Buying an Infant Cot Bed
A cot is the most common kind of bed for babies. It is a great space for your infant to rest. However, it can be difficult for infants to settle into their cot.
Babies should be able roll over easily. They also need to sleep on an even surface. This means that they should not use pillows or blankets in their cot as they could pose an obstructing factor.
Safety features
When purchasing an infant cot bed it is important that you check that it has been manufactured safely. It is important to ensure that the product is tested to the proper standards and that the components are secure. This can be accomplished by looking for the JPMA certification seal, or ensuring that there aren't any gaps between the mattress and its sides that could trap an infant's head, arms or leg. Also, avoid adding pillows, stuffed animals or blankets because they can be the risk of suffocation.
It is also worth considering whether or not the cot bed allows you to climb over it easily with your infant in it. This is because you might have to visit the room on occasion to change nappies, clean the cot and/or give your little one some cuddles. You will also want to ensure that the cot has an appropriate mattress protector that is waterproof as this will protect it from any accidents that your infant may have.
Some best cot bed beds come with removable sides and adjustable mattress heights. These can be adjusted as your child grows. This will make it easier for your child to climb in and out of the cot as they grow older, but it is important to keep an eye on them and then move them to a toddler bed at around 18 months or 2 years old when they begin to begin to show signs that they are ready to do this.
If your child is sleeping in the cot bed it is recommended that you position the cot away from heaters or wall lamps, windows and cords for curtains or blinds because they can pose a strangulation hazard for babies. It is also a good idea to create a clear zone around the cot that is free from any toys or bedding that could cause an suffocation hazard and also take away climbing aids such as large toys. This will help keep your baby safe and make the transition to a toddler bed less stressful for you all.
Convenience
A well-designed cot provides an environment for sleep that promotes healthy posture. Its deliberate spacing reduces the risk of entanglement, which can cause suffocation for babies. Its minimalist design also provides parents with an array of options for caring for their child during diaper changes and nighttime feedings.
Most cots come in standard sizes, meaning they can be used with any regular baby mattresses. The cots usually come with a mattress pad and an upholstered sheet to shield the cot from scratches and bumps. Some cots are able to be removed from the sides, making it easier to reach the baby when it's time to go to bed. It is essential to follow The Lullaby Trust's advice and only use a suitable mattress for your child's weight and age.
If your child is outgrowing their cot, it's the time to move them to a toddler bed. It can be a stressful moment for parents and babies, but there are ways to help ease the transition. Examine the height of the crib first. It should be lower than your baby's bed, so that they don't need to climb or jump out of it.
Drop-side cots can be a great option for older babies, who can crawl and lift their feet. These cots also have pedals or catches that can stop your child from unlatching the cot themselves. These are especially useful for parents with taller heights, who do not have the reach to lift their child out of the cot by themselves.
Some cots come with a side that can be raised and lowered. This is ideal for older babies who are beginning to roll over or wriggle during sleep. This type of cot also comes with a safety shield, that is typically made of plastic or metal and helps prevent your baby from falling out.
If you prefer, you can purchase a Moses basket that can be converted into a bed, which is perfect for toddlers and babies who are younger. The advantage of this is that it's smaller than a standard cot, so it will take up less room in the nursery of your baby's. It's also easy to move and many come with wheels to facilitate maneuvering.
Aesthetics
A good cot-bed should be fashionable and blend with the rest your nursery. This will help create a relaxing environment for your baby and will add to the overall atmosphere of the room. It should not be set too close to doors or windows as it could expose your baby's sleep to drafts.
You can choose from a variety of cots for babies, but the best crib for newborn ones are sleek and stylish that looks stunning and is easy to clean. Some of them are crafted out of sturdy wood and come with safety rails that are fixed to ensure your child's safety. Others are made of metal and are easy to assemble. Pick a cot made of soft fabric that doesn't cause your baby overheat. The cot shouldn't be set close to a fire because it could catch the flame.
Some cots have a drawer or basket underneath, which is useful for storing muslin cloths as well as blankets. A hood can be used to shield your child from light and noise, allowing them to sleep more peacefully at night. It is also crucial to purchase a mattress that is similar to the size of your cot, and you should go with organic cotton whenever possible.
A cot is an essential piece of furniture for your baby and it will last until they reach the age of four years old. Some cots convert to toddler beds. If you are seeking a high-end cot that is well-built, the Mamas and Papas Coxley is a great choice. It comes in a range of colors and was voted the top cot for sale at the 2022 Mother&Baby Awards. It's simple to assemble and has a stunning design and comes with three mattress heights.
Adding a few toys to the crib of your child can encourage them to sleep longer. However, you should not attempt to make the cot comfortable by adding mattresses or pillows as they could create a risk of suffocation and injuries. You can purchase a hygienic mattress cover to reduce the frequency of washing the mattress. The cover protects the mattress from stains that result from shedding sweat, soaking or sweat.
Space saving
Cot beds can be transformed to toddler beds and are designed for your child's growth. This can reduce the cost of replacing the furniture in the cot and makes the transition from best crib for newborn into bed easier for your child. Many cots come with built-in storage that can be used to store items such as blankets, toys, and books. This feature is particularly useful when you're short of space in your home.
Unlike bassinets, cot beds typically have slatted designs that allows air to circulate and regulate your baby's temperature. The slats help keep your mattress clean and fresh. They are less likely to sag than bassinets that can be uncomfortable for the baby. You can choose between a range of slats, including wide, standard, and narrow. Whatever slats you choose, it is important to choose a thick and firm mattress for the safety and comfort of your child.
Some cots have the top made of plastic or metal to help prevent your baby from climbing onto the bed. However it is important to have these tops removed when your child gets older, as they may cause injuries. There are many cots on the market and many are available in various styles and colors. Certain cots are equipped with extra features such as teething bars and under-bed storage drawers.
The Mamas and Papas cot bed is among our top picks. It has a gorgeous design and is simple to put together. The cot is also a good choice for parents in a financial crunch, as it's cheaper than other options available. The cot also comes with an adjustable mattress that is standard size, which makes it simpler to purchase bedding for.
Leander cot beds are a good alternative. They have an under-bed storage drawer that can store bedding and toys. The cot is suitable for babies, and it is compact. It is an ideal choice for those who are limited in space. Lastly, the Boori Oasis oval cot is a stylish and attractive option that's easy to assemble and looks gorgeous in any nursery. It's more expensive compared to other cots, but it's worth a look when you want to find a high-quality crib that can grow with your child.