Buying a Baby Cot Bed
Cot beds can be transformed into toddler beds, making them a more durable option than cribs. They have removable sides, and an end panel can be removed to give access to your child.
The majority of cribs can be used from birth to 2 years old or until your baby starts trying to climb out. Then, you should change to junior beds.
4 Walls
Cot beds are secure and safe for your baby to sleep in at night or during naptime. They have high walls or rails to stop your baby from slipping out, and a majority of them have adjustable mattress heights that can be reduced as your baby grows. This makes a cot bed perfect for infants and toddlers alike. There are many cot bed models, ranging from the basic and affordable to those with many additional features. The choice ultimately is based on the family's budget and requirements.
Anyone who is a new parent will discover it crucial to make the right choice in deciding on a baby's sleep arrangement. You want to make sure that your baby is safe and secure. It should also be a space you can stay in for a prolonged 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 up to 18 months. A cot bed is a better choice for long-term use and is easily converted into a toddler or small single bed.
Snuz Cot Bed is a multi-functional, high-value cot. It's a sturdy and simple crib with an extended hood to protect your baby from the elements of wind and sun. It has a storage space at the end, where you can keep bedding and other necessities.
online cots is an alternative. This cot starts out as a traditional cot but can be transformed into a toddler bed or even as a single bed thanks to an extension kit, which is available separately. It has three handy mattress heights so that you can keep the mattress high up for newborns and small infants, and then lower it down as your child grows older.
The last alternative is a travel cot. They are only suitable for use on short-term basis and don't provide the same level of support like a traditional bed. In addition, they often have mattresses that aren't as sturdy or as thick as a standard one. While they may be a great alternative to a standard mattress when you are travelling but it is important to consider that your child will only use them for a few years before they is ready for a larger bed.
Protect your mattress from water with a waterproof mattress
A amount of thought is given to purchasing a cot, but less consideration is given to the mattress that your baby will sleep on. It is among the most important purchases you make for your baby, and we suggest investing in a good quality organic cotton baby mattress.
It is important to ensure that your baby's cot bed is not cluttered with blankets, toys, or pillows. They can block the airflow around your child. Also, ensure that the bed or cot is away from any radiators, heaters, windows, cables, and plug sockets.
The Mamas&Papas Franklin Cot Bed is a very popular choice for our mum testers. It is available in four different colors and has a lovely design that looks like it's built to endure the test of time. It also converts into a toddler bed so your child can use it until the age of four.
The SnuzFino Classic Cot Bed is another cot that is stylish and value (PS695 Mother and Baby). Our mum testers were amazed by its sleek design, and said it was "simple but stylish and will stand the long-term". It's designed to expand with your child too and comes with two levels of height for the mattress so that you can keep your baby elevated and then lower it once they start to sit up unaided.
When choosing a cot, it is important to keep 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 is to ensure your baby cannot escape from the cot or get trapped between the mattress and the slats. You should also always utilize a mattress protector that is 100 100% cotton and GOTS certified Organic, to ensure it is soft and breathable but also completely waterproof to stop any leaks!
If you prefer, you can go for a more technological option and opt for the SNOO Smart Sleeper Baby Cot (PS355, Cuckooland). It is a clever device that comes with an app that can be downloaded on mobile devices, a weaning feature, as well as access to sleep specialists. However, it's expensive and could 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 cot or a crib with a blanket, be sure to have enough bedding to wash them frequently. This will keep the sheets fresh and clean and prevent them from becoming dirty and uncomfortable for your baby. A minimum of three or four sets should suffice.
You can change your sheets 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 perfect one for your baby.
The most comfortable blankets are soft, cosy and airy. A blanket that is too heavy and bulky could cause your baby to drown. A blanket made from organic cotton muslin is ideal because it is light and comfortable to breathe. A thermal blanket is another good alternative. These are great for balmy summer days when your baby will need a lightweight cover to keep them warm.
In general, it is recommended that you remove blankets from your child's crib at 18 months of age or earlier if you can. They can become dangerous if they are allowed to climb on them, which could lead to accidents such as falls out of crib or bed. However, if your baby is used to sleeping with a blanket and has been covered from birth or sleeps in a baby sleeping bag, you may want to leave the blanket in place until they are ready to transition to a duvet.
Many parents use milestone blankets to mark their child's progress and growth. They are typically numbered in accordance with the child's age. This is a great method to keep family and friends updated on your baby's progress and also capture precious moments. The Monica + Andy Always Blanket has a double layer that is warm and cozy, yet airy.
Easy to Assemble
A baby cot bed while one of the most important furniture pieces for nursery is also a major investment. It's worth the effort to choose one that looks as appealing as it is strong and practical. The cot should match the look of the room. You'll also want to consider whether the cot will convert into a toddler bed, and if so, how easy this is to do.
When you are choosing a cot you should select a model that have sturdy frames solid rails and smooth finishes. Also, avoid models with curved edges which could pose a risk of strangulation. Make sure you read the instructions of the manufacturer and avoid using any tools that may cause damage. Don't be afraid to ask for assistance. Ask your partner or family member to help you.
Many cot beds come with matching furniture for your nursery, which can really pull the style of your room together. If you don't want spend the money, there are many good quality standalone options. The Elementary cot bed from John Lewis' Anyday range, for example, comes in a contemporary white finish and is constructed out of solid FSC pine for a durable option. It comes with three mattress height settings, so it is suitable for use from birth. It can also be removed when your child is ready for standing (usually around 18 months).).
Another alternative is the Scandi-style Coxley cot from Stokke that has a stunning hand-crafted feel and a neutral grey color that is perfect for any decor. It's easy to set up and can be inserted into door frames that are standard, which is useful when you need to shift it around your home. It can also transform into a chic, toddler bed using the addition of a simple kit. It's light enough to put in a bag to carry when you go on vacation. Parents who were part of our panel said that it was "easy to assemble" and "looks stunning". The parents also liked the fact that the mattress's base can be moved up and down, allowing you to keep your baby's head elevated during naps and stop them from falling over at night.