Baby Cot Bed 101"The Complete" Guide For Beginners
Buying a Baby Cot Bed
Cot beds are a better long-term choice than top ranked cribs as they can be converted into a toddler bed. They have removable sides and an end panel can be removed to provide access to your child.
The majority of cots are suitable for use from birth to 2 years or until your baby starts trying to climb out. Then you should move to a junior bed.
4 Walls
Cot beds offer a safe, secure place for your baby to nap or rest at night. They feature high walls or rails to stop your baby from slipping out, and a majority of them have adjustable mattress heights that can be reduced as your baby grows. A cot bed is perfect for both infants and toddlers. There are many cot bed models, ranging from the basic and affordable to those with many additional features. The final decision depends on the family's budget and needs.
The right baby sleep arrangement is a major decision for any parent who is about to become a. You must ensure that your baby is secure and safe. It must also be a place that you can use for a long time. While cots are great for newborns and are compact however, they can be difficult to accommodate in smaller spaces. They're also only usually suitable for use until 18 months. A crib-bed is a more sturdy option that can be easily 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 crib with a hood that extends to shield your baby from wind and sun. It also features a handy storage area at the end of the cot, so that you can keep bedding and other essentials in a convenient place.
Another option is the CuddleCo Nola Convertible Cot. The cot can be transformed from a cot to a toddler or single bed with the help of an extension kit which is sold separately. It has three mattress heights so you can alter it according to your child's age.
The final alternative is a travel bed. These are usually only suitable for short-term use, and may not provide the same degree of support as the regular cot beds for sale. In addition, they typically have mattresses that aren't as strong or as thick as the standard one. They can be a good alternative to a standard cot when you're travelling however, it's important to remember that they'll only last just a few years before your child is ready for a bigger bed.
Protect your mattress from water with a waterproof mattress
Many people spend lots of time and effort selecting the right cot, but pay no focus on the mattress your baby will sleep on. This is a crucial purchase for your baby. We recommend investing in organic cotton bedding for your baby.
New research suggests that restricted airflow may be the cause of SIDS and SUDI, you'll want to make sure your baby's bed is free from toys, pillows, blankets, muslin cloths or cot bumpers that can hinder the circulation of air around your baby. Also, keep the bed or cot away from any radiators, heaters, windows cables, and plug sockets.
The Mamas & Papas Franklin Cot Bed is a very popular choice for our mum testers. It is available in four colors and features a beautiful design that looks like it will last for a long time. It can also be converted into a toddler's crib, to allow your baby to use the crib until four years old.
Another cot with great style and value is the SnuzFino Classic Cot Bed (PS695, Mother & Baby). Our mom testers were awed by its sleek design, and said it was "simple but stylish and will stand the long-term". It's designed to develop 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.
When choosing a cot, it is worth bearing in the mind that there should be no more than 25mm (1 inch) space between the mattress and the cot's sides and ends. This is to ensure your baby is not able to climb out of the cot or become trapped between the mattress and the slats. You should also always make sure to use mattress protectors that are 100 100% cotton and GOTS certified Organic, to ensure it is breathable and soft but also completely waterproof to prevent any leaks!
If you'd rather something more modern, the SNOO Baby Cot Smart Sleeper (PS355, Cuckooland) is an excellent choice. It's a smart device that comes with an app that can be downloaded on mobile devices as well as a weaning feature and sleep experts. However, it's expensive and may be out of reach for many parents.
Blankets at the end of the Line
If you plan to allow your baby to sleep in a crib or cot with a blanket, make sure to have enough bedding to wash them regularly. This will prevent the sheets from becoming overly dirty and uncomfortable for your little one as well as helping to keep their bed clean and fresh. Three to four sets of sheets is enough.
You can change your sheets more often by using an organic muslin bedding. They are also breathable which will help keep your baby's delicate skin healthy. They are available in different sizes and colours and sizes, so you can choose the right ones to meet your baby's requirements.
The best blankets are soft warm and comfortable. A blanket that is heavy and bulky could cause your baby to choke. It is best to choose a blanket made from organic cotton muslin that is lightweight and breathable. Another option is a thermal blanket. They are an excellent choice for warm summer days when your baby will require an easy-to-wear cover to keep them warm.
In general it is recommended cribs you stop using blankets in your child's cot at 18 months of age or earlier if you can. They can be dangerous if allowed to climb over them. This could result in accidents such as falling out of the crib or in bed. If your baby is swaddled from birth or is sleeping in a sleeping bag specifically designed for babies, you might want to keep the blanket until they are ready to switch to a duvet.
Many parents use milestone blankets to mark the development and growth of their child, typically with numbers that indicate the age of the child. This is a great method to keep your family and friends up-to-date on your baby's progress, as well as capture some precious moments. The Monica + Andy Always Blanket has a double layer that's both warm and cozy, while also being airy.
Easy to Assemble
While a baby cot is among the most essential furniture pieces for the nursery, it's also a substantial investment. It's crucial to choose one that is elegant and durable. The most recommended cribs important factor to consider is that the cot must be in harmony with the overall design of the room your baby is in. Also, you should consider if the cot can be turned into a toddler bed, and if it is possible be done, how easy to do.
When selecting a cot you should choose a cot that have sturdy frames, sturdy rails and smooth edges. Also, avoid models with curving edges, which could pose a risk of strangulation. Also, make sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully, and don't use any tools that could cause damage. Finally, don't be afraid to ask for help. Ask your partner or family member to assist you.
Many cots come with matching furniture for the nursery which can help connect your room. If you don't want to spend a lot of amount, there are plenty of good quality standalone options. The Elementary cot-bed from John Lewis Anyday comes in white with solid FSC pine, making it a sturdy option. It also comes with three mattress heights, which means it's suitable from the time of birth and can be adjusted when your child is ready to begin standing (usually at around 18 months).
Another option is the Scandi-style Coxley cot from Stokke that has a stunning hand-crafted feel and a neutral grey color that is perfect for any room. It is easy to assemble and can be inserted into doors that have standard doorframes. This is perfect for moving around the home. With the addition of a simple kit that can transform it into a chic toddler bed in a bench-style. It's light enough to put in a carry bag when you go on vacation. Parents who participated in our panel remarked that it was "easy to assemble" and "looks stunning". They also loved the fact that you are able to move the base of the mattress upwards or downwards - so you can keep your baby's head in a higher position during nap time and stop them from rolling off at the end of the night.