Buying a Baby Cot Bed
Cot beds are a better long-term choice than cribs as they can be transformed into a toddler bed. They have removable sides and the end panel can be dropped to allow access to your child.
Most cribs can be used from birth to around 2 years old or until your baby begins to climb out. Then, you can switch to a junior bed.
4 Walls
Cot beds are a safe, secure place for your baby to rest or rest during the night. They are equipped with high walls or rails to prevent your baby from falling, and many come with adjustable mattress heights. A cot bed is suitable for toddlers as well as infants. There are a myriad of cot bed models, ranging from the basic and affordable to models with numerous additional features. The decision ultimately depends on the family's budget and needs.
Any new parent will find it essential to make the right decision when choosing a baby's sleeping arrangement. You want to make sure that your baby is safe and secure. It must also be a place that you can use for a prolonged period of time. While cots are ideal for infants however, they're also very compact and can be difficult to fit into smaller spaces. In addition, they're typically only suitable for use up to the point that your child reaches the age of 18 months or so. A cot-bed is a much more durable alternative and can be easily converted into a toddler bed or a smaller single bed.
If you're looking for a good-value, versatile cot, we recommend the Snuz Cot Bed. This is a sturdy, simple cot with 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 you can keep bedding and other necessities close at hand.
Another option is the CuddleCo Nola Convertible Cot. The cot is designed to be an ordinary cot, but can be converted into an infant bed or one bed, because of an extension kit, which is available separately. It has three mattress heights, so you can adjust it to suit your child's age.
The last alternative is a travel cot. These are typically intended for short-term use and may not offer the same degree of support as a regular cot. In addition, they typically have mattresses that aren't as firm or as thick as the standard one. They can be a great alternative to a standard cot while you're travelling but you should remember that they'll only last a few years at most before your child is ready for an even bigger bed.
Waterproof Mattress Protector
Often a amount of thought is given to buying a cot, but less thought is given to the mattress your baby will sleep on. This is an essential purchase for your baby. We suggest buying an organic cotton crib.
Recent research has revealed that restricted airflow may be a reason for SIDS and SUDI, you'll want to make sure your baby's bedroom is free of pillows, toys, blankets, muslin cloths or cot bumpers that can hinder the flow of air around your little one. Ideally, you should position the cot or cot bed away from heaters, radiators, windows as well as plug sockets and cables that could create a hazard.
The Mamas & Papas Franklin Cot Bed is a very popular choice for our mum testers. It is available in four different colors and has an attractive design that appears like it will last for a long time. It can also be converted into a toddler bed, so your child can use it until the age of 4.
The SnuzFino Classic Cot Bed is another cot with great style and value (PS695 Mother and Baby). Our mom testers were awed by its sleek design, saying it was "simple but elegant and will stand the long-term". It is designed to grow with your child, too. It comes with two levels of height for the mattress so that you can keep your baby elevated and then lower it when they are able to sit without assistance.
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 is to ensure that your baby is not able to escape from the cot, or get trapped between the mattress and the slats. You should also always make sure to use mattress protectors that are 100% cotton and GOTS certified Organic, to ensure it is breathable and soft but completely waterproof and to avoid any unwanted leaks!
If you'd prefer something more modern, the SNOO Baby Cot Smart Sleeper (PS355, Cuckooland) is an excellent option. It is a clever kit that includes an app that can be downloaded on mobile devices and a weaning function, as well as access to sleep specialists. However, it is expensive and may be out of budget for many parents.
Blankets at the End of the Road
If you're planning to let your baby sleep with blankets in their crib or cot be sure to have plenty of blankets to rotate through the wash. This will stop the sheets from becoming too soiled and uncomfortable for your little one as well as helping to keep their bed clean and fresh. A minimum of three or four sets should suffice.
cheap cot bed set of organic muslin blankets can allow you to change the sheets frequently without worrying about them getting too dirty. They also breathe, which helps keep your baby's delicate skin healthy. You can pick from a variety of sizes and shades to find the best one for your baby.
The best blankets are soft, warm and airy. You don't want a blanket that is too heavy and bulky, as it could create the risk of suffocation to your baby. It is best to pick a blanket made from organic cotton muslin, which is breathable and lightweight. A thermal blanket is another great option. These are a great choice for summer days that are warm and sunny. your baby will require an easy-to-wear cover to keep them warm.
In general, it's recommended to stop using a blanket in your child’s cot by 18 months, or earlier, if you can. They can be dangerous if allowed to climb over them. This can lead to accidents such as falling out of the crib or the bed. If your child is used to sleeping with a blanket and has been swaddled from birth or sleeping in a baby sleeping bag, you may want to keep it in place until they are ready to transition to a duvet.
Many parents use a milestone blanket to mark their baby's growth and development typically using numbers that represent the age of the child. It is a great way to keep your family and friends updated about your baby's progress and capture precious memories. The Monica + Andy Always Blanket is a beautiful double layer blanket that provides warmth and comfort while still being air-conditioned.
Easy to Assemble
A baby cot bed while one of the most essential furniture pieces for the nursery, is also an investment. As such, it's worthwhile to take the time to choose one that looks as attractive as it is durable and practical. The cot should match the look of the room. It is also important to think about whether the cot will convert to a toddler bed and if so, how easy it is to do.
When you are choosing a cot you should select a model that have sturdy frames, sturdy rails and smooth surfaces. Also, avoid models with curved edges which could pose a risk of strangulation. Be sure to follow the directions of the manufacturer and avoid using any tools that could cause damage. Don't be shy to ask for assistance. Assembly is generally easier when it's done with two people, so ask your partner or family member to help you.
Many cribs come with matching furniture for the nursery which can help make your room more cohesive. If you don't wish to spend a lot of cost, there are a number of good quality standalone options. The Elementary cot bed from John Lewis' Anyday range, for example, comes in a modern white finish and is constructed of solid FSC pine for a durable option. It also has three mattress height positions, so it's suitable for use from the time of birth and can be adjusted when your child is ready for standing (usually at about 18 months).).
The Stokke Coxley cot is another excellent alternative. It has a neutral grey finish and a handmade look that is perfect for any interior. It's easy to assemble and fits through standard door frames which is helpful when you have to move it around your home. With the addition of a simple kit, it can be converted into a chic toddler bed that is in the bench style. And it's lightweight enough to be transported in its own bag for trips away. Our panel of parents agreed that it was "a dream to put together" and "looks beautiful". They also appreciated the fact that you can change the position of the base of the mattress upwards or downwards to keep your baby's head up during nap time and stop them from falling asleep at the end of the night.