Buying a Baby Cot Bed
Cot beds are a more durable option than cribs because they can be converted to an adult bed. They have removable sides and an end panel can be dropped to allow access to your child.
The majority of cots are suitable for use from birth until around 2 years or until your baby begins to climb out. Then you should switch to a junior bed.
4 Walls
Cot beds provide an ideal and safe space for your baby to rest in at night or during naptime. They feature high walls or rails to stop your baby from falling out, and most feature adjustable mattress heights that can be adjusted as your baby grows. A cot bed is perfect for toddlers and infants alike. There are many cot bed models, ranging from the basic and affordable to those that come with a variety of features. Ultimately, cheap cot bed comes down to your family's requirements and budget.
Anyone who is a new parent will discover it essential to make the right decision when choosing a baby's sleeping arrangement. You need to ensure that your baby is safe and safe. It must also be a place you can stay in for a long period of time. While cots are ideal for infants but they're also quite small and can be difficult to fit into smaller spaces. They're also only usually suitable for use until 18 months. A cot-bed is a more durable alternative and can be easily transformed into a toddler bed or a smaller single bed.
If you're looking for a value, versatile cot we suggest the Snuz Cot Bed. This is a simple but sturdy cot that comes with a large hood which shields your child from the sun and wind. It also features a handy storage space at the bottom of the cot, so that you can keep bedding and other items close at hand.
Another option is an alternative is the CuddleCo Nola Convertible Cot. The cot is designed to be a traditional cot and can be transformed into an infant bed or one bed, because of an extension kit that is available separately. It has three handy mattress heights, meaning you can keep the mattress high up for newborns and small babies, and then lower it as your child gets older.
The final option is a travel cot. They're only suitable for short-term use and don't provide the same level support as a regular bed. They usually have mattresses that aren't as strong or as thick as the traditional ones. They can be a great alternative to a standard cot while you travel however, it's important to remember that they'll only last a few years at most before your child is ready to move on to an even bigger bed.
Protect your mattress from water with a waterproof mattress
Many parents spend lots of time and effort selecting the right cot, but pay no attention to the mattress that your baby will sleep on. This is an essential purchase for your baby. We recommend investing in an organic cotton crib.
You will want to make sure that your baby's cot bed is not cluttered with toys, pillows or blankets. They can impede the airflow around your child. It is also important to keep the cot or bed free of any heaters, radiators windows, cables, and plug sockets.
The Mamas & Papas Franklin Cot Bed is a popular choice among our mom testers. It comes in four colours and the design appears like it'll last a long time. It can also be transformed into a toddler's bed, so that your baby can use the crib until they are four years old.
Another cot with great design and value is the SnuzFino Classic Cot Bed (PS695 Mother & Baby). Our mum testers were amazed by its sleek design, stating that it was "simple but elegant and will stand the long-term". It's designed to grow with your child. It comes with two different height settings so that you can put your baby in a higher position and lower it when they're able to sit up on their own.
When choosing a cot, it is important to keep in 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 that your baby cannot escape from the cot, or get trapped between the mattress and the slats. It is also recommended to use mattress protectors that are 100 100% cotton and GOTS Certified Organic, to ensure it is soft and breathable but completely waterproof and to avoid any unwanted leaks!
If you'd prefer something more modern, the SNOO Baby Cot Smart Sleeper (PS355, Cuckooland) is a great choice. It's a clever piece of kit which has an app for mobile devices, a weaning features and access to sleep experts and much more. But, it's costly and could be out of the budget for many parents.
Blankets at The End
If you are planning to let your baby sleep in a crib or cot with a blanket, be sure to have enough extras to clean them regularly. This will keep the sheets from becoming too soiled and uncomfortable for your little one and also help to keep their bedding clean and fresh. Three to four sets of sheets should be enough.
A high-quality set of organic muslin blankets allows you to change the sheets frequently without worrying about them getting too dirty. They also breathe and help keep your baby's skin healthy and happy. You can choose from a variety of sizes and shades to find the best one for your baby.
The best baby blankets are soft and comfortable, yet airy. You don't want blankets that are too heavy and bulky as it could pose an obstructive risk to your baby. A blanket made from organic cotton muslin is ideal because it is light and breathable. Another good alternative is a thermal blanket. 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 18 months of age or earlier if it is possible. This is because they could become dangerous if allowed to climb on them, leading to accidents, such as falling from the crib or bed. If your baby has been swaddled since birth or is sleeping in a sleeping bag designed for infants, you might want to keep the blanket until they are able to switch to a duvet.
Many parents utilize milestone blankets to track their child's progress and growth. These blankets are typically marked in accordance with the child's age. This is a great way to keep your family and friends informed of your baby's progress, as well as capture precious moments. The Monica + Andy Always Blanket is a beautiful double layer blanket that gives warmth and coziness, and is comfortable and breathable.
Easy to Assemble
While a cot for a baby is one of the most essential pieces of nursery furniture, it's also a substantial investment. It's worth the effort to choose the one that looks attractive as it is durable and practical. The most important factor to consider is that the cot must be in keeping with the overall style of the baby's room. It is also important to think about whether the cot could be converted to a toddler bed and, in the event that it does, how easy it is to accomplish.
When selecting a cot, ensure that it has solid frames, sturdy rails and smooth surfaces. Avoid models that have curved corners, because they could pose the risk of strangulation. Make sure you read the instructions of the manufacturer and avoid using any tools that could cause harm. Don't be shy to ask for help. It's usually easier to get things done when it's done with two people, so you can ask your partner or family member to assist you.
Many cribs come with matching furniture for the nursery that can really bring the design of your room together. However, if you don't have the money 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 in a contemporary white finish and is constructed out of solid FSC pine to provide a long-lasting option. It also comes with three mattress height positions so it's suitable for use starting from birth. It can also be lowered when your child is ready to begin standing (usually at about 18 months).).
The Stokke Coxley cot is a fantastic option. It comes with an unassuming grey finish and a handcrafted feel that will suit any interior. It's simple to put together and fits into doors with standard frames, which is useful when you need to shift it around your home. It can also be converted into a chic bench-style toddler bed with the addition of a basic kit. It's lightweight enough to fit in a carry bag when you go on vacation. Parents who were part of our panel said that it was "easy to assemble" and "looks gorgeous". The parents also loved the fact that the base of the mattress can be moved either up or down, allowing you to keep your baby's head up during nap time and prevent them from falling over in the night.