Buying a Baby Cot Bed
Cot beds are a more long-term choice than cribs as they can be transformed into an adult bed. They come with removable sides, and an end panel that can be removed to give access to your child.
Most cribs can be used from birth to 2 years or until your baby begins to climb out. Then, you can switch to junior beds.
4 Walls
Cot beds offer an ensconced, safe space for your baby to nap or rest at night. They feature high walls or rails that prevent your baby from falling and many come with adjustable mattress heights. This makes a cot bed suitable for infants and toddlers alike. There are a myriad of cot bed models that range from simple and inexpensive to models with numerous additional features. In the end, it is based on your family's requirements and budget.
Selecting the best baby sleeping arrangement is an important choice for any new parent. You must make sure that your child is secure and comfortable and have an area that can be used for a prolonged period of time. While cribs are great for babies, they're also quite compact and may be difficult to fit into smaller spaces. Additionally, they're only suitable for use up to the point that your child reaches 18 months or at the earliest. A cot bed is a better choice for long-term use and can easily be converted into a toddler or a small single bed.
Snuz Cot Bed is a versatile, good-value cot. This is a basic but sturdy cot that comes with an extra deep hood, which protects your baby from the sun and wind. It also has a storage space at the end, so you can keep bedding and other essentials.
Another option is an alternative is the CuddleCo Nola Convertible Cot. This cot starts out as a traditional cot but can be converted into a toddler bed or even a single bed, due to an extension kit that's sold separately. It has three mattress heights, so you can alter it to fit your child's age.
The last option is a travel cot. These are usually only suitable for short-term use, and may not provide the same degree of support as the standard cot. In addition, they typically come with mattresses that aren't as sturdy or as thick as a standard cot. They can be a useful alternative to a standard cot when you travel however, it's important to remember that they'll last only just a few years before your child is ready for larger beds.
Waterproof Mattress Protector
Many people spend much time and effort choosing a cot, but pay little focus on the mattress 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.
As new research shows airflow restriction could be the cause of SIDS and SUDI, you'll be looking to ensure that your baby's bed is free of pillows, toys, blankets, muslin cloths or cot bumpers that could restrict the flow of air around your little one. Ideally, top ranked cribs should position the cot or cot bed away from heaters, radiators, windows plug sockets, and cables that could be a hazard.
If you're seeking a stylish cot, the Mamas&Papas Franklin Cot Bed (PS375, Cuckooland) is one of the most popular choices among our mum testers. It comes in four colors and the design appears like it will last for an extended period of 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 that is stylish and value (PS695 Mother and Baby). Our mum testers were amazed by its sleek design, saying it was "simple but stylish and will stand the test of time". It's designed to expand with your child, too. It comes with two levels of height for the mattress, so you can keep your baby elevated and then lower it when they start to sit up without assistance.
When you are choosing a cot it is important to keep in the mind that there shouldn't be more than 25mm (1 inch) gap between the mattress and the cot sides and ends. This is to ensure your baby cannot climb out of the cot or become trapped between the mattress and slats. Choose a mattress cover that is made of 100% organic cotton and GOTS-certified to ensure that it is soft, breathable and waterproof.
If you'd prefer an option that is high-tech, then the SNOO Baby Cot Smart Sleeper (PS355, Cuckooland) is a great choice. It's a smart piece of kit which has an app for mobile devices, a weaning feature, access to sleep consultants and more. But, it's costly and may be out of reach for many parents.
Blankets at The End
If you plan to let your baby sleep in a cot or a crib with a blanket, be sure you have enough blankets to clean them regularly. This will stop sheets from becoming excessively soiled and uncomfortable for your little one as well as helping to keep their bed clean and fresh. Three to four sets of sheets should be sufficient.
A good quality set of organic muslin blankets can allow you to wash the sheets regularly without worrying about them becoming too dirty. They are also breathable, which helps keep your baby's delicate skin healthy. You can pick from a variety of sizes and shades to find the best one for your baby.
The best baby blankets are soft and cozy but also breathable. A blanket that is too bulky and heavy could cause your baby to suffocate. A blanket made from organic cotton muslin is ideal, as it is light and breathable. Another good alternative is a blanket that is thermal. These are great 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 the age of 18 months, or earlier if possible. It is because they become risky if children climb on them. This could result in accidents such as falling from the crib or in bed. However, if your baby is used to sleeping with blankets and is wrapped from birth or is sleeping in a baby sleep bag it is best to keep it in place 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 designated according to the age of the baby. This is a wonderful method to keep your family and friends updated about your baby's development and capture precious memories. The Monica + Andy Always Blanket is a stunning double layer blanket that provides warmth and coziness, while still being air-conditioned.
Easy to Assemble
While a baby cot bed is among the most important furniture pieces for the nursery, it's also a substantial investment. It's important to choose a model which is both attractive and durable. The most important consideration is that the cot must be in harmony with the overall design of the room your baby is in. Also, you should consider if the cot can be turned into a bed for toddlers, and if so be done, how simple it is to do so.
When choosing a cot look for models that have strong frames, sturdy rails, and smooth finishes. It is also recommended to stay clear of models with curved edges which could be a source of strangulation. Be sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully, and avoid using any tools that could cause damage. Don't be afraid to ask for help. Assembly is generally easier when it's done by two people, so make sure to ask your partner or family member to assist you.
Many cribs come with matching furniture for the nursery, which can help to connect your room. If you don't want spend the money, there are many good 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 from solid FSC pine to provide a long-lasting 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 start standing (usually at about 18 months).).
Another alternative is the Scandi-style Coxley cot from Stokke, which has a beautiful hand-crafted feel and a neutral grey finish that suits any interior. It's simple to put together and fits into standard door frames which is helpful in the event that you need to move it around your home. With the addition of a simple kit that can transform it into a stylish toddler bed in a bench-style. It's light enough to put into a bag for when you travel. Parents who took part in our panel agreed that it was "easy to assemble" and "looks gorgeous". The parents also loved the fact that the mattress's base can be moved up or down, which means you can keep your baby's head up during naps and stop them from falling over in the night.