Buying a Baby Cot Bed
Cot beds are a better long-term choice than cribs as they can be converted to a toddler bed. They also come with removable sides and an end panel that can be lowered down to provide access to your child.
Most cribs can be used from birth to around 2 years old or until your child is old enough to try to climb out. Then, it is time to change to junior beds.
4 Walls
Cot beds offer an ensconced, safe space for your baby to rest or rest during the night. They have high walls or rails that prevent your baby from falling and many have adjustable mattress heights. A cot bed is ideal for both infants and toddlers. There are a myriad of types of cot beds to choose from that range from basic and inexpensive models to those with extra features. The decision ultimately depends on the family's budget and needs.
Any new parent will find it important to make the right choice when choosing a baby's sleeping arrangement. You want to make sure that your child is safe and comfortable, as well as having an area that can be used for a prolonged period of time. While cots are great for newborns, they're also quite compact and can be difficult to fit into smaller spaces. They're generally only suitable for use until 18 months. A cot bed is a better choice for longer-term use and can easily be converted into a toddler or a small single bed.
Snuz Cot Bed is a versatile, good-value cot. This is a simple but sturdy cot with a large hood, which protects your baby from the elements of wind and sun. It also has a storage space at the end, so you can store bedding and other items.
Another good choice is an alternative is the CuddleCo Nola Convertible Cot. The cot is designed to be a traditional cot but can be turned into an infant bed or a single bed, because of an extension kit, which is sold separately. It comes with three different mattress heights so you can alter it according to your child's age.
The final option is a travel bed. They are typically only suitable for short-term use and may not provide the same level of support as a regular cot. Additionally, they usually come with mattresses that aren't as sturdy or as thick as the standard one. They can be a useful alternative to a standard cot when you travel, but it's worth remembering that they'll last only a few years at most before your child is ready for larger beds.
Protect your mattress from water with a waterproof mattress
Often a lot of thought is put into purchasing a cot, but less thought is given to the mattress that your baby will sleep on. This is a crucial purchase for your baby cot online. We recommend purchasing an organic cotton crib.
As new research shows restricted airflow may be a reason for SIDS and SUDI, you'll need to ensure your baby's bedroom is free of pillows, toys blankets, muslin sheets or cot bumpers that can restrict the circulation of air around your baby. It is also important to keep the bed or cot clear of radiators, heaters, windows plug sockets, and cables.
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 will last for many years. It can also be converted 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 that has great style and value (PS695, Mother and Baby). Our mum testers were impressed by its sleek design, saying it was "simple but stylish and will stand the long-term". It's designed to expand with your child tots and cots offers two levels of height for the mattress, so you can keep your baby elevated and then lower it once they begin to sit up unaided.
It is important to remember that the mattress should not have a gap of more than 25mm (1") between it and the sides and ends of the cot. This will ensure that your child won't climb out of the crib or be trapped between the slats of the mattress. Use a mattress cover that is made of 100 organic cotton and GOTS certified to ensure that it is breathable, soft and waterproof.
If you'd rather a high-tech option, then the SNOO Baby Cot Smart Sleeper (PS355, Cuckooland) is an excellent choice. It's a smart piece of kit which has an app that is mobile, a weaning features, access to sleep consultants and much more. However, it is expensive and might be out of budget for many parents.
Blankets at the End
If you plan to allow your baby to sleep in a cot or a crib with a blanket, make sure you have enough blankets to wash them frequently. This will keep the sheets fresh and clean and keep them from becoming too dirty and uncomfortable for your baby. Three to four sheets should be enough.
A good quality set of organic muslin blankets allows you to wash the sheets regularly without worrying about them getting too dirty. They also breathe, which helps to keep your baby's skin healthy and happy. They are available in various sizes and colours which means you can find the right ones to meet your baby's requirements.
The most comfortable blankets are soft, comfortable and breathable. A blanket that is too bulky and heavy could cause your baby to drown. A blanket made of organic cotton muslin is the best choice, as it is light and airy. Another option is a thermal blanket. They are an excellent choice for balmy summer days when your baby will need a light cover to keep them warm.
Generally speaking, it is recommended that you stop using blankets in your child's crib at the age of 18 months or earlier if you can. This is because they could be dangerous if children are allowed to climb onto them, leading to accidents, such as falling from the crib sets or bed. If your child is swaddled from birth or is sleeping in a sleeping bag specifically designed for babies, you might want to keep the blanket until they are ready to switch to a duvet.
Many parents use milestone blankets to mark their child's development and growth. They are typically numbered according to the baby's age. It 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 is a gorgeous double layer blanket that offers warmth and comfort, and is comfortable and breathable.
Easy to Assemble
While a baby cot bed is one of the most essential furniture pieces for the nursery cots however, it's also an expensive investment. As such, it's worth taking time to select the one that looks appealing as it is strong and practical. The most important thing to consider is that the cot needs to be in harmony with the overall design of the baby's room. You should also consider if the cot could be transformed into a bed for toddlers, and if it is possible, how easy it is to do so.
When choosing a cot make sure you choose a model with solid frames, sturdy rails, and smooth finishes. Avoid cots that have curved corners, as they can pose a strangulation risk. Be sure to read the directions of the manufacturer and avoid using any tools that may cause damage. Finally, don't be afraid to seek help. Assembly is usually easier when it's done by two people, so make sure to ask your spouse or a family member to help you.
Many cot beds come with matching furniture for the nursery that can really bring the look of your room together. If you don't wish to spend a lot of cost, there are a number of good quality standalone options. The Elementary cot-bed from John Lewis Anyday comes in white with solid FSC pine, making it a durable choice. It comes with three mattress options, meaning it can be used from the time of birth. It can also be adjusted to lower the height once your child is able to begin standing (usually around 18 months).
The Stokke Coxley cot is a excellent alternative. It comes with a neutral grey finish as well as a handcrafted style that can be incorporated into any room. It's easy to assemble and fits into standard door frames and is ideal when you have to move it around your home. It also converts into a chic toddler bed using the addition of a basic kit. And it's lightweight enough to fit into its own bag for trips away. Parents who were part of our panel remarked that it was "easy to assemble" and "looks stunning". The parents also liked the fact that the base of the mattress can be moved up and down, so you can keep your baby's head up throughout the day and stop them from rolling over in the night.