Buying a Baby Cot Bed
Cot beds are a more long-term choice than cribs as they can be converted to an adult bed. They have removable sides and an end panel that can be removed to give access to your child.
Most cribs are suitable for use from birth until around 2 years, or until your baby starts trying to climb out. Then, you should change to junior beds.
4 Walls
Cot beds provide an ideal and safe space for your baby to sleep in at night or during nap time. They feature high walls or rails to prevent your baby from slipping out, and many have adjustable mattress heights that can be adjusted as your baby grows. A cot bed is suitable for toddlers as well as infants. There are many cot bed models that range from simple and inexpensive to those with many additional features. The decision ultimately is based on the family's budget and needs.
The right baby sleep arrangement is a crucial choice for any new parent. You want to ensure that your child will be comfortable and safe and have an area that can be used for a prolonged period of time. While cots are great for newborns however, they're also very compact and can be difficult to fit into smaller spaces. They're also only usually suitable for use until 18 months. A cot-bed is a more durable option and can easily be transformed into a toddler bed or a smaller single bed.
Snuz Cot Bed is a multi-functional, high-value cot. This is a sturdy, simple cot that has a hood that extends to protect your baby from wind and sun. It also has a convenient storage space at the bottom of the cot, so you can keep bedding and other essentials close at hand.
CuddleCo Nola Convertible Cot is another option. The cot can be transformed from a cot into a toddler or single bed using an extension kit, that is available separately. It has three handy mattress heights, so you can keep the mattress up for infants and babies, before lowering it down as your child grows older.
The last alternative is a travel bed. These are typically intended for short-term use and may not offer the same degree of support as a regular cot. In addition, they typically have mattresses that aren't as sturdy or as thick as the standard one. While they may be a good alternative to a traditional bed while traveling, it is important to remember that your child will only use them for a few years before he or she is ready to move on to a bigger bed.
Protect your mattress from water with a waterproof mattress
Many parents spend much time and effort selecting a cot but pay less focus on the mattress your baby will sleep on. This is a very important purchase for your baby. We suggest buying an organic cotton crib.
great crib is important to ensure that the cot bed is free of toys, pillows or blankets. They can impede the air flow around your child. It is also important to ensure that the bed or cot is free of any heaters, radiators windows, cables, and plug sockets.
If you are seeking a stylish cot, the Mamas&Papas Franklin Cot Bed (PS375, Cuckooland) is one of the most popular choices among our mum testers. It comes in four different colors and has beautiful design that looks like it will endure the test of time. It can also be transformed into a toddler's bed, to allow your baby to use the crib until four years old.
The SnuzFino Classic Cot Bed is another cot with great style and value (PS695, Mother&Baby). Our mom testers loved its sleek design and said it was "simple but stylish and will stand the test of time". It's designed to grow with your child. It comes with two different height settings so that you can put your baby in a higher position and lower it once they are in a position to sit on their own.
When you are choosing a cot it is worth bearing in the mind that there shouldn't be more than 25mm (1 inch) space between the mattress and the cot's sides and ends. This is to ensure your baby is not able to get out of the cot or become trapped between the mattress and the slats. Use a mattress cover made of is made of 100 organic cotton and GOTS certified to ensure that it is soft, breathable and waterproof.
You can also go for a more technological alternative and select the SNOO Smart Sleeper Baby Cot (PS355, Cuckooland). It's a clever piece of equipment that comes with a mobile app, weaning feature, access to sleep consultants and much more. 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 crib or cot with a blanket, make sure you have enough blankets so you can wash them regularly. This will keep the sheets from becoming too soiled and uncomfortable for your little one, as well as help to keep their bed clean and fresh. Three to four sets of sheets is enough.
You can change your bedding more often with an organic muslin bedding. They are also breathable and help keep your baby's skin healthy and happy. They are available in a variety of sizes and colours, so you can find the right ones to meet your baby's needs.
The best blankets are soft, cosy and airy. 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 the best choice, as it is light and comfortable to breathe. Another alternative is a blanket that is thermal. These are perfect for those balmy summer days, when your baby requires a light cover to keep them warm.
In general, it's recommended that you stop using a blanket in your child’s cot by 18 months, or earlier, if you can. This is because they can be dangerous if children are allowed to climb on them, which can lead to accidents, such as 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 sleep bag, you may want to leave it in place until they are ready to transition to a duvet.
Many parents use a milestone blanket to mark the development and growth of their child, typically with numbers that indicate the age of the child. It is a great way to keep your family and friends updated on your child's progress, and also capture precious moments. The Monica + Andy Always Blanket is a stunning double layer blanket that offers warmth and comfort and is air-conditioned.
Easy to Assemble
While a cot for a baby is one of the most important furniture pieces for the nursery but it's also a significant investment. It's worth the effort to choose one that looks as attractive as it is durable and practical. The cot should be in line with the style of the room. It is also important to consider whether the cot can be converted into a toddler bed, and if so, how easy it is to do so.
When selecting a cot you should select a model with sturdy frames solid rails and smooth surfaces. Also, avoid models with curving edges, which could be a source of strangulation. Be sure to follow the manufacturer's directions carefully, and avoid using any tool that can cause harm. Finally, 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 co-occurring beds are paired with nursery furniture that can really bring the look of your room together. If you don't want spend a lot of amount, there are plenty of excellent options for a standalone bed that are of good quality. The Elementary cot bed from John Lewis' Anyday range, for example, comes in a modern white finish and is made of solid FSC pine for a durable option. It also has three mattress heights, which means it's suitable for use from birth. It can also be lowered when your child is ready to begin standing (usually at around 18 months).
The Stokke Coxley cot is another fantastic option. It has a neutral grey finish and an elegant style that can be incorporated into any interior. It is easy to assemble, and it fits through standard doorframes. This is perfect to move around the house. With the addition of a simple kit that allows it to be transformed into a stylish toddler bed that is in the bench-style. It's light enough to fit in a carry bag when you go on vacation. Parents who were part of our panel said that it was "easy to assemble" and "looks gorgeous". The parents also loved the fact that the mattress's base can be moved up or down, allowing you to keep the baby's head raised throughout the day and stop them from falling over at night.