Buying a Baby Cot Bed
Cot beds can be converted to toddler beds, making them a better option for long-term use than cribs. They also come with removable sides and an end panel that can be pulled down to allow access to your child.
The majority of cribs are suitable for use from birth until around 2 years or until your child starts to climb out. Then, you should change to junior beds.
4 Walls
Cot beds offer an ensconced, safe space for your baby to nap or sleep at night. They are equipped with high walls or rails to prevent your baby from falling out, and many have adjustable mattress heights that can be lowered as your child grows. This makes a cot bed perfect for toddlers and infants alike. There are a myriad of types of cot beds available that range from basic and inexpensive models to those packed with additional features. In the end, it depends on your family's requirements and budget.
Every new parent will find it important to make the right choice when it comes to choosing a baby's sleeping arrangement. You must ensure that your baby is safe and comfortable and also have a space that can 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 squeeze into smaller spaces. They're generally only suitable for use until 18 months. A cot-bed is a more durable option that can be easily transformed into a toddler bed or small single bed.
Snuz Cot Bed is a multi-functional, high-value cot. It's a simple, but sturdy cot with a large hood that shields your baby from the sun and wind. It has a storage space towards the end, so you can put away bedding and other items.
CuddleCo Nola Convertible Cot is an alternative. This cot can be converted from a cot into a single or toddler bed by using an extension kit that is available separately. It comes with three different mattress heights so you can alter it to fit your child's age.
The final alternative is a travel cot. They are only suitable for short-term use and don't provide the same level of support as a regular bed. They usually come with mattresses which aren't as sturdy or thick as regular ones. While they can be a good alternative to a standard bed while traveling but it is important to remember that your child will only be using them for a few short years before they is ready for 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 a very important purchase for your baby. We recommend purchasing an organic cotton crib.
It is important to ensure that your baby's cot bed is not cluttered with toys, pillows or blankets. They could block the airflow around your child. You should also ensure that the bed or cot is away from any radiators, heaters, windows cables, and plug sockets.
The Mamas&Papas Franklin Cot Bed is a popular option among our mum testers. It comes in four colors and features a a lovely design that looks like it's built to last for a long time. It can also convert into a toddler bed, so your child can use it right up to the age of 4.
The SnuzFino Classic Cot Bed is another cot with great style and value (PS695 Mother&Baby). Our mom testers were impressed by its sleek design and said it was "simple yet elegant and will last for a long time". It's designed to grow along with your child. It has two different height settings, so you can raise your newborn and lower it when they are capable of sitting on their own.
It is essential to keep in mind that the mattress shouldn't have a gap of more than 25mm (1") between it and the edges and sides of the cot. This is to ensure that your baby is not able to get out of the cot or become trapped between the mattress and the slats. It is also recommended to utilize a mattress protector that is 100 100% cotton and GOTS certified Organic, so that it's breathable and soft but also completely waterproof to prevent any leaks!
Alternatively, you could choose a more advanced option and opt for 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 access to sleep consultants. It is expensive and not accessible to many parents.
Blankets at the end of the Line
If you're planning to let your baby sleep in a cot or a crib with a blanket, make sure you have enough blankets to clean them regularly. This will keep sheets from becoming excessively dirty and uncomfortable for your child as well as helping to keep their bed clean and fresh. Three to four sets of sheets should be enough.
You can change your bedding more often with organic muslin bedding. They are also breathable, which will help keep your baby's delicate skin healthy. You can pick from a variety of sizes and colors to find the perfect one for your baby.
The best baby blankets are soft and cosy and ventilated. A blanket that is heavy and bulky can cause your baby to choke. cot sets made from organic cotton muslin is a great choice because it is lightweight and comfortable to breathe. Another alternative is a thermal blanket. These are a great choice for balmy summer days when your baby will need an easy-to-wear cover to keep them warm.
In general, it's advised to remove a blanket in your child’s cot by 18 months, or earlier if it is possible. This is because they could become dangerous if allowed to climb on them, which can lead to accidents like falling out of bed or the crib. If your child is swaddled from birth or is sleeping in a sleeping bag designed for infants, you might want to keep the blanket until they are able to switch to a duvet.
Many parents use milestone blankets to record their child's development and growth. These blankets are usually designated in accordance with the child's age. This is a great method to keep your family and friends up-to-date on your baby's progress, and also capture precious moments. The Monica + Andy Always Blanket is a gorgeous double layer blanket that gives warmth and comfort yet is still air-conditioned.
Easy to Assemble
A baby cot bed although one of the most essential furniture pieces for the nursery, is also an investment. Therefore, it's worth the effort to choose the one that looks appealing as it is strong and practical. The cot should match the decor of the room. It is also important to think about whether the cot could be converted into a toddler bed, and in the event that it does, how easy it is to do.
When you are choosing a cot you should choose a cot with sturdy frames solid rails and smooth finishes. Also, avoid models with curving edges, which could be a source of strangulation. Also, make sure to follow the instructions of the manufacturer carefully, and never use any tool that could cause harm. Don't be afraid to seek help. Ask your friend or family member to assist you.
Many cots come with matching furniture for the nursery which can help connect your room. If you don't want spend a lot of amount, there are plenty of good quality standalone options. The Elementary cot bed from John Lewis' Anyday range is a good example. It comes in a contemporary white finish and is constructed of solid FSC pine to provide a long-lasting option. It also has three mattress height positions so it's suitable for use from birth. It can also be lowered when your child is ready to start standing (usually at about 18 months).).
Another alternative is the Scandi-style Coxley cot by Stokke, which is a gorgeous hand-crafted look and a neutral grey color that is perfect for any decor. It's easy to set up and fits into standard door frames, which is useful in the event that you need to move it around your home. It also converts into a chic, toddler bed using the addition of a simple kit. And it's lightweight enough to fit in its own bag for trips away. Our panel of parents agreed that 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 throughout the day and keep them from rolling off at night.