Parenting / 6 March, 2019 / Christina Walter

Babies, Beds And Bedding: The Ultimate Guide

Every parent wants to ensure they invest in the best products for their children. When it comes to baby sleep, there are a lot of options to choose from. I’ve put together this handy guide on Moses baskets, cots, cot bed and bedding to ensure you pick wisely so baby can nail those daytime naps, and sleep peacefully and comfortably at nighttimes.

Moses Baskets 

Moses baskets are a great option for the first few weeks while your baby is still small. They’re very easy and convenient to move around and can be set up pretty much anywhere.

You will need to buy a mattress for your Moses basket, as they aren’t usually included. Don’t forget to buy sheets that are specific to your mattress shape.

Cribs 

When it comes to choosing a crib, you can either opt for a standard design or one that attaches to the bed, so you can have your little one sleeping right next to you but in their own safe space. Many give you the option to do either, and it’s good to bear this in mind when purchasing – do’t forget to measure the height of your bed to ensure the crib can attach.

Cribs can be used from birth, up to around six months, which is ideal for keeping your baby close, and a great space saver to boot! Most cribs don’t come with sheets or a mattress so you will need to get these separately. Don’t forget sheets will be specific to the crib mattress size.

Cots

Cots can be used from birth right up to two years. They’re smaller than a cot bed, so you can usually fit them in your room while the baby is small then move it to their own room when they reach over six months.  You will need to buy a cot mattress and sheets specifically for the cot you choose. Fortunately, there are a some of these that can fit a cot and a cot bed.

Cot Beds

Cot beds are suitable from birth right up to the age 4 to 5, depending on the type. This makes them an excellent choice for a child’s nursery. Many can be easily transformed into a toddler bed by removing or adding a few parts.

Since these cot beds are quite close to the floor, they are good for getting your fidgety toddler used to a bed without sides – but you do also have the option to re-add the sides if your little one falls out too much.

You will need to buy a cot bed mattress and sheets that are specific to cot beds; however there are some that can fit a cot and cot bed.

Sleep Aids

If your baby has trouble sleeping or sufferers with problems such as reflux these sleep aids can be a god send. They are only suitable for a short period of time so make sure you read up on each before purchasing.

Covers and Sleeping Bags

When it comes to covering your baby you can choose from swaddling, using blankets or tucking them up in a sleeping bag. You can opt for any of these options with all of the beds above. Here is a list of some lovely bedding to choose from:

Cellular blankets are great for helping to keep your baby’s temperature regular.

Swaddles are great for the first few weeks, as they make the baby feel as though they’re still sleeping in the womb. Babies tend to wake themselves from moving around so swaddling stops this movement and disruption. We recommend starting swaddling early on; if the baby becomes too accustomed to free movement, they will not feel comfortable being wrapped up. Swaddling is only recommended for the first three to four months.

Sleeping bags can be really helpful as babies do tend to move their legs about and kick off blankets. Sleeping bags also remove your fear of them being cold during the night. It allows your baby movement, but they will not be able to kick it off. Make sure if you’re using sleeping bags you adhere to the temperature guidelines on each product and don’t let your baby overheat or become too cold. It’s handy to have a room thermometer in the room where your child is sleeping.

REMEMBER: Duvets, fleece blankets and cot bumpers are not recommended for newborn babies!

Top New Car Seats to Keep Your Little Ones Safe in 2019