What Experts On Baby Cot Bed Want You To Know
Buying a Baby Cot Bed
Cot beds can be transformed into toddler beds, making them a better long-term option than cribs. They also come with removable sides and an end panel that can be dropped down to provide access to your child.
The majority of cribs can be used from birth to around 2 years old or until your child starts to want to climb out. Then you should move to a junior bed.
4 Walls
Cot beds provide the safety and security for your baby to nap or rest during the night. They are equipped with high walls or rails to prevent your baby from slipping out, and many have adjustable mattress heights that can be reduced as your baby grows. A cot bed is ideal for both infants and toddlers. There are a myriad of cot bed models, which range from the basic and affordable to those that come with a variety of features. In the end, it depends on your family's requirements and budget.
Choosing the right baby sleeping arrangement is a major choice for any new parent. You want to make sure that your baby is secure and safe. It should also be a space you can use for a long time. While cribs are great for babies however, they're also very compact and may be difficult to fit into smaller spaces. They're generally only suitable for use from 18 months. A cot-bed is a much more durable option and can easily be converted into a toddler bed or small single bed.
Snuz Cot Bed is a flexible, affordable cot. This is a sturdy, simple cot with an extended hood to shield your baby from wind and sun. It has a storage space at the end, so you can keep bedding and other items.
Another good choice is the CuddleCo Nola Convertible Cot. This cot can be converted from a cot to a single or toddler bed by using an extension kit which is sold separately. It has three mattress heights, so you can alter it to fit your child's age.
The last option is a travel cot. They're only suitable for short-term usage and might not offer the same level of support as a standard bed. In addition, they typically have mattresses that aren't as strong or as thick as a standard cot. Although they can be a good alternative to a standard bed when you are travelling, it is important to consider 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
Often a lot of thought is put into purchasing a cot, but less thought is given to the mattress that your baby will sleep on. This is an essential purchase for your baby. We suggest buying an organic cotton crib.
New research suggests that restricted airflow could be the cause of SIDS and SUDI, you will need to ensure your baby's bed is free from toys, pillows, blankets, muslin cloths or cot bumpers which can hinder the circulation of air around your baby. Ideally, you will also position the cot or cot bed away from heaters, radiators windows, plug sockets and cables that could pose risk.
The Mamas & Papas Franklin Cot Bed is a popular choice among our mom testers. It comes in four colors, and the design looks like it will last for an extended period of time. It also converts into a toddler bed so your child can use it right up until the age of 4.
The SnuzFino Classic Cot Bed is another cot that is stylish and value (PS695 Mother and Baby). Our mum testers were impressed by its sleek design, saying it was "simple but stylish and will last the test of time". It's designed to expand with your child too and has two height settings for the mattress, so you can keep your baby elevated and then lower it once they begin to sit up without assistance.
It is important to remember that the mattress should not have a gap greater than 25mm (1") between it and the edges and sides of the cot. This is to ensure your baby is not able to climb out of the cot or become trapped between the mattress and the slats. Also, you should utilize a mattress protector that is 100% cotton and GOTS certified Organic, so that it is soft and breathable but completely waterproof and to stop any leaks!
If best cots 'd rather an option that is high-tech, then the SNOO Baby Cot Smart Sleeper (PS355, Cuckooland) is an excellent option. It is a clever device that comes with an app that can be downloaded on mobile devices and a weaning function, and sleep experts. It's expensive and out of reach for many parents.
Blankets at The End
If you're planning to let your baby sleep with a blanket in their cot or crib, make sure you have plenty of extras to rotate through the wash. This will prevent the sheets from becoming too dirty and uncomfortable for your child as well as helping to keep their bed clean and fresh. A minimum of three or four sets is sufficient.
A high-quality set of organic muslin blankets allows you to wash the sheets regularly without worrying about them becoming too dirty. They also breathe which can help keep your baby's skin healthy and happy. You can pick from a wide range of sizes and colors to find the perfect one for your baby.
The best blankets are soft, warm and airy. You shouldn't choose a blanket that is too bulky and heavy as it could create a suffocation risk for your baby. It is recommended to select a blanket made from organic cotton muslin, which is breathable and lightweight. Another good alternative is a thermal blanket. These are great for those warm summer days, when your baby requires a light cover to keep them warm.
In general, it is recommended that you stop using a blanket in your child’s cot by 18 months, or earlier, if you can. This is because they could become dangerous if they are allowed to climb on them, which could lead to accidents such as falls from the bed or the crib. However, if your child is used to sleeping with a blanket and has been swaddled from birth or sleeping in a sleeping bag for babies it is best to keep it in place until they are ready to transition to a duvet.
Many parents utilize milestone blankets to track their child's progress and growth. These blankets are typically designated according to the child's age. This is a great way to keep family and friends updated on your baby's progress and also capture precious moments. The Monica + Andy Always Blanket has a double layer that is warm and cozy, but also comfortable to wear.
Easy to Assemble
A baby cot bed, although one of the most important furniture pieces for the nursery, is also a significant investment. Therefore, it's worth the effort to choose one that looks as appealing as it is strong and practical. The cot should be in line with the style of the room. It is also important to consider whether the cot can be turned into a toddler bed, and if so be done, how simple it is to do so.
When selecting a cot, look for models that have solid frames, solid rails, and smooth finishes. Avoid models that have curved corners, as they can pose the risk of strangulation. Be sure to read the directions of the manufacturer and avoid using any tools that could cause harm. Finally, don't be afraid to ask for help. Ask your family or friend member to help you.
Many co-occurring beds are paired with furniture for the nursery which can help pull the design of your room together. However, if you don't have the funds for this, there are numerous high-quality standalone options to choose from. The Elementary cot bed from John Lewis' Anyday range, for example, comes with a modern white finish and is constructed of solid FSC pine for a durable choice. It has three mattress height settings, which means it is suitable for use from the time of birth. It can also be adjusted to lower the height once your child is ready to start standing (usually around 18 months).
Another great alternative is the Scandi-style Coxley cot from Stokke It has a beautiful hand-crafted feel and a neutral grey finish that will suit any interior. It is easy to assemble, and it fits through standard doorframes. This is great to move around the house. It can also be converted into a chic toddler bed using the addition of a simple kit. It's light enough to fit in its own bag for trips away. Our panel of parents said it was "a dream to put together" and "looks beautiful". They also loved the ability to change the position of the base of the mattress upwards or downwards - so you can keep your baby's head in a higher position during naps and prevent them from rolling away at the end of the night.