Buying an Infant Cot Bed
A cot is the most common type of baby bed. It is a fantastic place for your infant to sleep. However it can be a struggle for babies to get settled into their cot.
Babies must be able to roll over easily. They also need a flat surface to sleep on. This means you should avoid pillows or blankets in their cot as they could be an air suffocation risk.
Safety features
When you purchase an infant cot bed it is essential to ensure that it was manufactured safely. This means ensuring that it has been tested to appropriate standards and that all of its components are secure. This can be done by examining 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 since they could pose dangers of suffocation.
It is also worth looking into whether or not the bed will allow you to reach over it easily with your baby in it. This is because you might have to enter the room occasionally to change nappies, clean the cot and/or give your little one some cuddles. It is also important to ensure that the cot bed has an waterproof mattress cover to guard it from accidents.
Most cot beds have adjustable mattress heights, and some have removable sides that can be lowered as your child grows. This will make it easier for your infant to climb in and out of the cot as they grow older, but you should be on the lookout for them and move them onto a toddler bed at around 18 months or two years when they begin to show signs that they are ready for this.
It is essential to ensure that the cot bed is away from heaters and wall lamps. Also, the cords of curtains or blinds can cause strangulation. It is important to create a clear zone around the cot that is free of any bedding or toys that could pose a suffocation risk and take away climbing aids such as large toys. This will help to keep your baby safe from injuries and help allow the transition to the toddler bed a more comfortable process for you all.
Convenience
A well-designed cot creates a comfortable sleep environment that encourages healthy posture. Its deliberate spacing reduces entanglement hazards that can result in a risk of suffocation for babies. Its simple design enables parents to pay attention to their baby's needs during diaper changes and nighttime feedings.
Most cots are available in standard sizes, meaning they can be used with any regular baby mattresses. They are also typically equipped with a fitted sheet and an extra cushion that shields the cot from bumps and scratches. Some cots have a removable side, which makes it easier to reach your child at bedtime. best cots for newborns is important to follow the Lullaby Trust's recommendations and only use a mattress for your child's weight and age.
When your baby is no longer in their cot, it's the time to move them to a toddler bed. It can be a tough moment for parents and babies, but you can make the transition smoother. First, determine the height of the cot. It should be lower than your baby's crib, so they do not have to climb up or jump out of it.
Drop-sides for cots are another option, as they're safer for babies who can reach their feet and crawl over the edge. They also have pedals or catches that can stop your child from releasing the cot by themselves. They are especially helpful for parents who are taller, but don't have the ability to get their child from the cot.
Some cots have an adjustable side that can be adjusted to lower or raise and is ideal for older babies who are starting to roll over and wriggle in their sleep. This kind of cot comes with the safety guard made of plastic or metal and prevents your baby from falling.
You can also buy an Moses Basket that can convert into a bed. This is great for toddlers and infants who are a little older. The advantage is that it's smaller than a standard cot, which means it takes less space in your baby's nursery. It's also easy to move and many come with wheels to make it easier to manoeuvre.
Aesthetics
A cot bed that is of good quality should look stylish and fit in perfectly with the other furniture in your nursery. This will create a calm and peaceful space for your baby, and it will also add to the overall ambience of the room. It should not be set too close to doors or windows, as this may expose your baby's sleeping to drafts.
There are many options for baby cots. The best ones will have a sleek, modern design that is easy to maintain and looks great. Some of them are crafted out of sturdy wood and have fixed safety rails to ensure your child's safety. Others are made of metal and are simple to put together. It is crucial to select a cot that won't make your baby sweat, and the fabric should be soft. The cot shouldn't be set close to a fire since it may catch on the fire.
Some cots include an under-bed drawer or basket that can be useful for storing muslin cloths as well as blankets. A hood can be used to protect your baby against light and noise, allowing them to sleep more peacefully at night. It is also important to choose a mattress that is similar in size to your cot, and choose organic cotton if possible.
A cot is an important piece of furniture for your baby and it will last until they are around four years old. Some cots can even 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 at the 2022 Mother&Baby Awards. It's easy to put together and has a stunning design and includes three mattress base heights.
Add a few toys to the crib mattress of your child to help them sleep for longer. However, don't attempt to make the cot comfortable with mattresses or pillows as they could create the risk of suffocation or injuries. You can buy a hygienic mattress cover to reduce the frequency of cleaning the mattress. The cover will protect your mattress from stains that result from sweat or shedding sweat.
Space Savings
Cot beds can be transformed to toddler beds, and are specifically designed for your child's development. This can reduce the cost of replacing furniture for the cot, and makes the transition from crib to bed easier for your child. Many cots come with built-in storage to store items like toys, blankets, and books. This feature is especially helpful if your home is limited in space.
Contrary to bassinets, cot beds typically have slatted designs 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 prone to sagging than bassinets which can cause discomfort for your baby. You can choose from a range of sizes for slats, including standard, narrow, and wide. Whatever size you choose it is important to select a firm and thick mattress for your baby's comfort as well as security.
Some cots come with the top made of plastic or metal to help prevent your baby from climbing onto the bed. However it is important to have these tops removed when your child is older, as they may cause injuries. There are a variety of cots available and they come in different styles and colours. Certain cots are equipped with extra features like teething bars and drawers for storage under the bed.
One of our favorite is one of our favorites is the Mamas and Papas Coxley cot bed, which features stunning design and easy assembly. It is a great choice for parents on a tight budget as it is cheaper than many other options. The cot has the mattress of standard size. This makes it simpler to buy bedding.
Another good alternative 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 infants and is extremely compact making it a great choice if you're working with little space. The Boori Oasis is a stylish and attractive cot that is easy to put together. It's a beautiful addition to any nursery. It's a bit more expensive than the other cots we tested however it's worth considering if you're looking for a high-quality cot that will grow with your child.