Buying a Baby Cot Bed
Cot beds are a better long-term choice than cribs as they can be converted to an adult bed. They also have removable sides and an end panel that can be pulled down to allow access to your child.
The majority of cribs can be used from birth until around 2 years, or until your baby starts trying to climb out. Then you should move to a junior bed.
4 Walls
Cot beds offer an ensconced, safe space for your baby to rest or sleep at night. They feature high walls or rails that prevent your child from falling, and many come with adjustable mattress heights. This makes a cot bed perfect for infants and toddlers alike. There are a variety of cot bed models, ranging from the simple and affordable to models with numerous additional features. Ultimately, the decision is based on your family's needs and budget.
Choosing the right baby sleeping arrangement is an important decision for any new parent. You must ensure that your baby is comfortable and secure. It must also be a place you can stay in for a long period of time. While cots are great for newborns but they're also quite small and may be difficult to fit into smaller spaces. In addition, they're typically only suitable for use up to the point that your child is 18 months old or at the earliest. A cot-bed is a more durable option that can be easily converted 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 sturdy and simple crib with an extended hood to protect your baby from wind and sun. It has a storage area at the end, so you can put away bedding and other items.
CuddleCo Nola Convertible Cot is another good option. The cot is designed to be an ordinary cot, but can be turned into a toddler bed or even a single bed, due to an extension kit, which is available separately. It includes three different mattress heights so you can alter it to fit your child's age.
The final option is a travel bed. These are usually only suitable for temporary use and don't provide the same level of support as a standard cot. They often come with mattresses which aren't as strong or as thick as the standard ones. While they can be a good alternative to a traditional bed for travel however, it is important to consider that your child will only be using them for a few short years before they is ready to move on to a bigger bed.
Waterproof Mattress Protector
Many parents spend lots of time and effort selecting a cot, but pay little focus on the mattress your baby will be sleeping 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.
As new research shows airflow restriction could be a reason for SIDS and SUDI, you'll want to make sure your baby's bedroom is free of toys, pillows, blankets, muslin cloths or cot bumpers which can restrict the flow of air around your child. Also, ensure that the bed or cot is free of 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 colors and looks like it'll last many years. It can also be converted into a toddler's bed so that your child can use the crib until they are four years old.
Another cot with great style and value is the SnuzFino Classic Cot Bed (PS695, Mother and Baby). Our mom testers loved its sleek design and stated that it was "simple yet stylish and will stand the test of time". It's designed to grow with your child too and has two different heights for the mattress so that you can keep your baby raised and then lower it when they start to sit up without assistance.
When choosing a cot, it is worth bearing in the mind that there should be no more than 25mm (1 inch) gap between the mattress and the sides and ends. This will ensure that your child won't get out of the crib or get trapped between the mattress 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 prefer an option that is high-tech, then the SNOO Baby Cot Smart Sleeper (PS355, Cuckooland) is an excellent option. It's a clever piece of equipment that comes with an app that is mobile, a weaning features and access to sleep experts and much more. It is expensive and not accessible to many parents.
Blankets at the End of the Road
If you are planning to let your baby sleep in a crib or cot with a blanket, be sure you have enough blankets so you can wash them frequently. This will prevent sheets from becoming excessively dirty and uncomfortable for your little one as well as helping to keep their bedding clean and fresh. Three to four sets of sheets should be sufficient.
A good set of organic muslin blankets will allow you to wash the sheets regularly without worrying about them getting too dirty. They are also breathable which helps keep your baby's delicate skin healthy. They are available in different sizes and colours and sizes, so you can choose the right ones to meet your baby's needs.
The best blankets for babies are soft and cozy but also ventilated. You don't want a blanket that is too bulky and heavy as it could cause an obstructive risk to your baby. It is best to choose an organic blanket made of cotton muslin, which is breathable and lightweight. A thermal blanket is also a excellent alternative. 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's recommended that you stop using a blanket in your child’s cot by 18 months, or earlier, if possible. They can be dangerous if children are allowed to climb them. This could result in accidents like falling out of the crib or bed. If your child is used to sleeping on blankets and is wrapped from birth or is sleeping in a sleeping bag for babies then you might want to keep the blanket in place until they are ready to transition to a duvet.
Many parents use milestone blankets to mark their baby's growth and development, typically with numbers that reflect the age of the child. It is a great method to keep your family and friends informed about the progress of your child and also capture precious memories. The Monica + Andy Always Blanket has a double layer that is both warm and cozy, but also comfortable to wear.
Easy to Assemble
While a cot for a baby is one of the most important furniture pieces for nursery however, it's also an expensive investment. As cots and tots , it's worth the effort to choose a model that looks as appealing as it is strong and practical. The most important factor to consider is that the cot needs to be in harmony with the overall design of the baby's room. You should also consider whether the cot will convert to a toddler bed and in the event that it does, how easy this is to accomplish.
When selecting a cot, make sure you choose a model with solid frames, sturdy rails and smooth edges. Avoid cots that have curved corners, because they could pose a strangulation risk. Also, be sure to follow the instructions of the manufacturer carefully, and avoid using any tools that could cause damage. Don't be afraid to ask for assistance. Assembly is generally easier when it's done with two people, so make sure to ask your partner or a family member to assist you.
Many cots come with matching furniture for the nursery which can help make your room more cohesive. If you don't want to spend the cost, there are a number of excellent options for a standalone bed that are of good quality. The Elementary cot-bed from John Lewis Anyday comes in white and is made of solid FSC pine, making it a sturdy option. It also comes with three mattress height positions so it's suitable from birth and can be lowered when your child is ready for standing (usually at around 18 months).
Another alternative is the Scandi-style Coxley cot from Stokke It is a gorgeous hand-crafted look and a neutral grey finish that will suit any interior. It's easy to put together and fits into doors that have standard doorframes. This is perfect to move around the home. With the addition of a simple kit that can transform it into a stylish toddler bed in a bench style. It's light enough to be transported in its own carry bag for trips away. Parents who were part of our panel agreed that it was "easy to put together" and "looks stunning". They also loved the fact that you can change the position of the base of the mattress up or down so that you can keep your baby's head in a higher position during nap time and stop them from rolling away at the end of the night.