Buying an Infant Cot Bed
A cot is the most common kind of bed for babies. It's a fantastic place to sleep for your baby. However, it can be difficult for babies to get settled into their cot.
Babies should be able to roll easily. They also require a flat surface to sleep on. This means that they should not use pillows or blankets in their cots since they can act as an air suffocation risk.
Safety features
When you purchase an infant cot bed it is important that you check that it was manufactured safely. This means you should ensure that it has been tested to appropriate standards and that all parts are safe. You can do this by looking for a JPMA certification seal or checking that there are no gaps between the mattress and sides of the product that could catch the infant's head or legs. Also, make sure that you don't add any pillows, stuffed toys or blankets to your cot because they can be an entrapment risk.
You may have to enter the room of your child to change the nappy, clean the cot or give them cuddles. It is also important to ensure whether the cot bed is covered with a mattress cover that is waterproof to guard it from accidents.
Some cot beds come with removable sides and adjustable mattress heights. They can be adjusted as your child grows. This makes it easier to move your child into and out of their Mini Cot Bed as they grow older. However, it is important to remain vigilant about the child and move them to a toddler bed at 18 months to 2 years old if they show signs they are ready.
It is important to ensure that the cot bed is away from wall lamps. Also, the cords of curtains or blinds can cause strangulation. It is recommended to also remove any climbing aids such as large toys and create a space around the cot free of bedding or toys that could cause being suffocated. This will keep your baby safe and make the transition to a toddler bed less stressful for all of you.
Convenience
A well-designed cot provides an environment for sleep that encourages healthy posture. Its deliberate spacing reduces the dangers of entanglement, which can lead to a suffocation risk for infants. Its simple design allows parents to attend to the needs of their infant during diaper changes and nighttime feedings.
Most cots are of standard size, which means they will fit most normal baby mattresses. The cots are usually equipped with a fitted mattress pad and fitted sheets to protect the cot from bumps and scratches. Some cots offers come with removable sides, making it easier for the baby to get in at night. It's important to follow The Lullaby Trust's guidelines and only use a mattress for your child's weight and age.
When your child has outgrown his or her crib, you should move them to a toddler's bed. It can be a tough time for parents as well as babies, but you can make the transition smoother. First, determine the height of the cot. It should be lower than your baby's bed, so that they don't need to climb or jump out of it.
Drop-sides on the sides of cots are another option, as they're safer for older babies who can reach their feet and crawl over the edge. They also feature locks or pedals that can stop your baby from releasing themselves. They are especially useful for taller parents who do not have the height to lift their child from the cot.
Some cots have a drop-down side that can be lowered or raised and is ideal for older babies who are beginning to roll over and wriggle in their sleep. This type of cot features a safety guard that is constructed of plastic or metal and protects your baby from falling.
You can also purchase a Moses Basket that can convert into a bed. This is ideal for babies and toddlers who are younger. It's smaller than one that is standard, which means it occupies less space in your child's room. It's also easy to move around in, and the majority of them have wheels that make it easy to manoeuvre.
Aesthetics
A cot bed that is suitable for your child should be stylish and blend with the rest your nursery. This will help to create a relaxing environment for your baby and will add to the overall atmosphere of the room. It shouldn't be placed 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, modern design that is easy to maintain and looks stunning. Some are made from sturdy wood, and have fixed safety rails to ensure your child's safety. Some are made of metal and are easy to put together. It is crucial to select a cot that will not make your baby overheat, and the fabric should be soft. A cot should not be placed near a flame, as it could catch the flame.
Some cots come with an under-bed storage basket or drawer beneath the mattress which can be used to store blankets and muslins. You can also put on the hood to shield your child from sound and light which will help them sleep better at night. You should also choose a mattress the same size as the cot your baby is using. If you can, you should use organic cotton.
A cot is an essential piece of furniture for your baby, and it will last until they reach around four years old. Some cots are used as toddler beds. If you're looking for a high-quality cot, consider the Mamas and Papas Coxley cot bed, that is available in a range of colours and was voted the top cot in the 2022 Mother&Baby awards. It's beautiful in design and is simple to assemble and has three mattress base heights.
Adding a few toys to your infant's cot bed can help them sleep for longer. You should not add mattresses or pillows to the cot since they can cause suffocation and injuries. You can purchase a hygienic mattress cover to reduce the frequency of washing the mattress. The cover shields your mattress from stains that result from sweat or shedding sweat.
Space Savings
Cot beds can be transformed to toddler beds, and are designed to accommodate your child's growth. This can reduce the cost of replacing the furniture for the cot, and makes the transition from crib into bed more comfortable for your child. Many cots come with built-in shelves that can be used to store items like blankets, toys, and books. This feature is particularly useful when you're short of space in your home.
As opposed to bassinets and cot beds, cots typically have slatted designs 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 which can be uncomfortable for infants. You can choose from a range of slats, including wide, standard, and narrow. Regardless of the slat size you pick you must always select a thick and firm mattress for your baby's comfort and safety.
Some cots have a cover made of plastic or metal which can help prevent your baby from getting out of bed. These tops may cause injury to your child, which is why they should be removed once they reach the age of. There are a variety of cots available, and some are available in different styles and colours. Some cots have additional features like teething bars or drawers for storage under the bed.
The Mamas and Papas cot bed is one of our top picks. It has a beautiful design and is simple to assemble. The cot is a great option for parents on a tight budget as it is less expensive than other options. The crib comes with an ordinary mattress size. This makes it easier to purchase bedding.
Another good option is the Leander cot bed, which has an under-bed drawer which can be used for storing bedding and toys. The cot is also suitable for babies and is extremely compact, making it a great choice if you're working with small space. The Boori Oasis is a chic, beautiful cot that's easy to assemble. It's a beautiful addition to any nursery. It's a bit more expensive than the other online cots we tried however, it's worth a look if you're looking for a cot that's high-quality and can grow with your baby.