Buying a Baby Cot Bed
Cot beds are a more long-term option than cribs since they can be converted into an adult bed. They also have removable sides and an end panel that can be dropped down to allow access to your child.
Most cots are suitable for use from birth to 2 years or until your child starts to climb out. Then you should switch to a junior bed.
4 Walls
Cot beds provide secure and safe for your baby to sleep in at night or during nap time. They are equipped with high walls or rails that stop your baby from falling and many come with adjustable mattress heights. This makes a cot bed ideal for toddlers and infants alike. There are a variety of cot bed models, which range from simple and inexpensive to those with many additional features. The final decision is based on the family's budget as well as their needs.
Any new parent will find it important to make the right choice when it comes to choosing a baby's sleeping arrangement. You need to ensure that your baby is secure and comfortable and have the space to be used for a long time. While cots can be great for infants and are small, they can also be difficult to accommodate in smaller spaces. In addition, they're typically only suitable for use until your child is 18 months old or that is. A crib-bed is a more sturdy alternative and can be easily converted into an infant bed or a small single bed.
If best cot beds looking for a value, versatile cot, we recommend the Snuz Cot Bed. It's a simple, but sturdy cot that comes with a hood that is extra-deep, which protects your baby from the elements of wind and sun. It also has a handy storage area at the top of the cot, so that you can keep bedding and other essentials close by.
CuddleCo Nola Convertible Cot is another good option. It can be converted from a cot to single or toddler beds with the help of an extension kit which is sold separately. It comes with three mattress heights so that you can keep the mattress up for infants and babies, before lowering it as your child gets older.
The last alternative is a travel cot. They are designed for use on short-term basis and might not offer the same level of support like a traditional bed. In addition, they often come with mattresses that aren't as strong or as thick as a standard one. They can be a useful alternative to a standard cot while you travel, but it's worth remembering that they'll only last for several years before your child is ready for a bigger bed.
Protect your mattress from water and dirt
Many parents spend a lot of time and effort selecting a cot, but pay little attention to the mattress your baby will sleep on. This is a very important purchase for your baby. We suggest investing in organic cotton bedding for your baby.
You will want to ensure that your baby's cot bed is free of blankets, toys, or pillows. They can block the airflow around your child. Ideally, you should place the cot bed away from radiators, heaters windows, plug sockets and cables that could pose a hazard.
If you are looking for a stylish cot that is stylish, the Mamas&Papas Franklin Cot Bed (PS375, Cuckooland) is a popular choice among our mom testers. It comes in four different colors and has beautiful design that looks like it's built to last for a long time. It can also be converted into a toddler bed, so your child can use it right up until the age of 4.
The SnuzFino Classic Cot Bed is another cot that has great style and value (PS695 Mother and Baby). Our mom testers were awed by its sleek design, saying it was "simple but elegant and will last the long-term". It's designed to grow along with your child. It comes with two different height settings, so you can increase the height of your baby and lower it when they are in a position to sit on their own.
When you are choosing a cot it is worth bearing in your mind that there should be no more than 25mm (1 inch) gap between the mattress and the cot's sides and ends. This will ensure that your child won't climb out of the crib or be trapped between the slats of the mattress. Choose a mattress cover that is 100 organic cotton and GOTS-certified to ensure that it is breathable, soft and waterproof.
Alternatively, if you prefer something more modern, the SNOO Baby Cot Smart Sleeper (PS355, Cuckooland) is an excellent choice. It's a smart kit that includes an app for mobile devices and a weaning function, and sleep experts. It's costly and not accessible to many parents.
Blankets at the End of The Road
If you're planning to let your baby sleep with blankets in their cot or crib be sure to have plenty of additional blankets to rotate through the wash. This will keep the sheets fresh and clean and prevent them from becoming dirty and uncomfortable for your baby. Three to four sets of sheets should be sufficient.
You can change your bedding more often with organic muslin bedding. They are also breathable and help keep your baby's skin healthy and happy. You can pick from a wide range of sizes and colors to find the right one for your baby.
The best baby blankets are soft and cosy, yet ventilated. You don't want a blanket that is too heavy and bulky, as it could create the risk of suffocation to your baby. It is best to choose an organic blanket made of cotton muslin that is lightweight and breathable. Another good alternative is a blanket that is thermal. They are an excellent choice for warm summer days when your baby will need a light cover to keep them warm.
In general it is recommended you do away with blankets in your child's crib at 18 months of age, or earlier if possible. They can be dangerous if allowed to climb on them. This could lead to accidents such as falling out of the crib or in bed. If your child is swaddled from birth or is sleeping in a sleeping bag for babies, you may wish to keep the blanket until they are able to switch to a duvet.
Many parents utilize milestone blankets to mark the development and growth of their child usually with numbers that reflect the age of the child. This is a great method to keep family and friends informed of your baby's progress as well as capture precious moments. The Monica + Andy Always Blanket is a beautiful double layer blanket that provides warmth and comfort while still being breathable.
Easy to Assemble
While a baby cot bed is one of the most important furniture pieces for nursery, it's also a substantial investment. It's crucial to choose a model which is both beautiful and robust. The most important thing to consider is that the cot needs to be in keeping with the overall style of your baby's room. It is also important to think about whether the cot will convert to a toddler bed and in the event that it does, how easy this is to do.
When choosing a cot look for models that have solid frames, sturdy rails, and smooth finishes. It is also recommended to stay clear of models with curving edges, which may pose a risk of strangulation. Be sure to follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer and avoid using any tools that could cause damage. Finally, don't be afraid to seek help. It's usually easier to get things done when you have two people, so ask your spouse or a family member to assist you.
Many co-occurring beds are paired with furniture for your nursery, which can really pull the style of your room together. However, if you don't have the money for this, there are many good-quality standalone options available. The Elementary cot bed from John Lewis' Anyday range, for example, comes with a modern white finish and is made from solid FSC pine, which is a sturdy choice. It also has three mattress height positions so it's suitable for use starting from the time of birth and can be adjusted when your child is ready to begin standing (usually at around 18 months).
Another great option is the Scandi-style Coxley cot from Stokke It has a stunning hand-crafted feel and a neutral grey color that is perfect for any interior. It's easy to assemble and fits into standard door frames and is ideal in the event that you need to move it around your home. With the addition of an easy kit that can transform it into a chic toddler bed in a bench style. It's light enough to put in a bag to carry when you go on vacation. Parents who took part in our panel remarked that it was "easy to put together" and "looks beautiful". They also appreciated the fact that you are able to change the position of the base of the mattress up or down to keep your baby's head elevated throughout the day and keep them from falling asleep at the end of the night.