Buying a Baby Cot Bed
Cot beds are a better long-term choice than cribs as they can be converted to a toddler bed. They also have removable sides as well as an end panel that can be pulled down to make it easier for your child.
The majority of cribs are suitable for use from birth to 2 years or until your baby begins to climb out. Then you should switch to a junior bed.
4 Walls
Cot beds provide a safe, secure place for your baby to rest or rest during the night. They have high walls or rails to keep your child from falling out, and many have adjustable mattress heights that can be adjusted as your baby grows. A cot bed is ideal for both infants and toddlers. There are a myriad of cot bed models, which range from simple and inexpensive to models with numerous additional features. The choice ultimately depends on the family's budget and needs.
The right baby sleep arrangement is a crucial decision for any new parent. You must make sure that your child is safe and comfortable, as well as having the space to be used for a prolonged period of time. While cots are great for newborns and are compact but they can also be difficult to squeeze into smaller spaces. In addition, they're generally not suitable until your child reaches the age of 18 months or so. A cot bed is a better option for a longer-term usage and is easily transformed into a toddler bed or small single bed.
If you're looking for a good-value, versatile cot we suggest the Snuz Cot Bed. It's a simple, but sturdy cot that comes with a hood that is extra-deep that shields your baby from the elements of wind and sun. It has a storage space towards the end, so you can store bedding and other items.
Another good choice is another option is the CuddleCo Nola Convertible Cot. It's an ordinary cot, but can be turned into an infant bed or as a single bed thanks to an extension kit, which 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 grows older.
The final option is a bed for travel. They are only suitable for use on short-term basis and don't provide the same level of support like a traditional bed. They typically have mattresses that aren't as sturdy or thick as standard ones. They can be a useful alternative to a standard cot when you're travelling, but it's worth remembering that they'll only last for several years before your child is ready to move on to a bigger bed.
Mattress Protector Waterproof
Many people spend a lot of time and effort selecting a cot but pay less attention to the mattress that your baby will sleep on. This is a very important purchase for your baby. We recommend purchasing an organic cotton baby bed.
As new research shows restricted airflow may be a reason for SIDS and SUDI, you will want to make sure your baby's bed is free from toys, pillows, blankets, muslin cloths or cot bumpers that could restrict the circulation of air around your little one. It is also important to ensure that the bed or cot is free of any radiators, heaters, windows, cables, and plug sockets.
If you are looking for a stylish cot, the Mamas&Papas Franklin Cot Bed (PS375, Cuckooland) is an extremely popular choice among our mom testers. It is available in four different colors and has an attractive design that appears like it will last for a long time. most recommended cribs can also be converted into a toddler's crib, so that your child can use the crib until they are four years old.
The SnuzFino Classic Cot Bed is another cot with great style and value (PS695 Mother&Baby). Our mum testers were amazed by its sleek design, stating that it was "simple but elegant and will last the test of time". It's designed to grow with your child, too. It comes with two different heights for the mattress, so you can keep your baby elevated and then lower it once they are able to sit without assistance.
It is crucial to remember that the mattress shouldn't have a gap greater than 25mm (1") between it and the sides and ends of the cot. This is to ensure that your baby is not able to climb out of the cot or get trapped between the mattress and slats. You should also always use mattress protectors that are 100 100% cotton and GOTS certified Organic, so that it's breathable and soft but completely waterproof and to stop any leaks!
Alternatively, if you prefer a high-tech option, then the SNOO Baby Cot Smart Sleeper (PS355, Cuckooland) is a great choice. It's a smart product that comes with an app that can be downloaded on mobile devices, a weaning feature, and access to sleep consultants. However, it is expensive and might be out of reach for many parents.
Blankets at the End of The Road
If you're thinking of letting your baby sleep with blankets in their cot or crib be sure to have plenty of blankets to rotate through the wash. This will stop the sheets from becoming too dirty and uncomfortable for your little one as well as helping to keep their bed clean and fresh. Three to four sets of sheets should be sufficient.
A good quality set of organic muslin blankets allows 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 colors to find the right one for your baby.
The best blankets for babies are soft and cozy and breathable. A blanket that is heavy and bulky could cause your baby to drown. It is recommended to select a blanket made of organic cotton muslin, which is breathable and lightweight. A thermal blanket is also a great alternative. They are an excellent choice for balmy summer days when your baby will need an easy-to-wear cover to keep them warm.
In general, it is recommended to stop using blankets in your child's crib by the age of 18 months or earlier, if possible. They can become dangerous if they are allowed to climb on them, which could lead to accidents such as falls out of crib or bed. If your baby has been swaddled since birth or is sleeping in a sleeping bag for babies, you might want to keep the blanket until they are able to switch to a duvet.
Many parents utilize the milestone blanket to track their baby's growth and development, typically with numbers that indicate the age of the child. It is a great way to keep family and friends up-to-date on your baby's progress as well as capture precious moments. The Monica + Andy Always Blanket is a beautiful double layer blanket that gives warmth and comfort and is air-conditioned.
Easy to Assemble
While a baby cot bed is one of the most important furniture pieces for nursery, it's also a substantial investment. It's worth taking time to select a model that looks as good as it is sturdy and practical. The most important factor to consider is that the cot needs to be in keeping with the overall style of the baby's room. You should also consider whether the cot will convert into a toddler bed, and if so, how easy this is to accomplish.
When selecting a cot, ensure that it has solid frames, sturdy rails, and smooth edges. It is also recommended to stay clear of models with curving edges, which may pose a risk of strangulation. Also, make sure to follow the manufacturer's directions carefully, and never use any tools that could cause harm. Don't be afraid to ask for assistance. Assembly is usually easier when you have two people, so ask your partner or a family member to assist you.
Many cots come with matching furniture for the nursery, which can help to bring your room together. If you don't wish to spend the cost, there are a number 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 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 for standing (usually at around 18 months).
The Stokke Coxley cot is a excellent alternative. It comes with a neutral grey finish and an elegant style that can be incorporated into any interior. It's easy to assemble and fits into standard door frames and is ideal when you need to shift it around your home. With the addition of an easy kit, it can be converted into a stylish toddler bed in the bench-style. It's light enough to fit into a bag for when you go on vacation. Parents who were part of our panel agreed that it was "easy to put together" and "looks gorgeous". They also appreciated the fact that you can move the base of the mattress up or down to keep your baby's head in a higher position throughout the day and keep them from rolling away at the end of the night.