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. It isn't easy for your baby to settle in their cot.
nursery cots should be able to roll over easily. They should also sleep on flat surfaces. Avoid using pillows or blankets as they can cause suffocation.
Safety features
When purchasing a cot for your infant, it is essential to ensure that it has been manufactured safely. It is essential to make sure that the product has been tested according to the proper standards and that the components are safe. 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 the product sides that could trap a baby's head, arms or leg. Also, make sure that you don't put in any pillows or blankets to your cot because they could pose an air suffocation hazard.
You may have to enter the room of your child to change the diapers, clean the cot or give them cuddles. It is also important to ensure that the cot has a waterproof mattress protector to protect it from any accidents that your baby may suffer.
The majority of cot beds come with adjustable mattress heights. Some have sides that can be adjusted as your child grows. This makes it easier to get your child in and out of their cot when they grow older. However, you must be watching your child and encourage them to move to a toddler bed around 18 months to two years old if they show signs they are ready.
When your child is in the cot bed, it is recommended to position the bed away from heating sources or wall lamps, windows and cords for curtains or blinds as these can be an injury to babies who are strangulated. It is important to create a clear zone around the cot, free of any bedding or toys that could cause a suffocation risk and take away climbing aids such as large toys. This will help to protect your child from injuries and help allow the transition to a toddler bed a smoother process for everyone.
Convenience
A well-designed cot creates an environment for sleep that encourages healthy posture. The deliberate spacing of the cot reduces the possibility of entanglement which can lead to suffocation in babies. Its simple design enables parents to be attentive to their baby's requirements during diaper changes and at nighttime feedings.
The majority of cots are standard size, meaning that they can fit most regular mattresses for babies. They also usually come with a fitted sheet and an extra cushion that shields the cot from scratches and bumps. There are some cots that feature a removable side, which allows you to easily reach your child during the time of bed. However, it's important to follow the advice from The Lullaby Trust and only use mattresses that are suitable for your child's weight and age.
When your child outgrows the cot they are in and is ready to move to a toddler's bed. It can be a stressful time for parents as well as babies, but there are ways to make the transition smoother. Make sure you check the height of the crib first. It should be lower than the crib of your baby so they do not have to climb up or leap out.
Drop-side cots are a great option for older babies, who can crawl and reach their feet. These cots also have pedals or catch that stop your child from unlatching the cot on their own. These are especially useful for parents with taller heights, who aren't able to lift their baby out of the cot by themselves.
Some cots have the option of having a side that can be raised and lowered. This is great for older children who are starting to roll over or wriggle during sleep. This kind of cot comes with a safety guard that is constructed of plastic or metal and prevents your baby from falling.
Alternatively, you can buy an Moses basket that converts into a bed, which is great for younger babies and toddlers. It's a smaller cot than one that is standard, which means it takes up less space in your baby's room. It's also easy to move around, and the majority of them have wheels that make it simple to move around.
Aesthetics
A good cot bed should be stylish and blend well with the rest of your nursery. It will create a calm atmosphere for your baby and will also enhance the overall ambience of the room. It should not be set too close to windows or doors because this could expose your baby's sleeping to drafts.
You can choose from a wide range of baby cots, however the best ones have a sleek design that is stylish and easy to clean. Some are made from sturdy wood, and have fixed safety rails to keep your child safe. Others are made of steel and are simple to put together. It is important to choose the cot that won't cause your baby to overheat and the fabric should be soft. A cot shouldn't be placed near a flame since it may catch on the flame.
Some cots come with a basket or drawer under the mattress which can be used to store blankets and muslins. You can also put on the hood to shield your child from noise and light which will allow them to sleep better at night. It is also important to purchase a mattress that is similar to the size of your crib, and you should opt for organic cotton if possible.
The cot will last your baby until he or is approximately four years older. Some cots can be used as toddler beds. If you are looking for a high quality cot that is well-built, the Mamas and Papas Coxley is a great alternative. It is available in a variety of colors and was voted the top cot by the 2022 Mother&Baby Awards. It's easy to put together and has a stunning design and has three mattress heights.
Include a few toys in the crib mattress of your child to help them sleep for longer. However, you should not try to make the cot more comfortable with pillows or extra mattresses in case they pose the risk of suffocation or injury. You can purchase a clean mattress cover to cut down on the frequency of washing the mattress. The cover protects the mattress from stains caused by shedding, soaking or sweat.
Space Savings
Cot beds are designed to adapt to your child. They can be transformed into the size of a toddler bed. This lowers the cost of replacing the furniture for the cot, and makes the transition from crib into bed easier for your child. A lot of cots have built-in storage that can be used to store items like blankets, toys, and books. This feature is especially useful in homes that are small in space.
In contrast to cribs and bassinets, cots have a slatted structure that allows air to circulate. This helps regulate your baby's body temperature. The slats can also help keep the mattress clean and fresh. They are less likely to sink than bassinets that can be uncomfortable for infants. You can choose from a range of sizes for slats, including standard, narrow and wide. No matter what slats you pick, it is crucial to choose a thick and firm mattress for the security and comfort of your child.
Some cots come with a metal or plastic top to prevent your child from climbing onto the bed. These tops may cause injury to your child, which is why they should be removed once they are older. There are many cots on the market, and some are available in different styles and colours. Some cots come with additional features, such as teething bars, and drawers under the bed for storage.
The Mamas and Papas cot bed is one of our top picks. It has a stunning aesthetic and is easy to assemble. It's also a good choice for parents on a tight budget, since it's less expensive than other options on the market. The cot comes with a mattress that is a standard size, which makes it simpler to purchase bedding for.
Another good option is the Leander cot bed, which has an under-bed drawer that can be used to store bedding and toys. It is also suitable for newborns and is extremely compact, making it a great option if you have limited space. The Boori Oasis is a chic, beautiful cot that's easy to assemble. It's a beautiful addition to any nursery. It's more expensive compared to other cots, but it's worth a look when you want to find a crib of high-quality that can grow with your child's.