Baby Cot Bed 101 The Ultimate Guide For Beginners
Buying a Baby Cot Bed Cot beds are a more long-term option than cribs since they can be converted into an adult bed. They have removable sides and an end panel can be dropped to allow access to your child. The majority of cribs can be used from birth until about 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 an ideal and safe space for your baby to sleep in at night or even during naptime. They have high walls or rails to stop your child from falling out, and most feature adjustable mattress heights that can be reduced as your child grows. This makes a cot bed suitable for infants and toddlers alike. There are many different types of cot beds available in a range of styles, from basic and budget-friendly models to ones that are packed with extra features. The decision ultimately comes down to the family's budget and requirements. Anyone who is a new parent will discover it essential to make the right decision in deciding on a baby's sleep arrangement. You need to make sure that your child is safe and comfortable, as well as having a space that can be used for a long time. While cribs are great for babies but they're also quite small and may be difficult to fit into smaller spaces. They're generally only suitable for use from 18 months. A cot-bed is a more durable option that can be easily converted into a toddler bed or small single bed. Snuz Cot Bed is a flexible, affordable cot. It's a simple, but sturdy cot with a hood that is extra-deep, which protects your baby from the elements of wind and sun. It also has a handy storage space at the bottom of the cot, so that you can keep bedding and other essentials close by. CuddleCo Nola Convertible Cot is another option. This cot can be converted from a cot into a toddler or single bed using an extension kit, that is 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 use on short-term basis and don't provide the same level of support as a standard bed. They usually come with mattresses which aren't as sturdy or thick as regular ones. While they may be a great alternative to a standard bed when you are travelling but it is important to consider that your child will only be using them for a few short years before they is ready for a larger bed. Protect your mattress from water with a waterproof mattress Many people spend lots of time and effort choosing a cot, but pay little attention to the mattress that your baby will sleep on. This is an essential purchase for your baby. We suggest buying organic cotton bedding for your baby. New research suggests that restricted airflow may be the cause of SIDS and SUDI, you will need to ensure your baby's bed is free of pillows, toys blankets, muslin cloths, blankets or cot bumpers that can restrict the flow of air around your baby. It is also important to keep the cot or bed clear of 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 an attractive design that appears like it will stand the test of time. It also converts into a toddler bed which means your baby can use it right up to the age of 4. Another cot that has great design and value is the SnuzFino Classic Cot Bed (PS695 Mother and Baby). Our mum testers loved its sleek design and stated that it was “simple yet stylish and will endure the test of time”. It's designed to grow with your child. It has two different height settings so that you can raise your newborn and lower it when they're capable of sitting on their own. When selecting a cot it is worth bearing in your mind that there should not be more than 25mm (1 inch) space between the mattress and the cot's sides and ends. This is to ensure your baby cannot escape from the cot or get trapped between the mattress and the slats. Use a mattress cover made of is 100% organic cotton and GOTS certified to ensure that it is breathable, soft and waterproof. If you'd rather something more modern, the SNOO Baby Cot Smart Sleeper (PS355, Cuckooland) is an excellent choice. It's a clever piece of kit which has a mobile app, weaning features as well as access to sleep specialists and more. But, it's costly and could be out of budget for many parents. Blankets at the End of The Road If you're planning on letting your baby sleep with a blanket in their crib or cot, make sure you have plenty of additional blankets to rotate through the wash. This will keep the sheets clean and fresh and prevent them from becoming too dirty and uncomfortable for your baby. A minimum of three to four sets should be sufficient. You can change your bedding more often with a set of organic muslin bedding. They are also breathable which can help keep your baby's skin healthy and happy. You can pick from a wide range of sizes and shades to find the best one for your baby. The most comfortable blankets are soft, warm and breathable. A blanket that is heavy and bulky could cause your baby to choke. It is best to choose an organic blanket made of cotton muslin that is lightweight and breathable. A thermal blanket is another excellent alternative. These are a great choice for balmy summer days when your baby will need a light cover to keep them warm. Generally speaking, it is recommended that you do away with blankets in the crib of your child at 18 months of age or earlier if you can. This is because they can be dangerous if children are allowed to climb on them, leading to accidents like falling out of bed or the crib. If your baby is swaddled from birth or is sleeping in a sleeping bag for babies, you may wish to keep the blanket until they are able to switch to a duvet. Many parents utilize milestone blankets to track their child's growth and progress. These blankets are usually designated in accordance with the baby's age. This is a wonderful 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 provides warmth and coziness, and is air-conditioned. Easy to Assemble While a baby cot is among the most essential furniture pieces for nursery however, it's also an expensive investment. It's important to choose one that is attractive and robust. The most important thing to consider is that the cot needs to be in keeping with the overall style of the baby's room. Also, you should consider if the cot can be converted into a toddler bed, and if it is possible be done, how easy to do. When choosing a cot make sure you choose a model with robust frames, solid rails, and smooth surfaces. Also, avoid models with curved edges, which could pose a risk of strangulation. Be sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully, and don't use any tools that could cause harm. Don't be shy to ask for assistance. Assembly is usually easier when you have two people, so you can ask your partner or family member to assist you. Many cribs come with matching furniture for the nursery, which can help to connect your room. 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 comes in white and is made of solid FSC pine, which makes it a durable choice. It comes with three mattress height settings, so it can be used right from the age of. It can also be adjusted to lower the height once 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 beautiful hand-crafted feel and a neutral grey finish that will suit any decor. It's easy to set up and can be inserted into doors with standard frames and is ideal in the event that you need to move it around your home. It also converts into a stylish bench-style toddler bed with the addition of a basic kit. And it's lightweight enough to fit into its own bag for trips away. Our panel of parents agreed that it was “a dream to put together” and “looks beautiful”. most recommended cribs appreciated the fact that you can move the base of the mattress upwards or downwards to keep your baby's head elevated throughout the day and keep them from rolling off at the end of the night.