The Most Popular Baby Cot Bed Experts Are Doing 3 Things
Buying a Baby Cot Bed
Cot beds are a more long-term choice than cribs as they can be converted to an adult bed. They have removable sides, and the end panel can be dropped to allow access to your child.
The majority of cots are suitable for use from birth until around 2 years, or until your child starts to climb out. Then you should move to a junior bed.
4 Walls
Cot beds offer an ideal and safe space for your baby to rest in at night or during nap time. They have high walls or rails to 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 basic and affordable to those with many additional features. The decision ultimately depends on the family's budget as well as their needs.
Selecting the best baby sleeping arrangement is a major decision for any new parent. You need to ensure that your baby is secure and safe. It must also be a place that you can use for a long time. While cots can be great for infants and are small but they can also be difficult to accommodate in smaller spaces. They're generally only suitable for use until 18 months. A cot-bed is a much more durable alternative and can be easily converted into an infant bed or a small single bed.
If you're looking for a value, versatile cot we suggest the Snuz Cot Bed. This is a simple but sturdy cot with a large hood which shields your child from the sun and wind. It also features a handy storage area at the top of the cot, so that you can keep bedding and other essentials close at hand.
CuddleCo Nola Convertible Cot is an alternative. The cot is designed to be a traditional cot but can be transformed into a toddler bed or even a single bed, thanks to an extension kit that is sold separately. It has three handy mattress heights, so you can keep the mattress up for newborns and young babies, before lowering it down as your child gets older.
The final option is a travel cot. They're only suitable for use on short-term basis and don't provide the same level support as a regular bed. They often have mattresses that aren't as sturdy or thick as traditional ones. They can be a useful alternative to a standard cot if you're travelling, but it's worth remembering that they'll only last a few years at most before your child is ready for larger beds.
Mattress Protector Waterproof
A lot of thought is put into buying a cot, however less thought is given to the mattress your baby will sleep on. This is an essential purchase for your baby. We recommend buying an organic cotton crib.
You should ensure that your baby's crib is free of blankets, toys, or pillows. They can impede the airflow around your child. You should also ensure that the bed or cot is free of any radiators, heaters, windows cables, and plug sockets.
The Mamas&Papas Franklin Cot Bed is a very popular choice for our mum testers. It comes in four colors and looks like it's going to last for a long time. It can also be converted into a toddler bed so your baby can use it until the age of four.
The SnuzFino Classic Cot Bed is another cot that is stylish and value (PS695, Mother and Baby). Our mum testers loved its sleek design and said it was "simple yet elegant and will endure the test of time". It's designed to grow with your child, too. It has two levels of height for the mattress, so you can keep your newborn raised and then lower it once they are able to sit unaided.
It is essential to keep in mind that the mattress shouldn't have a gap larger than 25mm (1") between it and the ends and sides of the cot. This will ensure that your baby can't get out of the crib or get caught between the mattress slats. You should also always use a mattress protector that is 100% cotton and GOTS certified Organic, to ensure it is soft and breathable but also completely waterproof to stop any leaks!
You can also go for a more technological alternative and select 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 feature and access to sleep experts and more. It's expensive and not accessible to many parents.
Blankets at the End of the Road
If you plan to let your baby sleep in a cot or crib with a blanket, be sure to have enough extras to clean them regularly. This will keep the sheets fresh and clean and keep them from becoming too dirty and uncomfortable for your baby. A minimum of three or four sets should be sufficient.
A good quality set of organic muslin blankets can allow you to change the sheets frequently without worrying about them becoming too dirty. They also breathe, which will help keep your baby's delicate skin healthy. They are available in different sizes and colors, so you can find the right ones to meet your baby's needs.
The best blankets for babies are soft and comfortable, yet ventilated. her comment is here don't want blankets that are bulky and heavy as it could cause an obstructive risk to your baby. A blanket made of organic cotton muslin is a great choice because it is lightweight and comfortable to breathe. A thermal blanket is a great alternative. 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 remove blankets from your child's crib at 18 months of age, or earlier if possible. They can be dangerous if children are allowed to climb over them. This can lead to accidents like falling out of the crib or in bed. If your child is used to sleeping on blankets and is wrapped from birth or is sleeping in a sleeping bag for babies then you might want to keep the blanket 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 usually designated according to the baby's age. This is a great method to keep family and friends informed of your baby's progress as well as capture some precious moments. The Monica + Andy Always Blanket is a stunning double layer blanket that offers warmth and comfort, while still being breathable.
Easy to Assemble
A baby cot bed, while one of the most important furniture pieces for nursery is also a major investment. It's important to choose one that is attractive and durable. The cot must match the look of the room. You'll also want to consider whether the cot could be converted to a toddler bed and If so, how simple it is to do.
When choosing a cot, look for models that have strong frames, sturdy rails, and smooth surfaces. It is also recommended to stay clear of models with curving edges, which could pose a risk of strangulation. Be sure to follow the instructions of the manufacturer and avoid using any tools that could cause damage. Finally, don't be afraid to seek help. Ask your partner or family member to assist you.
Many cribs come with matching furniture for your nursery which can help pull the style of your room together. If you don't have the budget for this you can find numerous high-quality alternatives that can be used as a stand-alone. The Elementary cot bed from John Lewis' Anyday range, for example, comes with a modern white finish and is constructed from solid FSC pine for a durable option. It comes with three mattress settings, so it can be used from birth. It can also be removed when your child is able to begin standing (usually around 18 months).).
Another great alternative is the Scandi-style Coxley cot by Stokke It has a stunning hand-crafted feel and a neutral grey color that is perfect for any room. It is simple to put together, and it fits through doors with standard frames. This is perfect to move around the home. It can also transform into a chic bench-style toddler bed with the addition of a basic kit. It's lightweight enough to fit in a bag to carry when you travel. Our panel of parents agreed that it was "a dream to put together" and "looks beautiful". Parents also appreciated the fact that the mattress's base can be moved up and down, so you can keep your baby's head elevated during naps and stop them from rolling over at night.