Buying a Baby Cot Bed
Cot beds can be transformed into toddler beds, which makes them a more durable option than cribs. They come with removable sides, and an end panel can be removed to give access to your child.
The majority of cots can be used from birth to about 2 years old or until your child starts to attempt to climb out. Then best rated cribs should move to a junior bed.
4 Walls
Cot beds offer the safety and security for your baby to sleep or rest at night. They are equipped with high walls or rails that prevent your child from falling, and many have adjustable mattress heights. This makes a cot bed suitable for toddlers and infants alike. There are many different types of cot beds to choose from in a range of styles, from basic and budget-friendly models to those packed with additional features. The final decision comes down to the family's budget and requirements.
Every new parent will find it important to make the right choice when choosing a baby's sleeping arrangement. You must ensure that your baby will be comfortable and safe and also have an area that can be used for a long period of time. While cots can be a great option for newborns and are compact, they can also be difficult to squeeze into smaller spaces. They're typically only suitable for use up to 18 months. A cot bed is the best option for long-term use and can easily be transformed into a toddler bed or small single bed.
If you're looking for a good-value cot that is versatile, we recommend the Snuz Cot Bed. This is 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 storage space towards the end, so you can put away bedding and other necessities.
Another option is the CuddleCo Nola Convertible Cot. It's a traditional cot and can be turned into an infant bed or as a single bed due to an extension kit that is sold separately. It has three different mattress heights, meaning you can keep the mattress up for newborns and young babies, and then lower it as your child grows older.
The last alternative is a travel bed. These are typically intended for temporary use and don't provide the same degree of support as a regular cot. They usually come with mattresses which aren't as sturdy or as thick as the regular ones. Although they can be a good alternative to a standard mattress while traveling, it is important to consider that your child will only use them for a couple of years before he or she is ready for a bigger bed.
Waterproof Mattress Protector
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 an essential purchase for your baby. We suggest buying an organic cotton crib.
You should ensure that the cot bed is free of blankets, toys, or pillows. They can impede the air flow around your child. Also, keep the bed or cot away from any radiators, heaters, windows, cables, and plug sockets.
If you're looking for a chic cot that is stylish, the Mamas&Papas Franklin Cot Bed (PS375, Cuckooland) is a popular choice among our mum testers. It comes in four different colors and has an attractive design that appears like it's built to last for a long time. It can also convert into a toddler bed, so your baby can use it right up until the age of 4.
The SnuzFino Classic Cot Bed is another cot that is stylish and value (PS695 Mother&Baby). Our mum testers were amazed by its sleek design, saying it was "simple but elegant and will last the long-term". It's designed to grow with your child and has two different height settings, so you can put your baby in a higher position and lower it once they're able to sit up on their own.
It is essential to keep in mind 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 won't climb out of the crib or get caught between the slats of the mattress. Use a mattress cover made of is 100 organic cotton and GOTS-certified to ensure that it is breathable, soft and waterproof.
You can also choose a more advanced option and choose the SNOO Smart Sleeper Baby Cot (PS355, Cuckooland). It's a smart piece of equipment that comes with an app that is mobile, a weaning features and access to sleep experts and more. It is expensive and not accessible to many parents.
Blankets at the End of the Road
If you plan to allow your baby to sleep in a cot or crib with a blanket, make sure you have enough blankets to wash them frequently. Full Statement 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.
You can change your sheets more often with a set of organic muslin bedding. They also breathe, which helps to keep your baby's skin healthy and happy. recommended you read are available in a variety of sizes and colors and sizes, so you can choose the perfect one for your baby's needs.
The best blankets are soft, cosy and breathable. A blanket that is heavy and bulky can cause your baby to suffocate. A blanket made of organic cotton muslin is the best choice, as it is light and comfortable to breathe. A thermal blanket is another good alternative. These are perfect for those balmy summer days, when your baby needs a lightweight cover that will keep them warm.
In general, it's recommended to stop using a blanket in your child’s cot by 18 months, or earlier if it is possible. This is because they could be dangerous if children are allowed to climb on them, leading to accidents like falling from the crib or bed. If your child is swaddled from birth or is sleeping in a sleeping bag specifically designed for babies, you may wish to keep the blanket until they are able to switch to a duvet.
Many parents use milestone blankets to mark their baby's growth and development usually with numbers that reflect the age of the child. It is a great way to keep your family and friends informed about the progress of your child and also capture precious memories. The Monica + Andy Always Blanket is a beautiful double layer blanket that gives warmth and coziness, while still being breathable.
Easy to Assemble
A baby cot bed, although one of the most essential furniture pieces for the nursery, is also a significant investment. It's worthwhile to take the time to choose one that looks as appealing as it is strong and practical. The most important factor to consider is that the cot should be in harmony with the overall design of the room your baby is in. It is also important to think about whether the cot will convert into a toddler bed, and If so, how simple this is to do.
When choosing a cot, you should choose a cot that have sturdy frames with sturdy rails, as well as smooth surfaces. It's also best to avoid models with curved edges which could be a source of strangulation. Be sure to read the instructions provided by the manufacturer and avoid making use of any tools that could cause damage. Don't be shy to ask for help. It's usually easier to get things done when you have two people, so ask your partner or family member to help you.
Many cots have matching furniture for the nursery which can help make your room more cohesive. If you don't have the funds for this there are plenty of good-quality alternatives that can be used as a stand-alone. The Elementary cot bed from John Lewis' Anyday range, for example, comes in a contemporary white finish and is made of solid FSC pine to provide a long-lasting choice. It has three mattress height settings, which means it can be used right from birth. It can also be adjusted to lower the height once your child is ready to start standing (usually around 18 months).
The Stokke Coxley cot is a excellent alternative. It has a neutral grey finish and a handcrafted look that is perfect for any decor. It's easy to put together and can be inserted into doors with standard frames. It is ideal to move around the house. 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 participated in our panel agreed that it was "easy to assemble" and "looks beautiful". They also loved the fact that you are able to change the position of the base of the mattress upwards or downwards so that you can keep your baby's head elevated during nap time and stop them from rolling off at the end of the night.