Buying a Baby Cot Bed
Cot beds are a better long-term choice than cribs as they can be transformed into an adult bed. They have removable sides, and an end panel can be dropped to allow access to your child.
Most cots can be used from the time of birth until around 2 years old or until your child starts to want to climb out. Then you should switch to a junior bed.
4 Walls
Cot beds provide an ensconced, safe space for your baby to nap or sleep at night. They feature high walls or rails to keep your child from falling out, and most feature adjustable mattress heights that can be reduced as your baby grows. A cot bed is perfect for toddlers as well as infants. There are a myriad of cot bed models, ranging from the basic and affordable to those with many additional features. Ultimately, the decision depends on your family's needs and budget.
Any new parent will find it essential to make the right choice when choosing a baby's sleeping arrangement. You want to ensure that your child will be comfortable and safe, as well as having the space to be used for a prolonged period of time. While cheap cots are great for newborns, they're also quite compact and can be difficult to fit into smaller spaces. Additionally, they're only suitable for use up to the point that your child is 18 months old or so. A crib-bed is a more sturdy option that can be easily transformed into a toddler bed or small single bed.
Snuz Cot Bed is a multi-functional, high-value cot. It's a sturdy, simple crib with a hood that extends to protect your baby from the elements of wind and sun. It also has a convenient storage area at the top of the cot so you can keep bedding and other essentials close at hand.
CuddleCo Nola Convertible Cot is another option. It's a traditional cot and can be converted into an infant bed or as a single bed because of an extension kit that is sold separately. It comes with three mattress heights so that you can keep the mattress up for newborns and young infants, and then lower it down as your child gets older.
The last option is a bed for travel. They're only suitable for short-term use and don't provide the same level of support as a standard bed. Additionally, they usually come with mattresses that aren't as strong or as thick as a standard cot. They can be a great alternative to a standard cot if you're travelling but you should remember that they'll only last several years before your child is ready for an even bigger bed.
Protect your mattress from water with a waterproof mattress
Often a lot of thought is put into purchasing a cot, but less consideration is given to the mattress that your baby will sleep on. This is an essential purchase for your baby. We recommend purchasing an organic cotton baby bed.
New research suggests that airflow restriction could be the cause of SIDS and SUDI, you will need to ensure your baby's bed is free of toys, pillows blankets, muslin sheets or cot bumpers that can hinder the flow of air around your baby. Also, ensure that the bed or cot is clear of heaters, radiators windows, cable sockets, and plugs.
The Mamas&Papas Franklin Cot Bed is a popular option among our mum testers. It comes in four colors and features a a lovely design that looks like it's going to last for a long time. It can also convert into a toddler bed which means your baby can use it until the age of 4.
Another cot with great style and value is the SnuzFino Classic Cot Bed (PS695, Mother & Baby). Our mom testers loved its sleek design and said it was "simple but stylish and will stand the test of time". It is designed to grow with your child and has two different heights for the mattress, so you can keep your baby raised and then lower it once they begin to sit up without assistance.
It is important to remember that the mattress shouldn't have a gap greater than 25mm (1") between it and the edges and sides of the cot. This will ensure that your baby 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 it is soft, breathable and waterproof.
Alternatively, you could opt for a more high-tech option and opt for the SNOO Smart Sleeper Baby Cot (PS355, Cuckooland). It is a clever kit that includes an app that can be downloaded on mobile devices and a weaning function, and access to sleep consultants. It's costly and is out of reach for many parents.
Blankets at the End of the Road
If you're planning on letting your baby sleep with blankets in their crib or cot ensure that you have plenty of additional blankets to rotate through the wash. This will keep the sheets fresh and clean and prevent them from becoming dirty and uncomfortable for your baby. Three to four sheets should be enough.
A good cribs set of organic muslin blankets allows you to change the sheets frequently without worrying about them getting too dirty. They also breathe, which will help keep your baby's delicate skin healthy. They are available in different sizes and colors which means you can find the perfect ones for your baby's needs.
The best baby blankets are soft and cozy, yet breathable. You shouldn't choose a blanket that is too bulky and heavy as it could create an obstructive risk to your baby. It is recommended to select an organic blanket made of cotton muslin, which is breathable and lightweight. A thermal blanket is also a good option. They are ideal for those hot summer days, when your baby requires an easy-to-wear cover that will keep them warm.
In general it is recommended you remove blankets from your child's cot at the age of 18 months or earlier if you can. This is because they can be risky if children climb over them. This can lead to accidents like falling out of the crib or in bed. If your child is swaddled from birth or is sleeping in a sleeping bag for babies, you may wish to keep the blanket until they are ready to transition to a duvet.
Many parents use milestone blankets to mark the development and growth of their child usually with numbers that reflect the age of the child. It is a great way to keep your family and friends updated on your baby's progress as well as capture some precious moments. The Monica + Andy Always Blanket has a double layer that is warm and cozy, while also being comfortable to wear.
Easy to Assemble
While a Baby Cot Bed (recent www.krotovic.cz blog post) is among the most essential furniture pieces for the nursery however, it's also an expensive investment. It is essential to select one that is beautiful and robust. The most important thing to consider is that the cot needs to be in harmony with the overall design of the baby's room. It is also important to think about whether the cot can be converted to a toddler bed and if so, how easy this is to accomplish.
When choosing a cot look for models that have solid frames, solid rails, and smooth surfaces. Avoid cots 4 tots that have curved corners, because they could pose a strangulation risk. Be sure to follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer and avoid using any tools that may cause harm. Don't be afraid to seek help. Assembly is generally easier when it's done with two people, so you can ask your partner or a family member to help you.
Many cots have matching furniture for the nursery that can help connect your room. If you don't want 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 range is a good example. It comes in a contemporary white finish and is constructed of solid FSC pine for a durable option. It also comes with three mattress heights, which means it's suitable for use starting from birth. It can also be lowered when your child is ready to begin standing (usually at around 18 months).
The Stokke Coxley cot is another fantastic option. It comes with a neutral grey finish and a handmade style that can be incorporated into any interior. It's easy to set up and fits through doors with standard frames and is ideal when you have to move it around your home. It can also be converted into a chic, bench-style toddler bed with the addition of a basic kit. It's light enough to fit into its own carry bag for trips away. Our panel of parents said it was "a dream to put together" and "looks gorgeous". They also appreciated the ability to move the base of the mattress up or down so that you can keep your baby's head elevated throughout the day and keep them from rolling away at night.