Buying an Infant Cot Bed
A cot is the most common type of baby bed. It is a fantastic place for your infant to rest. However it can be a struggle for babies to get settled into their cot.
Babies should be able to roll over easily. They should also sleep on a flat surface. This means that they should not use pillows or blankets in their cot as they can act as a suffocation hazard.
Safety features
It is crucial to test the safety of a cot bed infants prior to purchasing it. This means that you must ensure that it has been tested to required standards and that all components are safe. You can check this by looking for a JPMA certification seal or by checking that there aren't any gaps between the mattress and sides of the product that could catch an infant's head or legs. You should also avoid adding pillows blankets, stuffed animals, or pillows as these can pose the risk of suffocation.
You may need to enter the room of your child to change the diapers, wash the cot or give them cuddles. Also, you should ensure that the cot has a waterproof mattress protector as this will protect it from any injuries your infant might have.
Some cots have removable sides and adjustable mattress heights. These can be adjusted as your child grows. This will make it easier for your baby to climb into and out of the cot as they get older, but it is important to be watching the bed and make sure that they are moved to the toddler bed around 18 months or two years when they start to exhibit signs that they are ready for this.
It is crucial to ensure that the cot bed is away from wall lamps. Also, cords of curtains or blinds can cause strangulation. It is recommended to create a safe zone surrounding the cot that is free of any toys or bedding that could cause an suffocation hazard and also take away climbing aids such as large toys. This will help keep your child secure and make the transition to a toddler bed less stressful for everyone.
Convenience
A well-designed cot fosters a supportive sleep environment that encourages healthy posture. Its intentional spacing minimises the risk of entanglement that could result in a risk of suffocation for babies. Its simple design enables parents to attend to the needs of their infant during diaper changes and nighttime feedings.
Most cots are a standard size, meaning that they can fit most normal baby mattresses. They are also typically equipped with a fitted sheet as well as a mattress pad that protects the cot from scratches and bumps. There are some cots that come with a removable side which allows you to easily reach your child at bedtime. However, it's essential to follow the recommendations of The Lullaby Trust and only use a mattress that is suitable for your child's age and weight.
If your child is outgrowing their cot, it's the time to transition them to an adult bed. It can be a difficult time for both parents and babies, but there are ways to make the transition smoother. Check the height of the crib first. It should be lower than the baby's bed, so that they don't have to jump or climb out of it.
Drop-sides on the sides of cots are a different option, since they are safer for older children who can climb up and walk over the edge. They also come with locks or pedals that can stop your baby from unlatching themselves. These are particularly useful for parents who are taller and don't have the ability to lift their child out of the cot.
small cot beds come with the option of having a side that can be lowered and raised. This is ideal for older children who are starting to roll over or wiggle when they sleep. This kind of cot has a safety guard, which is usually made from metal or plastic, and can help prevent your baby from falling out.
You can also purchase an Moses Basket that can convert into an actual bed. This is great for toddlers and babies who are younger. This is smaller than the standard one, meaning it occupies less space in your child's room. It is also easy to move and many come with wheels to help you move it.
Aesthetics
A cot bed that is suitable for your child should be fashionable and blend with the rest of your nursery. This will create a peaceful atmosphere for your baby and will also improve the overall ambiance in the room. It should not be too close to a door or window as it could expose your baby to drafts that could disturb their sleep.
You can pick from a range of cots for babies, but the top ones are sleek and stylish that looks stunning and is easy to clean. Some are made from sturdy wood, and come with safety rails that are fixed to keep your child safe. Some are made of metal and are simple to put together. It is essential to select a cot that will not make your baby overheat and the fabric should be soft. The cot shouldn't be set near an open fire, as it could catch fire.
Some cots include an under-bed drawer or basket that can be useful for holding muslin cloths and blankets. You can also use the hood to shield your child from light and sound, which can help them sleep better at night. You should also choose a mattress that is the same size as your baby's cot. If you can you should choose organic cotton.
A cot is an important piece of furniture for your baby, and it will last until they reach around four years old. Some cots can be converted into toddler beds. If you're looking for a high quality cot, the Mamas and Papas Coxley is a great alternative. It comes in a range of colors and was voted the top cot by the 2022 Mother&Baby Awards. It has a beautiful aesthetic and is easy to put together and comes with three mattress base heights.
Add a few toys to the cot bed of your infant to encourage them to sleep for longer. But, do not try to make the cot comfortable by adding mattresses or pillows, as this could pose the risk of suffocation and injuries. You can also buy a hygienic cover for the mattress to lessen the need to clean it frequently. The cover shields your mattress from staining which are caused by shedding or sweat.
Space Savings
Cot beds are designed to expand with your child. They are able to be transformed into an adult bed. This helps to minimize the cost of replacing furniture in the cot as well as making the transition from crib to bed a breeze for your little one. A lot of cots come with built-in shelves to store things such as blankets, toys and books. This feature is especially useful if you are short on space in your home.
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 help keep your mattress clean and fresh. They are less likely to slide than bassinets, which can be uncomfortable for the baby. You can pick from a range of sizes of slats, such as standard, narrow and wide. Whatever slats pick, it is crucial to select a thick and firm mattress to ensure the security and comfort of your baby.
Some cots have an aluminum or plastic top to stop your baby from climbing the bed. However, these tops should be removed when your child is older, since they could cause injuries. There are many cots that are available. They are offered in various styles and colors. Some have additional features, like teething rails or drawers under the bed.
The Mamas and Papas cot bed is one of our favorites. It has a beautiful design and is easy to assemble. The cot is an excellent choice for parents who are on a tight budget, since it's cheaper than other options available. The cot comes with a mattress that is a standard size, which makes it easier to buy bedding for.
Another good option is an alternative is the Leander cot bed, which features an under-bed drawer which can be used for storing bedding and toys. The cot is also suitable for newborns and is extremely compact making it a great option for those working with little space. The Boori Oasis is a stylish and beautiful cot that's easy to assemble. It is a great addition to any nursery. It's more expensive compared to other cots, but it's worth a look if your goal is to find a high-quality crib that can adapt to your child's.