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 come with removable sides, and the end panel can be removed to give access to your child.
Most cribs can be used from birth until about 2 years old or until your child is old enough to attempt to climb out. Then, you can change to junior beds.
cots 4 tots Walls
Cot beds provide a safe, secure place for your baby to nap or rest during the night. They have high walls or rails to keep your baby from slipping out, and a majority of them have adjustable mattress heights that can be reduced as your baby grows. This makes a cot bed suitable for toddlers and infants alike. There are a variety of cot bed models, which range from the simple and affordable to those that come with a variety of features. Ultimately, the decision depends on the needs of your family and the budget you have set.
Anyone who is a new parent will discover it essential to make the right choice when choosing a baby's sleeping arrangement. You need to ensure that your baby is safe and comfortable and have the space to be used for a prolonged period of time. While cribs are great for babies but they're also quite small cot beds and can be difficult to fit into smaller spaces. Additionally, they're only suitable for use until your child reaches 18 months or at the earliest. A cot bed is a better choice for longer-term use and is easily converted into a toddler or small single bed.
If you're looking to buy a low-cost, versatile cot, we recommend the Snuz Cot Bed. This is a sturdy, simple cheap cot bed that has an extended hood to protect your baby from the elements of wind and sun. It has a storage area at the end, so you can keep bedding and other necessities.
CuddleCo Nola Convertible Cot is another option. It can be converted from a cot into single or toddler beds with the help of an extension kit that is available separately. It has three mattress heights so you can adjust it to suit your child's age.
The final alternative is a travel cot. They are designed for short-term use and might not offer the same level support as a standard bed. They usually have mattresses that aren't as sturdy or thick as regular ones. While they may be a good alternative to a traditional bed while traveling but it is important to remember 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 parents spend a lot of time and effort in choosing the right cot, but pay no attention to the mattress your baby will be sleeping on. This is a crucial purchase for your baby. We recommend buying an organic cotton baby bed.
As new research shows restricted airflow could be the cause of SIDS and SUDI, you will be looking to ensure that your baby's bedroom is free of pillows, toys, blankets, muslin cloths or cot bumpers which can hinder the circulation of air around your child. Ideally, you should position the cot or cot bed away from radiators, heaters, windows as well as plug sockets and cables that could be risk.
If you're looking for a chic cot, the Mamas&Papas Franklin Cot Bed (PS375, Cuckooland) is a popular choice among our mom testers. It comes in four colors and looks like it's going to last for many years. It can also be converted into a toddler's crib, so that your baby can use the crib until four years old.
Another cot with great design and value is the SnuzFino Classic Cot Bed (PS695 Mother & Baby). Our mum testers were amazed by its sleek design, stating that it was "simple but stylish and will stand the test of time". It's designed to expand with your child too and offers two levels of height for the mattress so that you can keep your baby raised and then lower it once they are able to sit unaided.
It is important to remember 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 won't climb out of the crib or get trapped between the slats of the mattress. You should also always make sure to use mattress protectors that are 100% cotton and GOTS certified Organic, so that it is soft and breathable but also completely waterproof to prevent any leaks!
If you'd rather an option that is high-tech, then the SNOO Baby Cot Smart Sleeper (PS355, Cuckooland) is an excellent option. It's a smart piece of equipment that includes a mobile app, weaning feature and access to sleep experts and more. It's costly and is out of reach for many parents.
Blankets at the end of the Line
If you're thinking of letting your baby sleep with a blanket in their crib or cot, make sure you have plenty of extras to rotate through the wash. This will stop the sheets from becoming overly dirty and uncomfortable for your little one as well as helping to keep their bedding clean and fresh. Three to four sheets should be sufficient.
You can change your sheets more often with a set of organic muslin bedding. They are also breathable, which helps keep your baby's delicate skin healthy. They are available in different sizes and colors, so you can find the perfect one for your baby's requirements.
The best baby blankets are soft and cozy but also ventilated. You don't want blankets that are bulky and heavy as it could create an obstructive risk to your baby. A blanket made of organic cotton muslin is ideal, as it is light and airy. A thermal blanket is a good alternative. These are great for balmy summer days when your baby will need a lightweight cover to keep them warm.
In general, it's recommended to stop using a blanket in your child’s crib by the age of 18 months or earlier, if possible. They can become dangerous if they are allowed to climb on them, which could lead to accidents, such as falling out of the bed or the crib. However, if your baby is used to sleeping with blankets and is covered from birth or sleeps in a sleeping bag for babies, you may want to keep it in place until they are ready to move to a duvet.
Many parents use milestone blankets to mark their child's progress and growth. They are typically marked according to the baby's age. This is a great way to keep family and friends informed of your baby's progress, as well as capture some precious moments. The Monica + Andy Always Blanket is a gorgeous double layer blanket that offers warmth and coziness, and is air-conditioned.
Easy to Assemble
While a baby cot bed is among the most important furniture pieces for nursery but it's also a significant investment. It's crucial to choose one that is elegant and robust. The cot should be in line with the decor of the room. Also, you should consider if the cot could be transformed into a toddler bed and if it can be done, how simple it is to do so.
When choosing a cot ensure that it has strong frames, solid rails, and smooth edges. It is also recommended to stay clear of models with curving edges, which could be a source of strangulation. Be sure to follow the instructions of the manufacturer and avoid making use of any tools that could cause damage. Finally, don't be afraid to seek assistance. Ask your friend or family member to assist you.
Many cot beds come with matching nursery furniture, which can really pull the look of your room together. If you don't want spend the amount, there are plenty of high-quality standalone options. The Elementary cot bed from John Lewis' Anyday range for instance, is available in a contemporary white finish and is made of solid FSC pine to provide a long-lasting option. It comes with three mattress height options, meaning it is suitable for use from birth. It can also be adjusted to lower the height once your child is ready for standing (usually around 18 months).
The Stokke Coxley cot for sale is another great option. It comes with a neutral grey finish as well as a handcrafted style that can be incorporated into any room. It's easy to set up and can be inserted into doors with standard frames, which is useful when you need to shift it around your home. It also converts into a stylish toddler bed using the addition of a simple kit. It's light enough to fit in a carry bag when you go on vacation. Parents who took part in our panel agreed that it was "easy to assemble" and "looks stunning". They also loved the fact that you can change the position of the base of the mattress upwards or downwards - so you can keep your baby's head elevated during nap time and stop them from falling asleep at night.