See What Baby Cot Bed Tricks The Celebs Are Using
Buying a Baby Cot Bed (Sovren noted)
Cot beds can be converted to toddler beds, making them a better long-term option than cribs. They have removable sides, and an end panel can be dropped to allow access to your child.
The majority of cribs can be used from birth until around 2 years old or until your baby begins to climb out. Then, you can change to junior beds.
4 Walls
Cot beds offer a safe and secure space for your baby to sleep in at night or during nap time. They feature high walls or rails to stop your child from falling out, and most feature adjustable mattress heights that can be lowered as your child grows. A cot bed is ideal for toddlers as well as infants. There are many cot bed models that range from the basic and affordable to models with numerous additional features. In the end, it comes down to the needs of your family and the budget you have set.
Choosing the right baby sleeping arrangement is a major choice for any new parent. You need to ensure that your baby is comfortable and safe. It must also be a space you can stay in for a prolonged period of time. While online cots can be great for infants and are small however, they can be difficult to squeeze into smaller spaces. In addition, they're generally only suitable for use until your child is 18 months old or that is. A cot-bed is a more durable option and can easily be converted into a toddler bed or small single bed.
If you're looking to buy a low-cost, versatile cot we suggest the Snuz Cot Bed. It's a sturdy and simple crib with an extended hood that can protect your baby from the elements of wind and sun. It has a storage area at the end, where you can keep bedding and other items.
Another option is an alternative is the CuddleCo Nola Convertible Cot. It can be converted from a cot to single or toddler beds by using an extension kit which is sold separately. It comes with three mattress heights, so you can keep the mattress up for infants and babies, before lowering it down as your child grows older.
The final alternative is a travel bed. They are typically only suitable for temporary use and don't provide the same level of support as a standard cot. Additionally, they usually come with mattresses that aren't as firm or as thick as a standard cot. While they can be a great alternative to a traditional bed when you are travelling but it is important to keep in mind that your child will only be using them for a couple of years before they is ready for a larger bed.
Waterproof Mattress Protector
Many parents spend lots of time and effort selecting a cot, but pay little focus on the mattress your baby will be sleeping on. This is a very important purchase for your baby. We recommend investing in an organic cotton baby bed.
As new research shows airflow restriction could be a reason for SIDS and SUDI, you will need to ensure your baby's bed is free of pillows, toys, blankets, muslin cloths or cot bumpers that can restrict the circulation of air around your little one. Ideally, you will also place the cot bed away from radiators, heaters, windows plug sockets, and cables that could create danger.
If you are 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 features a beautiful design that looks like it's going to stand the test of time. It can also be converted into a toddler bed, so your child can use it to the age of 4.
Another cot with great style and value is the SnuzFino Classic Cot Bed (PS695, Mother & Baby). Our mom testers were impressed by its sleek design and stated that it was "simple but stylish and will stand the test of time". It's designed to grow along with your child and has two different height settings so that you can raise your newborn and lower it once they are capable of sitting on their own.
It is essential to keep in mind that the mattress shouldn't have a gap greater than 25mm (1") between it and the edges and sides of the cot. This will ensure that your baby can't climb out of the crib or be trapped between the slats on the mattress. Use a mattress cover that is made of 100% organic cotton and GOTS certified to ensure it is breathable, soft and waterproof.
If you'd rather something more modern, the SNOO Baby Cot Smart Sleeper (PS355, Cuckooland) is an excellent choice. It's a great kit that includes an app for mobile devices and a weaning function, as well as access to sleep specialists. It's costly and out of reach for many parents.
Blankets at the End of the Road
If you're planning on letting your baby sleep on blankets in their crib or cot be sure to have plenty of additional blankets to rotate through the wash. This will keep the sheets clean and fresh and keep them from becoming too dirty and uncomfortable for your baby. Three to four sets of sheets should be enough.
You can change your bedding more often by using organic muslin bedding. They also breathe, which will help keep your baby's delicate skin healthy. They are available in various sizes and colors and sizes, so you can choose the perfect ones for your baby's requirements.
The best blankets are soft, comfortable and comfortable. You don't want blankets that are too heavy and bulky, as it could pose the risk of suffocation to your baby. A blanket made from organic cotton muslin is ideal because it is lightweight and comfortable to breathe. Another good cribs alternative is a blanket that is thermal. These are perfect for those warm summer days when your baby requires an easy-to-wear cover that will keep them warm.
In general, it is recommended that you do away with blankets in your child's crib when they reach the age of 18 months or earlier if it is possible. They can be risky if children climb them. This can lead to accidents such as falling from the crib or bed. If your child has been swaddled since birth or is sleeping in a sleeping bag specifically designed for babies, you might want to keep the blanket until they are ready to switch to a duvet.
Many parents use milestone blankets to record their child's development and growth. They are typically marked in accordance with the baby's age. This is a great way to keep your family and friends updated on your baby's progress, and also capture precious moments. The Monica + Andy Always Blanket is a beautiful double layer blanket that offers warmth and comfort and is breathable.
Easy to Assemble
While a baby cot bed is one of the most important furniture pieces for the nursery, it's also a substantial investment. Therefore, it's worth taking time to select one that looks as appealing as it is strong and practical. The most important factor to consider is that the cot should be in keeping with the overall style of the baby's room. You should also consider whether the cot could be converted into a toddler bed, and if so, how easy this is to do.
When selecting a cot you should choose a cot with robust frames, sturdy rails and smooth edges. Avoid models that have curved corners, as they can pose strangulation risks. Also, be sure to follow the instructions of the manufacturer carefully, and never use any tools that could cause harm. Don't be shy to ask for help. Ask your family or friend member to assist you.
Many cribs come with matching furniture for the nursery which can help pull the look of your room together. However, if you don't have the money for this you can find numerous high-quality alternatives that can be used as a stand-alone. The Elementary cot-bed from John Lewis Anyday comes in white with solid FSC pine, which makes it a durable option. It comes with three mattress height settings, which means it can be used right from the time of birth. It can also be removed when your child is ready to start standing (usually around 18 months).
Another great alternative is the Scandi-style Coxley cot from Stokke that is a gorgeous hand-crafted look and a neutral grey finish that will suit any interior. It is easy to assemble and fits into standard doorframes. This is great to move around the home. It can also be converted into a chic 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. Parents who took part in our panel remarked that it was "easy to put together" and "looks beautiful". Parents also appreciated the fact that the mattress's base can be moved up or down, allowing you to keep the baby's head raised during nap time and prevent them from falling over at night.