5 Baby Cot Bed Lessons From The Pros

Buying a Baby Cot Bed

Cot beds are a more long-term choice than cribs as they can be converted into an adult bed. They also have removable sides and an end panel that can be dropped down to provide access to your child.

Most cribs (click) can be used from birth until around 2 years old or until your baby begins to climb out. Then, you can switch to junior beds.

4 Walls

Cot beds offer secure and safe for your baby to sleep in at night or during naptime. They feature high walls or rails that prevent your baby from falling, and many come with adjustable mattress heights. A cot bed is perfect for toddlers and infants alike. There are many different types of cot beds that are available, from simple and affordable models to those packed with additional features. Ultimately, the decision comes down to your family's needs and budget.

Anyone who is a new parent will discover it important to make the right choice in deciding on a baby's sleep arrangement. You must ensure that your baby is safe and safe. It must also be a space you can stay in for a prolonged period of time. While cots can be great for infants and are small however, they can be difficult to squeeze into smaller spaces. In addition, they're generally not suitable until your child is 18 months old or so. A crib-bed is a more sturdy option and can easily be transformed into a toddler bed or small single bed.

If you're looking to buy a low-cost cot that is versatile we suggest the Snuz Cot Bed. It's a simple, but sturdy cot with a large hood that shields your baby from the sun and wind. It also has a convenient storage area at the top of the cot so you can keep bedding and other essentials close by.

CuddleCo Nola Convertible Cot is another good option. It's a traditional cot bed sales but can be converted into an infant bed or one bed, because of an extension kit that's available separately. It has three mattress heights so that you can adjust it to suit your child's age.

The final option is a travel bed. They are designed for short-term use and may not provide the same level support as a standard bed. They typically come with mattresses which are not as firm or thick as standard ones. 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 for several years before your child is ready for a bigger bed.

Waterproof Mattress Protector

Often a lot of thought is put into purchasing a cot, but little thought is given to the mattress that your baby will sleep on. This is a very important purchase for your baby. We recommend purchasing an organic cotton baby bed.

You will want to make sure that your baby's cot bed is not cluttered with blankets, toys, or pillows. They could block the airflow around your child. It is also important to keep the bed or cot clear of radiators, heaters, windows cable sockets, and plugs.

If you're seeking a stylish cot the Mamas & Papas Franklin Cot Bed (PS375, Cuckooland) is an extremely popular choice among our mom testers. It is available in four colors and the design appears like it'll last many years. It is also able to be converted into a toddler's crib, so that your baby can use the crib up to four years old.

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, stating that it was "simple but elegant and will last the long-term". It is designed to grow with your child too and offers two different heights for the mattress, so you can keep your baby elevated and then lower it when they are able to sit without assistance.

When selecting a cot it is important to keep in mind that there should not be more than 25mm (1 inch) gap between the mattress and the sides and ends. This will ensure that your baby won't get out of the crib or be trapped between the slats on the mattress. Use a mattress cover that is made of 100 organic cotton and GOTS certified to ensure it is soft, breathable and waterproof.

If you'd prefer a high-tech option, then the SNOO Baby Cot Smart Sleeper (PS355, Cuckooland) is an excellent option. It's a smart kit that includes an app for mobile devices and a weaning function, and access to sleep consultants. However, it's expensive and might 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 ensure that you have plenty of extras to rotate through the wash. This will keep the sheets clean and fresh and prevent them from becoming dirty and uncomfortable for your baby. A minimum of three or four sets should be sufficient.

A good set of organic muslin blankets can allow you to change the sheets frequently without worrying about them becoming too dirty. They are also breathable which can help keep your baby's skin healthy and happy. You can pick from a variety of sizes and shades to find the best one for your baby.

The best crib for newborn blankets for babies are soft and cozy and airy. You shouldn't choose blankets that are heavy and bulky as it could cause a suffocation risk for your baby. A blanket made from organic cotton muslin is a great choice because it is light and airy. A thermal blanket is another excellent option. These are perfect for those balmy summer days when your baby requires a lightweight cover that will keep them warm.

In general, it's advised to remove a blanket in your child’s crib by the age of 18 months or earlier, if possible. They can be dangerous if children are allowed to climb on them. This could result in accidents like falling out of the crib or bed. However, if your baby is used to sleeping on a blanket and has been covered from birth or sleeps in a sleeping bag for babies then you might want to keep it in place until they are ready to transition to a duvet.

Many parents use milestone blankets to mark the baby's development and growth, typically with numbers that indicate the age of the child. It is a great method to keep your family and friends informed about your baby's progress, as well capture some precious memories. The Monica + Andy Always Blanket is a gorgeous double layer blanket that gives warmth and comfort, and is air-conditioned.

Easy to Assemble

While a cot for a baby is one of the most essential furniture pieces for the nursery, it's also a substantial investment. It's worth taking time to select the one that looks good as it is sturdy and practical. The cot should be in line with the look of the room. You should also consider whether the cot can be converted to a toddler bed and, if so, how easy it will be to do.

When choosing a cot, ensure that it has solid frames, sturdy rails, and smooth surfaces. It is also recommended to stay clear of models with curved edges which could pose a risk of strangulation. Make sure you read the instructions of the manufacturer and avoid making use of any tools that could cause harm. Don't be afraid to ask for assistance. Ask your partner or family member to help you.

Many cot beds come with matching furniture for your nursery, which can really pull the style of your room together. If you don't want to spend a lot of money, there are many high-quality standalone options. The Elementary cot-bed from John Lewis Anyday comes in white and is made of solid FSC pine, which makes it a durable choice. It also comes with three mattress height positions, so it's suitable from birth and can be lowered when your child is ready for standing (usually at about 18 months).).

Another alternative is the Scandi-style Coxley cot by Stokke that has a stunning hand-crafted feel and a neutral grey finish that suits any interior. It's easy to assemble and fits into standard door frames and is ideal when you need to shift it around your home. It can also transform into a stylish bench-style toddler bed with the addition of a simple kit. And it's lightweight enough to fit in its own bag for trips away. Parents who were part of our panel agreed that it was "easy to assemble" and "looks gorgeous". They also loved the fact that you can move the base of the mattress upwards or downwards - so you can keep your baby's head in a higher position throughout the day and keep them from rolling away at the end of the night.