Buying an Infant Cot Bed
The most well-known type is a cot. It's a great place to rest your baby. It can be difficult for your child to settle in their cot.
Babies should be able to roll over easily. They also require a flat surface to lay on. This means you should avoid pillows or blankets in their cot as they could be an obstructing factor.
Safety features
When purchasing an infant cot bed it is crucial to confirm that it was manufactured in a safe manner. This means you should ensure that it has been tested according to proper standards and that all components are safe. You can check this by searching for a JPMA certification seal or checking that there aren't any gaps between the mattress and the sides of the product that could catch the infant's head, arms or legs. You should also avoid adding pillows, stuffed animals or blankets since they could pose a suffocation hazard.
You may need to enter your child's room to change diapers, wash the cot, or give them some cuddles. Also, make sure whether the cot bed is covered with a mattress cover that is waterproof to protect it from any accidents.
Some cots have removable sides and adjustable mattress heights. They can be adjusted as your child grows. This will make it easier to move your child in and out of their cots as they grow older. However, you must be watching your child and encourage them to move to a toddler bed around 18 months to 2 years old if they exhibit signs that they are ready.
When your child is in the cot bed, it is recommended that you position the cot away from heaters or windows, wall lamps and cords for curtains or blinds because they can pose a strangulation hazard for babies. It is a good idea to also take away any climbing aids, such as large toys and create a zone surrounding the cot that is free of bedding or toys that could cause suffocation. This will help keep your baby safe and make the transition to a toddler bed easier for all of you.
Convenience
A well-designed cot fosters an environment for sleep that encourages healthy posture. Its deliberate spacing reduces the chance of entanglement which can lead to suffocation in infants. Its simple design enables parents to attend to their baby's needs during diaper changes and at nighttime feedings.
The majority of cots and tots are standard sizes, which means they can fit on any standard baby mattress. They also usually come with a fitted sheet and a soft mattress pad which protects the cot from bumps and scratches. Some cots come with a removable side which makes it easier to reach your baby during the time of bed. It is important to follow the Lullaby Trust's guidelines and only use a suitable mattress for your child's weight and age.
When your baby is no longer in their cot, it's time to transition them to an adult bed. This can be a challenging moment for both parents and baby, but there are some steps you can take to make the transition smoother. Check the height of the crib sets first. It should be lower than your child'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. They also have locks or pedals that can stop your baby from unlatching themselves. These are particularly helpful for taller parents, who don't have the reach to lift their baby out of the crib themselves.
Some cots have an option to be raised and lowered. This is perfect for older babies, who are starting to roll over or wriggle when they sleep. This kind of cot comes with an safety guard made from metal or plastic and protects your baby from falling.
If you prefer, you can purchase an Moses basket that converts into bed, which is great for younger babies and toddlers. This is a smaller cot than the standard one, meaning it will take up less space in your child's room. It's also easy to move around in, and most have wheels that make it simple to move around.
Aesthetics
A good cot-bed must be stylish and blend in with the rest your nursery. This will help to create a peaceful environment for your baby, and will also contribute to the overall atmosphere of the room. It shouldn't be too close to a window or door because this could expose your baby to drafts that may disturb their sleep.
There are many alternatives for baby cots. The most effective ones will have a sleek and modern design that is easy to maintain and looks stunning. Some are constructed out of sturdy wood and have fixed safety rails to ensure your child's safety. Some are made from metal and are easy to assemble. Pick a cot made of soft fabric that won't make your baby overheat. You should also be aware that a cot should never be placed near a flame since it could catch flames.
Some cots come with a drawer or basket underneath which is great for holding muslin cloths and blankets. A hood can be used to guard your infant from light and noise which will allow them to sleep more peacefully at night. It is also essential to get a mattress that is similar to the size of your cot, and go with organic cotton whenever you can.
A cot is an essential piece of furniture for your baby, and it will last until they are around four years old. Some cots are used as toddler beds. If you're looking for a top-quality cot, look into the Mamas and Papas Coxley cot bed, which is available in a variety of colors and was voted the best cot at the 2022 Mother&Baby awards. It's beautiful in design, is easy to assemble and has three mattress heights.
Adding a few toys to the cot of your baby cots on sale can help them sleep longer. It is not recommended to add extra mattresses or pillows to the cot because they could cause suffocation or injuries. You can purchase a hygienic mattress cover to decrease the frequency of cleaning the mattress. The cover will protect your mattress from stains that result from sweat or shedding sweat.
Space saving
Cot beds are designed to grow with your child. They can be converted into the size of a toddler bed. This lowers the cost of replacing cot furniture and makes the transition from crib into bed more comfortable for your child. Many cots come with built-in storage to store things like blankets, toys, and books. This feature is especially helpful when you're short of space in your home.
Unlike bassinets, cot beds generally have a slatted structure 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 pick from a range of sizes for slats, including narrow, standard and wide. No matter what size you select you must always select an extremely firm and sturdy mattress for your baby's comfort and safety.
Some cots have a metal or plastic top to help prevent your baby from climbing the bed. However it is important to have these tops removed when your child is older, since they could cause injuries. There are a myriad of cots on the market and many are available in a variety of styles and colors. Some come with additional features, such as teething rails or drawers under the bed.
The Mamas and Papas cot bed is one of our favorites. It has a beautiful aesthetic and is simple to assemble. The cot is also a good choice for parents on a tight budget, since it's less expensive than other options available. The cot also includes an adjustable mattress that is standard size, making it easy to purchase bedding for.
Leander cot cribs beds are a excellent option. They have an under-bed storage drawer that is able to store bedding and toys. The cot is also suitable for infants and is extremely compact, making it a great option if you have limited space. Finally, the Boori Oasis oval cot is a chic and attractive option that's easy to assemble and looks gorgeous in any nursery. It's more expensive than the other affordable cots that we tested, but it's still worth considering if you're looking for a high-quality cot that can grow with your baby.