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 have removable sides and an end panel that can be dropped to allow access to your child.
The majority of cribs can be used from birth until around 2 years old or until your baby begins to climb out. Then you should move to a junior bed.
4 Walls
Cot beds offer the safety and security for your baby to sleep or rest at night. They are equipped with high walls or rails to prevent your baby from slipping out, and many have adjustable mattress heights that can be reduced as your baby grows. This makes a cot bed perfect for toddlers and infants alike. There are a variety of cot bed models, which range from the basic and affordable to models with numerous additional features. In the end, it is based on your family's requirements and budget.
Selecting the best baby sleeping arrangement is a major decision for any new parent. You want to ensure that your baby will be comfortable and safe, as well as having the space to be used for a long time. While cots can be great for newborns and are compact however, they can be difficult to squeeze into smaller spaces. They're typically only suitable for use up to 18 months. A crib-bed is a more sturdy option and can easily be converted into an infant bed or a small single bed.
If you're looking to buy a low-cost cot that is versatile we suggest the Snuz Cot Bed. It's a sturdy, simple cot that has an extended hood that can protect your baby from wind and sun. It also has a convenient storage space at the bottom of the cot, so that you can keep bedding and other items close at hand.
CuddleCo Nola Convertible Cot is another good option. It can be converted from a cot to a toddler or single bed with the help of an extension kit which is sold separately. It has three handy mattress heights so that you can keep the mattress high up for newborns and small babies, before lowering it down as your child gets older.
The final alternative is a travel bed. These are usually only suitable for short-term use, and may not offer the same degree of support as the standard cot. Additionally, they usually have mattresses that aren't as firm or as thick as a standard one. While they can be a great alternative to a traditional bed for travel however, it is important to keep in mind that your child will only use them for a couple of years before they is ready for a larger bed.
Waterproof Mattress Protector
A lot of thought goes into buying a cot, however less thought is given to the mattress your baby will sleep on. This is an essential purchase for your baby. We suggest investing in an organic cotton baby bed.
Recent research has revealed that airflow restriction could be a reason for SIDS and SUDI, you'll need to ensure your baby's bedroom is free of toys, pillows blankets, muslin cloths, blankets or cot bumpers that can hinder the circulation of air around your child. Also, keep the cot or bed free of any radiators, heaters, windows cables, and plug sockets.
If you are looking for a chic cot that is stylish, the Mamas&Papas Franklin Cot Bed (PS375, Cuckooland) is a popular choice among our mum testers. It comes in four colors and the design appears like it will last for a long time. It can also be transformed into a toddler's crib, so that your child can use the crib until four years old.
The SnuzFino Classic Cot Bed is another cot that has great style and value (PS695, Mother and Baby). Our mom testers were impressed by 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 different heights for the mattress, so you can keep your newborn raised and then lower it when they start to sit up unaided.
best crib for newborn is essential to keep in mind that the mattress shouldn't have a gap of more than 25mm (1") between it and the edges and sides of the cot. This will ensure that your child won't escape from the crib or be trapped between the slats of the mattress. Choose a mattress cover that is made of 100 organic cotton and GOTS certified to ensure it is breathable, soft and waterproof.
If you'd rather a high-tech option, then the SNOO Baby Cot Smart Sleeper (PS355, Cuckooland) is an excellent choice. It's an innovative piece of kit which has a mobile app, weaning features, access to sleep consultants and more. But, it's costly and may be out of reach for many parents.
Blankets at the End of The Road
If you're planning on letting your child sleep on a blanket in their cot or crib ensure that you have plenty of blankets to rotate through the wash. This will keep the sheets from becoming overly dirty and uncomfortable for your child and also help to keep their bed clean and fresh. A minimum of three to four sets should suffice.
You can change your sheets more often with an organic muslin bedding. They are also breathable, which will help keep your baby's delicate skin healthy. You can choose from a wide range of sizes and colors to find the right one for your baby.
The best blankets are soft cosy and comfortable. A blanket that is heavy and bulky can cause your baby to choke. A blanket made from organic cotton muslin is a great choice because it is lightweight and breathable. A thermal blanket is another excellent option. These are great for balmy summer days when your baby will need an easy-to-wear cover to keep them warm.
Generally speaking, it is recommended that you remove blankets from your child's crib at the age of 18 months or earlier if it is possible. It is because they become dangerous if allowed to climb over them. This could result in accidents such as falling from the crib or the bed. If your baby has been swaddled since birth or is sleeping in a sleeping bag for infants, 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 development and growth. They are typically marked according to the baby's age. It is a great way to keep your family and friends updated about the progress of your child, as well capture some precious memories. The Monica + Andy Always Blanket is a beautiful double layer blanket that gives warmth and comfort, and is air-conditioned.
Easy to Assemble
A baby cot bed while one of the most important furniture pieces for nursery is also a significant investment. It is essential to select one that is elegant and robust. The most important consideration is that the cot needs to match the overall look of the baby's room. You should also consider whether the cot will convert to a toddler bed and, in the event that it does, how easy this is to accomplish.
When you are choosing a cot you should look for models with sturdy frames with sturdy rails, as well as smooth finishes. It is also recommended to stay clear of models with curving edges, which may pose a risk of strangulation. Also, make sure to follow the instructions of the manufacturer carefully, and avoid using any tool that can cause damage. Don't be afraid to seek help. Ask your friend or family member to help you.
Many cot beds come with matching furniture for your nursery, which can really pull the look of your room together. If you don't have the money for this there are plenty of good-quality standalone options to choose from. The Elementary cot-bed from John Lewis Anyday comes in white and is made of solid FSC pine, making it a durable option. It also has three mattress heights, which means it's suitable from birth and can be lowered when your child is ready to begin standing (usually at around 18 months).
Another option is the Scandi-style Coxley cot from Stokke that has a stunning hand-crafted feel and a neutral grey finish that suits any interior. It is simple to put together and can be inserted into doors with standard frames. This is perfect to move around the home. With the addition of a simple kit, it can be converted into a chic toddler bed in the bench-style. It's light enough to put in a carry bag when you go on vacation. Our panel of parents said it was "a dream to put together" and "looks beautiful". The parents also loved the fact that the base of the mattress can be moved either up or down, so you can keep your baby's head up throughout the day and stop them from rolling over at night.