See What Baby Cot Bed Tricks The Celebs Are Using
Buying a Baby Cot Bed
Cot beds can be transformed into toddler beds, which makes them a better long-term option than cribs. They have removable sides and an end panel that can be dropped to allow access to your child.
Most cribs are suitable for use from birth to 2 years, or until your baby begins to climb out. Then you should switch to a junior bed.
4 Walls
Cot beds provide a safe and secure space for your baby to sleep in at night or during nap time. They feature high walls or rails that stop your baby from falling and many come with adjustable mattress heights. A cot bed is suitable for toddlers and infants alike. There are many cot bed models, which range from the simple and affordable to models with numerous additional features. Ultimately, the decision is based on your family's needs and budget.
Any new parent will find it crucial to make the right choice in deciding on a baby's sleep arrangement. You must ensure that your baby is safe and comfortable and have a space that can be used for a long time. While cots are ideal for infants however, they're also very compact and can be difficult to fit into smaller spaces. Additionally, they're not suitable until your child is 18 months old or that is. A cot-bed is a more durable option that can be easily converted into an infant bed or a small single bed.
If you're looking for a good-value cot that can be used in a variety of ways, we recommend the Snuz Cot Bed. 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 has a convenient storage area at the top ranked cribs of the cot, so that you can keep bedding and other items close by.
Another option is the CuddleCo Nola Convertible Cot. This cot beds for sale starts out as a traditional cot but can be turned into an infant bed or one bed, due to an extension kit that's sold separately. It includes three different mattress heights, so you can adjust it to suit your child's age.
The final alternative is a travel cot. These are usually only suitable for temporary use and don't provide the same degree of support as a standard cot. In addition, they typically have mattresses that aren't as sturdy or as thick as a standard cot. They can be a great alternative to a standard cot when you're travelling, but it's worth remembering that they'll last only a few years at most before your child is ready to move on to a bigger bed.
Protect your mattress from water with a waterproof mattress
Often a lot of thought goes into buying a cot, but less consideration is given to the mattress that your baby will sleep on. It is among the most important purchases you make for your baby, and we recommend purchasing a good quality organic cotton baby mattress.
Recent research has revealed that airflow restriction could be a cause of SIDS and SUDI, you will need to ensure your baby's bed is free of pillows, toys blankets, muslin cloths, blankets or cheap cot beds bumpers that could hinder the flow of air around your little one. It is also important to keep the bed or cot clear of radiators, heaters, windows, cable sockets, and plugs.
The Mamas&Papas Franklin Cot Bed is a very popular choice for our mum testers. It is available in four colors, and the design looks like it will last for a long time. It can also be converted into a toddler bed so your child can use it right up to the age of 4.
Another cot with great design and value is the SnuzFino Classic Cot Bed (PS695, Mother&Baby). Our mom testers loved its sleek design and stated that it was "simple yet elegant and will stand the test of time". It's designed to expand with your child and offers two levels of height for the mattress, so you can keep your newborn raised and then lower it when they start to sit up unaided.
It is crucial to remember 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 won't escape from the crib or get caught between the slats of the mattress. It is also recommended to use a mattress protector that is 100 100% cotton and GOTS certified Organic, so that it is soft and breathable but completely waterproof and to prevent any leaks!
If you prefer, you can choose a more advanced option and opt for the SNOO Smart Sleeper Baby Cot (PS355, Cuckooland). It's a clever piece of kit which has an app that is mobile, a weaning features, access to sleep consultants and more. But, it's costly and could be out of reach for many parents.
Blankets at the end of the Line
If you are planning to allow your baby to sleep in a cot or a crib with a blanket, make sure you have enough blankets to wash them regularly. This will keep the sheets from becoming overly soiled and uncomfortable for your child as well as helping to keep their bedding clean and fresh. A minimum of three or four sets is sufficient.
A good set of organic muslin blankets will allow you to wash the sheets regularly without worrying about them getting too dirty. They are also breathable which will help keep your baby's delicate skin healthy. They are available in a variety of sizes and colors, so you can find the right ones to meet your baby's needs.
The best blankets for babies are soft and cozy and ventilated. A blanket that is bulky and heavy could cause your baby to drown. It is best to pick an organic blanket made of cotton muslin that is lightweight and breathable. Another good alternative is a thermal blanket. These are a great choice for balmy summer days when your baby will need an easy-to-wear cover to keep them warm.
In general, it's recommended to stop using a blanket in your child’s cot by 18 months, or earlier, if possible. This is because they can be risky if children climb on them. This can lead to accidents such as falling out of the crib or bed. If your baby has been swaddled since birth or is sleeping in a sleeping bag designed for babies, you might want to keep the blanket until they are ready to transition to a duvet.
Many parents utilize the milestone blanket to track the development and growth of their child usually with numbers that reflect the age of the child. This is a great method to keep family and friends informed of your child's progress, as well as capture some precious moments. The Monica + Andy Always Blanket has a double layer that is warm and cozy, while also being comfortable to wear.
Easy to Assemble
While a baby cot bed is among the most important pieces of nursery furniture, it's also a substantial investment. It's crucial to choose one that is elegant and robust. The cot must match the style of the room. It is also important to consider whether the cot could be transformed into a bed for toddlers, and if so be done, how easy to do so.
When selecting a cot, ensure that it has strong frames, sturdy rails, and smooth finishes. Avoid models with curved corners, because they could pose the risk of strangulation. Be sure to follow the directions of the manufacturer and avoid using any tools that could cause harm. Finally, don't be afraid to seek help. Ask your partner or family member to assist you.
Many cots come with matching furniture for the nursery, which can help to connect your room. However, if you don't have the money for this there are many good-quality standalone options available. The Elementary cot bed from John Lewis' Anyday range for instance, is available in a modern white finish and is made of solid FSC pine to provide a long-lasting option. It also has three mattress height positions, so it's suitable from the time of birth and can be adjusted when your child is ready to start standing (usually at about 18 months).).
Another great alternative is the Scandi-style Coxley cot by Stokke, which is a gorgeous hand-crafted look and a neutral grey finish that suits any room. It is simple to put together and can be inserted into standard doorframes. This is perfect to move around the home. With the addition of a simple kit that can transform it into a chic toddler bed in the bench-style. It's light enough to fit in its own bag for trips away. Parents who took part in our panel remarked that it was "easy to assemble" and "looks gorgeous". They also appreciated the fact that you are able to move the base position of the mattress up or down so that you can keep your baby's head up during nap time and stop them from falling asleep at the end of the night.