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. However, it can be difficult for babies to settle into their cot.
Babies should be able to roll over easily. They should also sleep on flat surfaces. Avoid using pillows or blankets since they can cause the suffocation.
Safety features
When you purchase an infant cot bed it is important that you check whether it was made safely. This means that you must ensure that it has been tested to appropriate standards and that all parts are secure. This can be done by looking for the JPMA certification seal, or by making sure that there aren't any gaps between the mattress and its sides which could trap a baby's head, arms or leg. It is also recommended to avoid putting on 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 reach over it easily with your infant in it. This is because you might have to enter the room occasionally to change nappies or clean the cot and/or give your baby a few cuddles. It is also important to ensure whether the cot bed is covered with a mattress cover that is waterproof to shield it from accidents.
The majority of cot beds come with adjustable mattress heights, and some have removable sides that can be adjusted as your child grows. This will make it easier to move your child into and out of their cot when they grow older. However, you should be watching the child and move them to a toddler bed at 18 months to two 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 wall lamps, windows and curtain or blind cords because they can pose an injury to babies who are strangulated. It is recommended to create a space around the cot that is free from any toys or bedding that could create 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 less stressful for everyone.
Convenience
A well-designed crib can promote an upright posture and safe sleeping environment. Its intentional spacing minimises the dangers of entanglement, which can cause suffocation for babies. Its simple design allows parents to pay attention to their baby's needs when changing diapers and during nighttime feedings.
Most cots are a standard size, meaning that they can be used with most normal mattresses for babies. They also usually come with a fitted sheet and a soft mattress pad which protects 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's important to follow The Lullaby Trust's advice and only use a suitable mattress that is suitable for your child's weight and age.
If your child is outgrowing their cot, it's time to move them into an adult bed. It can be a difficult time for parents as well as infants, but you can make the transition smoother. First, determine the height of the cot. It should be lower than the crib of your baby so they aren't forced to climb or leap out.
Drop-side cots can be a great alternative for older children, who can crawl and lift their feet. These cots also have pedals or catches that can stop your child from unlatching the cot by themselves. These are particularly useful for taller parents who don't have the height to take their child out of the crib.
Some cots have a drop-down side that is able to be raised or lowered, which is great for older babies who are beginning to roll over and wriggle in their sleep. This kind of cot comes with a safety shield, which is usually made from metal or plastic, and can help keep your baby safe from falling out.
You can also purchase an Moses Basket that converts to a bed. This is ideal for toddlers and infants who are a little older. This is an incredibly 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 in, and most have wheels that make it easy to manoeuvre.
Aesthetics
A good cribs cot bed must be stylish and blend well with the other furniture in your nursery. This will help create a relaxing environment for your baby and will also contribute to the overall ambiance of the room. It shouldn't be too close to a door or window, as this could expose your baby to drafts which could disturb their sleep.
There are a variety of options for baby cots. The most effective ones will feature a sleek, modern design that is easy to maintain and looks stunning. Some of them are crafted out of sturdy wood and include safety rails fixed to keep your child safe. Others are made of steel and are easy to assemble. It is important to choose a cot that will not make your baby sweat and the fabric should be soft. It is also important to be aware that a cot should not be placed near a fire because it could catch flames.
Some cots come with a basket or drawer under the mattress which can be used to store blankets and muslins. You can also use a hood to protect your child from noise and light which will allow them to sleep better at night. It is also essential to purchase a mattress that is similar to the size of your cot, and you should go with organic cotton whenever you can.
A cot is a crucial piece of furniture for your baby, and it will last until they are around four years old. Some cots can be converted into toddler beds. If you're looking for a top-quality cot, you should consider the Mamas and Papas Coxley cot bed, that comes in a variety of colours and was voted the best cot in the 2022 Mother&Baby awards. It is easy to assemble and has a stunning design and includes three mattress heights.
Add a few toys to the crib mattress of your child to encourage them to sleep for longer. It is not recommended to add pillows or extra mattresses to the cot as they could result in suffocation or injuries. You can buy a hygienic mattress cover to decrease the frequency of cleaning the mattress. The cover protects your mattress from staining which are caused by shedding or sweat.
Space Savings
Cot beds are designed to adapt to your child. They can be transformed into a toddler bed. This can help reduce the cost of replacing furniture for a cot as well as making the transition from crib to bed effortless for your child. A lot of cots offers have built-in storage that can be used to store things like blankets, toys, and books. This feature is especially useful if your home is limited in space.
Contrary to cribs and bassinets the cots have a slatted structure that allows air to circulate. This helps to regulate your baby's body temperature. The slats can also help keep the mattress fresh and clean. They are less likely to sag than bassinets that can be uncomfortable for the baby. You can pick from a variety of slat sizes, including narrow, standard, and wide. Whatever slats choose, it is important to select a firm and firm mattress to ensure the safety and comfort of your baby.
Some cots have a cover made of plastic or metal, which helps to stop your child from getting out of bed. These tops may cause injury to your child, and they should be removed once they are older. There are many cots available, and some are available in a variety of styles and colors. Some cots come with additional features such as teething bars, and drawers under the bed for storage.
One of our favorite is one of our favorites is the Mamas and Papas Coxley cot bed, which features stunning design and simple assembly. It is a great option for parents with limited funds since it is less expensive than many other options. The cot also comes with mattresses that are a standard size, making it easy to purchase bedding for.
Another 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 small cot beds. It's an excellent choice if you are limited in space. Lastly, the Boori Oasis oval cot is an elegant and attractive option that's easy to put together and looks beautiful in any nursery. It's a bit more expensive than the other cots we tested, but it's still worth a look if you're looking for a high-end cot that will grow with your child.