A Comprehensive Guide To Baby Cot Bed From Start To Finish
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 have removable sides, and the end panel can be dropped to allow access to your child.
Most cribs can be used from birth until approximately 2 years old, or until your child begins to attempt to climb out. Then you should move to a junior bed.
4 Walls
Cot beds offer a safe and secure space for your baby to sleep in at night or during naptime. They have high walls or rails that stop your baby from falling, and many have adjustable mattress heights. A cot bed is suitable for toddlers as well as infants. There are a variety of cot bed models that range from the basic and affordable to those with many additional features. The final decision comes down to the family's budget as well as their needs.
Anyone who is a new parent will discover it essential to make the right decision when choosing a baby's sleeping arrangement. You must ensure that your child is safe and comfortable and have a space that can be used for a long period of time. While cribs are great for babies however, they're also very compact and can be difficult to fit into smaller spaces. Additionally, they're only suitable for use until your child reaches the age of 18 months or at the earliest. A cot bed is the best option for a longer-term usage and can easily be converted into a toddler or small single bed.
Snuz Cot Bed is a flexible, affordable cot. This is a sturdy, simple cot with an extended hood to protect your baby from wind and sun. It also has a convenient storage space at the bottom of the cot so you can keep bedding and other necessities close at hand.
Another option is an alternative is the CuddleCo Nola Convertible Cot. It can be converted from a cot into a toddler or single bed with the help of an extension kit which is sold separately. It has three handy mattress heights so that you can keep the mattress up for infants and babies, before lowering it down as your child gets older.
The last option is a travel bed. They are typically only suitable for temporary use and don't provide the same degree of support as the standard cot. In addition, they typically have mattresses that aren't as firm or as thick as the standard one. While they may be a good alternative to a standard mattress for travel but it is important to keep in mind that your child will only use them for a few years before he or she is ready for a larger bed.
Waterproof Mattress Protector
A amount of thought is given to purchasing a cot, but little thought is given to the mattress that your baby will sleep on. This is one of the most important purchases you make for your baby. we recommend purchasing a good quality organic cotton baby mattress.
Recent research has revealed that restricted airflow could be a reason for SIDS and SUDI, you'll be looking to ensure that your baby's bed is free of pillows, toys, blankets, muslin cloths or cot bumpers which can hinder the circulation of air around your baby. Ideally, you should position the cot or cot bed away from heaters, radiators, windows as well as plug sockets and cables that could create a hazard.
The Mamas&Papas Franklin Cot Bed is a very popular choice for our mum testers. It is available in four colours and has an attractive design that appears like it's built 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.
Another cot with excellent design and value is the SnuzFino Classic Cot Bed (PS695, Mother & Baby). Our mum testers were amazed by its sleek design, saying it was "simple but stylish and will last the long-term". It is designed to grow with your child too and has two different heights for the mattress so that you can keep your baby raised and then lower it once they begin to sit up without assistance.
It is crucial to remember that the mattress shouldn't have a gap larger than 25mm (1") between it and the edges and sides of the cot. This is to ensure your baby is not able to get out of the cot or become trapped between the mattress and slats. Also, you should utilize mattress protectors that are 100 100% cotton and GOTS certified Organic, to ensure it's breathable and soft but totally waterproof and to avoid any unwanted leaks!
Alternatively, if you prefer an option that is high-tech, then the SNOO Baby Cot Smart Sleeper (PS355, Cuckooland) is an excellent choice. It's an innovative piece of kit which has an app for mobile devices, a weaning feature, access to sleep consultants and much more. It's costly and is out of reach for many parents.
Blankets at the end of the Line
If you plan to allow your baby to sleep in a cot or a crib with a blanket, make sure to have enough bedding to wash them regularly. This will keep the sheets clean and fresh and keep them from becoming dirty and uncomfortable for your baby. A minimum of three to four sets is sufficient.
A high-quality set of organic muslin blankets will allow you to wash the sheets regularly without worrying about them getting too dirty. They are also breathable and help keep your baby's skin healthy and happy. They are available in a variety of sizes and colors, so you can find the perfect one for your baby's needs.
The best baby blankets are soft and comfortable and breathable. A blanket that is bulky and heavy could cause your baby to choke. A blanket made of organic cotton muslin is the best choice because it is light and airy. A thermal blanket is another great option. They are ideal for those balmy summer days when your baby needs an easy-to-wear cover that will keep them warm.
In general it is recommended you do away with blankets in your child's cot when they reach the age of 18 months, or earlier if possible. They can be dangerous if allowed to climb over them. This could result in accidents like falling out of the crib or in bed. If your child 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 able to switch to a duvet.
Many parents use milestone blankets to mark their baby's growth and development usually with numbers that reflect the age of the child. look these up is a wonderful way to keep your family and friends informed about your baby's progress and capture precious memories. The Monica + Andy Always Blanket is a gorgeous double layer blanket that provides warmth and comfort, while still being comfortable and breathable.
Easy to Assemble
While a baby cot bed is one of the most essential furniture pieces for the nursery however, it's also an expensive investment. It's important to choose one that is elegant and durable. The cot should be in line with the style of the room. You'll also want to consider whether the cot will convert into a toddler bed, and If so, how simple this is to accomplish.
When selecting a cot you should look for models with robust frames with sturdy rails, as well as smooth edges. Avoid models with curved corners because they could pose the risk of strangulation. Be sure to read the instructions provided by the manufacturer and avoid making use of any tools that could cause harm. Don't be shy about asking for assistance. Assembly is usually easier when it's done by two people, so ask your spouse or a family member to assist you.
Many cribs come with matching furniture for the nursery that can really bring the style of your room together. However, if you don't have the funds for this there are many good-quality standalone options to choose from. The Elementary cot-bed from John Lewis Anyday comes in a white finish with solid FSC pine, making it a durable choice. It also has three mattress heights, which means it's suitable for use starting from birth. It can also be lowered when your child is ready to begin standing (usually at about 18 months).).
The Stokke Coxley cot is another excellent option. It has a neutral grey finish and a handmade feel that will suit any room. It's easy to assemble and can be inserted into doors with standard frames which is helpful when you need to shift it around your home. It can also be converted into a chic toddler bed using the addition of a simple kit. And it's lightweight enough to fit in its own carry bag for trips away. Parents who participated in our panel agreed that it was "easy to put together" and "looks stunning". They also appreciated the fact that you are able to change the position of the base of the mattress up or down to keep your baby's head elevated throughout the day and keep them from rolling away at the end of the night.