Buying a Baby Cot Bed
Cot beds are a more durable option than cribs because they can be converted into a toddler bed. They also come with removable sides and an end panel that can be lowered down to provide access to your child.
Most cots are suitable for use from birth to around 2 years, or until your baby starts trying to climb out. Then, you can switch to junior beds.
4 Walls
Cot beds are a safe and secure space for your baby to rest in at night or during nap time. They are equipped with high walls or rails to keep your baby from falling out, and a majority of them have adjustable mattress heights that can be adjusted as your child grows. This makes a cot bed perfect for infants and toddlers alike. There are a myriad of cot bed models, ranging from simple and inexpensive to those with many additional features. The choice ultimately is based on the family's budget and needs.
Choosing the right baby sleeping arrangement is a major choice for any new parent. You need to ensure that your baby is secure and safe. It must also be a place you can use for a prolonged period of time. While cots are great for newborns however, they're also very compact and can be difficult to fit into smaller spaces. They're generally only suitable for use up to 18 months. A cot bed is the best option for longer-term use and can easily be converted into a toddler or small single bed.
Snuz Cot Bed is a versatile, good-value cot. It's a sturdy, simple cot that has an extended hood to protect your baby from the elements of wind and sun. It has a storage space at the end, so you can put away bedding and other necessities.
Another good choice is the CuddleCo Nola Convertible Cot. It can be converted from a cot into single or toddler beds with the help of an extension kit that is available separately. It has three mattress heights, so you can adjust it to suit your child's age.
The last alternative is a travel cot. These are usually only suitable for short-term use and may not offer the same level of support as the standard cot. In addition, they typically have mattresses that aren't as strong or as thick as a standard one. Although they can be a good alternative to a standard mattress while traveling however, it is important to remember that your child will only use them for a few short years before he or she is ready to move on to a bigger bed.
Waterproof Mattress Protector
Many people spend much time and effort in choosing the right cot, but pay no attention to the mattress your baby will sleep on. It is among the most important purchases you make for your baby, and we recommend investing in a high-quality organic cotton baby mattress.
cot for sale will want to make sure that your baby's cot bed is free of blankets, pillows or toys. They can block the air flow around your child. Ideally, you will also place the cot bed away from heaters, radiators, windows as well as plug sockets and cables that could be risk.
If you are looking for a chic cot, the Mamas&Papas Franklin Cot Bed (PS375, Cuckooland) is one of the most popular choices among our mom testers. It comes in four colors and looks like it's going to last for an extended period of time. It can also convert into a toddler bed, so your baby can use it right up to the age of 4.
Another cot with excellent style and value is the SnuzFino Classic Cot Bed (PS695, Mother and Baby). Our mum testers were impressed by its sleek design, saying it was "simple but stylish and will stand the long-term". It is designed to grow with your child, too. It has two height settings for the mattress, so you can keep your baby raised and then lower it once they begin to sit up without assistance.
It is important to remember that the mattress should not have a gap of more than 25mm (1") between it and the edges and sides of the cot. This will ensure that your baby won't get out of the crib or get trapped between the slats on the mattress. It is also recommended to use a mattress protector that is 100 100% cotton and GOTS Certified Organic, so that it is breathable and soft but completely waterproof and to avoid any unwanted leaks!
If you prefer, you can choose a more advanced alternative and select the SNOO Smart Sleeper Baby Cot (PS355, Cuckooland). It's a smart piece of equipment that includes an app for mobile devices, a weaning features as well as access to sleep specialists and more. 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 crib or cot with a blanket, be sure to have enough extras to wash them frequently. This will keep the sheets clean and fresh and keep them from becoming too dirty and uncomfortable for your baby. Three to four sheets should be sufficient.
A good quality set of organic muslin blankets allows you to change the sheets frequently without worrying about them getting too dirty. They also breathe, which helps keep your baby's delicate skin healthy. They are available in various sizes and colors, so you can find the perfect ones for your baby's requirements.
The best blankets are soft comfortable and breathable. A blanket that is too 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 airy. A thermal blanket is another excellent option. These are perfect for those balmy summer days when your baby requires a light cover to keep them warm.
In general it is recommended that you do away with blankets in your child's cot at 18 months of age, or earlier if possible. This is because 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 child is used to sleeping with a blanket and has been covered from birth or sleeps in a baby sleep bag, you may want to leave the blanket in place until they are ready to transition to a duvet.
Many parents utilize a milestone blanket to mark their baby's growth and development, typically with numbers that reflect the age of the child. This is a great method to keep your family and friends informed of your baby's progress, as well as capture some precious moments. The Monica + Andy Always Blanket is a gorgeous double layer blanket that provides warmth and comfort while still being breathable.
Easy to Assemble
A baby cot bed although one of the most important pieces of nursery furniture is also a major investment. Therefore, it's worth the effort to choose the one that looks good as it is sturdy and practical. The most important thing to consider is that the cot should be in harmony with the overall design of the room your baby is in. You'll also want to consider whether the cot can be converted to a toddler bed and if so, how easy it is to do.
When selecting a cot, ensure that it has robust frames, sturdy rails, and smooth surfaces. It is also recommended to stay clear of models with curving edges, which could be a source of strangulation. Also, make sure to follow the manufacturer's directions carefully, and never use any tool that could cause damage. Don't be shy to ask for help. Assembly is usually easier when it's done with two people, so ask your partner or a family member to help you.
Many cribs come with matching furniture for the nursery which can help connect your room. If you don't want to spend the cost, there are a number of high-quality standalone options. The Elementary cot bed from John Lewis' Anyday range is a good example. It comes in a modern white finish and is made out of solid FSC pine, which is a sturdy choice. It comes with three mattress options, meaning it can be used from the age of. It can also be adjusted to lower the height once your child is ready to start standing (usually around 18 months).
Another great alternative is the Scandi-style Coxley cot by Stokke, which has a beautiful hand-crafted feel and a neutral grey finish that suits any decor. It's easy to put together and can be inserted into doors that have standard doorframes. It is ideal to move around the house. It can also transform into a stylish bench-style toddler bed with the addition of a basic kit. It's also light enough to be transported in its own bag for trips away. Our panel of parents said it was "a dream to put together" and "looks gorgeous". The parents also liked the fact that the mattress's base can be moved up and down, which means you can keep your baby's head up during naps and stop them from rolling over in the night.