See What Baby Cot Bed Tricks The Celebs Are Using
Buying a Baby Cot Bed
Cot beds can be transformed into toddler beds, which makes them a better long-term option than cribs. They have removable sides, and an end panel that can be dropped to allow access to your child.
Most cots can be used from birth to approximately 2 years old, or until your child begins to attempt to climb out. Then, you should switch to junior beds.
4 Walls
Cot beds are a safe and secure space for your baby to rest in at night or during naptime. They have high walls or rails that prevent your child from falling, and many have adjustable mattress heights. A cot bed is perfect for toddlers as well as infants. There are many cot bed models, ranging from simple and inexpensive to those that come with a variety of features. The choice ultimately depends on the family's budget and needs.
Every new parent will find it important to make the right decision in deciding on a baby's sleep arrangement. You want to make sure that your child is safe and comfortable, as well as having an area that can be used for a long time. While cots and tots can be a great crib option for infants and are small but they can also be difficult to squeeze into smaller spaces. They're also only usually suitable for use until 18 months. A cot-bed is a more durable alternative and can be easily transformed into a toddler bed or small single bed.
If you're looking for a value cot that is versatile we suggest the Snuz Cot Bed. This is a sturdy, simple crib with an extended hood that can shield 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.
Another option is an alternative is the CuddleCo Nola Convertible Cot. This cot 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 different mattress heights, so you can keep the mattress up for infants and infants, and then lower it as your child gets older.
The final option is a travel cot. They're only suitable for short-term use and may not provide the same level support like a traditional bed. Additionally, they usually come with mattresses that aren't as strong or as thick as a standard cot. They can be a useful alternative to a standard cot when you travel, but it's worth remembering that they'll only last several years before your child is ready for an even bigger bed.
Protect your mattress from water with a waterproof mattress
Often a lot of thought is put into buying a cot, however little thought is given to the mattress that your baby will sleep on. It is among the most important purchases you will make for your baby. we recommend purchasing a high-quality organic cotton baby mattress.
Recent research has revealed that restricted airflow could be the cause of SIDS and SUDI, you'll need to ensure your baby's bed is free from toys, pillows, blankets, muslin cloths or cot bumpers that can restrict the flow of air around your baby. You should also keep the bed or cot 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 the design appears like it'll last a long time. It can also be converted into a toddler bed, which means your baby can use it right up until the age of 4.
Another cot with excellent style and value is the SnuzFino Classic Cot Bed (PS695, Mother&Baby). Our mum testers were impressed by its sleek design, saying it was "simple but elegant and will stand the long-term". It is designed to grow with your child and has two height settings for the mattress, so you can keep your baby raised and then lower it when they begin to sit up unaided.
It is essential to keep in mind that the mattress shouldn't have a gap of more than 25mm (1") between it and the ends 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. Use a mattress cover that is 100 organic cotton and GOTS certified to ensure it is breathable, soft and waterproof.
Alternatively, you could opt for a more high-tech option and choose the SNOO Smart Sleeper Baby Cot (PS355, Cuckooland). It's an innovative piece of kit which has an app that is mobile, a weaning features and access to sleep experts and much more. It's expensive and is out of reach for many parents.
Blankets at The End
If you are planning to allow your baby to sleep in a cot or a crib with a blanket, make sure to have enough bedding to clean them regularly. This will stop the sheets from becoming too soiled and uncomfortable for your child, as well as help to keep their bed clean and fresh. A minimum of three or four sets is sufficient.
A high-quality set of organic muslin blankets allows you to wash the sheets regularly without worrying about them getting too dirty. They also breathe and help keep your baby's skin healthy and happy. They are available in a variety of sizes and colors and sizes, so you can choose the perfect one for your baby's requirements.
The most comfortable blankets are soft, comfortable and comfortable. A blanket that is heavy and bulky could cause your baby to suffocate. A blanket made from organic cotton muslin is the best crib newborn choice, as it is light and breathable. Another alternative is a blanket that is thermal. They are ideal for those hot summer days when your Baby Crib requires an easy-to-wear cover that will keep them warm.
Generally speaking it is recommended you stop using blankets in your child's crib when they reach the age of 18 months or earlier if you can. This is because they can be dangerous if children are allowed to climb them. This can lead to accidents like falling out of the crib or bed. If your child has been swaddled since birth or is sleeping in a sleeping bag for babies, you may wish to keep the blanket until they are ready to transition to a duvet.
Many parents use milestone blankets to mark the development and growth of their child, typically with numbers that represent the age of the child. This is a great method to keep family and friends up-to-date on your baby's progress, as well as capture precious moments. The Monica + Andy Always Blanket has a double layer that's both warm and cozy, while also being airy.
Easy to Assemble
While a baby cot bed is one of the most essential furniture pieces for the nursery however, it's also an expensive investment. It is essential to select one that is beautiful and robust. The cot must match the decor of the room. It is also important to think about whether the cot will convert into a toddler bed, and If so, how simple this is to do.
When choosing a cot, make sure you choose a model with solid frames, sturdy rails and smooth finishes. Avoid models with curved corners because they can create a strangulation risk. Make sure you read the instructions provided by the manufacturer and avoid using any tools that could cause harm. Finally, don't be afraid to ask for assistance. Ask your friend or family member to help you.
Many cribs come with matching furniture for the nursery which can help make your room more cohesive. However, if you don't have the funds for this there are plenty of good-quality standalone options to choose from. The Elementary cot bed from John Lewis' Anyday range for instance, is available in a modern white finish and is constructed of solid FSC pine, which is a sturdy choice. It also comes with three mattress heights, which means it's suitable for use from birth and can be lowered when your child is ready to begin standing (usually at around 18 months).
The Stokke Coxley cot is another fantastic alternative. It has an unassuming grey finish and a handcrafted feel that will suit any room. It's simple to put together and fits through doors with standard frames which is helpful when you need to shift it around your home. It can also transform into a stylish bench-style toddler bed with the addition of a simple kit. It's light enough to fit into a bag for when you travel. Parents who were part of our panel agreed that it was "easy to assemble" and "looks stunning". They also appreciated the ability 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 rolling away at night.