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 an adult bed. They come with 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 to around 2 years or until your baby starts trying to climb out. Then, you can switch to a junior bed.
4 Walls
Cot beds are an ideal and safe space for your baby to rest in at night or during nap time. They have high walls or rails that stop your baby from falling, and many have adjustable mattress heights. This makes a cot bed suitable for toddlers and infants alike. There are a variety of cot beds to choose from, from simple and affordable models to those with extra features. The choice ultimately depends on the family's budget and needs.
Anyone who is a new parent will discover it essential to make the right decision when choosing a baby's sleeping arrangement. You want to make sure that your baby is comfortable and secure. It should also be a space you can stay in for a prolonged period of time. While cots are ideal for infants however, they're also very compact and may be difficult to fit into smaller spaces. They're also only usually suitable for use from 18 months. A cot bed is a better option for long-term use and can easily be transformed into a toddler bed or small single bed.
Snuz Cot Bed is a multi-functional, high-value cot. It's a simple, but sturdy cot that comes with an extra deep hood which shields your child from the elements of wind and sun. 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.
CuddleCo Nola Convertible Cot is an alternative. This cot can be converted from a cot to single or toddler beds by using an extension kit which is sold separately. It has three different mattress heights so that you can keep the mattress high up for newborns and young babies, and then lower it as your child grows older.
The final alternative is a travel bed. These are typically intended for short-term use and may not provide the same degree of support as a standard cot. They usually come with mattresses which aren't as strong or thick as standard ones. They can be a great alternative to a standard cot while you travel but you should remember that they'll only last just a few years before your child is ready to move on to larger beds.
Waterproof Mattress Protector
A lot of thought goes into buying a cot, but less consideration is given to the mattress that your baby will sleep on. This is one of the most important purchases you will make for your baby, and we recommend investing in a high-quality organic cotton baby mattress.
You will want to ensure that the infant cot bed bed is not cluttered with blankets, toys, or pillows. They can block the airflow around your child. It is recommended to place the cot bed away from radiators, heaters windows, plug sockets and cables that could be danger.
The Mamas&Papas Franklin Cot Bed is a very popular choice for our mum testers. It comes in four colours and looks like it'll last a long time. It is also able to be converted into a toddler's bed, so that your child can 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 mum testers loved its sleek design and stated that it was "simple yet elegant and will endure the test of time". It's designed to grow with your child and has two different height settings, so you can raise your newborn and lower it once they are in a position to sit on their own.
When you are choosing a cot it is important to keep in your mind that there should be no more than 25mm (1 inch) space between the mattress and the cot sides and ends. This will ensure that your baby won't climb out of the crib or be trapped between the slats of the mattress. You should also always utilize mattress protectors that are 100 100% cotton and GOTS certified Organic, so that it is breathable and soft but totally waterproof and to prevent any leaks!
If you prefer, you can opt for a more high-tech option and opt for the SNOO Smart Sleeper Baby Cot (PS355, Cuckooland). It is a clever product that comes with an app that can be downloaded on mobile devices as well as a weaning feature and sleep experts. It is expensive and is out of reach for many parents.
Blankets at the End
If you plan to let your baby sleep in a cot or crib with a blanket, make sure you have enough blankets so you can wash them frequently. This will prevent the sheets from becoming overly dirty and uncomfortable for your child and also help to keep their bedding clean and fresh. A minimum of three to four sets should be 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, which will help keep your baby's delicate skin healthy. They are available in various sizes and colours which means you can find the right ones to meet your baby's requirements.
The best cot bed blankets for babies are soft and comfortable and breathable. You don't want a blanket that is too bulky and heavy as it could cause a suffocation risk for your baby. A blanket made from organic cotton muslin is a great choice because it is light and comfortable to breathe. Another alternative is a thermal blanket. They are an excellent choice for balmy summer days when your baby will require an easy-to-wear cover to keep them warm.
In general, it is advised to remove blankets in your child's cot by 18 months, or earlier, if you can. This is because they can be risky if children climb them. This can lead to accidents like falling out of the crib or bed. If your baby 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 progress and growth. They are typically numbered in accordance with the baby's age. This is a great way to keep family and friends informed of your baby cots on sale's progress, and also capture precious moments. The Monica + Andy Always Blanket has a double layer that is both warm and cozy, but also breathable.
Easy to Assemble
While a baby cot bed is one of the most important furniture pieces for nursery, it's also a substantial investment. It is essential to select one that is elegant and sturdy. The cot should be in line with the look of the room. You should also consider if the cot can be converted into a toddler bed and if it can be done, how simple it is to accomplish.
When selecting a cot, make sure you choose a model with robust frames, sturdy rails and smooth finishes. Avoid models with curved corners because they could pose the risk of strangulation. Be sure to follow the manufacturer's directions carefully, and don't use any tool that can cause damage. Don't be shy about asking for help. Ask your friend or family member to help you.
Many co-occurring beds are paired with furniture for your nursery, which can really pull the design of your room together. However, if you don't have the budget for this there are plenty of good-quality standalone options to choose from. The Elementary cot-bed from John Lewis Anyday comes in a white finish with solid FSC pine, which makes it a sturdy option. It also has 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 around 18 months).
The Stokke Coxley cot is a great alternative. It comes with an unassuming grey finish and a handcrafted style that can be incorporated into any room. It's easy to set up and fits into doors with standard frames and is ideal in the event that you need to move it around your home. It can also be converted into a stylish toddler bed using the addition of a basic kit. It's also light enough to fit in its own bag for trips away. Our panel of parents said it was "a dream to put together" and "looks gorgeous". They also appreciated the ability to change the position of the base of the mattress up or down so that you can keep your baby's head up during nap time and stop them from rolling off at the end of the night.