Buying a Baby Cot Bed
Cot beds can be converted to toddler beds, making them a more durable option than cribs. They have removable sides and an end panel can be dropped to allow access to your child.
The majority of cots can be used from birth until around 2 years old or until your child is old enough to want to climb out. Then, you should change to junior beds.
4 Walls
Cot beds provide the safety and security for your baby to nap or rest during the night. They are equipped with high walls or rails to stop your baby from slipping out, and most feature adjustable mattress heights that can be lowered as your baby grows. This makes a cot bed perfect for toddlers and infants alike. There are a myriad of types of cot beds available, from simple and affordable models to ones that are packed with additional features. Ultimately, the decision comes down to your family's needs and budget.
Selecting the best baby sleeping arrangement is a crucial choice for any new parent. You need to ensure that your baby will be comfortable and safe and have the space to be used for a prolonged period of time. While cots are great for newborns and are compact, they can also be difficult to accommodate in smaller spaces. They're typically only suitable for use from 18 months. A cot-bed is a much more durable option and can easily be converted into a toddler bed or a smaller single bed.
Snuz Cot Bed is a multi-functional, high-value cot. It's a sturdy and simple cot with a hood that extends to protect your baby from the elements of wind and sun. It also has a convenient storage space at the bottom of the cot so you can keep bedding and other items in a convenient place.
CuddleCo Nola Convertible Cot is an alternative. It can be converted from a cot to a single or toddler bed by using an extension kit that is available separately. It comes with three different mattress heights so you can adjust it to suit your child's age.
The final option is a travel cot. They are only suitable for short-term use and don't provide the same level of support as a regular bed. They often have mattresses that aren't as strong or thick as traditional ones. They can be a good alternative to a standard cot if you're travelling, but it's worth remembering that they'll only last for a few years at most before your child is ready for an even bigger bed.
Protect your mattress from water with a waterproof mattress
Often a lot of thought is put into buying a cot, however little thought 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 suggest investing in a high-quality organic cotton baby mattress.
It is important to ensure that the cot bed is not cluttered with blankets, pillows or toys. They can block the airflow around your child. Also, keep the cot or bed free of any radiators, heaters, windows, cables, and plug sockets.
If you're looking for a chic cot, the Mamas&Papas Franklin Cot Bed (PS375, Cuckooland) is a popular choice among our mum testers. It is available in four colours and has beautiful design that looks like it will stand the test of time. It can also be transformed into a toddler's crib, so that your baby can use the crib until they are four years old.
The SnuzFino Classic Cot Bed is another cot with great style and value (PS695, Mother and Baby). Our mom testers were awed by its sleek design, and said it was "simple but stylish and will stand the long-term". It's designed to develop with your child. It comes with two different height settings so that you can increase the height of your baby and lower it once they are able to sit up on their own.
It is important to remember that the mattress shouldn't have a gap greater than 25mm (1") between it and the ends and sides of the cot. This will ensure that your baby won't get out of the crib or get trapped between the slats on the mattress. Also, you should use mattress protectors that are 100% cotton and GOTS certified Organic, so that it is breathable and soft but completely waterproof and to avoid any unwanted leaks!
If you'd prefer something more modern, the SNOO Baby Cot Smart Sleeper (PS355, Cuckooland) is a great choice. It's an innovative piece of equipment that includes an app for mobile devices, a weaning feature and access to sleep experts and more. It's expensive and out of reach for many parents.
Blankets at the End of the Road
If you're thinking of letting your baby sleep with a blanket in their cot or crib, make sure you have plenty of additional blankets to rotate through the wash. This will keep the sheets fresh and clean and prevent them from becoming dirty and uncomfortable for your baby. Three to four sheets should be enough.
A good set of organic muslin blankets allows you to wash the sheets regularly without worrying about them becoming too dirty. They are also breathable which can help keep your baby's skin healthy and happy. They are available in a variety of sizes and colours, so you can find the perfect ones for your baby's needs.
The best baby blankets are soft and comfortable, yet airy. You shouldn't choose blankets that are heavy and bulky as it could cause an obstructive risk to your baby. It is best to choose an organic blanket made of cotton muslin that is lightweight and breathable. A thermal blanket is another excellent alternative. These are great for those hot summer days when your baby needs a light cover to keep them warm.
In general, it's advised to remove blankets in your child's cot by 18 months, or earlier if it is possible. They can be risky if children climb them. This could lead to accidents such as falling out of the crib or the bed. However, if your baby is used to sleeping on blankets and is covered from birth or sleeps in a baby sleep bag, you may want to leave it in place until they are ready to transition to a duvet.
Many parents use milestone blankets to mark their child's growth and progress. These blankets are typically designated according to the baby's age. This is a great way to keep your family and friends updated on your child's progress, and also capture precious moments. The Monica + Andy Always Blanket has a double layer that is both warm and cozy, but also airy.
Easy to Assemble
While a baby cot is among the most essential furniture pieces for nursery however, it's also an expensive investment. It's worth the effort to choose a model that looks as appealing as it is strong and practical. The cot should be in line with the look of the room. You should also consider if the cot can be turned into a toddler bed and if so be done, how easy to do so.
When choosing a cot, look for models that have strong frames, sturdy rails and smooth edges. Avoid models that have curved corners, because they could pose the risk of strangulation. Be sure to read the instructions of the manufacturer and avoid making use of any tools that could cause damage. Finally, don't be afraid to seek assistance. Ask your partner or family member to help you.
Many cribs come with matching furniture for the nursery that can help make your room more cohesive. If you don't want spend the cost, there are a number of excellent options for a standalone bed that are of good quality. 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 comes with three mattress heights, which means it's suitable for use starting from the time of birth and can be adjusted when your child is ready to begin standing (usually at about 18 months).).
nursery cots is the Scandi-style Coxley cot by Stokke It has a stunning hand-crafted feel and a neutral grey finish that will suit any room. It's easy to set up and fits into door frames that are standard which is helpful 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 light enough to fit into its own carry bag for trips away. Parents who took part in our panel said that it was "easy to put together" and "looks stunning". They also loved 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 in a higher position during nap time and stop them from rolling off at night.