Buying a Baby Cot Bed
Cot beds can be transformed into toddler beds, making them a better option for long-term use than cribs. They also come with removable sides and an end panel that can be dropped down to allow access to your child.
The majority of cribs are suitable for use from birth until around 2 years or until your child starts to climb out. Then, it is time to change to junior beds.
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 falling and many have adjustable mattress heights. A cot bed is ideal for toddlers and infants alike. There are many different types of cot beds to choose from, from simple and affordable models to those with extra features. Ultimately, the decision comes down to the needs of your family and the budget you have set.
Choosing the right baby sleeping arrangement is a crucial choice for any new parent. You want to make sure that your child is safe and comfortable and have a space that can be used for a long time. While cribs are great for babies, they're also quite compact and may be difficult to fit into smaller spaces. Additionally, they're only suitable for use until your child reaches 18 months or so. A cot-bed is a much more durable alternative and can be easily transformed into a toddler bed or a smaller single bed.
If you're looking for a value cot that is versatile we suggest the Snuz Cot Bed. This is a simple but sturdy cot that comes with a large hood that shields your baby from the elements of wind and sun. It also has a storage space towards the end, so you can store bedding and other items.
CuddleCo Nola Convertible Cot is another good option. This cot can be converted from a cot to a single or toddler bed using an extension kit, which is sold separately. It comes with three different mattress heights so you can alter it to fit your child's age.
The final alternative is a travel bed. They are typically only suitable for short-term use and may not offer the same degree of support as a standard cot. They often have mattresses that are not as firm or as thick as the traditional ones. While they can be a good alternative to a standard mattress while traveling, it is important to consider that your child will only be using them for a couple of years before they is ready to move on to a bigger bed.
Waterproof Mattress Protector
A lot of thought goes into purchasing a cot, but little thought is given to the mattress your baby will sleep on. This is an essential purchase for your baby. We suggest purchasing organic cotton bedding for your baby.
You will want to make sure that your baby's cot bed is not cluttered with blankets, toys, or pillows. They could block the air flow around your child. It is also important to ensure that the bed or cot is free of any radiators, heaters, windows cable sockets, and plugs.
If you're looking for a stylish cot, the Mamas&Papas Franklin Cot Bed (PS375, Cuckooland) is a popular choice among our mum testers. It comes in four colours, and the design looks like it'll last an extended period of time. It can also be converted into a toddler's crib, so that your baby can use the crib up to four years old.
Another cot with excellent style and value is the SnuzFino Classic Cot Bed (PS695 Mother and Baby). Our mum testers were impressed by its sleek design, and said it was "simple but stylish and will last the test of time". It's designed to grow with your child too and has two height settings for the mattress, so you can keep your newborn raised and then lower it once they start to sit up unaided.
It is important to remember that the mattress shouldn't have a gap greater than 25mm (1") between it and the sides and ends of the cot. This will ensure that your baby is not able to escape from the cot or become trapped between the mattress and slats. Use a mattress cover that is 100 organic cotton and GOTS certified to ensure it is soft, breathable and waterproof.
Alternatively, if you prefer something more modern, the SNOO Baby Cot Smart Sleeper (PS355, Cuckooland) is an excellent choice. It's an innovative piece of kit which has an app for mobile devices, a weaning feature, access to sleep consultants and more. It's costly and is out of reach for many parents.
Blankets at the End of The Road
If you plan to let your baby sleep in a cot or a crib with a blanket, make sure to have enough bedding to wash them frequently. This will keep the sheets clean and fresh and prevent them from becoming too dirty and uncomfortable for your baby. Three to four sheets is enough.
A good quality set of organic muslin blankets allows you to wash the sheets regularly without worrying about them getting too dirty. They also breathe, which helps to keep your baby's skin healthy and happy. They are available in various sizes and colors, so you can find the right ones to meet your baby's requirements.
The best blankets for babies are soft and comfortable, yet breathable. A blanket that is too heavy and bulky can cause your baby to drown. It is best to pick an organic blanket made of cotton muslin, which is lightweight and breathable. Another good alternative is a thermal blanket. These are a great choice for warm summer days when your baby will require a lightweight cover to keep them warm.
In general, it's advised to remove a blanket in your child’s cot by 18 months, or earlier if it is possible. This is because they can become dangerous if allowed to climb onto them, which can lead to accidents such as falls from the crib or bed. If your child is swaddled from birth or is sleeping in a sleeping bag specifically designed for infants, you might want to keep the blanket until they are able to switch to a duvet.
Many parents utilize the milestone blanket to track the baby's development and growth usually with numbers that indicate the age of the child. It 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 is a gorgeous double layer blanket that gives warmth and comfort, yet is still comfortable and breathable.
Easy to Assemble
A baby cot bed, being one of the most important furniture pieces for nursery is also a major investment. It's crucial to choose a model which is both beautiful and durable. The cot should be in line with the look of the room. You should also consider if the cot could be transformed into a bed for toddlers, and if it is possible be done, how simple it is to do.
When you are choosing a cot you should choose a cot that have sturdy frames, sturdy rails and smooth finishes. It's also best to avoid models with curved edges which could be a source of strangulation. Be sure to read the directions of the manufacturer and avoid using any tools that may cause damage. cots offers be afraid to ask for assistance. Assembly is usually easier when it's done by two people, so you can ask your spouse or a family member to assist you.
Many cribs come with matching furniture for the nursery that can help connect your room. If you don't have the funds for this, there are numerous high-quality alternatives that can be used as a stand-alone. The Elementary cot-bed from John Lewis Anyday comes in a white finish with solid FSC pine, making it a durable option. It has three mattress height options, meaning it can be used right from birth. It can also be removed when your child is ready for standing (usually around 18 months).).
The Stokke Coxley cot is a fantastic option. It comes with a neutral grey finish and a handcrafted look that is perfect for any interior. It's easy to assemble and fits through standard door frames which is helpful in the event that you need to move it around your home. It also converts into a stylish bench-style toddler bed with the addition of a simple kit. It's light enough to fit into a bag for when you go on vacation. Parents who were part of our panel said that it was "easy to assemble" and "looks beautiful". The parents also liked the fact that the base of the mattress can be moved up or down, so you can keep your baby's head up during naps and stop them from rolling over at night.