Buying a Baby Cot Bed
Cot beds can be transformed into toddler beds, making them a better option for long-term use than cribs. They also have removable sides as well as an end panel that can be pulled down to provide access to your child.
The majority of cribs can be used from birth until approximately 2 years old, or until your child begins to attempt to climb out. Then, you can switch to junior beds.
4 Walls
Cot beds are secure and safe for your baby to sleep in at night or even during naptime. They are equipped with high walls or rails to keep your baby from slipping out, and most feature adjustable mattress heights that can be adjusted as your child grows. This makes a cot bed perfect for infants and toddlers alike. There are a variety of cot bed models that range from simple and inexpensive to those with many additional features. In the end, it comes down to the needs of your family and the budget you have set.
Every new parent will find it essential to make the right decision when choosing a baby's sleeping arrangement. You need to ensure that your baby is safe and comfortable and also have the space to be used 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. Additionally, they're not suitable until your child reaches the age of 18 months or at the earliest. A crib-bed is a more sturdy option that can be easily transformed into a toddler bed or small single bed.
If you're looking for a good-value cot that can be used in a variety of ways we suggest the Snuz Cot Bed. This is a simple but sturdy cot with a hood that is extra-deep which shields your child from the sun and wind. It has a storage area at the end, where you can store bedding and other items.
recommended cribs is another option is the CuddleCo Nola Convertible Cot. It's an ordinary cot, but can be turned into a toddler bed or even as a single bed thanks to an extension kit that is available separately. It has three handy mattress heights so that you can keep the mattress high up for infants and babies, before lowering it as your child gets older.
The last option is a travel bed. They are designed for short-term usage and might not offer the same level of support as a standard bed. They usually come with mattresses which aren't as sturdy or thick as standard ones. While they can be a great alternative to a traditional bed when you are travelling but it is important to keep in mind that your child will only use them for a few short years before he or she is ready for a bigger bed.
Protect your mattress from water with a waterproof mattress
Many parents spend much time and effort selecting a cot, but pay little attention to the mattress that your baby will sleep on. This is one of the most important purchases you will make for your baby. we recommend investing in a high-quality organic cotton baby mattress.
New research suggests that restricted airflow could be the cause of SIDS and SUDI, you'll need to ensure your baby's bed is free from pillows, toys blankets, muslin cloths, blankets or cot bumpers which can hinder the flow of air around your child. You should also keep the bed or cot free of any heaters, radiators windows, plug sockets, and cables.
If you're seeking a stylish cot, the Mamas&Papas Franklin Cot Bed (PS375, Cuckooland) is a popular choice among our mum testers. It comes in four colors, and the design looks like it's going to last for an extended period of time. It can also convert into a toddler bed which means your baby can use it right up until the age of four.
The SnuzFino Classic Cot Bed is another cot with great style and value (PS695 Mother and Baby). Our mom testers were impressed by its sleek design and stated that it was "simple yet elegant and will endure the test of time". It's designed to grow along with your child. It comes with two different height settings so you can put your baby in a higher position 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 greater than 25mm (1") between it and the edges and sides of the cot. This is to ensure your baby can't climb out of the cot or get trapped between the mattress and slats. It is also recommended to 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 an option that is high-tech, then the SNOO Baby Cot Smart Sleeper (PS355, Cuckooland) is a great choice. It's a smart kit that includes an app that can be downloaded on mobile devices as well as a weaning feature as well as access to sleep specialists. It's expensive and is out of reach for many parents.
Blankets at The End
If you are planning to allow your baby to sleep in a cot or crib with a blanket, make sure to have enough extras to wash them frequently. This will prevent the sheets from becoming overly soiled and uncomfortable for your child, as well as help to keep their bed clean and fresh. A minimum of three or four sets should be sufficient.
A good set of organic muslin blankets will allow you to wash the sheets regularly without worrying about them becoming too dirty. They also breathe, which will help keep your baby's delicate skin healthy. They are available in various sizes and colours, so you can find the perfect ones for your baby's needs.
The best baby blankets are soft and cosy but also airy. You don't want blankets that are too heavy and bulky as it could create the risk of suffocation to your baby. A blanket made from organic cotton muslin is ideal because it is light and airy. A thermal blanket is also a great option. These are a great choice for summer days that are warm and sunny. your baby will require a lightweight cover to keep them warm.
In general it is recommended you remove blankets from the crib of your child when they reach the age of 18 months, or earlier if possible. They can be dangerous if allowed to climb them. This could lead to accidents such as falling from the crib or 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 leave the blanket in place until they are ready to transition to a duvet.
Many parents use milestone blankets to mark their child's development and growth. These blankets are usually numbered according to the age of the baby. This is a wonderful method to keep your family and friends informed 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, yet is still air-conditioned.
Easy to Assemble
A baby cot bed, while one of the most important furniture pieces for the nursery, is also an investment. Therefore, it's worthwhile to take the time to choose the one that looks appealing as it is strong and practical. The most important thing to consider is that the cot should match the overall look of the baby's room. You should also consider if the cot can be turned into a toddler bed and if it is possible be done, how easy to do so.
When choosing a cot ensure that it has solid frames, sturdy rails, and smooth finishes. It's also best to avoid models with curving edges, which may pose a risk of strangulation. Be sure to read the instructions provided by the manufacturer and avoid making use of any tools that could cause damage. Don't be afraid to seek help. Ask your partner or family member to help you.
Many cots have matching furniture for the nursery, which can help to make your room more cohesive. If you don't wish to spend the money, there are many high-quality standalone options. The Elementary cot bed from John Lewis' Anyday range for instance, is available with a modern white finish and is constructed from solid FSC pine to provide a long-lasting option. It comes with three mattress height settings, so it is suitable for use from the time of birth. It can also be lowered once your child is able to begin standing (usually around 18 months).).
The Stokke Coxley cot is a excellent alternative. It comes with a neutral grey finish and an elegant look that is perfect for any interior. It is easy to assemble and fits into standard doorframes. It is ideal to move around the house. With the addition of an easy kit that can transform it into a stylish toddler bed that is in the bench-style. It's light enough to fit in its own bag for trips away. Parents who took part in our panel remarked that it was "easy to put together" and "looks stunning". Parents also appreciated the fact that the base of the mattress can be moved up or down, which means you can keep the baby's head raised during nap time and prevent them from rolling over at night.