Buying an Infant Cot Bed
The most common type is a cot. It's a fantastic place to sleep for your baby. However it can be a struggle for babies to get settled into their cot.
Babies should be able roll over easily. They should also sleep on a flat surface. Avoid using blankets or pillows since they can cause an airway obstruction.
Safety features
When purchasing a cot for your infant, it is important that you check that it was manufactured in a safe manner. This means you should ensure that it has been tested according to appropriate standards and that all parts are safe. This can be accomplished by looking for the JPMA certification seal, or ensuring that there aren't any gaps between the mattress and product sides which could trap a baby's head, arms or leg. You should also make sure that you do not add pillows or blankets to the cot as they can be an entrapment risk.
You may have to enter your child's room to change their diapers, clean the cot, or give them some cuddles. It is also important to ensure whether the cot bed is covered with a waterproof mattress cover to protect it from any accidents.
Most cots have adjustable mattress heights. cot sales have removable sides that can be adjusted as your child grows. This makes it easier to move your child in and out of their cot when they get older. However, you must remain vigilant about your child and encourage them to move to a toddler bed between 18 months to 2 years old if they exhibit indications that they are ready.
It is essential to ensure that the cot bed is away from heating elements and wall lamps. Also, cords of blinds or curtains can cause strangulation. It is a good idea also to remove any climbing aids like large toys and create a zone around the cot free of toys or bedding which could cause being suffocated. This will help keep your child safe and make the transition to a toddler bed a lot easier for all of you.
Convenience
A well-designed crib encourages an upright posture and safe sleeping environment. Its intentional spacing minimises entanglement hazards that can cause suffocation for babies. Its simple design enables parents to attend to their baby's needs when changing diapers and during nighttime feedings.
Most cots are of standard size, which means they can fit the majority of normal mattresses for babies. They usually also come with a fitted sheet as well as a soft mattress pad that shields the cot from bumps and scratches. Some cots have removable sides, which make it easier for the baby to get in at bedtime. It is important to follow the Lullaby Trust's advice and only use a suitable mattress for your child's weight and age.
When your child outgrows his or her cot, you should move them to a toddler's bed. It can be a tough moment for parents and babies, but you can help ease the transition. Check the height of the crib first. You want it to be lower than your child's bed, so they won't have to jump or climb out of it.
Cots with drop sides are a different option, since they're safer for babies who can reach their feet and crawl over the edge. They also feature catches or pedals that prevent your baby from releasing themselves. These are particularly useful for taller parents who do not have the ability to lift their child from the cot.
Some cots come with a side that can be lowered and raised. This is ideal for older babies who are starting to roll over or wriggle during sleep. This type of cot has a safety guard that is constructed of plastic or metal and prevents your baby from falling.
You can also buy a Moses Basket that can be converted into bed. This is great for babies and toddlers who are younger. This is smaller than the standard one, meaning it will take up less space in your child's room. It's also easy to move around in, and most have wheels that make it simple to manoeuvre.
Aesthetics
A good cot-bed must be fashionable and blend with the rest your nursery. This will create a peaceful atmosphere for your baby and will also improve the overall ambiance in the room. It shouldn't be too close to a door or window because this could expose your baby to drafts that could disrupt their sleep.
There are a myriad of options for baby cots. The best ones have a sleek, modern design that is easy to maintain and looks great. Some are constructed from sturdy wood, and include safety rails fixed to ensure your child's safety. Others are made of metal and are simple to put together. It is crucial to select the cot that won't make your baby overheat, and the fabric should be soft. Be aware that a cot should not be placed near a flame since it could catch fire.
Some cots come with an underneath basket or drawer which is great to store muslin cloths and blankets. A hood can be used to protect your child from light and noise which will allow them to sleep more peacefully at night. You should also select a mattress that is the same size as the cot your baby is using. If you can you should opt for organic cotton.
The cot can be used by your baby until is approximately four years older. Some cots are used as toddler beds. If you're looking to purchase a high-end cot, look into the Mamas and Papas Coxley cot bed, that is available in a variety of colours and was voted the best cot at the 2022 Mother&Baby awards. It's stylish, is easy to assemble and features three mattress heights.
Add a few toys to the crib mattress of your child to encourage them to sleep for longer. Do not add extra mattresses or pillows to the cot since they can cause suffocation and injuries. You can buy a hygienic mattress cover to cut down on the frequency of washing the mattress. The mattress is protected from stains that result from shedding, soaking or sweat.
Space saving
Cot beds can be converted to toddler beds, and are specifically designed for your child's growth. This lowers the cost of replacing the cot furniture and makes the transition from crib to bed more comfortable for your child. A lot of cots have built-in storage that can be used to store items like blankets, toys and books. This feature is especially helpful if your home is limited in space.
As opposed to bassinets and cot beds, cots typically have slatted designs that allows air to circulate and regulate your baby's temperature. The slats keep the mattress clean and fresh. They are less likely to slide than bassinets which can be uncomfortable for the baby. You can pick from several slats including wide, standard and narrow. Whatever size you pick, you should always choose a thick and firm mattress to ensure your baby's comfort and safety.
Some cots come with an aluminum or plastic top to stop your baby from climbing the bed. These tops could cause injuries to your child, and they should be removed once they are older. There are many cots on the market. They are available 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 gorgeous aesthetic and is simple to assemble. It's also a great option for parents who are in a financial crunch, as it's cheaper than other options on the market. The cot comes with mattresses that are a standard size, making it simpler to purchase bedding for.
Another alternative is an alternative is the Leander cot bed, which comes with an under-bed drawer which can be used for storing bedding and toys. This cot is also suitable for newborns and is extremely compact making it a great choice if you're working with little space. The Boori Oasis is a stylish, attractive cot that is easy to put together. It is a great addition to any nursery. It's a bit more expensive than the other cots we tried however, it's worth considering if you're looking for a high-quality cot that can grow with your baby.