Buying a Baby Cot Bed
Cot beds can be transformed to toddler beds, making them a better long-term option than cribs. They also come with removable sides and an end panel that can be lowered down to allow access to your child.
Most cots to tots can be used from the time of birth until around 2 years old or until your child is old enough to want to climb out. Then you should move to a junior bed.
4 Walls
Cot beds provide a safe, secure place for your baby to sleep or rest at night. They feature high walls or rails to prevent your baby from falling and many have adjustable mattress heights. A cot bed is perfect for both infants and toddlers. There are a myriad of types of cot beds to choose from, from simple and affordable models to those with extra features. Ultimately, the decision is based on the needs of your family and the budget you have set.
Selecting the best baby sleeping arrangement is a major decision for any new parent. You need to ensure that your baby is safe and secure. It must also be a place you can stay in for a long time. While cots are great for newborns but they're also quite small and can be difficult to fit into smaller spaces. In addition, they're typically only suitable for use up to the point that your child reaches 18 months or that is. A cot bed is the best option for longer-term use and can be easily converted into a toddler or small single bed.
If you're looking for a good-value cot that is versatile we suggest the Snuz Cot Bed. This is a sturdy, simple crib with an extended hood that can protect your cheap baby cots for sale from wind and sun. It also has a convenient storage area at the top of the cot so you can keep bedding and other necessities in a convenient place.
CuddleCo Nola Convertible Cot is another option. The cot can be transformed from a cot into a toddler or single bed using an extension kit, which is sold separately. It comes with three different mattress heights, so you can alter it to fit your child's age.
The final alternative is a travel cot. They are typically only suitable for short-term use, and may not provide the same level of support as the regular cot. Additionally, they usually have mattresses that aren't as firm or as thick as a standard one. While they can be a good alternative to a traditional bed while traveling, it is important to keep in mind that your child will only be using them for a few short years before he or she is ready for a larger bed.
Protect your mattress from water with a waterproof mattress
Many people spend a lot of time and effort in choosing a cot, but pay little focus on the mattress your baby will be sleeping on. This is a crucial purchase for your baby. We recommend purchasing organic cotton bedding for your baby.
You will want to ensure that the crib is free of blankets, pillows or toys. They can impede the airflow around your child. You should also ensure that the bed or cot is away from 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 colours and the design appears like it'll last a long time. It can also convert into a toddler bed so your child can use it until the age of four.
The SnuzFino Classic Cot Bed is another cot that has great style and value (PS695 Mother and Baby). Our mom testers loved its sleek design and said it was "simple yet stylish and will last for a long time". It is designed to grow with your child and has two levels of height for the mattress so that you can keep your newborn raised and then lower it once they begin to sit up unaided.
It is essential to keep in mind that the mattress should not have a gap of more than 25mm (1") between it and the ends and sides of the cot. This is to ensure that your baby is not able to climb out of the cot or become trapped between the mattress and the slats. It is also recommended to make sure to use a mattress protector that is 100 100% cotton and GOTS Certified Organic, so that it is breathable and soft but also completely waterproof to stop any leaks!
If you'd prefer a high-tech option, then the SNOO Baby Cot Bed Cot Smart Sleeper (PS355, Cuckooland) is a great choice. It's a smart piece of equipment that comes with an app that is mobile, a weaning feature, access to sleep consultants and much more. However, it is expensive and could be out of reach for many parents.
Blankets at the End of The Road
If you're planning to let your baby sleep on blankets in their crib or cot, make sure you have plenty of blankets to rotate through the wash. This will stop sheets from becoming excessively soiled and uncomfortable for your baby and also help to keep their bed clean and fresh. A minimum of three to four sets should suffice.
You can change your sheets more often by using an organic muslin bedding. They are also breathable which helps keep your baby's delicate skin healthy. They are available in different sizes and colours which means you can find the perfect ones for your baby's needs.
The best blankets are soft warm and airy. You don't want blankets that are heavy and bulky, as it could cause an obstructive risk to your baby. A blanket made of organic cotton muslin is a great choice because it is light and airy. A thermal blanket is also a great alternative. These are a great choice for warm summer days when your baby will require a lightweight cover to 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 possible. They can become dangerous if they are allowed to climb onto them, leading to accidents such as falls from the crib or bed. If your child is used to sleeping on a blanket and has been swaddled from birth or sleeping in a sleeping bag for babies it is best cots to keep the blanket in place until they are ready to move to a duvet.
Many parents utilize the milestone blanket to track the baby's development and growth typically using numbers that represent the age of the child. This is a great method to keep family and friends up-to-date on your child's progress, and also capture precious moments. The Monica + Andy Always Blanket is a beautiful double layer blanket that provides warmth and coziness, and is breathable.
Easy to Assemble
While a baby cot bed is one of the most essential pieces of nursery furniture but it's also a significant investment. As such, it's worth the effort to choose the one that looks attractive as it is durable and practical. The most important thing to consider is that the cot should be in harmony with the overall design of the baby's room. You should also consider whether the cot can be converted to a toddler bed and, in the event that it does, how easy it will be to accomplish.
When selecting a cot, look for models that have solid frames, solid rails, and smooth finishes. It is also recommended to stay clear of models with curving edges, which could pose a risk of strangulation. Make sure you read the instructions of the manufacturer and avoid making use of any tools that could cause harm. Don't be shy about asking for assistance. It's usually easier to get things done when it's done with two people, so you can ask your spouse or a family member to assist you.
Many cribs come with matching furniture for the nursery which can help pull the look of your room together. If you don't have the money for this you can find plenty of good-quality standalone options to choose from. The Elementary cot bed from John Lewis' Anyday range is a good example. It comes in a modern white finish and is made out of solid FSC pine, which is a sturdy option. It also comes with three mattress height positions, so it's suitable for use starting from birth. It can also be lowered when your child is ready to start standing (usually at about 18 months).).
The Stokke Coxley cot is a fantastic alternative. It comes with a neutral grey finish as well as an elegant style that can be incorporated into any room. It's easy to assemble and can be inserted into door frames that are standard which is helpful when you need to shift it around your home. It also converts into a chic, bench-style toddler bed with the addition of a simple kit. It's light enough to put in a carry bag when you travel. Our panel of parents said it was "a dream to put together" and "looks beautiful". They also loved the fact that you are able to move the base of the mattress up or down - so you can keep your baby's head elevated during nap time and stop them from rolling off at the end of the night.