Buying an Infant Cot Bed
A cot is the most commonly used kind of bed for babies. It is a fantastic space for your infant to sleep. However, it can be difficult for babies to settle into their cot.
Babies must be able to roll over easily. They also need to sleep on flat surfaces. Avoid using pillows or blankets as they can cause the suffocation.
Safety features
It is crucial to test the safety of a cot bed an infant before purchasing it. This means you should ensure that it has been tested to proper standards and that all parts are safe. This can be accomplished by examining the JPMA certification seal, or ensuring that there aren't any gaps between the mattress and its sides which could trap a baby's head, arms or legs. You should also make sure that you do not add pillows or blankets to the cot since they can be a suffocation risk.
It is also worth considering whether or not the bed is able to let you reach over it easily with your child within it, this is because you might need to visit the room on occasion to change nappies or clean the cot and/or give your baby some cuddles. It is also important to ensure that the cot has an appropriate mattress protector that is waterproof to protect it from any accidents your infant might have.
Most cot beds have adjustable mattress heights. Some have removable sides that can be lowered as your child grows. This makes it easier to move your child into and out of their cot as they get older. However, you should still keep an eye on your child and encourage them to move to a toddler bed around 18 months to 2 years old if they display indications that they are ready.
When your child is in the cot bed it is recommended that you position the bed away from heating sources or windows, wall lamps and curtain or blind cords since they could be a strangulation hazard for babies. It is important to create a space around the cot, free from any bedding or toys that could create the risk of suffocation and to remove climbing aids like large toys. This will help keep your baby safe and make the transition to a toddler bed a lot easier for all of you.
Convenience
A well-designed cot fosters a supportive sleep environment that encourages healthy posture. Its thoughtful spacing minimizes the risk of entanglement, which could lead to suffocation for babies. Its simple design allows parents to attend to their baby's requirements during diaper changes and at nighttime feedings.
Most cots are of standard size, meaning that they can be used with the majority of regular mattresses for babies. They are also typically equipped with a fitted sheet as well as an extra cushion which protects the cot from scratches and bumps. There are some cots that come with a removable side which allows you to easily reach your baby during bedtime. But, it is essential to follow the advice from The Lullaby Trust and only use a mattress that is suitable for your child's weight and age.
When your baby outgrows their cot, it's time to move them into a toddler bed. This can be a challenging time for both parents and baby, however there are some 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 baby's bed, so that they don't have to jump or climb out of it.
Cots with drop sides are a different option, since they're safer for older babies who are able to reach their feet and crawl over the edge. They also feature locks or pedals that can stop your baby from releasing themselves. They are particularly useful for taller parents, 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 perfect for older babies, who are starting to roll over or wiggle during sleep. This type of cot also comes with a safety shield, that is typically made of plastic or metal and helps to prevent your baby from falling out.
Alternatively, you can buy a Moses basket that converts into bed, which is great for toddlers and infants. The advantage of this is that it's smaller than a standard cot so it will take up less room in your baby's nursery. It is also easy to move and many of them have wheels that make it easier to manoeuvre.
Aesthetics
A good cot bed must look stylish and fit in well with the other furniture in your nursery. It will create a calm atmosphere for your baby and will also enhance the overall ambiance in the room. It shouldn't be placed too close to windows or doors as it could expose your baby's sleep to drafts.
You can choose from a variety of baby cots, however the most effective ones have a sleek design that is stylish and easy to clean. Some are constructed from sturdy wood, and have fixed safety rails to ensure your child's safety. Some are made of metal and are easy to assemble. It is crucial to select a cot that will not make your baby overheat and the fabric should be soft. You should also be aware that a cot should not be placed near a flame because it could catch fire.
Some cots come with an under-bed storage basket or drawer beneath the mattress that can be used to store blankets and muslins. You can also put on a hood to protect your child from sound and light which will allow them to sleep better at night. It is also recommended to choose a mattress the same size as your baby's cot. If possible you should opt for organic cotton.
The cot can be used by your baby until is approximately four years older. Some cots convert to toddler beds. If you're looking for a top-quality cot, look into the Mamas and Papas Coxley cot bed, that comes in a variety of colors and was voted the best cot at the 2022 Mother&Baby awards. It's stylish and is easy to put together and features three mattress heights.
Adding a few toys to the crib of your child will help them sleep for longer. You should not add extra mattresses or pillows to the cot as they could result in suffocation or injuries. You can also buy an hygienic cover for your mattress to reduce the need to wash it frequently. The cover protects your mattress from staining that result from sweat or shedding sweat.
Space saving
Cot beds are designed to expand with your child and can usually be transformed into a toddler bed. This helps to minimize the cost of replacing furniture in the cot as well as making the transition from crib to bed effortless for your little one. Baby Cot come with built-in storage for things like blankets, toys and books. This feature is particularly useful when your home is small in space.
Contrary to bassinets, cot beds generally have a slatted structure that allows air to circulate and regulate your baby's temperature. The slats help keep the mattress clean and fresh. They are also less prone to sagging, unlike bassinets which can be uncomfortable for babies. You can choose between a range of slats, including wide, standard and narrow. Whatever size you pick, you should always choose a thick and firm mattress for your baby's comfort and safety.
Some cots come with the top made of plastic or metal to help prevent your baby from climbing onto the bed. These tops can cause injury to your child, and they should be removed when they reach the age of. There are many different cots on the market. They are offered in various styles and colors. Some come with additional features like teething rails, under-bed drawers, and even a bed.
One of our top picks is one of our favorites is the Mamas and Papas Coxley cot bed, which has a beautiful aesthetic and easy assembly. It is a great choice for parents on budget since it is cheaper than many other options. The cot also includes mattresses that are a standard size, which makes it easy to purchase bedding for.
Leander cot beds are a good option. They come with an under-bed storage drawer which can be used to store toys and bedding. The cot is suitable for babies, and it is compact. It is an ideal choice for those who have a limited space. Baby Crib is a chic and attractive option that's easy to assemble and looks gorgeous in any nursery. It's more expensive than the other cots, but it's worth a look when you want to find a high-quality crib that can grow with your child.