Buying an Infant Cot Bed
A cot is the most common kind of bed for babies. It is a great place for your infant to rest. It isn't easy for your baby to get settled in their cot.
Babies must be able to roll over easily. They should also sleep on an even surface. This means avoiding pillows or blankets in their cots as they can act as an air suffocation risk.
Safety features
When you purchase a cot for your infant, it is essential to ensure whether it was made in a safe manner. It is essential to make sure that the product has been tested to the correct standards and that its parts are safe. This can be done by looking for the JPMA certification seal or checking that there aren't any gaps between the mattress and the product sides that could trap the infant's head or legs. You should also make sure that you do not add pillows blankets, stuffed toys, or blankets to your cot because they could pose an entrapment risk.
You might need to go into the room of your child to change the nappy, clean the cot or give them cuddles. You will also want to ensure that the cot has an appropriate mattress protector that is waterproof to protect it from any accidents that your infant may have.
Some cots have removable sides and adjustable mattress heights. They can be adjusted as your child grows. This will make it easier to get your child in and out of their cots as they get older. However, you must still keep an eye on your child and make sure they move to a toddler bed around 18 months to 2 years old if they display indications that they are ready.
It is crucial to keep your child's cot bed away from wall lamps. Additionally, the cords of blinds or curtains could cause strangulation. It is important to create a clear zone around the cot, free of any bedding or toys that could create a suffocation risk and remove climbing aids, such as large toys. This will help keep your baby safe from injury and allow the transition to the toddler bed a more comfortable process for everyone.
Convenience
A well-designed crib can promote an ideal posture and comfortable sleeping environment. The deliberate spacing of the cot reduces the chance of entanglement which can lead to suffocation in infants. Its minimalist design also gives parents a the ability to easily caring for their child during diaper changes or evening feedings.
The majority of cots are standard sizes, so they will fit most mattresses for babies that are standard. They also usually come with a fitted sheet and a mattress pad that protects the cot from scratches and bumps. Some cots are able to be removed from the sides, which makes it easier to reach the baby at bedtime. But, it is essential to follow the recommendations of The Lullaby Trust and only use mattresses that are suitable for your child's weight and age.
If your child is outgrowing his or her crib and you decide to move them to a toddler's bed. This can be a stressful time for both parent and baby, however there are a few steps you can take to to make the transition easier. Make sure you check the height of the crib first. It should be lower than your child's bed, so that they don't be forced to jump or climb out of it.
Drop-side cots can be a great option for older babies who can crawl and lift their feet. They also come with catches or pedals that prevent your baby from unlatching themselves. These are especially useful for parents with taller heights, who do not have the reach to lift their child out of the cot themselves.
Some cots are designed with a drop-down side that can be raised or lowered, which is great for older babies that are beginning to roll around and wiggle in their sleep. This type of cot features an safety guard made of plastic or metal and protects your baby from falling.
Alternatively, you can buy a Moses basket that converts into bed, which is perfect for toddlers and babies who are younger. The advantage of this is that it's smaller than a standard cot therefore it will take up less space in your baby's nursery. It is also easy to move, and many come with wheels to help you move it.
Aesthetics
A cot bed that is of good quality should look stylish and fit in well with the rest of your nursery. This will create a relaxing environment for your baby. It will also add to overall ambience of the room. It shouldn't be placed too close to a window or door as it could expose your baby to drafts which could disturb their sleep.
There are many alternatives for baby cots. The best ones will have a sleek and modern design that is easy to maintain and looks stunning. Some are constructed of durable wood and come with fixed safety rails that help keep your child safe. Some are made from metal and are easy to assemble. It is important to choose the cot that won't cause your baby to overheat, and the fabric should be soft. It is also important to be aware that a cot should not be placed near a flame because it could catch fire.
Some cots have a drawer or basket under the mattress which can be used to store blankets and muslins. A hood can be used to shield your child from light and noise, allowing them to sleep more peacefully at night. It is also essential to get a mattress that is the same size as your crib, and you should opt for organic cotton if you can.
A cot is an essential piece of furniture for your baby, and it will last until they reach around four years old. cribs can be used as toddler beds. If you're looking for a top-quality cot, look into the Mamas and Papas Coxley cot bed, which is available in a variety of colors and was voted the top cot in the 2022 Mother&Baby awards. It's stylish and is easy to put together and features three mattress heights.
Include a few toys in the crib bed of your baby to encourage them to sleep for longer. Do not add pillows or extra mattresses to the cot since they can cause suffocation and injuries. You can buy a hygienic mattress cover to decrease the frequency of washing the mattress. The mattress is protected from stains that result from shedding, soaking or sweat.
Space Savings
Cot beds are designed to expand with your child. They are able to be converted into an adult bed. This helps to minimize the cost of replacing furniture in the cot and makes the transition from crib to bed a breeze for your baby. Many cots come with built-in shelving to store items like toys, blankets and books. This feature is especially useful in homes that are small in space.
As opposed to bassinets and cot beds, cots generally have a slatted structure that allows air to circulate and regulate your baby's temperature. The slats keep the mattress clean and fresh. They are also less vulnerable to sagging than bassinets, which can cause discomfort for your baby. You can choose between a range of slats, including wide, standard and narrow. Whatever size you pick, you should always choose an extremely firm and sturdy mattress for your baby's comfort as well as safety.
Some cots come with a top made of plastic or metal that helps prevent your baby from getting out of bed. These tops could cause injuries to your child, which is why they should be removed once they reach a certain age. There are a variety of cots on the market. They are available in a variety of styles and colors. Some cots have additional features like teething bars or drawers for storage under the bed.
The Mamas and Papas cot bed is one of our favorites. It has a beautiful aesthetic and is simple to assemble. It is a great choice for parents on limited funds since it is less expensive than other options. The cot comes with the mattress of standard size. This makes it much easier to purchase bedding.
Leander cot beds are another excellent option. They come with an under-bed storage drawer that can be used to store toys and bedding. The cot is also suitable for babies and is extremely compact, which makes it an ideal option if you have small space. The Boori Oasis is a stylish, elegant cot that is simple to assemble. It looks great in any nursery. It's a bit more pricey than the other cots that we tested however, it's worth a look if you're looking for a high-end cot that will grow with your child.