Buying a Baby Cot Bed
Cot beds are a better long-term choice than cribs as they can be transformed into a toddler bed. They also have removable sides as well as an end panel that can be lowered down to allow access to your child.
(Image: https://cdn.freshstore.cloud/offer/images/7098/1000/red-kite-baby-sleeptight-travel-cot-blueberry-lightweight-padded-travel-cot-suitable-from-birth-stblue-1000.jpg)The majority of cribs are suitable for use from birth to around 2 years old or until your child starts to climb out. Then, you can change to junior beds.
4 Walls
Cot beds provide secure and safe for your baby cots online to sleep in at night or even during naptime. They are equipped with high walls or rails to stop your baby from falling out, and many have adjustable mattress heights that can be lowered as your child grows. A cot bed is suitable for toddlers and infants alike. There are a variety of Mini Cot Bed beds to choose from in a range of styles, from basic and budget-friendly models to those packed with additional features. The decision ultimately comes down to the family's budget and needs.
Any new parent will find it crucial to make the right decision when choosing a baby's sleeping arrangement. You need to ensure that your baby is safe and comfortable and also have a space that can be used for a prolonged period of time. While top rated cots are ideal for infants but they're also quite small and can be difficult to fit into smaller spaces. In addition, they're typically only suitable for use until your child is 18 months old or so. A crib-bed is a more sturdy option and can easily be converted into an infant bed or a small single bed.
If you're looking for a good-value cot that is versatile we suggest the Snuz Cot Bed. This is a basic but sturdy cot that comes with a hood that is extra-deep that shields your baby from the sun and wind. It has a storage area at the end, where you can keep bedding and other essentials.
Another good choice is the CuddleCo Nola Convertible Cot. This cot starts out as an ordinary cot, but can be converted into a toddler bed or even a single bed, because of an extension kit that is sold separately. It comes with three mattress heights, so you can keep the mattress high up for newborns and young babies, before lowering it as your child gets older.
The last alternative is a travel bed. These are usually only suitable for short-term use, and may not provide the same degree of support as a regular cot. Additionally, they usually have mattresses that aren't as strong or as thick as a standard one. They can be a great alternative to a standard cot while you're travelling but you should remember that they'll last only several years before your child is ready to move on to a bigger bed.
Mattress Protector Waterproof
Often a amount of thought is given to purchasing a cot, but less thought is given to the mattress your baby will sleep on. This is one of the most important purchases you will make for your baby, and we recommend investing in a high-quality organic cotton baby mattress.
You should ensure that the cot bed is not cluttered with toys, pillows or blankets. They could block the air flow around your child. Ideally, you will also place the mini cot beds bed away from heaters, radiators windows plug sockets, and cables that could create danger.
If you are looking for a chic cot, the Mamas&Papas Franklin Cot Bed (PS375, Cuckooland) is one of the most popular choices among our mum testers. It comes in four colours and looks like it's going to last for an extended period of time. It also converts into a toddler bed, so your baby can use it up to the age of 4.
The SnuzFino Classic Cot Bed is another cot that has 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 test of time”. 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 when they are in a position to sit on their own.
When you are choosing a cot it is worth bearing in your mind that there should be no more than 25mm (1 inch) gap between the mattress and the sides and ends. This will ensure that your child won't escape from the crib or get caught between the slats of the mattress. Choose a mattress cover that is 100% organic cotton and GOTS certified to ensure that it is breathable, soft and waterproof.
If you prefer, you can opt for a more high-tech alternative and select the SNOO Smart Sleeper Baby Cot (PS355, Cuckooland). It's an innovative piece of equipment that includes an app for mobile devices, a weaning feature and access to sleep experts and more. However, it's expensive and could be out of the budget for many parents.
Blankets at the End of the Road
If you're planning on letting your baby sleep with blankets in their crib or cot, make sure you have plenty of additional blankets to rotate through the wash. This will keep sheets from becoming excessively soiled and uncomfortable for your little one, as well as help to keep their bed clean and fresh. Three to four sheets should be sufficient.
You can change your bedding more often by using a set of organic muslin bedding. They also breathe, which helps keep your baby's delicate skin healthy. They are available in different sizes and colors which means you can find the right ones to meet your baby's requirements.
The best baby blankets are soft and cozy but also ventilated. A blanket that is too bulky and heavy could cause your baby to suffocate. A blanket made from organic cotton muslin is ideal because it is lightweight and comfortable to breathe. Another good option is a thermal blanket. These are a great choice for balmy summer days when your baby will need a lightweight cover to keep them warm.
Generally speaking it is recommended you do away with blankets in your child's cot at the age of 18 months, or earlier if possible. This is because they can become dangerous if allowed to climb onto them, which can lead to accidents like falling from the bed or the crib. However, if your baby is used to sleeping on 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 their baby's growth and development typically using numbers that indicate the age of the child. It is a great way to keep your family and friends informed about the progress of your child and capture precious memories. The Monica + Andy Always Blanket is a gorgeous double layer blanket that offers warmth and comfort while still being breathable.
Easy to Assemble
While a baby cot bed is among the most important furniture pieces for the nursery however, it's also an expensive investment. It's important to choose a model which is both attractive and sturdy. The cot should be in line with the look of the room. You'll also want to consider whether the cot will convert into a toddler bed, and If so, how simple it is to accomplish.
When you are choosing a cot you should look for models with robust frames with sturdy rails, as well as smooth edges. Also, avoid models with curved edges which may pose a risk of strangulation. Be sure to follow the instructions of the manufacturer and avoid making use of any tools that could cause damage. Don't be afraid to seek help. Assembly is usually easier when it's done by two people, so make sure to ask your partner or family member to help you.
Many cribs come with matching furniture for the nursery that can really bring the design of your room together. However, if you don't have the money for this, there are many good-quality standalone options to choose from. The Elementary cot bed from John Lewis' Anyday range is a good example. It comes in a modern white finish and is made of solid FSC pine to provide a long-lasting choice. It also has three mattress heights, which means it's suitable for use from birth and can be lowered when your child is ready for standing (usually at around 18 months).
The Stokke Coxley cot is another great alternative. It comes with a neutral grey finish as well as a handmade style that can be incorporated into any room. It is easy to assemble and fits into doors that have standard doorframes. It is ideal to move around the home. With the addition of a simple kit that can transform it into a stylish toddler bed that is in the bench-style. It's also light enough to fit into its own bag for trips away. Parents who were part of our panel agreed that it was “easy to put together” and “looks beautiful”. They also appreciated the ability to move 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 away at night.(Image: https://cdn.freshstore.cloud/offer/images/7098/750/maxi-cosi-iora-co-sleeper-crib-foldable-baby-bedside-crib-0-6-months-max-9-kg-4-incline-5-height-positions-easy-slide-comfortable-mattress-large-basket-easy-to-carry-essential-graphite-75.jpg)