Buying a
Baby Cot BedCot beds can be converted to toddler beds, which makes them a more durable option than
recommended cribs. They also have removable sides as well as an end panel that can be lowered down to make it easier for your child.
Most
cots and tots are suitable for use from birth until around 2 years old or until your baby starts trying to climb out. Then you should move to a junior bed.
4 Walls
Cot beds offer a safe and secure space for your baby to sleep in at night or even during naptime. 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 suitable for infants and toddlers alike. There are a variety of cot bed models that range from the basic and affordable to those that come with a variety of features. The choice ultimately comes down to the family's budget and requirements.
Any new parent will find it crucial to make the right choice when it comes to choosing a baby's sleeping arrangement. You need to ensure that your baby will be comfortable and safe, as well as having an area that can be used for a long period of time. While cribs are great for babies however, they're also very compact and can be difficult to fit into smaller spaces. In addition, they're generally only suitable for use until your child reaches the age of 18 months or that is. A cot bed is a better choice for long-term use and can easily be transformed into a toddler bed or small single bed.
If you're looking for a value, versatile cot, we recommend the Snuz Cot Bed. It's a sturdy, simple crib with an extended hood to protect your baby from wind and sun. It also has a handy storage space at the bottom of the cot, so you can keep bedding and other necessities close at hand.
CuddleCo Nola Convertible Cot is another option. The cot can be transformed from a cot into a single or toddler bed with the help of an extension kit that is available separately. It comes with three mattress heights so that you can keep the mattress high up for newborns and young infants, and then lower it as your child grows older.
The final option is a travel bed. These are typically intended for short-term use, and may not offer the same degree of support as the standard cot. They often have mattresses that are not as firm or as thick as the traditional ones. While they may be a good alternative to a standard mattress for travel however, it is important to keep in mind that your child will only use them for a few short years before they is ready for a larger bed.
Protect your mattress from water with a waterproof mattress
Often a lot of thought goes into purchasing a cot, but less thought is given to the mattress your baby will sleep on. This is a very important purchase for your baby. We recommend purchasing organic cotton bedding for your baby.
You should make sure that your baby's crib is free of blankets, toys, or pillows. They can block the air flow around your child. Ideally, you should place the cot bed away from heaters, radiators, windows plug sockets, and cables that could pose risk.
The Mamas & Papas Franklin Cot Bed is a popular option among our mum testers. It comes in four colors and the design appears like it'll last many years. It is also able to be converted into a toddler's bed so that your child can use the crib up to four years old.
Another cot with great design and value is the SnuzFino Classic Cot Bed (PS695 Mother & Baby). Our mum testers loved its sleek design and stated that it was "simple but stylish and will last for a long time". It's designed to expand with your child too and has two levels of height for the mattress so that you can keep your newborn raised and then lower it when they start to sit up without assistance.
When choosing a cot, it is important to keep in mind that there shouldn't be more than 25mm (1 inch) gap between the mattress and the cot's sides and ends. This will ensure that your child won't escape from the crib or get caught between the mattress slats. Also, you should use mattress protectors that are 100% cotton and GOTS certified Organic, so that it's breathable and soft but also completely waterproof to stop any leaks!
Alternatively, you could opt for a more high-tech option and opt for the SNOO Smart Sleeper Baby Cot (PS355, Cuckooland). It's a great device that comes with an app that can be downloaded on mobile devices, a weaning feature, and sleep experts. It's expensive and not accessible to many parents.
Blankets at the End
If you're planning to let your baby sleep on a blanket in their cot or crib, make sure you have plenty of additional blankets to rotate through the wash. This will stop sheets from becoming excessively dirty and uncomfortable for your little one and also help to keep their bedding clean and fresh. Three to four sets of sheets is enough.
You can change your bedding more often by using organic muslin bedding. They are also breathable which can help keep your baby's skin healthy and happy. You can choose from a wide range of sizes and colors to find the right one for your baby.
The most comfortable blankets are soft, warm and breathable. You don't want blankets that are heavy and bulky, as it could cause the risk of suffocation to your baby. A blanket made from organic cotton muslin is ideal because it is light and breathable. Another alternative is a thermal blanket. These are a great choice for summer days that are warm and sunny. your baby will require an easy-to-wear cover to keep them warm.
In general, it's advised to remove blankets in your child's crib by the age of 18 months or earlier, if you can. They can become dangerous if they are allowed to climb on them, which can lead to accidents like falling out of crib or bed. However, if your child is used to sleeping with blankets and has been swaddled from birth or sleeping in a
Baby beds sleeping bag, you may want to leave it in place until they are ready to move to a duvet.
Many parents utilize milestone blankets to mark the development and growth of their child typically using numbers that indicate the age of the child. This is a great way to keep your family and friends updated on your child's progress, as well as capture some precious moments. The Monica + Andy Always Blanket has a double layer that is warm and cozy, yet airy.
Easy to Assemble
While a baby cot bed is one of the most essential furniture pieces for nursery, it's also a substantial investment. As such, it's worthwhile to take the time to choose one that looks as attractive as it is durable and practical. The most important consideration is that the cot should be in harmony with the overall design of the room your baby is in. It is also important to consider whether the cot could be transformed into a toddler bed and if so be done, how simple it is to accomplish.
When choosing a cot make sure you choose a model with robust frames, solid rails, and smooth finishes. It's also
best cots uk to avoid models with curved edges which could be a source of strangulation. Be sure to follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer and avoid using any tools that could cause damage. Don't be shy about asking for assistance. Ask your family or friend member to help you.
Many cot beds come with matching nursery furniture which can help pull the design of your room together. However, if you don't have the money for this there are numerous high-quality standalone options to choose from. 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 has three mattress height options, meaning it can be used from the age of. It can also be adjusted to lower the height once your child is ready to start standing (usually around 18 months).
Another alternative is the Scandi-style Coxley cot from Stokke It has a stunning hand-crafted feel and a neutral grey finish that will suit any interior. It's easy to put together and fits into doors that have standard doorframes. This is great to move around the home. With the addition of a simple kit that can transform it into a chic toddler bed in a bench-style. It's light enough to put into a bag for when you go on vacation. Parents who participated in our panel said that it was "easy to assemble" and "looks stunning". The parents also liked the fact that the mattress's base can be moved up and down, allowing you to keep the baby's head raised throughout the day and stop them from falling over in the night.