Buying an Infant Cot Bed
A crib is the most popular type of baby bed. It's a wonderful place to rest your baby. 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 be able to sleep on a flat surface. This means you should avoid pillows or blankets in their cots since they could pose a suffocation hazard.
Safety features
When you purchase an infant cot bed it is crucial to confirm that it has been manufactured in a safe manner. This means you should ensure that it has been tested to proper standards and that all components are safe. This can be done by looking for a JPMA certification seal or ensuring that there are no gaps between the mattress and product sides that could trap the infant's head or legs. You should also make sure that you don't put in any pillows, stuffed toys or blankets to your cot because they can be an air suffocation hazard.
It is also worth examining whether or not the bed is able to let you climb over it easily with your infant in it, this is because you may need to go into the room from time to time to change nappies or clean the cot and/or give your little one some cuddles. You will also want to make sure that the cot is equipped with a waterproof mattress protector to protect it from any injuries your baby may suffer.
Some cots come with removable sides and adjustable mattress heights. These can be adjusted as your child gets older. This will make it easier for your child to climb into and out of the cot as they get older, but you must be on the lookout for the bed and make sure that they are moved to the toddler bed around 18 months or two years when they begin to show signs that they are ready to do this.
It is crucial to ensure that the cot bed is away from heaters and wall lamps. Additionally, the cords of blinds or curtains could cause strangulation. It is a good idea also to remove any climbing aids like large toys and make a space around the cot, free of toys or bedding which could be a danger of suffocation. This will help keep your child secure and make the transition to a toddler bed easier for you all.
Convenience
A well-designed cot fosters an environment for sleep that encourages healthy posture. Its thoughtful spacing minimizes the risk of entanglement, which could lead to suffocation for babies. Its simple design enables parents to pay attention to their baby's requirements when changing diapers and during nighttime feedings.
The majority of cots are standard sizes, so they can fit on any standard baby mattress. They usually also come with a fitted sheet as well as a soft mattress pad that protects the mattress from bumps and scratches. Some cots come with removable sides, which makes it easier for the baby to get in at night. It is important to follow the Lullaby Trust's guidelines and only use a mattress for your child's weight and age.
When your baby is no longer in their cot, it's time to transition them to an adult bed. This can be a difficult moment for both parents and baby, but there are a few steps you can take to make the transition easier. First, check the height of the cot. You want it to be lower than your baby's crib, so they do not have to climb up or leap out.
Drop-side cots are a good option for older babies who are able to crawl and reach their feet. These cots also have pedals or catch that stop your child from unlatching the cot by themselves. These are particularly helpful for taller parents, who don't have the reach to lift their child out of the cot themselves.
Some cots come with the option of having a side that can be lowered and raised. This is great for older babies, who are beginning to roll over or wiggle when they sleep. This type of cot features an safety guard constructed of plastic or metal and stops your baby from falling.
You can also purchase a Moses basket that converts into a bed, which is perfect for toddlers and infants. The benefit of this is that it's smaller than a standard cot, which means it takes up less space in your baby's nursery. It's also easy to move, and many have wheels to make it easier to manoeuvre.
Aesthetics
A good cot-bed should be stylish and blend in with the rest your nursery. This will help create a calm and peaceful space for your baby and will also contribute to the overall atmosphere of the room. It shouldn't be too close to a door or window because this could expose your baby to drafts that may disrupt their sleep.
There are a myriad of choices for baby cots. The most effective ones will have a sleek, modern design that is easy to maintain and looks stunning. Some are constructed of durable wood and feature fixed safety rails that help keep your child safe. Some are made of metal and are easy to assemble. Pick a cot made of soft fabric that won't make your baby sweat. It is also important to be aware that a cot should not be placed near an open flame because it could catch fire.
Some cots include an under-bed drawer or basket, which is useful for holding muslin cloths and blankets. A hood can be used to guard your child from light and noise, allowing them to sleep more peacefully at night. It is also crucial to purchase a mattress that is similar to the size of your crib, and you should opt for organic cotton if it is possible.
A cot is a crucial piece of furniture for your baby, and it will last until they reach the age of four years old. Some cots are convertible to 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 range of colours and was voted the top cot at the 2022 Mother&Baby awards. It has a beautiful aesthetic and is simple to assemble and features three mattress base heights.
Include a few toys in the crib mattress of your child to help them sleep for longer. However, don't try to make the cot more comfortable with pillows or extra mattresses as they could create the risk of suffocation and injuries. You can buy a hygienic mattress cover to cut down on the frequency of cleaning the mattress. The cover protects your mattress from stains that result from shedding or sweat.
Space saving
Cot beds can be converted to toddler beds and are specifically designed for your child's development. This reduces the cost of replacing cot furniture and makes the transition from crib to bed effortless for your little one. A lot of cots come with built-in shelving to store items like toys, blankets and books. This feature is particularly useful if your home is limited in space.
In contrast to cribs and bassinets, cots have a slatted structure that allows air to circulate. great crib helps regulate your baby's body temperature. The slats can also help keep the mattress fresh and clean. They are also less vulnerable to sagging than bassinets which can be uncomfortable for your baby. You can choose from a variety of sizes for slats, including standard, narrow, and wide. No matter what size you choose, you should always choose a firm and thick mattress to ensure your baby's comfort and safety.
Some cots have a metal or plastic top to stop your baby from climbing onto the bed. These tops could cause injuries to your child, which is why they should be removed when they are older. There are many cots available on the market. There are a variety of cots available in a variety of styles and colors. Some come with additional features like teething rails or drawers under the bed.
One of our top picks is one of our favorites is the Mamas and Papas Coxley cot bed, which features stunning design and simple assembly. The cot is a great option for parents on a tight budget as it is less expensive than other options. The cot comes with a mattress that is a standard size, making it simpler to purchase bedding for.
Leander cot beds are a excellent alternative. They have an under-bed storage drawer that can be used to store toys and bedding. The cot is suitable for infants and is compact. It is an ideal choice for those who have a 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 a bit more pricey than the other cots we tested, but it's still worth considering if you're looking for a cot that's high-quality and can grow with your baby.