Buying a Baby Cot Bed
Cot beds are a more long-term option than cribs since they can be converted to a toddler bed. They have removable sides and an end panel can be removed to give access to your child.
Most cribs can be used from birth until around 2 years old or until your baby starts trying to climb out. Then, you should change to junior beds.
4 Walls
Cot beds are an ideal and safe space for your baby to rest in at night or during nap time. They have high walls or rails to stop your child from falling out, and a majority of them have adjustable mattress heights that can be adjusted as your child grows. This makes a cot bed perfect for toddlers and infants alike. There are a myriad of cot bed models, ranging from the basic and affordable to those that come with a variety of features. The final decision depends on the needs of your family and the budget you have set.
Every new parent will find it important to make the right choice when choosing a baby's sleeping arrangement. You need to ensure that your baby will be comfortable and safe, as well as having the space to be used for a prolonged period of time. While online cots are great for newborns but they're also quite small and can be difficult to fit into smaller spaces. They're also only usually suitable for use up to 18 months. A cot-bed is a more durable option and can easily be converted into a toddler bed or small single bed.
Snuz Cot Bed is a multi-functional, high-value cot. It's a sturdy, simple cot with a hood that extends to protect your baby from the elements of wind and sun. It also has a storage space towards the end, so you can store bedding and other necessities.
CuddleCo Nola Convertible Cot is another good option. This cot starts out as a traditional cot and can be transformed into an infant bed or one bed, thanks to an extension kit that is available separately. It has three mattress heights so that you can alter it according to your child's age.
The final alternative is a travel bed. These are typically intended for temporary use and don't offer the same level of support as a standard cot. In addition, they often have mattresses that aren't as firm or as thick as a standard cot. Although they can be a great alternative to a standard bed while traveling but it is important to remember that your child will only be using them for a couple of years before they is ready to move on to a bigger bed.
Protect your mattress from water with a waterproof mattress
Many parents spend a lot of time and effort selecting a cot, but pay little attention to the mattress your baby will be sleeping on. This is one of the most recommended cribs important purchases you will make for your baby, and we suggest investing in a good quality organic cotton baby mattress.
Recent research has revealed that restricted airflow may be the cause of SIDS and SUDI, you'll need to ensure your baby's bed is free from toys, pillows blankets, muslin sheets or cot bumpers which can restrict the circulation of air around your child. It is also important to keep the bed or cot away from any radiators, heaters, windows, cable sockets, and plugs.
If you are looking for a stylish cheap cot beds the Mamas & Papas Franklin Cot Bed (PS375, Cuckooland) is one of the most popular choices among our mum testers. It is available in four different colors and has an attractive design that appears like it's going to stand the test of time. It can also be transformed into a toddler's bed, to allow your baby to use the crib up to four years old.
The SnuzFino Classic Cot Bed is another cot that is stylish and value (PS695, Mother and Baby). Our mom testers were impressed by its sleek design and stated that it was "simple yet elegant and will last for a long time". It's designed to grow with your child and offers two different heights for the mattress, so you can keep your baby raised and then lower it once they are able to sit unaided.
It is essential to keep in mind that the mattress should not have a gap greater than 25mm (1") between it and the edges and sides of the cot. This is to ensure your baby cannot get out of the cot, or get trapped between the mattress and slats. Use a mattress cover made of is 100% organic cotton and GOTS certified to ensure that it is soft, breathable and waterproof.
You can also choose a more advanced option and opt for the SNOO Smart Sleeper Baby Cot (PS355, Cuckooland). It's a great product that comes with an app that can be downloaded on mobile devices and a weaning function, as well as access to sleep specialists. It's costly and not accessible to many parents.
Blankets at the End of the Road
If you're planning to let your baby sleep on a blanket in their crib or cot ensure that you have plenty of additional blankets to rotate through the wash. This will keep the sheets from becoming overly dirty and uncomfortable for your baby, as well as help to keep their bed clean and fresh. Three to four sets of sheets should be sufficient.
You can change your sheets more frequently with organic muslin bedding. They are also breathable which can help keep your baby's skin healthy and happy. They are available in a variety of sizes and colours, so you can find the right ones to meet your baby's needs.
The best blankets for babies are soft and cozy but also breathable. You shouldn't choose a blanket that is too bulky and heavy as it could pose the risk of suffocation to your baby. A blanket made from organic cotton muslin is the best choice, as it is light and breathable. A thermal blanket is another 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's recommended to stop using a blanket in your child’s cot by 18 months, or earlier if it is possible. This is because they could be dangerous if children are allowed to climb on them, which can lead to accidents like falling out of the crib or bed. If your child is used to sleeping with blankets and is covered from birth or sleeps in a baby sleep bag it is best to leave the blanket in place until they are ready to transition to a duvet.
Many parents utilize a milestone blanket to mark the baby's development and growth typically using numbers that reflect the age of the child. It is a great method to keep your family and friends informed about your baby's progress and capture precious memories. The Monica + Andy Always Blanket has a double layer that is both warm and cozy, but also airy.
Easy to Assemble
While a baby cot bed is among the most essential pieces of nursery furniture however, it's also an expensive investment. It is essential to select a model which is both elegant and robust. The most important thing to consider is that the cot must be in keeping with the overall style of the room your baby is in. It is also important to consider whether the cot can be turned into a bed for toddlers, and if so, how easy it is to do so.
When choosing a cot make sure you choose a model with solid frames, sturdy rails, and smooth surfaces. Avoid cots with curved corners, because they can create strangulation risks. Be sure to follow the directions of the manufacturer and avoid making use of any tools that could cause damage. Don't be afraid to ask for assistance. Ask your friend or family member to help you.
Many co-occurring beds are paired with furniture for the nursery that can really bring the look of your room together. However, if you don't have the money for this there are plenty of good-quality alternatives that can be used as a stand-alone. The Elementary cot bed from John Lewis' Anyday range for instance, is available with a modern white finish and is made of solid FSC pine to provide a long-lasting choice. It also has three mattress heights, which means it's suitable for use starting from birth and can be lowered when your child is ready to begin standing (usually at around 18 months).
The Stokke Coxley cot is another excellent option. It comes with a neutral grey finish and an elegant look that is perfect for any interior. It's simple to put together and fits into doors with standard frames which is helpful when you need to shift it around your home. With the addition of a simple kit that allows it to be transformed into a chic toddler bed in the bench style. It's also light enough to be transported in its own carry bag for trips away. Parents who were part of our panel remarked that it was "easy to put together" and "looks stunning". Parents also appreciated the fact that the base of the mattress can be moved up or down, allowing you to keep your baby's head elevated during nap time and prevent them from falling over in the night.