Buying a Baby Cot Bed
Cot beds are a better long-term choice than cribs as they can be converted to an adult bed. They also come with removable sides and an end panel that can be lowered down to allow access to your child.
The majority of cots are suitable for use from birth to 2 years old or until your child starts to climb out. Then you should move to a junior bed.
4 Walls
Cot beds are secure and safe for your baby to rest in at night or during nap time. They have high walls or rails that prevent your baby from falling and many come with adjustable mattress heights. A cot bed is perfect for both infants and toddlers. There are many cot bed models, ranging from simple and inexpensive to those with many additional features. The decision ultimately is based on the family's budget and requirements.
Any new parent will find it essential to make the right choice in deciding on a baby's sleep arrangement. You must ensure that your baby is safe and safe. It must also be a space that you can use for a long time. While cots are great for newborns but they're also quite small and can be difficult to fit into smaller spaces. They're typically only suitable for use up to 18 months. A cot bed is a better choice for long-term use and is easily transformed into a toddler bed or small single bed.
If you're looking to buy a low-cost cot that can be used in a variety of ways, we recommend the Snuz Cot Bed. It's a simple, but sturdy cot with a hood that is extra-deep, which protects your baby from the sun and wind. It also features a handy 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 option. The cot can be transformed from a cot to a single or toddler bed by using an extension kit that is available separately. It comes with three different mattress heights so that you can alter it according to your child's age.
The final alternative is a travel cot. They are only suitable for short-term usage and may not provide the same level of support as a standard bed. They typically come with mattresses which aren't as sturdy or thick as standard ones. They can be a great alternative to a standard cot when you travel however, it's important to remember that they'll only last for just a few years before your child is ready for an even bigger bed.
Waterproof Mattress Protector
A lot of thought is put into buying a cot, however little thought is given to the mattress your baby will sleep on. This is an essential purchase for your baby. We recommend buying an organic cotton crib.
It is important to make sure that your baby's crib is free of blankets, pillows or toys. They could block the airflow around your child. Ideally, you will also position the cot or cot bed away from heaters, radiators windows, plug sockets and cables that could pose a hazard.
If crib sets are looking for a stylish cot, the Mamas&Papas Franklin Cot Bed (PS375, Cuckooland) is an extremely popular choice among our mom testers. It comes in four colours and the design appears like it'll last many years. It can also convert into a toddler bed, so your child can use it right up until the age of four.
Another cot with great style and value is the SnuzFino Classic Cot Bed (PS695 Mother and Baby). Our mom testers loved its sleek design and said it was "simple yet stylish and will endure the test of time". It's designed to grow with your child and has two different height settings, so you can put your baby in a higher position and lower it when they're in a position to sit on their own.
It is crucial to remember that the mattress shouldn't have a gap greater than 25mm (1") between it and the ends and sides of the cot. This will ensure that your baby can't get out of the crib or be trapped between the slats on the mattress. You should also always use mattress protectors that are 100 100% cotton and GOTS certified Organic, to ensure it is soft and breathable but completely waterproof and to avoid any unwanted leaks!
If you prefer, you can go for a more technological option and opt for the SNOO Smart Sleeper Baby Cot (PS355, Cuckooland). It's a clever 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 might be out of reach for many parents.
Blankets at the end of the Line
If you're planning to let your baby sleep in a crib or cot with a blanket, be sure to have enough bedding so you can clean them regularly. This will keep the sheets fresh and clean and keep them from becoming dirty and uncomfortable for your baby. Three to four sheets is enough.
A high-quality set of organic muslin blankets can allow you to change the sheets frequently without worrying about them getting too dirty. They are also breathable which helps keep your baby's delicate skin healthy. You can choose from a wide range of sizes and colors to find the right one for your baby.
The best blankets are soft warm and airy. You don't want blankets that are heavy and bulky, as it could pose the risk of suffocation to your baby. It is best to choose a blanket made of organic cotton muslin that is lightweight and breathable. A thermal blanket is also a excellent option. They are ideal for those hot summer days when your baby needs an easy-to-wear cover that will keep them warm.
Generally speaking it is recommended you do away with blankets in the crib of your child when they reach the age of 18 months, or earlier if possible. They can be dangerous if children are allowed to climb on them, leading to accidents such as falls out of the bed or the crib. If your child is used to sleeping on blankets and has been covered from birth or sleeps in a sleeping bag for babies then you might want to leave the blanket in place until they are ready to transition to a duvet.
Many parents utilize milestone blankets to mark the baby's development and growth typically using numbers that reflect the age of the child. This is a wonderful way to keep your family and friends updated about the progress of your child and also capture precious memories. The Monica + Andy Always Blanket is a beautiful double layer blanket that offers warmth and coziness, while still being air-conditioned.
Easy to Assemble
While a baby cot bed is one of the most essential furniture pieces for the nursery, it's also a substantial investment. It is essential to select a model which is both attractive and robust. The most important consideration is that the cot must be in harmony with the overall design of your baby's room. You should also consider whether the cot could be converted to a toddler bed and If so, how simple it is to accomplish.
When selecting a cot you should select a model with sturdy frames solid rails and smooth edges. Avoid cots with curved corners as they can pose strangulation risks. Be sure to follow the instructions of the manufacturer and avoid using any tools that may cause harm. Finally, don't be afraid to seek assistance. Assembly is generally easier when it's done by two people, so you can ask your partner or a family member to assist you.
Many cribs come with matching nursery furniture that can really bring the style of your room together. If you don't have the funds for this, there are plenty of good-quality alternatives that can be used as a stand-alone. The Elementary cot-bed from John Lewis Anyday comes in white and is made of solid FSC pine, which makes it a sturdy option. It also has 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 around 18 months).
Another great alternative is the Scandi-style Coxley cot from Stokke that is a gorgeous hand-crafted look and a neutral grey color that is perfect for any interior. It's easy to put together and can be inserted into doors that have standard doorframes. This is perfect to move around the house. With the addition of an easy kit, it can be converted into a chic toddler bed in the bench-style. And it's lightweight enough to fit in its own carry bag for trips away. Our panel of parents said it was "a dream to put together" and "looks gorgeous". They also appreciated the ability to move the base of the mattress upwards or downwards to keep your baby's head elevated during nap time and stop them from rolling away at night.