Buying a Baby Cot Bed
Cot beds can be converted to toddler beds, making them a more durable option than cribs. They have removable sides, and an end panel can be dropped to allow access to your child.
The majority of cribs are suitable for use from birth to around 2 years old or until your child starts to climb out. Then you should switch to a junior bed.
4 Walls
Cot beds are secure and safe for your baby to rest in at night or even during naptime. They feature high walls or rails that stop your baby from falling, and many come with adjustable mattress heights. A cot bed is suitable for toddlers as well as infants. There are many different types of cot beds available in a range of styles, from basic and budget-friendly models to those packed with extra features. The choice ultimately depends on the family's budget and requirements.
Any new parent will find it important to make the right choice when choosing a baby's sleeping arrangement. You must ensure that your baby will be comfortable and safe, as well as having an area that can be used for a prolonged period of time. While cots can be a great option for infants and are small however, they can be difficult to squeeze into smaller spaces. In addition, they're typically not suitable until your child is 18 months old or so. A cot-bed is a much more durable alternative and can be easily transformed into a toddler bed or a smaller single bed.
If you're looking for a good-value cot that is versatile we suggest the Snuz Cot Bed. This is a basic but sturdy cot with a hood that is extra-deep that shields your baby from the sun and wind. It also has a convenient storage area at the end of the cot so you can keep bedding and other items close by.
CuddleCo Nola Convertible Cot is another good option. It can be converted from a cot into a single or toddler bed using an extension kit, which is sold separately. It includes three different mattress heights, so you can alter it according to your child's age.
The final option is a travel cot. They're only suitable for short-term use and may not provide the same level support as a regular bed. In addition, they often have mattresses that aren't as strong or as thick as a standard cot. Although they can be a great alternative to a traditional bed for travel but it is important to consider that your child will only be using them for a couple of years before they is ready for a larger bed.
Protect your mattress from water with a waterproof mattress
Many parents spend much time and effort in choosing a cot but pay less focus on the mattress your baby will sleep on. This is one of the most important purchases you make for your baby. we recommend investing in a good quality organic cotton baby mattress.
You will want to ensure that the cot bed is free of blankets, toys, or pillows. They can block the airflow around your child. Ideally, you should position the cot or cot bed away from heaters, radiators, windows, plug sockets and cables that could create risk.
The Mamas&Papas Franklin Cot Bed is a popular choice among our mom testers. It comes in four colours, and the design looks like it's going to last for an extended period of time. It can also be transformed into a toddler's crib, so that your baby can use the crib until they are four years old.
The SnuzFino Classic Cot Bed is another cot with great style and value (PS695 Mother&Baby). Our mom testers loved its sleek design and said it was "simple yet stylish and will endure the test of time". It's designed to develop with your child and has two different height settings, so you can put your baby in a higher position and lower it once they are capable of sitting on their own.
It is essential to keep in mind that the mattress should not have a gap larger than 25mm (1") between it and the ends and sides of the cot. This will ensure that your baby can't get out of the cot or become trapped between the mattress and slats. You should also always utilize a mattress protector that is 100 100% cotton and GOTS Certified Organic, so that it's breathable and soft but totally waterproof and to avoid any unwanted leaks!
Alternatively, if you prefer an option that is high-tech, then the SNOO Baby Cot Smart Sleeper (PS355, Cuckooland) is an excellent option. It is a clever kit that includes an app that can be downloaded on mobile devices as well as a weaning feature and access to sleep consultants. But, it's costly and could be out of the budget for many parents.
Blankets at The End
If you are planning to allow your baby to sleep in a crib or cot with a blanket, make sure to have enough bedding so you can wash them regularly. This will prevent sheets from becoming excessively dirty and uncomfortable for your baby as well as helping to keep their bed clean and fresh. Three to four sheets is enough.
A good set of organic muslin blankets can allow you to change the sheets frequently without worrying about them becoming too dirty. They also breathe and help keep your baby's skin healthy and happy. They are available in different sizes and colors, so you can find the perfect one for your baby's requirements.
The best crib baby blankets are soft and cosy but also airy. You shouldn't choose blankets that are heavy and bulky, as it could cause an obstructive risk to your baby. A blanket made from organic cotton muslin is a great choice because it is lightweight and comfortable to breathe. A thermal blanket is also a excellent alternative. These are a great choice for warm summer days when your baby will need an easy-to-wear cover to keep them warm.
In general it is recommended cribs that you stop using blankets in the best crib for newborn of your child when they reach the age of 18 months or earlier if it is possible. They can be dangerous if children are allowed to climb them. This can lead to accidents like falling out of the crib or in bed. If your child is used to sleeping on a blanket and has been swaddled from birth or sleeping in a baby sleep bag then you might want to leave the blanket in place until they are ready to transition to a duvet.
Many parents utilize milestone blankets to track their child's growth and progress. They are typically designated according to the age of the baby. This is a great way to keep family and friends informed of your child's progress, as well as capture some precious moments. The Monica + Andy Always Blanket is a gorgeous double layer blanket that gives warmth and comfort yet is still comfortable and breathable.
Easy to Assemble
While a baby cot bed is one of the most important furniture pieces for the nursery however, it's also an expensive investment. Therefore, it's worth the effort to choose one that looks as good as it is sturdy and practical. The best cot bed must match the decor of the room. It is also important to consider whether the cot can be converted into a toddler bed and if it can, how easy it is to accomplish.
When choosing a cot make sure you choose a model with robust frames, sturdy rails and smooth surfaces. Avoid models with curved corners as they can pose strangulation risks. Make sure you read the directions of the manufacturer and avoid using any tools that may cause damage. Finally, don't be afraid to ask for help. Assembly is usually easier when you have two people, so 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. However, if you don't have the money for this, there are plenty of good-quality standalone options to choose from. The Elementary cot bed from John Lewis' Anyday range for instance, is available with a modern white finish and is made from solid FSC pine, which is a sturdy option. It also comes with three mattress heights, which means it's suitable for use starting from the time of birth and can be adjusted when your child is ready to begin standing (usually at about 18 months).).
Another option is the Scandi-style Coxley cot by Stokke that is a gorgeous hand-crafted look and a neutral grey finish that suits any room. It is easy to assemble and fits into standard doorframes. This is perfect for moving around the home. With the addition of an easy kit, it can be converted into a stylish toddler bed that is in the bench-style. It's light enough to fit in its own bag for trips away. Our panel of parents said it was "a dream to put together" and "looks beautiful". They also appreciated the fact that you can change the position of the base of the mattress up or down - so you can keep your baby's head up during naps and prevent them from rolling away at night.