Buying an Infant Cot Bed
A cot is the most commonly used kind of bed for babies. It is a wonderful place for your infant to rest. It can be difficult for your baby to settle in their cot.
Babies need to be able to roll over easily. They should also sleep on an even surface. This means avoiding pillows or blankets in their cots since they could pose a suffocation hazard.
Safety features
When you purchase a cot for your infant, it is essential to ensure whether it was made safely. It is essential to make sure that the product is tested to the correct standards and that its parts are safe. You can do this by looking for a JPMA certification seal or by checking that there aren't any gaps between the mattress and sides of the product that could catch an infant's head or legs. You should also avoid adding pillows, stuffed animals or blankets as these can pose the risk of suffocation.
You may need to enter your child's room to change their diapers, clean the cot or give them cuddles. It is also important to ensure that the cot bed has a waterproof mattress cover to guard it from accidents.
Some cots come with removable sides and adjustable mattress heights. They can be adjusted as your child gets older. This will make it easier for your baby to climb into and out of the cot as they get older, but you must be on the lookout for them and move them onto a toddler bed at around 18 months or 2 years when they start to show signs that they are ready for this.
If your child is in the cot bed it is recommended that you position the cot away from heaters and windows, wall lamps and curtain or blind cords because they can pose a strangulation hazard for babies. It is important to create a safe zone around the cot, free from any bedding or toys that could cause an suffocation hazard and also remove climbing aids like large toys. This will help protect your child from injuries and help allow the transition to a toddler bed a less stressful process for all of you.
Convenience
A well-designed cot creates a comfortable sleep environment that encourages healthy posture. Its thoughtful spacing minimizes entanglement hazards that can lead to a suffocation risk for infants. Its simple design enables parents to be attentive to their baby's requirements during diaper changes and at nighttime feedings.
The majority of cots are standard sizes, which means they will fit most mattresses for babies that are standard. nursery cots come with a fitted mattress pad and a fitted sheet to protect the cot against scratches and bumps. Some cots are able to be removed from the sides, making it easier to reach the baby at night. It's important to follow The Lullaby Trust's advice and only use a suitable mattress for your child's weight and age.
When your child outgrows the cot they are in, you should move them to a bed for toddlers. It can be a stressful time for both parents and infants, but you can make the transition smoother. Make sure you check the height of the crib first. You want it to be lower than your child's bed, so they won't need to climb or jump out of it.
Drop-side cots are a good alternative for older children, who can crawl and reach their feet. These cots also come with pedals or catch that stop your child from releasing the cot on their own. These are particularly helpful for taller parents, who aren't able to lift their baby out of the crib themselves.
Some cots come with an option to be raised and lowered. This is ideal for older babies who are starting to roll over or wriggle when they sleep. This type of cot has a safety guard that is constructed of plastic or metal and stops your baby from falling.
Alternatively, you can buy a Moses basket that can be converted into a bed, which is ideal for younger babies and toddlers. It's an incredibly smaller cot than the standard one, meaning it takes up less space in your baby's room. It is also easy to move, and many come with wheels that help you move it.
Aesthetics
A cot bed that is suitable for your child should be stylish and blend in with the rest your nursery. This will create a relaxing atmosphere for your baby and will also improve the overall ambiance in the room. It should not be too close to a window or door as it could expose your baby to drafts that may disrupt their sleep.
There are many alternatives for baby cots. The most effective ones will have a sleek, modern design that is easy to maintain and looks beautiful. Some of them are crafted with sturdy wood, and have fixed safety rails to keep your child safe. Some are made of metal and are easy to assemble. Choose a cot with a soft fabric that won't make your baby overheat. You should also be aware that a cot should never be placed near a flame because it could catch flames.
Some cots come with an underneath basket or drawer that can be useful to store muslin cloths and blankets. A hood can be used to shield your infant from light and noise and allow them to sleep more peacefully at night. It is also essential to choose a mattress that is the same size as your cot, and choose organic cotton if you can.
A cot is an important piece of furniture for your baby, and it will last them until they reach the age of four years old. Some cots are convertible to toddler beds. If you are looking for a high quality cot one of the Mamas and Papas Coxley is a great option. It is available in a variety of colours and was named the best cot in the 2022 Mother&Baby Awards. It's beautiful in design and is easy to put together and features three mattress heights.
Include a few toys in the crib mattress of your child to encourage them to sleep for longer. However, don't attempt to make the cot comfortable with mattresses or pillows, as this could pose a risk of suffocation and injury. You can also purchase a hygienic cover for the mattress to lessen the need to wash it frequently. The cover shields your mattress from stains that result from sweat or shedding sweat.
Space Savings
Cot beds are designed to expand with your child. They can be transformed into the size of a toddler bed. This can reduce the cost of replacing furniture in the cot and makes the transition from crib to bed more comfortable for your child. Many cots come with built-in storage that can be used to store items like blankets, toys, and books. This feature is particularly useful in homes that are small in space.
As opposed to bassinets and cot beds, cots generally have a slatted structure that allows air to circulate and regulate your baby's temperature. The slats also help keep the mattress clean and fresh. They are less likely to slide than bassinets that can cause discomfort for babies. You can choose from a range of sizes for slats, including standard, narrow, and wide. Whatever size you choose, you should always choose an extremely firm and sturdy mattress for your baby's comfort and security.
Some cots have a top made of plastic or metal, which helps to stop your child from getting out of bed. However it is important to have these tops removed when your child gets older, since they could cause injuries. There are many cots on the market. They are available in a variety of styles and colors. Some have additional features like teething rails, under-bed drawers, and even a bed.
One of our top picks is one of our favorites is the Mamas and Papas Coxley cot bed, which has an attractive design and simple assembly. The cot is an excellent option for parents with budget since it is less expensive than other options. The cot also includes a mattress that is a standard size, which makes it easier to buy bedding for.
Leander cribs are another good option. They come with an under-bed storage drawer that can be used to store toys and bedding. This cot is also suitable for infants and is extremely compact which makes it an ideal choice if you're working with limited space. The Boori Oasis is a stylish and beautiful cot that's easy to assemble. It's a beautiful addition to any nursery. It's more expensive than the other cots that we tested however, it's worth a look if you're looking for a high-end cot that will grow with your child.