Buying a Baby Cot Bed
Cot beds can be converted to toddler beds, making them a more durable option than cribs. They also have removable sides and an end panel that can be lowered down to provide access to your child.
Most cribs are suitable for use from birth until around 2 years, or until your baby begins to climb out. Then you should switch to a junior bed.
4 Walls
Cot beds are a safe, secure place for your baby to sleep or sleep at night. They feature high walls or rails that stop your child 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 with many additional features. The decision ultimately is based on the family's budget as well as their needs.
Anyone who is a new parent will discover it crucial to make the right choice in deciding on a baby's sleep arrangement. You need to ensure that your baby is comfortable and safe. It must also be a space you can stay in for a long period of time. While cots are great for newborns and are compact but they can also be difficult to squeeze into smaller spaces. They're generally only suitable for use from 18 months. A cot-bed is a much more durable option that can be easily transformed into a toddler bed or a smaller single bed.
Snuz Cot Bed is a versatile, good-value cot. This is a simple but sturdy cot with an extra deep hood which shields your child from the sun and wind. It has a storage space at the end, so you can store bedding and other essentials.
Another option is an alternative is the CuddleCo Nola Convertible Cot. It's an ordinary cot, but can be transformed into a toddler bed or even a single bed, thanks to an extension kit that's sold separately. It has three handy mattress heights so that you can keep the mattress up for newborns and young babies, and then lower it as your child grows older.
The final alternative is a travel bed. They are typically only suitable for temporary use and don't offer the same degree of support as a regular cot. They often come with mattresses which aren't as sturdy or as thick as the regular ones. They can be a useful alternative to a standard cot while you're travelling however, it's important to remember that they'll only last a few years at most before your child is ready to move on to an even bigger bed.
Waterproof Mattress Protector
Many people spend much time and effort choosing the right cot, but pay no attention to the mattress your baby will be sleeping on. This is a crucial purchase for your baby. We suggest purchasing an organic cotton crib.
You will want to ensure that the cot bed is not cluttered with blankets, pillows or toys. They could block the airflow around your child. Also, keep the cot or bed free of any radiators, heaters, windows, cable sockets, and plugs.
The Mamas&Papas Franklin Cot Bed is a very popular choice for our mum testers. It comes in four colors and features a a lovely design that looks like it will last for a long time. It also converts into a toddler bed which means your baby can use it until the age of 4.
The SnuzFino Classic Cot Bed is another cot with great style and value (PS695, Mother and Baby). Our mum testers were impressed by its sleek design, and said it was "simple but elegant and will last the long-term". It's designed to grow with your child and has two levels of height for the mattress, so you can keep your baby elevated and then lower it once they are able to sit unaided.
It is essential to keep in mind that the mattress should not have a gap greater than 25mm (1") between it and the edges and sides of the cot. This will ensure that your baby won't climb out of the crib or get trapped between the slats of the mattress. Use a mattress cover that is 100% organic cotton and GOTS-certified to ensure that it is breathable, soft and waterproof.
If you'd prefer a high-tech option, then the SNOO Baby Cot Smart Sleeper (PS355, Cuckooland) is an excellent option. It's a great product that comes with an app for mobile devices, a weaning feature, and access to sleep consultants. However, it's expensive and might be out of the budget for many parents.
Blankets at The End
If you're planning to let your child sleep on a blanket in their crib or cot, make sure you have plenty of blankets to rotate through the wash. This will keep the sheets fresh and clean and keep them from becoming dirty and uncomfortable for your baby. A minimum of three or four sets should suffice.
You can change your bedding more frequently with an organic muslin bedding. They are also breathable which can help keep your baby's skin healthy and happy. You can pick from a variety of sizes and colors to find the right one for your baby.
The best blankets for babies are soft and comfortable and airy. You shouldn't choose blankets that are too bulky and heavy as it could create a suffocation risk for your baby. It is best to pick a blanket made from organic cotton muslin that is lightweight and breathable. A thermal blanket is another great alternative. These are great for those hot summer days when your baby requires a lightweight cover that will keep them warm.
In general it is recommended that you do away with blankets in your child's crib at the age of 18 months or earlier if it is possible. They can be dangerous if children are allowed to climb onto them, which can lead to accidents such as falls from the bed or the crib. However, if your child is used to sleeping with blankets and has been wrapped from birth or is sleeping in a baby sleeping bag it is best to keep it in place until they are ready to transition to a duvet.
Many parents use milestone blankets to mark their child's progress and growth. These blankets are typically numbered according to the baby's age. This is a wonderful way to keep your family and friends informed about your baby's development and capture precious memories. The Monica + Andy Always Blanket is a beautiful double layer blanket that gives warmth and coziness, while still being comfortable and breathable.
Easy to Assemble
A baby cot bed, while one of the most important pieces of nursery furniture is also an investment. It is essential to select a model which is both beautiful and durable. The most important consideration is that the cot needs to match the overall look of the room your baby is in. It is also important to consider whether the cot could be transformed into a bed for toddlers, and if it is possible be done, how easy to do so.
When choosing a cot, you should look for models with robust frames with sturdy rails, as well as smooth surfaces. Also, avoid models with curved edges, which could be a source of strangulation. Also, make sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully, and avoid using any tool that can cause harm. Don't be afraid to ask for help. Ask your partner or family member to help you.
Many co-occurring beds are paired with nursery furniture which can help pull the style of your room together. If you don't want spend the money, there are many excellent options for a standalone bed that are of good quality. The Elementary cot bed from John Lewis' Anyday range is a good example. It comes in a modern white finish and is constructed from solid FSC pine, which is a sturdy choice. It has three mattress height settings, so it can be used right from the age of. It can also be lowered once your child is ready to start standing (usually around 18 months).).
Another great option is the Scandi-style Coxley cot from Stokke, which has a stunning hand-crafted feel and a neutral grey finish that suits any decor. top ranked cribs to assemble and fits through standard door frames which is helpful when you have to move it around your home. It can also be converted into a chic, toddler bed using the addition of a basic kit. It's lightweight enough to fit into a bag for when you travel. Parents who were part of our panel remarked that it was "easy to put together" and "looks stunning". The parents also liked the fact that the base of the mattress can be moved up or down, allowing you to keep your baby's head elevated during nap time and prevent them from falling over in the night.