Buying a Baby Cot Bed
Cot beds can be converted to toddler beds, making them a better option for long-term use than cribs. They have removable sides, and an end panel that can be removed to provide access to your child.
The majority of cribs can be used from birth until around 2 years, or until your child starts to climb out. Then, you should switch to junior beds.
4 Walls
Cot beds provide a safe, secure place for your baby to sleep or rest at night. They feature high walls or rails that stop your child from falling, and many come with adjustable mattress heights. This makes a cot bed ideal for toddlers and infants alike. There are a myriad of cot bed models that range from the simple and affordable to models with numerous additional features. The final decision depends on the family's budget as well as their needs.
Any new parent will find it important to make the right decision when it comes to choosing a baby's sleeping arrangement. You need to make sure that your child is secure and comfortable and have the space to be used for a long period of time. While cots can be great for newborns and are compact however, they can be difficult to accommodate in smaller spaces. In addition, they're generally only suitable for use up to the point that your child reaches 18 months or that is. A cot bed is a better choice for longer-term use and can easily be converted into a toddler or small single bed.
If you're looking to buy a low-cost, versatile cot, we recommend the Snuz Cot Bed. This is a sturdy, simple crib with a hood that extends to protect your baby from the elements of wind and sun. It has a storage space towards the end, so you can store bedding and other essentials.
Another option is the CuddleCo Nola Convertible Cot. It can be converted from a cot into single or toddler beds with the help of an extension kit which is sold separately. It has three handy mattress heights, so you can keep the mattress up for newborns and young babies, and then lower it as your child gets older.
The last option is a travel cot. These are usually only suitable for temporary use and don't offer the same degree of support as the standard cot. Additionally, they usually come with mattresses that aren't as strong or as thick as the standard one. They can be a good alternative to a standard cot if you travel however, it's important to remember that they'll last only several years before your child is ready to move on to a bigger bed.
Waterproof Mattress Protector
Many people spend much time and effort choosing the right cot, but pay no attention to the mattress your baby will sleep on. This is a very important purchase for your baby. We recommend buying an organic cotton crib.
As new research shows restricted airflow may be the cause of SIDS and SUDI, you will want to make sure your baby's bed is free of pillows, toys blankets, muslin cloths, blankets or cot bumpers that can hinder the flow of air around your child. It is also important to keep the cot or bed clear of heaters, radiators windows, cable sockets, and plugs.
The Mamas&Papas Franklin Cot Bed is a very popular choice for our mum testers. It comes in four colors and the design appears like it will last for an extended period of time. It can also 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 and Baby). Our mum testers were amazed by its sleek design, stating that it was "simple but stylish and will last the long-term". It's designed to grow with your child, too. It offers two different heights for the mattress, so you can keep your baby raised and then lower it once they are able to sit unaided.
When selecting a cot it is worth bearing in mind that there should not be more than 25mm (1 inch) gap between the mattress and the sides and ends. This is to ensure your baby is not able to escape from the cot, or get trapped between the mattress and slats. Choose a mattress cover that is made of 100% organic cotton and GOTS certified to ensure it is breathable, soft and waterproof.
If you'd prefer a high-tech option, then the SNOO Baby Cot Smart Sleeper (PS355, Cuckooland) is a great choice. It's a great kit that includes an app for mobile devices as well as a weaning feature as well as access to sleep specialists. However, it's expensive and may be out of budget for many parents.
Blankets at the End of the Road
If you're planning on letting your baby sleep on a blanket in their cot or crib, make sure you have plenty of blankets to rotate through the wash. This will keep the sheets clean and fresh and keep them from becoming dirty and uncomfortable for your baby. Three to four sheets should be sufficient.
You can change your sheets more often with a set of organic muslin bedding. They also breathe, which helps keep your baby's delicate skin healthy. You can choose from a wide range of sizes and colors to find the perfect one for your baby.
The best blankets for babies are soft and cosy and ventilated. A blanket that is heavy and bulky can cause your baby to suffocate. It is best to pick an organic blanket made of cotton muslin that is breathable and lightweight. A thermal blanket is another great alternative. They are an excellent choice for warm summer days when your baby will need an easy-to-wear cover to keep them warm.
Generally speaking it is recommended that you remove blankets from your child's crib at 18 months of age or earlier if you can. It is because they become dangerous if children are allowed to climb over them. This can lead to accidents like falling out of the crib or in bed. If your child is used to sleeping with blankets and has been wrapped from birth or is sleeping in a baby sleeping bag then you might want to leave the blanket in place until they are ready to move to a duvet.
Many parents utilize a milestone blanket to mark the development and growth of their child 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 some precious moments. The Monica + Andy Always Blanket has a double layer that's both warm and cozy, while also being comfortable to wear.
Easy to Assemble
A baby cot bed, while one of the most important pieces of nursery furniture is also an investment. It's worth taking time to select one that looks as good as it is sturdy and practical. The most important factor to consider is that the cot should be in harmony with the overall design of your baby's room. You should also consider if the cot can be turned into a toddler bed and if so be done, how simple it is to do so.
When selecting a cot, look for models that have robust frames, sturdy rails and smooth edges. Avoid models with curved corners, as they can pose strangulation risks. Also, be nursery cots to follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully, and don't use any tool that could cause harm. Finally, don't be afraid to ask for help. Assembly is usually easier when you have two people, so ask your partner or a family member to assist you.
Many cribs come with matching furniture for the nursery which can help connect your room. If you don't want to spend the amount, there are plenty of high-quality standalone options. 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 choice. It also has three mattress height positions, so it's suitable for use from the time of birth and can be adjusted when your child is ready to start standing (usually at around 18 months).
The Stokke Coxley cot is a fantastic option. It comes with a neutral grey finish and a handmade look that is perfect for any decor. It is simple to put together and fits into standard doorframes. This is great for moving around the home. It can also be converted into a chic toddler bed using the addition of a simple kit. It's light enough to put into a bag for when you travel. Parents who took part in our panel remarked that it was "easy to put together" and "looks beautiful". They also loved the ability to move the base position of the mattress up or down to keep your baby's head up throughout the day and keep them from rolling away at the end of the night.