Buying an Infant Cot Bed
A cot is the most commonly used type of baby bed. It is a fantastic space for your infant to rest. It isn't easy for your baby to get settled in their cot.
Babies should be able to roll over easily. They also require an even surface to sleep on. Avoid using blankets or pillows as they can cause the suffocation.
Safety features
When purchasing an infant cot bed it is important that you check that it has been manufactured safely. It is essential to make sure that the product has been tested according to the correct standards and that the parts are safe. This can be accomplished by examining the JPMA certification seal, or by ensuring that there aren't any gaps between the mattress and its sides that could trap an infants head, arms or leg. It is also recommended to avoid putting on pillows blankets, stuffed animals, or pillows since they could pose a suffocation hazard.
It is also worth considering whether or not the cot bed will allow you to reach it with ease while having your child in it, this is because you may need to enter the room occasionally to change nappies, clean the cot and/or give your little one some cuddles. Also, you should make sure that the cot is equipped with an appropriate mattress protector that is waterproof as this will protect it from any accidents that your infant might have.
Most cots have adjustable mattress heights and some have removable sides that can be adjusted as your child grows. This makes it easier for your child to climb into and out of the cot as they get older, but you must be watching them and move them onto a toddler bed at 18 months or 2 years when they start to exhibit signs that they are ready for this.
It is crucial to ensure that your child's cot is away from heaters and wall lamps. Also, cords of curtains or blinds can cause strangulation. It is important to create a clear zone around the cot, free from any toys or bedding that could pose the risk of suffocation and to remove climbing aids, such as large toys. This will keep your baby secure and make the transition to a toddler bed a lot easier for all of you.
Convenience
A well-designed crib encourages a healthy posture and a safe sleeping environment. Its thoughtful spacing minimizes the possibility of entanglement which can lead to suffocation in infants. Its simple design also offers parents a choreography of convenience in attending to their baby's needs during diaper changes or nighttime feedings.
Most cheap cots are a standard size, which means they can be used with most regular mattresses for babies. They also usually come with a fitted sheet as well as a mattress pad which protects the cot from scratches and bumps. Some cots feature a removable side, which makes it easier to reach your child during the time of bed. However, it's essential to follow the advice from The Lullaby Trust and only use mattresses that are suitable for your child's weight and age.
When your baby outgrows their crib, it's time to transition them to an adult bed. It can be a tough time for parents as well as babies, but there are ways to help ease the transition. Make sure you check the height of the crib first. You want it to be lower than the baby's bed, so they won't have to jump or climb out of it.
Drop-side cots are a good option for older babies, who can crawl and reach their feet. These cots also have pedals or catches that can stop your child from releasing the cot themselves. They are especially helpful for parents who are taller, but do not have the height to get their child out of the crib.
Some cots have a drop-down side that can be lowered or raised to accommodate older babies who are beginning to roll over and wiggle in their sleep. This kind of cot comes with a safety guard that is made from metal or plastic and prevents your baby from falling.
You can also buy an Moses Basket that can be converted into an actual bed. This is great for toddlers and infants who are a little older. It's smaller than the standard one, meaning it occupies less space in your baby's room. It is also easy to move, and many have wheels that make it easier to manoeuvre.
Aesthetics
A good cot-bed should be stylish and blend with the rest your nursery. This will create a peaceful atmosphere for your baby and will also improve the overall ambience of the room. It should not be set too close to windows or doors as it could expose your baby's sleep to drafts.
There are a myriad of alternatives for baby cots. The best crib ones have a sleek and modern design that is easy to maintain and looks stunning. Some are made of sturdy wood and come with fixed safety rails to keep your child safe. Some are made of metal and are easy to assemble. It is crucial to select a cot that will not make your baby sweat and the fabric must be soft. A cot should not be placed near a flame, as it could catch on the flame.
Some cots have an underneath basket or drawer which is great to store muslin cloths and blankets. A hood can be used to protect your infant from light and noise, allowing them to sleep better at night. It is also important to choose a mattress that is the same size as your cot, and you should go with organic cotton whenever 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 convert to toddler beds. If you are looking for a high quality cot, the Mamas and Papas Coxley is a great choice. 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 simple to assemble and has three mattress 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 comfortable with pillows or extra mattresses in case they pose the risk of suffocation and injury. You can also purchase a hygienic cover for the mattress to lessen the need to clean it often. The cover protects the mattress from stains caused by shedding, soaking or sweat.
Space Savings
Cot beds are designed to grow with your child. They are able to be converted into the size of a toddler bed. This reduces the cost of replacing cot furniture as well as making the transition from crib to bed effortless for your little one. Many cots also come with built-in storage to store items like blankets, toys, and books. This feature is especially helpful in homes that are small in space.
Contrary to bassinets, cot beds generally have a slatted structure that allows air to circulate and regulate your Baby Cot's temperature. The slats also help to keep the mattress clean and fresh. They are also less vulnerable to sagging than bassinets which can be uncomfortable for your baby. You can choose from several slats including standard, wide, and narrow. Regardless of the slat size you select you must always select an extremely firm and sturdy mattress for your baby's comfort and safety.
Some cots have a top made of plastic or metal, which helps to stop your child from climbing out of the bed. These tops may cause injury to your child, so they should be removed once they are older. There are a variety of cots on the market. There are a variety of cots offered in various styles and colors. Some even have extra features, like teething rails and under-bed drawers.
One of our favorite is the Mamas and Papas Coxley cot bed, which features stunning design and easy assembly. It's also a great option for parents on a tight budget, since it's less expensive than other options on the market. The cot also comes with a mattress that is a standard size, making it easy to purchase bedding for.
Another good option is an alternative is the Leander cot bed, which comes with an under-bed drawer which can be used for storing bedding and toys. The cot is suitable for babies, and it is compact. It is an excellent choice if you have a limited space. Finally, the Boori Oasis oval cot is a stylish and appealing option that is easy to assemble and looks gorgeous in any nursery. It's a bit more expensive than the other cots that we tested however, it's worth considering if you're looking for a high-end cot that will grow with your child.