Buying a Baby Cot Bed
Cot beds are a more long-term option than cribs since they can be converted to an adult bed. They come with removable sides, and the end panel can be removed to give access to your child.
Most cribs are suitable for use from birth to around 2 years, or until your baby begins to climb out. Then, you should switch to junior beds.
4 Walls
Cot beds provide an ideal and safe space for your baby to sleep in at night or during naptime. They have high walls or rails that stop your baby from falling and many have adjustable mattress heights. This makes a cot bed suitable for infants and toddlers alike. There are many cot bed models, ranging from simple and inexpensive to models with numerous additional features. In the end, it depends on your family's requirements and budget.
The right baby sleep arrangement is a major decision for any new parent. You want to ensure that your child is secure and comfortable and also have the space to be used for a long time. While cots can be a great option for infants and are small cot beds but they can also be difficult to accommodate in smaller spaces. In addition, they're typically only suitable for use until your child is 18 months old or at the earliest. A cot bed is a better option for long-term use and can be easily transformed into a toddler bed or small single bed.
If you're looking for a value cot that can be used in a variety of ways we suggest the Snuz Cot Bed. It's a sturdy, simple cot with an extended hood that can shield your baby from wind and sun. It also has a handy storage space at the bottom of the cot, so that you can keep bedding and other necessities close at hand.
Another option is an alternative is the CuddleCo Nola Convertible Cot. It's an ordinary cot, but can be transformed into an infant bed or a single bed, due to an extension kit that's available separately. It comes with three mattress heights, so you can keep the mattress high up for newborns and small babies, before lowering it as your child gets older.
The last option is a travel bed. These are typically intended for short-term use and may not offer the same level of support as the regular cot. They usually come with mattresses which aren't as strong or as thick as the regular ones. Although they can be a great alternative to a traditional bed when you are travelling but it is important to keep in mind that your child will only use them for a few years before they is ready for a larger bed.
Mattress Protector Waterproof
A amount of thought is given to buying a cot, but less consideration is given to the mattress your baby will sleep on. This is a very important purchase for your baby. We recommend buying an organic cotton best crib for newborn.
You will want to ensure that your baby's cot bed is not cluttered with blankets, pillows or toys. They could block the air flow around your child. You should also keep the bed or cot clear of heaters, radiators windows, cable sockets, and plugs.
The Mamas&Papas Franklin Cot Bed is a very popular choice for our mum testers. It comes in four different colors and has an attractive design that appears like it's going to endure the test of time. It can also be converted into a toddler bed, which means your baby can use it until the age of four.
Another cot with excellent design and value is the SnuzFino Classic Cot Bed (PS695 Mother&Baby). Our mum testers were amazed by its sleek design, and said it was "simple but stylish and will last the test of time". It's designed to expand with your child too and has two levels of height for the mattress so you can keep your baby raised and then lower it when they start to sit up unaided.
When choosing a cot, it is important to keep in the mind that there should be no more than 25mm (1 inch) gap between the mattress and the cot sides and ends. This will ensure that your baby won't escape from the crib or get trapped between the slats on the mattress. Also, you should use mattress protectors that are 100 100% cotton and GOTS Certified Organic, so that it is soft and breathable but also completely waterproof to avoid any unwanted leaks!
Alternatively, if you prefer a high-tech option, then the SNOO Baby Cot Smart Sleeper (PS355, Cuckooland) is an excellent choice. It's a clever piece of equipment that comes with an app that is mobile, a weaning features and access to sleep experts and much more. However, it's expensive and might be out of reach for many parents.
Blankets at the End of The Road
If you're planning to let your baby sleep with blankets in their crib or cot, make sure you have plenty of extras to rotate through the wash. This will keep the sheets clean and fresh and keep them from becoming dirty and uncomfortable for your baby. Three to four sets of sheets is enough.
You can change your sheets more frequently with a set of organic muslin bedding. They are also breathable and help keep your baby cot online's skin healthy and happy. They are available in various sizes and colors, so you can find the perfect one for your baby's requirements.
The most comfortable blankets are soft, comfortable and comfortable. You shouldn't choose blankets that are too bulky and heavy as it could pose an obstructive risk to your baby. A blanket made of organic cotton muslin is a great choice, as it is light and airy. Another option is a thermal blanket. These are perfect for those balmy summer days, when your baby requires a lightweight cover that will keep them warm.
Generally speaking it is recommended you remove blankets from your child's cot at 18 months of age, or earlier if possible. This is because they can become dangerous if allowed to climb on them, which can lead to accidents such as falls out of crib or bed. If your child has been swaddled since birth or is sleeping in a sleeping bag designed for infants, you might want to keep the blanket until they are able to switch to a duvet.
Many parents use milestone blankets to mark their child's growth and progress. They are typically numbered according to the baby's age. This is a great way to keep family and friends up-to-date on your child's progress, as well as capture precious moments. The Monica + Andy Always Blanket has a double layer that's both warm and cozy, but also breathable.
Easy to Assemble
A baby cot bed being one of the most important furniture pieces for the nursery, is also a significant investment. As such, it's worth the effort to choose the one that looks good as it is sturdy and practical. The most important factor to consider is that the cot needs to be in harmony with the overall design of the baby's room. Also, you should consider if the cot could be transformed into a toddler bed, and if it is possible be done, how simple it is to do.
When choosing a cot make sure you choose a model with strong frames, solid rails, and smooth finishes. Avoid cots with curved corners because they can create strangulation risks. Be sure to read the instructions provided by the manufacturer and avoid using any tools that may cause harm. Don't be afraid to ask for help. It's usually easier to get things done when it's done by two people, so ask your partner or family member to assist you.
Many cribs come with matching nursery furniture that can really bring the style of your room together. However, if you don't have the money for this, there are many good-quality alternatives that can be used as a stand-alone. The Elementary cot-bed from John Lewis Anyday comes in a white finish with solid FSC pine, making it a durable choice. It also comes with three mattress heights, which means it's suitable from birth. It can also be lowered when your child is ready to start standing (usually at around 18 months).
The Stokke Coxley cot is a great alternative. It has a neutral grey finish and an elegant look that is perfect for any interior. It's simple to put together and fits through door frames that are standard and is ideal when you need to shift it around your home. With the addition of an easy kit that allows it to be transformed into a chic toddler bed that is in the bench-style. It's also light enough to be transported in its own bag for trips away. Our panel of parents said it was "a dream to put together" and "looks gorgeous". They also loved the fact that you can move the base position of the mattress upwards or downwards to keep your baby's head in a higher position during naps and prevent them from rolling away at the end of the night.