Buying an Infant Cot Bed
A cot is the most common kind of bed for babies. It's a great place to sleep for your baby. It isn't easy for your baby to settle in their cot.
Babies must be able roll over easily. They also need a flat surface to lay on. Avoid using blankets or pillows as they can cause suffocation.
Safety features
It is essential to verify the safety of a cot bed the infant prior to buying it. It is essential to make sure that the product has been tested according to the appropriate standards and that the parts are secure. This can be done by looking for the JPMA certification seal, or by ensuring that there aren't any gaps between the mattress and the product sides which could trap a baby's head, arms or leg. It is also important to ensure that you don't add any pillows blankets, stuffed toys, or blankets to the cot as they can be an air suffocation hazard.
It is also worth considering whether or not the cot bed is able to let you reach it with ease while having your child in it. This is because you may need to enter the room occasionally to change nappies, clean the cot and/or give your baby some cuddles. You will also want to make sure that the cot is equipped with an appropriate mattress protector that is waterproof because this will shield it from any injuries your baby may suffer.
Most cots have adjustable mattress heights. Some have sides that are removable and can be adjusted as your child grows. This will make it easier for your baby to climb in and out of the cot as they get older, but it is important to keep an eye on the bed and make sure that they are moved to a toddler bed at 18 months or two years when they begin to exhibit signs that they are ready to do this.
It is essential to ensure that your child's cot is away from heating elements and wall lamps. Additionally, the cords of blinds or curtains can cause strangulation. It is recommended to create a space around the cot that is free from any bedding or toys that could pose a suffocation risk and remove climbing aids, such as large toys. This will keep your baby secure and make the transition to a toddler bed a lot easier for all of you.
Convenience
A well-designed cot fosters a comfortable sleep environment that promotes healthy posture. Its intentional spacing minimises the dangers of entanglement, which can result in a risk of suffocation for infants. Its minimalist design allows parents to pay attention to the needs of their infant during diaper changes and at nighttime feedings.
The majority of cots are standard size, meaning that they can fit the majority of normal mattresses for babies. The cots are typically equipped with a fitted mattress pad and an upholstered sheet to shield the cot against scratches and bumps. Some cots come with removable sides, which make it easier to reach your baby at bedtime. But, it is essential to follow the advice from The Lullaby Trust and only use the mattress that is suitable for your child's age and weight.
When your baby outgrows their cot, it's the time to move them to a toddler bed. This can be a difficult time for both parent and baby, but there are some ways to make the transition easier. 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.
Drop-side cots can be a great option for older babies, who are able to crawl and walk. They also come with catch or pedals that stop your baby from unlatching themselves. They are particularly useful for parents who are taller, and do not have the reach to lift their baby out of the cot by themselves.
Some cots have an adjustable side that can be lowered or raised, which is great for older babies who are beginning to roll over and wiggle in their sleep. This kind of cot comes with a safety shield, which is usually made from metal or plastic, and can help keep your baby safe from falling out.
You can also purchase a Moses basket that converts into a bed, which is great for younger babies and toddlers. It's a smaller cot than a standard one, so it occupies less space in your child's room. It's also easy to move around, and most come with wheels that make it simple to manoeuvre.
Aesthetics
A good cot bed must be stylish and blend well with the rest of your nursery. This will create a relaxing environment for your baby. It 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 may disturb their sleep.
There are many choices for baby cots. The best ones will have a sleek and modern design that is easy to maintain and looks beautiful. Some are made of sturdy wood and come with fixed safety rails that keep your child secure. Others are made of metal and are simple to put together. Choose a cot with a soft fabric that doesn't cause your baby overheat. A cot shouldn't be placed close to a fire because it could catch the fire.
Some cots have an underneath basket or drawer that can be useful for storing muslin cloths as well as blankets. You can also use a hood to protect your child from noise and light which will allow them to sleep better at night. You should also select a mattress that is the same size as your baby's cot. If possible, you should use organic cotton.
A cot is a crucial piece of furniture for your baby and it will last until they are around four years old. Some cots are convertible to toddler beds. If you are looking for a high quality cot, the Mamas and Papas Coxley is a great alternative. It is available in a range of colors and was voted the best cot at the 2022 Mother&Baby Awards. It's simple to assemble and has a stunning design, and has three mattress base heights.
Add a few toys to the crib mattress of your child to help them sleep for longer. However, best cot bed should not attempt to make the cot more comfortable with mattresses or pillows, as this could pose a risk of suffocation and injury. You can buy a hygienic mattress cover to reduce the frequency of washing the mattress. The cover protects the mattress from stains that result from shedding sweat, soaking or soaking.
Space saving
Cot beds can be transformed into toddler beds and are specifically designed for your child's development. This can reduce the cost of replacing the furniture for the cot, and makes the transition from crib into bed easier for your child. Many cots come with built-in shelves to store things like blankets, toys, and books. This feature is especially useful if you are short on space in your home.
As opposed to bassinets and cot beds, cots typically have a slatted design that allows air to circulate and regulate your baby's temperature. The slats also help keep the mattress fresh and clean. They are less likely to sag than bassinets which can cause discomfort for babies. You can pick from several slats including wide, standard, and narrow. Regardless of the slat size you pick it is important to select an extremely firm and sturdy mattress to ensure your baby's comfort and security.
Some cots come with a top that is made of metal or plastic which can help keep your child from climbing out of the bed. These tops could cause injuries to your child, and they should be removed when they reach the age of. There are a variety of cots for sale and many are available in various styles and colors. Some cots have additional features, such as teething bars, and drawers for storage under the bed.
One of our top picks is the Mamas and Papas Coxley cot bed, with stunning design and easy assembly. The cot is also a good choice for parents who are in a financial crunch, as it is less expensive than other options on the market. The cot comes with a mattress that is a standard size, making it easy to purchase bedding for.
Leander cot beds are another great option. They come with an under-bed storage drawer which can store bedding and toys. The cot is suitable for newborns, and it is compact. It's an excellent choice if you have limited space. Lastly, the Boori Oasis oval cot is a chic and attractive option that's easy to put together and looks gorgeous in any nursery. It's a bit more expensive than the other cots we tested however, it's worth a look if you're looking for a cot that's high-quality and will grow with your child.
