Buying an Infant Cot Bed
The most popular kind is a crib. It's a great place to sleep your baby. It can be difficult for your baby to settle in their cot.
Babies should be able to roll over easily. They also need an even surface to sleep on. This means avoiding pillows or blankets in their cots since they can act as an obstructing factor.
Safety features
When you purchase an infant cot bed it is crucial to confirm that it was manufactured in a safe manner. It is essential to make sure that the product has been tested according to the correct standards and that the components are secure. You can do this by looking for a JPMA certification seal or ensuring that there aren't any gaps between the mattress and sides of the product that could trap the infant's head or legs. It is also recommended cribs to avoid putting on pillows blankets, stuffed animals, or pillows since they could pose a suffocation hazard.
It is also worth looking into whether or not the bed allows you to reach it with ease while having your child in it, this is because you might have to go into the room from time to time to change nappies or clean the cot and/or give your baby some cuddles. You will also want to make sure that the cot is equipped with an appropriate mattress protector that is waterproof because this will shield it from any accidents your infant might have.
Most cots have adjustable mattress heights and some have sides that can be adjusted as your child grows. This makes it easier to get your child into and out of their cot when they grow older. However, you must still keep an eye on your child and encourage them to move to a toddler bed around 18 months to two years old if they exhibit signs that they are ready.
If your child is in the cot bed, it is recommended to place the bed away from heating sources and windows, wall lamps and curtain or blind cords since they could be an entrapment risk for infants. It is important to create a clear zone surrounding the cot that is free of any toys or bedding that could cause an suffocation hazard and also remove climbing aids like large toys. This will keep your baby secure and make the transition to a toddler bed easier for you all.
Convenience
A well-designed cot creates an environment for sleep that encourages healthy posture. Its deliberate spacing reduces the dangers of entanglement, which can cause suffocation for babies. Its minimalist design allows parents to be attentive to the needs of their infant during diaper changes and at nighttime feedings.
The majority of cots are standard size, which means they will fit most regular baby mattresses. The cots are usually equipped with a fitted mattress pad and an upholstered sheet to shield the cot against bumps and scratches. There are some cots that have a removable side, which allows you to easily reach your child during the time of bed. But, it is essential to follow the guidelines of The Lullaby Trust and only use a mattress that is suitable for your child's weight and age.
When your baby outgrows their cot, it's time to move them to a toddler bed. It can be a stressful time for parents as well as babies, but you can make the transition easier. First, check the height of the cot. It should be lower than your baby's crib, so they don't have to climb or leap out of it.
Drop-side cots are a good option for older babies, who can crawl and walk. These cots also have pedals or catch that stop your child from releasing the cot themselves. They are particularly useful for parents with taller heights, who don't have the reach to lift their baby out of the crib themselves.
Some cots are designed with a drop-down side that can be raised or lowered and is ideal for older babies who are beginning to roll around and wiggle in their sleep. This kind of cot comes with a safety guard that is made of plastic or metal and protects your baby from falling.
You can also purchase a Moses basket that can be converted into a bed, which is perfect for younger babies and toddlers. This is a smaller cot than a standard one, so it will take up less space in your child's room. It's also easy to move around, and most come with wheels that make it easy to maneuver.
Aesthetics
A cot bed that is suitable for your child should be fashionable and blend with the rest your nursery. This will create a peaceful atmosphere for your baby and will also add to overall ambiance in the room. It shouldn't be too close to a door or window as it could expose your baby to drafts that may disrupt their sleep.
There are many choices for baby cots. The best ones will have a sleek, modern design that is easy to maintain and looks great. Some are constructed of durable wood and have fixed safety rails to keep your child secure. Some are made of metal and are easy to put together. Choose a cot with a soft fabric that will not make your baby overheat. You should also be aware that a cot shouldn't be placed near a fire, as it can catch fire.
Some cots have an under-bed storage basket or drawer beneath the mattress which can be used to store blankets and muslins. You can also use a hood to shield your baby from noise and light which will help them sleep better at night. It is also important to get a mattress that is similar to the size of your cot, and go with organic cotton whenever possible.
A cot is an important piece of furniture for your baby, and it will last them until they are around four years old. Some cots can be used as toddler beds. If you're looking to purchase a high-end cot, look into the Mamas and Papas Coxley cot bed, that is available in a range of colours and has been voted best cots uk cot in the 2022 Mother&Baby awards. It's easy to put together and has a stunning design, and includes three mattress base heights.
Adding a few toys to the cot of your baby can encourage them to sleep longer. However, don't try to make the cot more comfortable with pillows or extra mattresses as they could create the risk of suffocation and injuries. You can purchase a clean mattress cover to decrease the frequency of washing the mattress. The cover shields the mattress from stains caused by shedding sweat, soaking or sweat.
Space saving
Cot beds can be transformed into toddler beds and are designed for your child's growth. This can help reduce the cost of replacing furniture for a cot and makes the transition from crib to bed seamless for your little one. Many affordable cots also come with built-in storage for things like blankets, toys and books. This feature is particularly useful if your home is limited in space.
Unlike bassinets, cot beds typically have slatted designs that allows air to circulate and regulate your baby's temperature. The slats also help keep the mattress fresh and clean. They are also less susceptible to sagging, unlike bassinets which can be uncomfortable for babies. You can choose between various slats including wide, standard, and narrow. Whatever slats select, it is essential to select a thick and firm mattress to ensure the security and comfort of your baby.
Some cots come with a top ranked cribs made of metal or plastic which can help keep your child from getting out of bed. However, these tops should be removed when your child is older, as they may cause injuries. There are many cots available, and some are available in a variety of styles and colors. Some have additional features, like teething rails and under-bed drawers.
The Mamas and Papas cot bed is one of our favorites. It has a beautiful aesthetic and is easy to assemble. The cot is a great choice for parents on a tight budget as it is cheaper than other alternatives. The cot comes with an adjustable mattress that is standard size, which makes it easier to buy bedding for.
Leander cribs are another great alternative. They have an under-bed storage drawer that can store bedding and toys. This cot is also suitable for babies and is extremely compact, which makes it a great option if you have small space. The Boori Oasis is a stylish and elegant cot that is simple to put together. It's a beautiful addition to any nursery. It's more expensive than other cots, but it's worth a look if your goal is to find a crib of high-quality that will grow with your child.