Buying a Baby Cot Bed
Cot beds are a better long-term option than cribs since they can be transformed into an adult bed. They also come with removable sides and an end panel that can be pulled down to make it easier for your child.
The majority of cots are suitable for use from birth to 2 years, or until your baby begins to climb out. Then you should move to a junior bed.
4 Walls
Cot beds offer secure and safe for your baby to sleep in at night or during nap time. They feature high walls or rails to stop your child from falling 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 myriad of cot bed models that range from the basic and affordable to models with numerous additional features. In the end, it is based on your family's needs and budget.
Anyone who is a new parent will discover it important to make the right decision in deciding on a baby's sleep arrangement. You want to ensure that your baby is safe and comfortable, as well as having a space that can be used for a long period of time. While cots are great for newborns however, they're also very compact and can be difficult to fit into smaller spaces. Additionally, they're only suitable for use up to the point that your child is 18 months old or at the earliest. A cot bed is the best option for longer-term use and is easily transformed into a toddler bed or a small single bed.
If you're looking to buy a low-cost, versatile cot, we recommend the Snuz Cot Bed. This is a basic but sturdy cot with a hood that is extra-deep which shields your child from the sun and wind. It also has a handy storage space at the bottom of the cot, so you can keep bedding and other items close by.
Another option is the CuddleCo Nola Convertible Cot. It can be converted from a cot into a toddler or single bed with the help of an extension kit that is available separately. It comes with three different mattress heights so you can alter it to fit your child's age.
The last alternative is a travel bed. They are designed for use on short-term basis and don't provide the same level support as a regular bed. cot bed sales come with mattresses which are not as firm or as thick as the traditional ones. They can be a good alternative to a standard cot when you travel however, it's important to remember that they'll last only a few years at most before your child is ready for larger beds.
Protect your mattress from water and dirt
A amount of thought is given to purchasing a cot, but less thought is given to the mattress your baby will sleep on. This is an essential purchase for your baby. We recommend investing in organic cotton bedding for your baby.
It is important to make sure that your baby's cot bed is not cluttered with toys, pillows or blankets. They can impede the airflow around your child. It is recommended to position the cot or cot bed away from heaters, radiators windows plug sockets, and cables that could be danger.
If you are seeking a stylish cot, the Mamas&Papas Franklin Cot Bed (PS375, Cuckooland) is a popular choice among our mum testers. It is available in four colors and looks like it's going to last for a long time. It can also convert into a toddler bed which means your baby can use it to the age of 4.
The SnuzFino Classic Cot Bed is another cot that is stylish and value (PS695, Mother&Baby). Our mom testers were awed by its sleek design, stating that it was "simple but elegant and will last the test of time". It's designed to grow with your child. It has two different height settings, so you can put your baby in a higher position and lower it once they are capable of sitting on their own.
It is crucial to remember that the mattress should not have a gap larger than 25mm (1") between it and the edges and sides of the cot. This is to ensure that your baby is not able to climb out of the cot or get trapped between the mattress and slats. Choose a mattress cover that is 100 organic cotton and GOTS certified to ensure that it is soft, breathable and waterproof.
Alternatively, you could go for a more technological option and opt for the SNOO Smart Sleeper Baby Cot (PS355, Cuckooland). It's a smart device that comes with an app that can be downloaded on mobile devices, a weaning feature, as well as access to sleep specialists. However, it is expensive and may be out of reach for many parents.
Blankets at the End of The Road
If you plan to allow your baby to sleep in a cot or a crib with a blanket, make sure to have enough bedding so you can wash them regularly. This will keep the sheets clean and fresh and prevent them from becoming too dirty and uncomfortable for your baby. Three to four sets of sheets should be sufficient.
A good quality set of organic muslin blankets can allow you to change the sheets frequently without worrying about them getting too dirty. They are also breathable, which helps keep your baby's delicate skin healthy. You can pick from a variety of sizes and colors to find the perfect one for your baby.
The best baby blankets are soft and cosy, yet ventilated. A blanket that is bulky and heavy could cause your baby to suffocate. A blanket made from organic cotton muslin is ideal because it is light and breathable. Another alternative is a thermal blanket. These are perfect for those balmy summer days when your baby needs a lightweight cover that will keep them warm.
In general, it is recommended to stop using blankets in your child's cot by 18 months, or earlier, if you can. It is because they become risky if children climb on them. This could result in accidents such as falling from the crib or the bed. If your child is used to sleeping with blankets and has been wrapped from birth or is sleeping in a baby sleep bag then you might want to keep the blanket in place until they are ready to move to a duvet.
Many parents use the milestone blanket to track the development and growth of their child, typically with numbers that reflect the age of the child. This is a great method to keep 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 both warm and cozy, yet breathable.
Easy to Assemble
While a baby cot bed is among the most essential pieces of nursery furniture, it's also a substantial investment. It's important to choose one that is beautiful and durable. The most important consideration is that the cot should match the overall look of the room your baby is in. You should also consider if the cot could be transformed into a toddler bed, and if it can be done, how easy to accomplish.
When choosing a cot, ensure that it has solid frames, solid rails, and smooth edges. It's also best to avoid models with curved edges, which could be a source of strangulation. Also, be sure to follow the instructions of the manufacturer carefully, and never use any tool that could cause harm. Don't be afraid to ask for help. Assembly is usually easier when you have two people, so make sure to ask your spouse or a family member to assist you.
Many cot beds come with matching furniture for the nursery that can really bring the style of your room together. If you don't want to spend the cost, there are a number of excellent options for a standalone bed that are of good quality. The Elementary cot-bed from John Lewis Anyday comes in white and is made of solid FSC pine, making it a durable option. It has three mattress height settings, which means it is suitable for use from birth. It can also be lowered once your child is ready for standing (usually around 18 months).).
Another great option is the Scandi-style Coxley cot from Stokke that is a gorgeous hand-crafted look and a neutral grey finish that will suit any room. It's easy to assemble and fits into standard door frames, which is useful when you need to shift it around your home. With the addition of a simple kit, it can be converted into a stylish toddler bed that is in the bench-style. It's light enough to fit into its own carry bag for trips away. Our panel of parents agreed that it was "a dream to put together" and "looks gorgeous". The parents also loved the fact that the base of the mattress can be moved up or down, so you can keep your baby's head elevated throughout the day and stop them from falling over at night.