Buying a Baby Cot Bed
Cot beds are a more durable option than cribs because they can be converted into an adult bed. They also have removable sides and an end panel that can be lowered down to provide access to your child.
The majority of cots are suitable for use from birth to around 2 years old or until your child starts to climb out. Then, it is time to switch to junior beds.
4 Walls
Cot beds provide an ideal and safe space for your baby to sleep in at night or during nap time. They have high walls or rails to stop your baby from slipping out, and many have adjustable mattress heights that can be lowered as your child grows. This makes a cot bed perfect for toddlers and infants alike. There are many cot bed models, ranging from simple and inexpensive to those with many additional features. Ultimately, the decision depends on your family's requirements and budget.
Selecting the best baby sleeping arrangement is a major decision for any parent who is about to become a. You want to make sure that your child is safe and comfortable, as well as having an area that can be used for a long period of time. While cots are great for newborns however, they're also very compact and can be difficult to fit into smaller spaces. Additionally, they're only suitable for use up to the point that your child reaches the age of 18 months or at the earliest. A cot bed is a better choice for longer-term use and is easily transformed into a toddler bed or a small single bed.
If you're looking to buy a low-cost cot that is versatile, we recommend the Snuz Cot Bed. It's a sturdy and simple cot that has a hood that extends to protect your baby from the elements of wind and sun. It also has a convenient storage area at the end of the cot so you can keep bedding and other items in a convenient place.
CuddleCo Nola Convertible Cot is another good option. This cot can be converted from a cot into a single or toddler bed by using an extension kit that is available separately. It comes with three different mattress heights, so you can alter it according to your child's age.
The last alternative is a travel cot. These are typically intended for temporary use and don't provide the same level of support as a standard cot. They often have mattresses that aren't as sturdy or thick as traditional ones. While they may be a good alternative to a standard bed when you are travelling, it is important to keep in mind that your child will only use them for a few short years before they is ready for a bigger bed.
Waterproof Mattress Protector
Many people spend much time and effort choosing a cot, but pay little attention to the mattress that your baby will sleep on. This is a very important purchase for your baby. We suggest investing in organic cotton bedding for your baby.
You should make sure that your baby's crib is free of toys, pillows or blankets. They can block the airflow around your child. Ideally, you will also place the cot bed away from heaters, radiators, windows as well as plug sockets and cables that could create a hazard.
If you are looking for a chic cot the Mamas & Papas Franklin Cot Bed (PS375, Cuckooland) is one of the most popular choices among our mum testers. It is available in four colors and looks like it'll last an extended period of time. It can also be converted into a toddler bed so your child can use it to the age of 4.
The SnuzFino Classic Cot Bed is another cot that is stylish and value (PS695, Mother&Baby). Our mom testers were awed by its sleek design, and said it was "simple but elegant and will last the long-term". It is designed to grow with your child too and has two height settings for the mattress so you can keep your baby raised and then lower it when they are able to sit without assistance.
It is important to remember that the mattress should not have a gap larger than 25mm (1") between it and the sides and ends of the cot. This is to ensure that your baby can't escape from the cot, or get trapped between the mattress and slats. Choose a mattress cover that is made of 100 organic cotton and GOTS certified to ensure that it is soft, breathable and waterproof.
If you'd rather an option that is high-tech, then the SNOO Baby Cot Smart Sleeper (PS355, Cuckooland) is an excellent choice. It is a clever device that comes with a mobile application as well as a weaning feature and sleep experts. However, it's expensive and may be out of reach for many parents.
Blankets at the End of The Road
If you're planning on letting your child sleep on a blanket in their crib or cot be sure to have plenty of additional blankets to rotate through the wash. This will stop sheets from becoming excessively 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 suffice.
A high-quality set of organic muslin blankets can allow you to change the sheets frequently without worrying about them becoming too dirty. They also breathe which can help keep your baby's skin healthy and happy. You can choose from a wide range of sizes and shades to find the best one for your baby.
The best blankets for babies are soft and comfortable, yet ventilated. You don't want blankets that are too bulky and heavy as it could cause an obstructive risk to your baby. A blanket made of organic cotton muslin is the best choice because it is light and comfortable to breathe. A thermal blanket is another great option. These are great for summer days that are warm and sunny. your baby will require a light cover to keep them warm.
Generally speaking it is recommended you remove blankets from the crib of your child at the age of 18 months, or earlier if possible. They can be dangerous if children are allowed to climb onto them, leading to accidents like falling from the crib or bed. If your child is swaddled from 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 milestone blankets to mark the baby's development and growth, typically with numbers that represent the age of the child. This is a great method to keep your family and friends updated on your baby's progress and also capture precious moments. The Monica + Andy Always Blanket is a stunning double layer blanket that offers warmth and comfort while still being breathable.
Easy to Assemble
A baby cot bed being one of the most essential furniture pieces for the nursery, is also a significant investment. Therefore, it's worth the effort to choose the one that looks good as it is sturdy and practical. The most important consideration is that the cot must be in keeping with the overall style of the room your baby is in. You should also consider if the cot can be turned into a bed for toddlers, and if so be done, how easy to do so.
When choosing a cot make sure you choose a model with strong frames, sturdy rails and smooth finishes. Also, avoid models with curved edges, which could pose a risk of strangulation. Also, be sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully, and don't use any tools that could cause harm. Don't be shy to ask for assistance. Assembly is usually easier when you have two people, so make sure to ask your spouse or a family member to help you.
Many cots have matching furniture for the nursery that can help make your room more cohesive. If you don't want spend the amount, there are plenty of excellent options for a standalone bed that are of good quality. The Elementary cot bed from John Lewis' Anyday range, for example, comes in a modern white finish and is made from solid FSC pine to provide a long-lasting choice. It has three mattress height options, meaning it can be used right from the age of. It can also be removed when your child is ready for standing (usually around 18 months).
Another great option is the Scandi-style Coxley cot by Stokke that has a stunning hand-crafted feel and a neutral grey color that is perfect for any decor. It's easy to set up and fits into door frames that are standard which is helpful when you have to move it around your home. It can also transform into a chic, toddler bed using the addition of a simple kit. It's also light enough to fit into its own bag for trips away. Parents who took part in our panel said that it was "easy to put together" and "looks gorgeous". best infant cribs loved the fact that you are able to move the base position of the mattress upwards or downwards so that you can keep your baby's head elevated throughout the day and keep them from rolling away at the end of the night.