See What Baby Cot Bed Tricks The Celebs Are Using
Buying a Baby Cot Bed
Cot beds are a more long-term choice than cribs as they can be converted into a toddler bed. They have removable sides, and the end panel can be removed to provide access to your child.
Most cots can be used from birth until around 2 years old or until your child starts to want to climb out. Then, you can switch to a junior bed.
4 Walls
Cot beds offer a safe, secure place for your baby to sleep or rest during the night. They have high walls or rails to prevent your baby from slipping out, and a majority of them have adjustable mattress heights that can be adjusted as your child grows. This makes a cot bed ideal for infants and toddlers alike. There are a variety of cot bed models that range from simple and inexpensive to models with numerous additional features. The choice ultimately depends on the family's budget and requirements.
Anyone who is a new parent will discover it crucial to make the right choice in deciding on a baby's sleep arrangement. You want to make sure that your baby is safe and secure. It must also be a place you can stay in for a long period of time. While cots to tots are great for infants and are small but they can also be difficult to accommodate in smaller spaces. In addition, they're typically not suitable until your child reaches the age of 18 months or that is. A cot-bed is a much more durable option and can easily be converted into a toddler bed or small single bed.
If you're looking for a good-value cot that is versatile we suggest the Snuz Cot Bed. It's a sturdy, simple cot that has an extended hood that can shield your baby from wind and sun. It has a storage area towards the end, so you can put away bedding and other items.
CuddleCo Nola Convertible Cot is another option. It's a traditional cot but can be transformed into an infant bed or one bed, due to an extension kit, which is available separately. It has three handy mattress heights, so you can keep the mattress high up for newborns and small babies, before lowering it as your child grows older.
The final alternative is a travel cot. They are designed for short-term usage and don't provide the same level of support as a regular bed. They usually come with mattresses which aren't as strong or as thick as the standard ones. They can be a good alternative to a standard cot while you travel but you should remember that they'll only last for just a few years before your child is ready for a bigger bed.
Protect your mattress from water and dirt
Many people spend a lot of time and effort choosing a cot but pay less focus on the mattress your baby will be sleeping on. This is one of the most important purchases you make for your baby, and we suggest investing in a good quality organic cotton baby mattress.
It is important to ensure that your baby's crib is free of blankets, toys, or pillows. They can impede the air flow around your child. It is recommended to position the cot or cot bed away from heaters, radiators, windows as well as plug sockets and cables that could pose danger.
If you're seeking a stylish cot the Mamas & Papas Franklin Cot Bed (PS375, Cuckooland) is a popular choice among our mom testers. It is available in four different colors and has a lovely design that looks like it's going to stand the test of time. It can also be converted into a toddler bed which means your baby can use it right up until the age of 4.
Another cot with great design and value is the SnuzFino Classic Cot Bed (PS695 Mother&Baby). Our mum testers loved its sleek design and stated that it was "simple yet elegant and will last for a long time". It's designed to develop with your child. It has two different height settings so you can put your baby in a higher position and lower it when they're in a position to sit on their own.
It is important to remember that the mattress shouldn't have a gap of more than 25mm (1") between it and the sides and ends of the cot. This is to ensure your baby is not able to get out of the best cot bed, or get trapped between the mattress and the slats. Use a mattress cover that is 100 organic cotton and GOTS certified to ensure it is soft, breathable and waterproof.
You can also opt for a more high-tech option and choose the SNOO Smart Sleeper Baby Cot (PS355, Cuckooland). It is a clever kit that includes a mobile application and a weaning function, and sleep experts. However, it is expensive and might be out of budget for many parents.
Blankets at the End of The Road
If you plan to let your baby sleep in a cot or crib with a blanket, be sure to have enough bedding so you can clean them regularly. This will keep sheets from becoming excessively soiled and uncomfortable for your little one, as well as help to keep their bed clean and fresh. A minimum of three or four sets is sufficient.
A good quality set of organic muslin blankets allows you to wash the sheets regularly without worrying about them becoming too dirty. They also breathe and help keep your baby's skin healthy and happy. They are available in different sizes and colors which means you can find the perfect ones for your baby's requirements.
The best crib newborn blankets for babies are soft and comfortable but also ventilated. You don't want a blanket that is too heavy and bulky as it could cause the risk of suffocation to your baby. It is recommended to select a blanket made of organic cotton muslin, which is breathable and lightweight. A thermal blanket is another good alternative. They are an excellent choice for balmy summer days when your baby will require a light cover to keep them warm.
In general, it's advised to remove blankets in your child's crib by the age of 18 months or earlier, if you can. This is because they can become dangerous if allowed to climb onto them, leading to accidents like falling out of bed or the crib. If your child is used to sleeping with blankets and is wrapped from birth or is sleeping in a baby sleeping bag then you might want to keep 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 using numbers that reflect the age of the child. It is a great way to keep family and friends up-to-date on your baby's progress as well as capture precious moments. The Monica + Andy Always Blanket is a stunning double layer blanket that gives warmth and coziness, and is comfortable and breathable.
Easy to Assemble
While a baby cot bed is one of the most important pieces of nursery furniture however, it's also an expensive investment. As such, it's worthwhile to take the time to choose one that looks as attractive as it is durable and practical. The most important consideration is that the cot must be in keeping with the overall style of the room your baby is in. You'll also want to consider whether the cot bed sales will convert to a toddler bed and if so, how easy it is to do.
When you are choosing a cot you should select a model with robust frames with sturdy rails, as well as smooth finishes. It is also recommended to stay clear of models with curving edges, which could be a source of strangulation. Be sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully, and avoid using any tool that could cause harm. Don't be shy to ask for assistance. Assembly is generally easier when you have two people, so make sure to ask your partner or family member to help you.
Many co-occurring beds are paired with nursery furniture, which can really pull the style of your room together. If you don't have the budget for this you can find plenty of good-quality standalone options to choose from. The Elementary Mini Cot Bed-bed from John Lewis Anyday comes in white with solid FSC pine, making it a sturdy 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 start standing (usually at about 18 months).).
The Stokke Coxley cot is a excellent alternative. It has an unassuming grey finish and a handmade look that is perfect for any decor. It's easy to put together and can be inserted into doors that have standard doorframes. This is great for moving around the house. With the addition of an easy kit that can transform it into a chic toddler bed in a bench style. It's light enough to fit in its own carry bag for trips away. Our panel of parents agreed that it was "a dream to put together" and "looks beautiful". The parents also liked the fact that the base of the mattress can be moved either up or down, which means you can keep your baby's head up during nap time and prevent them from falling over at night.