Five Baby Cot Bed Projects To Use For Any Budget
Buying a Baby Cot Bed
Cot beds are a more long-term choice than cribs as they can be transformed into a toddler bed. They have removable sides and an end panel can be removed to give access to your child.
The majority of cots are suitable for use from birth until around 2 years old or until your baby starts trying to climb out. Then you should move to a junior bed.
4 Walls
Cot beds provide a safe and secure space for your baby to sleep in at night or during nap time. They are equipped with high walls or rails that prevent your baby from falling and many have adjustable mattress heights. This makes a cot bed suitable for infants and toddlers alike. There are many cot bed models, ranging from the simple and affordable to models with numerous additional features. The final decision is based on the needs of your family and the budget you have set.
Selecting the best baby sleeping arrangement is a crucial decision for any new parent. You want to make sure that your baby is comfortable and safe. It should also be a space you can stay in for a prolonged period of time. While cots can be great for newborns and are compact, they can also be difficult to squeeze into smaller spaces. Additionally, they're only suitable for use until your child reaches the age of 18 months or so. A cot-bed is a much more durable option and can easily be transformed into an infant bed or a small single bed.
Snuz Cot Bed is a versatile, good-value cot. It's a sturdy and simple cot with an extended hood that can shield your baby from wind and sun. It also has a storage space at the end, where you can put away bedding and other items.
Another good choice is another option is the CuddleCo Nola Convertible Cot. The cot is designed to be a traditional cot and can be turned into a toddler bed or even a single bed, due to an extension kit, which is available separately. It comes with three mattress heights so that you can keep the mattress high up for infants and infants, and then lower it down as your child gets older.
The last option is a bed for travel. They're only suitable for use on short-term basis and may not provide the same level support as a regular bed. Additionally, they usually come with mattresses that aren't as sturdy or as thick as the standard one. While they can be a great alternative to a standard bed when you are travelling however, it is important to keep in mind that your child will only use them for a couple of years before they is ready to move on to a bigger bed.
Protect your mattress from water with a waterproof mattress
A amount of thought is given to buying a cot, however less thought is given to the mattress that your baby will sleep on. This is an essential purchase for your baby. We suggest purchasing organic cotton bedding for your baby.
You should ensure that the cot bed is not cluttered with blankets, pillows or toys. They can impede the airflow around your child. Ideally, you will also place the cot bed away from heaters, radiators, windows as well as plug sockets and cables that could create danger.
If you're looking for a stylish cot the Mamas & Papas Franklin Cot Bed (PS375, Cuckooland) is a popular choice among our mum testers. cot beds is available in four colors and looks like it'll last a long time. It also converts into a toddler bed so your baby can use it up to the age of 4.
Another cot with great design and value is the SnuzFino Classic Cot Bed (PS695, Mother&Baby). Our mum testers were impressed by its sleek design, saying it was "simple but stylish and will stand the long-term". It is designed to grow with your child and offers two height settings for the mattress so that you can keep your newborn raised and then lower it when they are able to sit unaided.
It is important to remember that the mattress should not have a gap greater than 25mm (1") between it and the ends and sides of the cot. This will ensure that your child won't escape from the crib or get caught between the mattress slats. Also, you should utilize a mattress protector that is 100% cotton and GOTS certified Organic, to ensure it is breathable and soft but totally waterproof and to prevent any leaks!
Alternatively, you could go for a more technological option and opt for the SNOO Smart Sleeper Baby Cot (PS355, Cuckooland). It's a clever piece of equipment that comes with an app that is mobile, a weaning feature as well as access to sleep specialists and much more. But, it's costly and might be out of budget for many parents.
Blankets at the end of the Line
If you're planning to let your baby sleep with blankets in their crib or cot, make sure you have plenty of blankets to rotate through the wash. This will stop the sheets from becoming overly soiled and uncomfortable for your baby and also help to keep their bed clean and fresh. A minimum of three to four sets should suffice.
A high-quality set of organic muslin blankets allows you to change the sheets often 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 colours, so you can find the perfect one for your baby's needs.
The best blankets for babies are soft and cozy and ventilated. You shouldn't choose blankets that are bulky and heavy as it could create the risk of suffocation to your baby. It is best to choose an organic blanket made of cotton muslin, which is lightweight and breathable. A thermal blanket is a great option. They are ideal for those balmy summer days when your baby requires a light cover to keep them warm.
In general it is recommended that you do away with blankets in your child's cot at 18 months of age, or earlier if possible. It is because they become risky if children climb over them. This can lead to accidents such as falling out of the crib or in bed. However, if your child is used to sleeping with blankets and is swaddled from birth or sleeping in a baby sleep bag it is best to leave it in place until they are ready to transition to a duvet.
Many parents utilize the milestone blanket to track 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 up-to-date on your child's progress, and also capture precious moments. The Monica + Andy Always Blanket has a double layer that is warm and cozy, yet comfortable to wear.
Easy to Assemble
A baby cot bed, being one of the most important furniture pieces for the nursery, is also a major investment. It's important to choose a model which is both elegant and durable. The cot should be in line with the decor of the room. Also, you should consider if the cot can be turned into a toddler bed, and if it can, how easy it is to accomplish.
When selecting a cot, look for models that have strong frames, sturdy rails, and smooth finishes. Avoid cots with curved corners as they can pose a strangulation risk. Make sure you read the instructions of the manufacturer and avoid using any tools that could cause damage. Don't be shy about asking for assistance. 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 help connect your room. If you don't want spend a lot of amount, there are plenty of excellent options for a standalone bed that are of good quality. The Elementary cot bed from John Lewis' Anyday range, for example, comes in a contemporary white finish and is made from solid FSC pine to provide a long-lasting choice. It also comes with three mattress height positions, so it's suitable for use starting from birth and can be lowered when your child is ready to begin standing (usually at about 18 months).).
The Stokke Coxley cot is another great option. It has an unassuming grey finish and a handcrafted style that can be incorporated into any decor. It's easy to set up and fits into standard door frames, which is useful when you have to move it around your home. It can also be converted into a chic, toddler bed using the addition of a basic kit. It's light enough to fit in its own bag for trips away. Parents who participated in our panel remarked that it was "easy to put together" and "looks gorgeous". The parents also liked the fact that the base of the mattress can be moved up or down, allowing you to keep your baby's head up throughout the day and stop them from falling over in the night.