Buying a Baby Cot Bed
Cot beds are a more durable option than cribs because they can be converted to a toddler bed. They have removable sides and an end panel can be removed to give 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 can switch to a junior bed.
4 Walls
Cot beds provide an ideal and safe space for your baby to sleep in at night or even during naptime. They have high walls or rails that prevent your child from falling, and many come with adjustable mattress heights. A cot bed is ideal for both infants and toddlers. There are a variety of cot beds that are available that range from basic and inexpensive models to those with additional features. In the end, it depends on the needs of your family and the budget you have set.
Choosing the right baby sleeping arrangement is a crucial decision for any parent who is about to become a. You need to ensure that your baby is comfortable and secure. It must also be a space you can use for a prolonged period of time. While cribs are great for babies, they're also quite compact and may be difficult to fit into smaller spaces. They're generally only suitable for use up to 18 months. A cot bed is the best option for a longer-term usage and is easily converted into a toddler or small single bed.
If you're looking for a value, versatile cot, we recommend the Snuz Cot Bed. This is a simple but sturdy cot with a large hood which shields your child from the elements of wind and sun. It has a storage space towards the end, so you can store bedding and other essentials.
CuddleCo Nola Convertible Cot is another good option. The cot can be transformed from a cot to a toddler or single bed with the help of an extension kit that is available separately. It has three handy mattress heights, meaning you can keep the mattress up for newborns and young infants, and then lower it as your child gets older.
The last option is a travel bed. They are typically only suitable for short-term use, and may not offer the same level of support as the regular cot. They typically come with mattresses which aren't as sturdy or thick as standard ones. While cheap cot bed may be a great alternative to a traditional bed for travel, it is important to remember that your child will only use them for a couple of years before he or she is ready to move on to a 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 one of the most important purchases you will make for your baby. we recommend purchasing a good quality organic cotton baby mattress.
As new research shows restricted airflow could be the cause of SIDS and SUDI, you will want to make sure your baby's bedroom is free of toys, pillows blankets, muslin sheets or cot bumpers that could restrict the circulation of air around your child. Also, keep the bed or cot away from any radiators, heaters, windows, cable sockets, and plugs.
The Mamas & Papas Franklin Cot Bed is a very popular choice for our mum testers. It comes in four different colors and has a lovely design that looks like it's built to last for a long time. It is also able to be converted into a toddler's bed so that your child can use the crib until four years old.
The SnuzFino Classic Cot Bed is another cot that is stylish and value (PS695, Mother and Baby). Our mom testers were impressed by its sleek design and said it was "simple yet stylish and will stand the test of time". It's designed to expand with your child, too. It offers two height settings for the mattress, so you can keep your baby raised and then lower it once they start to sit up 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 sides and ends of the cot. This is to ensure your baby can't get out of the cot, or get trapped between the mattress and the slats. Also, you should use mattress protectors that are 100 100% cotton and GOTS certified Organic, to ensure it's breathable and soft but also completely waterproof to avoid any unwanted leaks!
If you'd prefer something more modern, the SNOO Baby Cot Smart Sleeper (PS355, Cuckooland) is an excellent choice. It's an innovative piece of kit which has an app for mobile devices, a weaning features, access to sleep consultants and much more. However, it's expensive and could be out of reach for many parents.
Blankets at the End of The Road
If you're planning to let your baby sleep on a blanket in their cot or crib ensure that you have plenty of blankets to rotate through the wash. This will stop sheets from becoming excessively dirty and uncomfortable for your baby and also help to keep their bed clean and fresh. Three to four sets of sheets is enough.
A good quality set of organic muslin blankets will allow you to change the sheets often without worrying about them becoming too dirty. They are also breathable and help keep your baby's skin healthy and happy. You can pick from a wide range of sizes and shades to find the best one for your baby.
The best baby blankets are soft and cozy but also ventilated. A blanket that is too bulky and heavy could cause your baby to choke. A blanket made from organic cotton muslin is the best choice, as it is light and breathable. Another alternative is a thermal blanket. They are an excellent choice for balmy summer days when your baby will need a light cover to keep them warm.
In general, it is recommended that you remove blankets from your child's crib at the age of 18 months or earlier if you can. It is because they become dangerous if allowed to climb them. This could result in accidents such as falling from the crib or the bed. If your child has been swaddled since birth or is sleeping in a sleeping bag for infants, you might want to keep the blanket until they are ready to switch to a duvet.
Many parents use milestone blankets to mark their child's development and growth. They are typically marked in accordance with the age of the baby. This is a great method to keep your family and friends up-to-date on your child's progress, as well as capture some precious moments. The Monica + Andy Always Blanket is a beautiful double layer blanket that provides warmth and comfort, and is comfortable and breathable.
Easy to Assemble
A baby cot bed, while one of the most essential furniture pieces for nursery is also an investment. It's worthwhile to take the time to choose a model that looks as attractive as it is durable and practical. The most important thing to consider is that the cot needs to match the overall look of the baby's room. You should also consider whether the cot will convert into a toddler bed, and if so, how easy it will be to accomplish.
When selecting a cot you should choose a cot that have sturdy frames with sturdy rails, as well as smooth finishes. It's also best to avoid models with curved edges, which may pose a risk of strangulation. Be sure to follow the instructions of the manufacturer and avoid using any tools that may cause damage. Don't be afraid to ask for assistance. Assembly is usually easier when it's done by two people, so ask your spouse or a family member to assist you.
Many cots come with matching furniture for the nursery that can help make your room more cohesive. If you don't want to spend the amount, there are plenty of high-quality standalone options. The Elementary cot-bed from John Lewis Anyday comes in white and is made of solid FSC pine, making it a durable choice. It comes with three mattress settings, so it is suitable for use from birth. It can also be lowered once your child is ready to start standing (usually around 18 months).
Another option is the Scandi-style Coxley cot by Stokke It is a gorgeous hand-crafted look and a neutral grey color that is perfect for any interior. It's easy to put together and fits into doors that have standard doorframes. This is perfect to move around the house. It can also be converted into a chic, bench-style toddler bed with the addition of a simple kit. It's lightweight enough to fit in a bag to carry when you travel. Our panel of parents said it was "a dream to put together" and "looks beautiful". They also loved the ability to change the position of the base of the mattress upwards or downwards to keep your baby's head elevated during naps and prevent them from rolling off at night.