Buying a Baby Cot Bed
Cot beds are a better durable option than cribs because they can be converted to a toddler bed. They come with removable sides, and an end panel can be dropped to allow access to your child.
Most cots are suitable for use from birth until 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 the safety and security for your baby to sleep or rest at night. They feature high walls or rails to prevent your baby from falling out, and most feature adjustable mattress heights that can be lowered as your baby grows. A cot bed is suitable for toddlers and infants alike. There are a variety of cot bed models that range from the basic and affordable to models with numerous additional features. Ultimately, the decision comes down to your family's needs and budget.
Choosing the right baby sleeping arrangement is an important decision for any new parent. You want to ensure that your baby is secure and comfortable and have a space that can be used for a long time. While cots can be a great option for newborns and are compact, they can also be difficult to accommodate in smaller spaces. In addition, they're generally only suitable for use until your child is 18 months old or at the earliest. A cot bed is the best option for a longer-term usage and can easily be transformed into a toddler bed or a small single bed.
Snuz Cot Bed is a multi-functional, high-value cot. It's a simple, but sturdy cot that comes with a hood that is extra-deep, which protects your baby from the elements of wind and sun. It has a storage area at the end, where you can put away bedding and other essentials.
CuddleCo Nola Convertible Cot is an alternative. It can be converted from a cot into a toddler or single bed with the help of an extension kit which is sold separately. It has three mattress heights so you can alter it to fit your child's age.
The final alternative is a travel cot. They are designed for use on short-term basis and might not offer the same level support as a standard bed. In addition, they often have mattresses that aren't as sturdy or as thick as a standard cot. They can be a useful alternative to a standard cot while you're travelling however, it's important to remember that they'll last only a few years at most before your child is ready for an even bigger bed.
Protect your mattress from water and dirt
Many people spend a lot of time and effort choosing the right cot, but pay no attention to the mattress your baby will sleep on. This is a very important purchase for your baby. We recommend purchasing an organic cotton baby bed.
You should ensure that the cot bed is not cluttered with blankets, toys, or pillows. They can block the air flow around your child. Also, keep the bed or cot clear of 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 colours, and the design looks like it'll last many years. It also converts into a toddler bed, which means your baby can use it right up until the age of 4.
The SnuzFino Classic Cot Bed is another cot with great style and value (PS695, Mother and Baby). Our mum testers were amazed by its sleek design, stating that it was "simple but elegant and will stand the test of time". It's designed to grow with your child. It comes with two different height settings so you can increase the height of your baby and lower it once they're in a position to sit on their own.
When choosing a cot, it is worth bearing in mind that there shouldn't be more than 25mm (1 inch) space between the mattress and the sides and ends. This will ensure that your child won't escape from the crib or get trapped between the slats of the mattress. It is also recommended to use mattress protectors that are 100 100% cotton and GOTS certified Organic, so that it is breathable and soft but totally waterproof and to prevent any leaks!
Alternatively, you could choose a more advanced option and choose the SNOO Smart Sleeper Baby Cot (PS355, Cuckooland). It's a smart piece of kit which has an app for mobile devices, a weaning features and access to sleep experts and much more. It's expensive and out of reach for many parents.
Blankets at the End of the Road
If you're planning to allow your baby to sleep in a cot or a crib with a blanket, make sure to have enough bedding to wash them regularly. This will keep the sheets from becoming overly dirty and uncomfortable for your child and also help to keep their bedding clean and fresh. A minimum of three to four sets is sufficient.
A good 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 to keep your baby's skin healthy and happy. They are available in a variety of sizes and colors and sizes, so you can choose the perfect ones for your baby's requirements.
The best blankets for babies are soft and cozy but also breathable. A blanket that is heavy and bulky can cause your baby to choke. A blanket made from organic cotton muslin is a great choice, as it is light and breathable. Another good alternative is a thermal blanket. They are an excellent 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 do away with blankets in your child's cot at the age of 18 months, or earlier if possible. They can be risky if children climb over them. This could result in accidents like falling out of the crib or bed. However, if your child is used to sleeping with blankets and has been swaddled from birth or sleeping in a baby sleeping bag, you may want to leave it 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 typically numbered in accordance with the child's age. It is a great way to keep your family and friends informed of your baby'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, while still being comfortable and breathable.
Easy to Assemble
A baby cot bed being one of the most important furniture pieces for nursery is also a significant investment. It is essential to select one that is elegant and durable. The most important consideration is that the cot needs to be in keeping with the overall style of the room your baby is in. It is also important to think about whether the cot can be converted to a toddler bed and, in the event that it does, how easy it is to do.
When selecting a cot, ensure that it has robust frames, solid rails, and smooth finishes. Avoid cots with curved corners as they can pose strangulation risks. Also, make sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully, and don't use any tool that can cause harm. Don't be shy about asking for help. Assembly is generally easier when you have two people, so ask your partner or family member to help you.
Many cribs come with matching furniture for your nursery that can really bring the look of your room together. However, if you don't have the funds for this you can find numerous high-quality standalone options available. The Elementary cot bed from John Lewis' Anyday range for instance, is available in a modern white finish and is constructed of solid FSC pine, which is a sturdy option. It comes with three mattress height options, meaning it can be used from the time of birth. It can also be lowered once your child is ready to start standing (usually around 18 months).
Another great 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 room. It's easy to set up and fits through standard door frames which is helpful when you have to move it around your home. It can also transform into a stylish bench-style toddler bed with the addition of a basic kit. It's lightweight enough to fit in a carry bag when you go on vacation. crib sets of parents agreed that it was "a dream to put together" and "looks beautiful". The parents also liked the fact that the base of the mattress can be moved up and down, allowing you to keep your baby's head up during naps and stop them from rolling over in the night.