See What Baby Cot Bed Tricks The Celebs Are Using
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 have removable sides and an end panel that can be removed to provide access to your child.
Most cribs beds are suitable for use from birth to 2 years old or until your baby begins to climb out. Then you should switch to a junior bed.
4 Walls
Cot beds offer the safety and security for your baby to nap or rest during the night. They feature high walls or rails to prevent your baby from falling and many have adjustable mattress heights. A cot bed is suitable for toddlers as well as infants. There are a variety of cot bed models that range from the basic and affordable to those with many additional features. Ultimately, the decision comes down to your family's requirements and budget.
Selecting the best baby sleeping arrangement is a major decision for any new parent. You must make sure that your child is secure and comfortable and have the space to be used for a long 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 also only usually suitable for use from 18 months. A Mini Cot Bed bed is a better option for long-term use and can be easily converted into a toddler or a small single bed.
Snuz Cot Bed is a flexible, affordable cot. This is a simple but sturdy cot that comes with a large hood that shields your baby from the sun and wind. It also has a convenient storage space at the bottom of the cot, so that you can keep bedding and other essentials in a convenient place.
CuddleCo Nola Convertible Cot is another good option. This cot can be converted from a cot to single or toddler beds by using an extension kit that is available separately. It includes three different mattress heights so that you can alter it according to your child's age.
The final alternative is a travel cot. They're only suitable for short-term use and may not provide the same level of support as a standard bed. In addition, they typically have mattresses that aren't as sturdy or as thick as a standard cot. They can be a useful alternative to a standard cot if you travel but you should remember that they'll last only a few years at most before your child is ready to move on to a bigger bed.
Protect your mattress from water with a waterproof mattress
A lot of thought goes into buying a cot, however little thought is given to the mattress that your baby will sleep on. This is one of the most important purchases you will make for your baby, and we recommend investing in a good quality organic cotton baby mattress.
New research suggests that restricted airflow could be the cause of SIDS and SUDI, you will want to make sure your baby's bed is free of toys, pillows blankets, muslin cloths, blankets or cot bumpers that can hinder the flow of air around your baby. Also, keep the cot or bed clear of radiators, heaters, windows cable sockets, and plugs.
The Mamas&Papas Franklin Cot Bed is a popular choice among our mom testers. It is available in four colors and features a an attractive design that appears 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 4.
Another cot with excellent style and value is the SnuzFino Classic Cot Bed (PS695 Mother & cheap baby cots). Our mom testers were awed by its sleek design, saying it was "simple but stylish and will stand the test of time". It's designed to grow along with your child. It has two different height settings so you can raise your newborn and lower it once they are capable of sitting on their own.
When selecting a cot it is important to keep in the mind that there should not be more than 25mm (1 inch) gap between the mattress and the cot's sides and ends. This will ensure that your baby can't climb out of the crib or be trapped between the mattress slats. It is also recommended to use a mattress protector that is 100 100% cotton and GOTS Certified Organic, so that it's breathable and soft but totally waterproof and to prevent any leaks!
If you'd rather something more modern, the SNOO Baby Cot Smart Sleeper (PS355, Cuckooland) is a great choice. It's a smart product that comes with an app for mobile devices and a weaning function, as well as access to sleep specialists. However, it's expensive and might be out of budget for many parents.
Blankets at The End
If you are planning to let your baby sleep in a cot or a crib with a blanket, make sure to have enough bedding so you can wash them regularly. This will keep sheets from becoming excessively dirty and uncomfortable for your child as well as helping to keep their bed clean and fresh. Three to four sets of sheets should be sufficient.
You can change your bedding more frequently with organic muslin bedding. They are also breathable, which helps to keep your baby's skin healthy and happy. They are available in a variety of sizes and colours, so you can find the perfect one for your baby's needs.
The most comfortable blankets are soft, warm and comfortable. A blanket that is bulky and heavy could cause your baby to suffocate. A blanket made from organic cotton muslin is a great choice because it is light and breathable. Another good alternative is a blanket that is thermal. They are ideal for those hot summer days, when your baby needs a lightweight cover that will keep them warm.
In general, it is recommended to stop using blankets in your child's cot by 18 months, or earlier if it is possible. This is because they can be dangerous if children are allowed to climb onto them, leading to accidents, such as falling out of bed or the crib. If your child has been swaddled since birth or is sleeping in a sleeping bag for babies, you might want to keep the blanket until they are able to switch to a duvet.
Many parents use milestone blankets to mark their child's growth and progress. These blankets are usually numbered according to the baby's age. It is a great way to keep your family and friends informed of your child's progress, and also 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 among the most essential furniture pieces for the nursery, it's also a substantial investment. It's worth taking time to select a model that looks as appealing as it is strong and practical. The cot should be in line with the look of the room. Also, you should consider if the cot could be transformed into a toddler bed and if so, how easy it is to do so.
When you are choosing a cot you should choose a cot that have sturdy frames solid rails and smooth finishes. Also, avoid models with curving edges, which could be a source of strangulation. Also, be sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully, and don't use any tools that could cause harm. Don't be shy about asking for help. It's usually easier to get things done when you have two people, so ask your partner or a family member to help you.
Many cots come with matching furniture for the nursery, which can help to connect your room. If you don't want to 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 comes in a white finish with solid FSC pine, making it a durable choice. It also comes with three mattress heights, which means it's suitable from birth. It can also be lowered when your child is ready to begin standing (usually at about 18 months).).
Another great alternative is the Scandi-style Coxley cot by Stokke, which is a gorgeous hand-crafted look and a neutral grey color that is perfect for any decor. It is simple to put together and can be inserted into doors with standard frames. This is great to move around the home. With the addition of an easy kit that can transform it into a chic toddler bed in the bench style. It's light enough to fit in a carry bag when you travel. Parents who took part in our panel said that it was "easy to assemble" and "looks beautiful". Parents also appreciated the fact that the base of the mattress can be moved up or down, so you can keep your baby's head elevated during naps and stop them from rolling over at night.