See What Baby Cot Bed Tricks The Celebs Are Using
Buying a Baby Cot Bed
Cot beds are a more durable option than cribs because they can be converted to a toddler bed. They also have removable sides as well as an end panel that can be pulled down to allow access to your child.
The majority of cribs are suitable for use from birth to around 2 years old or until your baby starts trying to climb out. Then you should switch to a junior bed.
4 Walls
Cot beds are an ideal and safe space for your baby to sleep in at night or even during naptime. They feature high walls or rails that prevent your baby from falling, and many come with adjustable mattress heights. This makes a Mini Cot Bed bed suitable for toddlers and infants alike. There are a variety of cot bed models that range from the simple and affordable to those with many additional features. The final decision comes down to the family's budget and requirements.
Selecting the best baby sleeping arrangement is a crucial decision for any new parent. You want to ensure that your baby is secure and comfortable and have an area that can be used for a long time. While cots are great for newborns however, they're also very compact and may be difficult to fit 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 can be easily converted into a toddler or a small single bed.
Snuz Cot Bed is a multi-functional, high-value cot. This is a basic but sturdy cot that comes with an extra deep hood which shields your child from the elements of wind and sun. It also has a storage space at the end, so you can store bedding and other necessities.
CuddleCo Nola Convertible Cot is another good option. It's a traditional cot sales and can be turned into a toddler bed or even as a single bed because of an extension kit that is available separately. It has three mattress heights so you can alter it according to your child's age.
The last alternative is a travel cot. These are typically intended for short-term use and may not provide the same degree of support as the standard cot. Additionally, they usually come with mattresses that aren't as strong or as thick as the standard one. They can be a good alternative to a standard cot while you're travelling, but it's worth remembering that they'll only last for a few years at most before your child is ready to move on to a bigger bed.
Waterproof Mattress Protector
A lot of thought goes into buying a cot, however less consideration is given to the mattress that your baby will sleep on. This is an essential purchase for your baby. We recommend buying organic cotton bedding for your baby.
It is important to ensure that the crib is free of blankets, toys, or pillows. They can impede the airflow around your child. Also, keep the cot or bed free of any heaters, radiators windows, plug sockets, and cables.
The Mamas&Papas Franklin Cot Bed is a very popular choice for our mum testers. It is available in four different colors and has beautiful design that looks like it's built to last for a long time. It is also able to be converted into a toddler's bed, to allow your baby to use the crib up to four years old.
The SnuzFino Classic Cot Bed is another cot with great style and value (PS695, Mother&Baby). Our mom testers loved its sleek design and stated that it was "simple but stylish and will stand the test of time". It's designed to grow with your child, too. It comes with two levels of height for the mattress so that you can keep your newborn raised and then lower it once they start to sit up without assistance.
It is crucial to remember that the mattress should not have a gap larger than 25mm (1") between it and the edges and sides of the cot. This is to ensure your baby can't climb out of the cot or become trapped between the mattress and slats. It is also recommended to make sure to use a mattress protector that is 100% cotton and GOTS certified Organic, to ensure it is soft and breathable but completely waterproof and to prevent any leaks!
Alternatively, if you prefer a high-tech option, then the SNOO Baby Cot Smart Sleeper (PS355, Cuckooland) is a great choice. It's an innovative piece of kit which has an app for mobile devices, a weaning features, access to sleep consultants and much more. It's costly and not accessible to many parents.
Blankets at the End of the Road
If you're planning to allow your baby to sleep in a cot or crib with a blanket, make sure to have enough bedding so you can clean them regularly. This will keep the sheets clean and fresh and prevent them from becoming dirty and uncomfortable for your baby. Three to four sheets is enough.
You can change your sheets more frequently with a set of organic muslin bedding. They also breathe, which helps to 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 blankets for babies are soft and cozy but also breathable. You don't want blankets that are heavy and bulky as it could create the risk of suffocation to your baby. A blanket made of organic cotton muslin is a great choice because it is lightweight and comfortable to breathe. Another option is a thermal blanket. They are an excellent choice for balmy summer days when your baby will require a lightweight cover to keep them warm.
In general, it's recommended to stop using a blanket in your child’s crib by the age of 18 months or earlier, if you can. This is because they can be dangerous if allowed to climb them. This could result in accidents such as falling from the crib or the bed. If your baby has been swaddled since birth or is sleeping in a sleeping bag designed for babies, you might want to keep the blanket until they are ready to transition to a duvet.
Many parents utilize milestone blankets to track their child's growth and progress. These blankets are typically numbered according to the baby's age. 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 is warm and cozy, but also comfortable to wear.
Easy to Assemble
While a baby cot bed is among the most important furniture pieces for nursery but it's also a significant investment. It is essential to select a model which is both beautiful and sturdy. The most important consideration is that the cot should match the overall look of the room your baby is in. You should also consider if the cot can be converted into a bed for toddlers, and if it can, how easy it is to accomplish.
When choosing a cot, ensure that it has solid frames, solid rails, and smooth surfaces. Avoid models that have curved corners, as they can pose the risk of strangulation. Be sure to read the directions of the manufacturer and avoid using any tools that may cause damage. Don't be afraid to ask for help. Ask your friend or family member to assist you.
Many cribs come with matching furniture for the nursery that can help bring your room together. If you don't have the budget for this, there are many good-quality alternatives that can be used as a stand-alone. The Elementary cot bed from John Lewis' Anyday range is a good example. It comes with a modern white finish and is constructed from solid FSC pine for a durable choice. It comes with three mattress height options, meaning it is suitable for use 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).).
The Stokke Coxley cot is another great option. It has a neutral grey finish as well as a handmade feel that will suit any interior. It's easy to set up and can be inserted into door frames that are standard, which is useful when you have to move it around your home. It can also transform into a chic bench-style toddler bed with the addition of a basic kit. It's light enough to fit in its own carry bag for trips away. Our panel of parents said it was "a dream to put together" and "looks beautiful". The parents also liked the fact that the mattress's base can be moved up or down, so you can keep the baby's head raised during naps and stop them from falling over at night.