spaces. In addition, they're typically not suitable until your child reaches the age of 18 months or at the earliest. A cot bed is a better option for a longer-term usage and can easily be transformed into a toddler bed or small single bed.
If you're looking for a good-value, versatile cot we suggest the Snuz Cot Bed. This is a sturdy, simple cot that has an extended hood to shield your baby from wind and sun. It also has a convenient storage space at the bottom of the cot, so that you can keep bedding and other necessities in a convenient place.
CuddleCo Nola Convertible Cot is another good option. This cot starts out as a traditional cot and can be turned into an infant bed or a single bed, because of an extension kit that's sold separately. It has three different mattress heights so that you can keep the mattress high up for infants and babies, and then lower it as your child gets older.
The last option is a travel bed. They're only suitable for short-term usage and might not offer the same level support as a regular bed. They typically have mattresses that aren't as sturdy or as thick as the standard ones. While they may be a good alternative to a standard mattress for travel however, it is important to consider that your child will only be using them for a couple of years before he or she is ready for a larger bed.
Protect your mattress from water with a waterproof mattress
Many people spend lots of time and effort selecting a cot but pay less focus on the mattress your baby will sleep on. This is a crucial purchase for your baby. We suggest investing in organic cotton bedding for your baby.
As new research shows restricted airflow may be a reason for SIDS and SUDI, you'll need to ensure your baby's bed is free from toys, pillows, blankets, muslin cloths or cot bumpers which can restrict the flow of air around your baby. It is also important to keep the cot or bed clear of radiators, heaters, windows cable sockets, and plugs.
If you're looking for a stylish cot that is stylish, the Mamas&Papas Franklin Cot Bed (PS375, Cuckooland) is a popular choice among our mom testers. It is available in four different colors and has a lovely design that looks like it's going to stand the test of time. It can also be transformed into a toddler's bed so that your baby can use the crib until they are four years old.
The SnuzFino Classic Cot Bed is another cot with great style and value (PS695, Mother and Baby). Our mum testers were amazed by its sleek design, saying it was "simple but stylish and will last the long-term". It's designed to grow with your child too and offers two different heights 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 larger than 25mm (1") between it and the sides and ends of the cot. This will ensure that your baby won't escape from the crib or get caught between the slats of the mattress. It is also recommended to utilize mattress protectors that are 100 100% cotton and GOTS certified Organic, to ensure it's breathable and soft but also completely waterproof to prevent any leaks!
Alternatively, if you prefer an option that is high-tech, then the SNOO Baby Cot Smart Sleeper (PS355, Cuckooland) is an excellent choice. It's a smart product that comes with an app for mobile devices, a weaning feature, and sleep experts. But, it's costly and may be out of the budget for many parents.
Blankets at The End
If you're planning to let your baby sleep in a cot or crib with a blanket, make sure to have enough bedding to clean them regularly. This will keep the sheets clean and fresh and will prevent them from becoming too dirty and uncomfortable for your baby. Three to four sets of sheets should be sufficient.
You can change your bedding more frequently with a set of organic muslin bedding. They are also breathable, which helps keep your baby's delicate skin healthy. They are available in a variety of sizes and colors, so you can find the right ones to meet your baby's needs.
The best blankets are soft cosy and comfortable. A blanket that is too bulky and heavy could cause your baby to choke. It is best to pick a blanket made of organic cotton muslin that is lightweight and breathable. A thermal blanket is another great alternative. These are perfect for those warm summer days, when your baby requires an easy-to-wear cover that will keep them warm.
In general it is recommended that you stop using blankets in your child's cot when they reach the age of 18 months, or earlier if possible. 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 baby is swaddled from birth or is sleeping in a sleeping bag specifically designed for infants, you might want to keep the blanket until they are ready to transition to a duvet.
Many parents utilize a milestone blanket to mark their baby's growth and development typically using numbers that represent the age of the child. This is a wonderful way to keep your family and friends up-to-date about the progress of your child and capture precious memories. The Monica + Andy Always Blanket has a double layer that's both warm and cozy, yet comfortable to wear.
Easy to Assemble
A baby cot bed being one of the most important furniture pieces for the nursery, is also a major investment. As such, it's worth taking time to select a model that looks as attractive as it is durable and practical. The most important thing to consider is that the cot must match the overall look of the room your baby is in. It is also important to think about whether the cot will convert to a toddler bed and, If so, how simple it will be to do.
When choosing a cot, look for models that have solid frames, sturdy rails and smooth edges. Also, avoid models with curved edges which may pose a risk of strangulation. Also, be sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully, and never use any tools that could cause damage. Don't be shy to ask for assistance. Assembly is generally easier when you have two people, so you can ask your spouse or a family member to help you.
Many cot beds come with matching nursery furniture that can really bring the style of your room together. If you don't want spend a lot of money, there are many excellent options for a standalone bed that are of good quality. The Elementary cot-bed from John Lewis Anyday comes in a white finish with solid FSC pine, which makes it a durable option. It comes with three mattress height options, meaning it is suitable for use from the time of birth. recommended cribs can also be adjusted to lower the height once your child is able to begin standing (usually around 18 months).
Another great option is the Scandi-style Coxley cot by Stokke It has a stunning hand-crafted feel and a neutral grey finish that suits any interior. It's easy to assemble and fits through standard door frames, 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 lightweight enough to fit in a bag to carry when you go on vacation. Our panel of parents agreed that it was "a dream to put together" and "looks gorgeous". The parents also liked the fact that the mattress's base can be moved up and down, which means you can keep the baby's head raised during nap time and prevent them from falling over in the night.