Buying a Baby Cot Bed
Cot beds can be converted into toddler beds, making them a more durable option than cribs. They also come with removable sides and an end panel that can be pulled down to provide access to your child.
Most cribs can be used from birth until around 2 years old or until your baby starts trying to climb out. Then, you should change to junior beds.
4 Walls
Cot beds provide the safety and security for your baby to nap or rest during the night. They have high walls or rails to stop your baby from falling out, and most feature adjustable mattress heights that can be adjusted as your baby grows. A cot bed is suitable for toddlers and infants alike. There are a variety of cot bed models, ranging from the simple and affordable to models with numerous additional features. Ultimately, the decision depends on the needs of your family and the budget you have set.
Choosing the right baby sleeping arrangement is a major decision for any new parent. You want to make sure that your baby is comfortable and safe. It must also be a place that you can use for a long period of time. While cots can be a great option for infants and are small but they can also be difficult to squeeze into smaller spaces. In addition, they're generally only suitable for use until your child is 18 months old 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 a small single bed.
If you're looking for a good-value, versatile cot we suggest the Snuz Cot Bed. It's a simple, but sturdy cot that comes with a hood that is extra-deep, which protects your baby from the elements of wind and sun. best cots has a handy storage area at the top of the cot so you can keep bedding and other items in a convenient place.
CuddleCo Nola Convertible Cot is another option. This cot can be converted from a cot to a toddler or single bed with the help of an extension kit that is available separately. It has three different mattress heights so that you can keep the mattress up for newborns and young babies, before lowering it down as your child gets older.
The final option is a bed for travel. These are usually only suitable for short-term use and may not offer the same degree of support as the standard cot. They often have mattresses that aren't as sturdy or thick as traditional ones. They can be a good alternative to a standard cot when you're travelling but you should remember that they'll only last for just a few years before your child is ready to move on to an even bigger bed.
Protect your mattress from water with a waterproof mattress
Often a lot of thought is put into buying a cot, but less consideration is given to the mattress your baby will sleep on. This is an essential purchase for your baby. We suggest investing in organic cotton bedding for your baby.
As new research shows restricted airflow could be a reason for SIDS and SUDI, you will want to make sure your baby's bed is free of toys, pillows blankets, muslin sheets or cot bumpers that can hinder the circulation of air around your little one. It is recommended to place the cot bed away from radiators, heaters windows, plug sockets and cables that could be risk.
The Mamas & Papas Franklin Cot Bed is a popular option among our mum testers. It is available in four colors and the design appears like it's going to last for many years. It also converts into a toddler bed so your child can use it 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 were awed by its sleek design, stating that it was "simple but stylish and will last the long-term". It's designed to grow with your child. It has two different height settings so you can put your baby in a higher position and lower it when they're 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 child won't climb out of the crib or get trapped between the mattress slats. Also, you should utilize a mattress protector that is 100 100% cotton and GOTS certified Organic, so that 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 a great choice. It is a clever product that comes with an app for mobile devices, a weaning feature, and sleep experts. However, it is expensive and could be out of reach for many parents.
Blankets at the End of the Road
If you're thinking of letting your baby sleep on a blanket in their cot or crib, make sure you have plenty of extras to rotate through the wash. 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 enough.
A good quality set of organic muslin blankets can allow you to change the sheets often without worrying about them getting too dirty. They are also breathable which can help keep your baby's skin healthy and happy. You can choose from a variety of sizes and colors to find the right one for your baby.
The best baby blankets are soft and comfortable and breathable. A blanket that is too heavy and bulky can cause your baby to choke. It is best to choose an organic blanket made of cotton muslin, which is breathable and lightweight. A thermal blanket is a good option. These are perfect for those balmy summer days when your baby requires a lightweight cover that will keep them warm.
In general, it is recommended that you do away with blankets in your child's cot at 18 months of age, or earlier if possible. This is because they can become dangerous if they are allowed to climb onto them, which can lead to accidents like falling from the bed or the crib. If your child is used to sleeping on a blanket and has been wrapped from birth or is sleeping in a baby sleeping bag, you may want to leave the blanket in place until they are ready to transition 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. It is a great method 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 comfort, yet is still air-conditioned.
Easy to Assemble
While a baby cot is one of the most essential furniture pieces for nursery however, it's also an expensive investment. As such, it's worthwhile to take the time to choose one that looks as appealing as it is strong and practical. The cot must match the look of the room. You should also consider if the cot can be converted into a toddler bed and if so be done, how simple it is to do.
When selecting a cot, ensure that it has strong frames, sturdy rails, and smooth edges. small cot beds 's also best to avoid models with curving edges, which could be a source of strangulation. Be sure to follow the manufacturer's directions carefully, and don't use any tools that could cause harm. Don't be shy to ask for assistance. Ask your family or friend member to help you.
Many cot beds come with matching furniture for your nursery that can really bring the look of your room together. However, if you don't have the funds for this there are many good-quality standalone options to choose from. The Elementary cot bed from John Lewis' Anyday range is a good example. recommended cribs comes with a modern white finish and is made from solid FSC pine to provide a long-lasting choice. It also has three mattress height positions so it's suitable from birth. It can also be lowered when your child is ready to begin standing (usually at around 18 months).
Another great option is the Scandi-style Coxley cot by Stokke that is a gorgeous hand-crafted look and a neutral grey color that is perfect for any room. It's simple to put together and can be inserted into doors with standard frames and is ideal in the event that you need to move it around your home. It also converts into a chic bench-style toddler bed with the addition of a simple kit. It's light enough to fit in a carry bag when you go on vacation. Parents who took part in our panel agreed that it was "easy to put together" and "looks stunning". They also appreciated the fact that you are able to change the position of the base of the mattress upwards or downwards so that you can keep your baby's head elevated during naps and prevent them from falling asleep at the end of the night.