Buying a Baby Cot Bed
Cot beds are a more long-term option than cribs since they can be transformed into an adult bed. They come with removable sides, and the end panel can be dropped to allow access to your child.
The majority of cots are suitable for use from birth to 2 years, or until your baby starts trying to climb out. Then, you should switch to junior beds.
4 Walls
Cot beds are an ensconced, safe space for your baby to nap or rest at night. They are equipped with high walls or rails that prevent your baby from falling, and many have adjustable mattress heights. This makes a cot bed ideal for toddlers and infants alike. There are a variety of cot beds to choose from that range from basic and inexpensive models to those with extra features. Ultimately, the decision comes down to the needs of your family and the budget you have set.
The right baby sleep arrangement is a major choice for any new parent. You want to ensure that your baby is secure and comfortable, as well as having the space to be used for a long time. While cots and tots are great for babies but they're also quite small and can be difficult to fit into smaller spaces. They're typically only suitable for use up to 18 months. A cot bed is a better choice for long-term use and is easily converted into a toddler or small single bed.
If you're looking for a good-value cot that can be used in a variety of ways, we recommend the Snuz Cot Bed. It's a sturdy, simple crib with a hood that extends to shield your baby from wind and sun. It also features a handy storage area at the end of the cot so you can keep bedding and other essentials in a convenient place.
CuddleCo Nola Convertible Cot is an alternative. It's an ordinary cot, but can be turned into an infant bed or one bed, thanks to an extension kit that is available separately. It has three handy mattress heights, so you can keep the mattress up for newborns and young infants, and then lower it down as your child gets older.
The last alternative is a travel cot. They are only suitable for short-term usage and may not provide the same level support as a regular bed. They typically come with mattresses which aren't as strong or as thick as the standard ones. They can be a useful alternative to a standard cot while you travel however, it's important to remember that they'll last only just a few years before your child is ready to move on to a bigger bed.
Waterproof Mattress Protector
Many parents spend much time and effort choosing a cot, but pay little focus on the mattress your baby will be sleeping on. This is a crucial purchase for your baby. We recommend investing in an organic cotton crib.
It is important to make sure that your baby's cot bed is free of blankets, pillows or toys. They can impede the airflow around your child. Ideally, you should place the cot bed away from heaters, radiators, windows as well as plug sockets and cables that could create risk.
If you're looking for a chic cot, the Mamas&Papas Franklin Cot Bed (PS375, Cuckooland) is a popular choice among our mum testers. It comes in four colors and looks like it will last for a long time. It can also convert into a toddler bed so your child can use it right up until the age of 4.
The SnuzFino Classic Cot Bed is another cot that is stylish and value (PS695 Mother&Baby). Our mom testers were impressed by its sleek design and stated that it was "simple yet stylish and will stand the test of time". It's designed to expand with your child and comes with two height settings for the mattress, so you can keep your baby elevated and then lower it once they are able to sit without assistance.
It is crucial to remember that the mattress should not have a gap greater than 25mm (1") between it and the sides and ends of the cot. This will ensure that your baby won't climb out of the crib or be trapped between the slats on the mattress. It is also recommended to make sure to use a mattress protector that is 100% cotton and GOTS certified Organic, to ensure it is soft and breathable but completely waterproof and to prevent any leaks!
You can also choose a more advanced option and opt for the SNOO Smart Sleeper Baby Cot (PS355, Cuckooland). It's a smart piece of equipment that comes with an app for mobile devices, a weaning features and access to sleep experts and more. However, it is expensive and might be out of budget for many parents.
Blankets at the End of the Road
If you plan to let your baby sleep in a cot or crib with a blanket, be sure to have enough extras so you can clean them regularly. This will keep the sheets clean and fresh and prevent them from becoming too dirty and uncomfortable for your baby. A minimum of three or four sets should be sufficient.
A high-quality set of organic muslin blankets allows you to wash the sheets regularly without worrying about them getting too dirty. They are also breathable, which will help keep your baby's delicate skin healthy. They are available in different sizes and colours, so you can find the perfect one for your baby's requirements.
The best blankets are soft comfortable and comfortable. You shouldn't choose blankets that are too heavy and bulky as it could pose an obstructive risk to your baby. A blanket made of organic cotton muslin is a great choice because it is light and comfortable to breathe. A thermal blanket is a excellent alternative. These are perfect for those warm summer days when your baby requires an easy-to-wear cover that will keep them warm.
In general it is recommended you stop using blankets in your child's cot when they reach the age of 18 months or earlier if you can. It is because they become dangerous if children are allowed to climb over them. This could lead to accidents such as falling out of the crib or the bed. If your child has been swaddled since 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 record their child's progress and growth. These blankets are usually numbered in accordance with the baby's age. It is a great way to keep your family and friends informed of your baby's progress as well as capture some precious moments. The Monica + Andy Always Blanket has a double layer that is both warm and cozy, but also airy.
Easy to Assemble
While a cot for a baby is among the most important furniture pieces for the nursery however, it's also an expensive investment. Therefore, it's worthwhile to take the time to choose a model that looks as attractive as it is durable and practical. The cot should be in line with the decor of the room. You should also consider if the cot can be turned into a bed for toddlers, and if so be done, how simple it is to accomplish.
When choosing a cot make sure you choose a model with solid frames, sturdy rails, and smooth edges. It's also best to avoid models with curved edges which could pose a risk of strangulation. Be sure to follow the directions of the manufacturer and avoid using any tools that could cause harm. Don't be shy about asking for help. It's usually easier to get things done when you have two people, so ask your partner or family member to assist you.
Many cribs come with matching furniture for the nursery, which can really pull the style of your room together. If you don't want to spend a lot of money, there are many excellent options for a standalone bed that are of good quality. The Elementary cot bed from John Lewis' Anyday range for instance, is available with a modern white finish and is constructed out of solid FSC pine for a durable choice. It also comes with three mattress heights, which means it's suitable for use starting from birth. It can also be lowered when your child is ready for standing (usually at about 18 months).).
The Stokke Coxley cot is another fantastic option. It comes with a neutral grey finish as well as a handmade look that is perfect for any interior. It's simple to put together and fits through doors with standard frames which is helpful when you need to shift it around your home. It can also be converted into a stylish toddler bed using the addition of a simple kit. It's light enough to fit into a bag for when you go on vacation. Our panel of parents agreed that it was "a dream to put together" and "looks beautiful". They also loved the fact that you are able to change the position of the base of the mattress up or down so that you can keep your baby's head in a higher position throughout the day and keep them from rolling off at night.