Buying an Infant Cot Bed
The most well-known kind is a cot. It is a fantastic place for your infant to sleep. However it can be a challenge for infants to settle into their cot.
Babies should be able roll over easily. They should also be able to sleep on flat surfaces. This means avoiding pillows or blankets in their cots since they could pose a suffocation hazard.
Safety features
When purchasing an infant cot bed it is important that you check whether it was made in a safe manner. This means that you must ensure that it has been tested according to required standards and that all parts are secure. You can check this by looking for a JPMA certification seal or by checking that there are no gaps between the mattress and sides of the product that could trap an infant's head or legs. You should also avoid adding pillows, stuffed animals or blankets since they could pose dangers of suffocation.
You may have to enter your child's room to change nappy, clean the cot, or give them some cuddles. Also, you should ensure that the cot has a waterproof mattress protector because this will shield it from any injuries your infant may have.
Some cot beds come with removable sides and adjustable mattress heights. They can be adjusted as your child grows. This will make it easier for your baby to climb into and out of the cot as they grow older, but you should be watching them and then move them to the toddler bed around 18 months or 2 years when they start to show signs that they are ready for this.
It is important to ensure that the cot bed is away from wall lamps. Also, the cords of blinds or curtains can cause strangulation. It is important to create a safe zone around the cot that is free from any toys or bedding that could pose the risk of suffocation and to take away climbing aids such as large toys. This will keep your baby secure and make the transition to a toddler bed less stressful for everyone.
Convenience
A well-designed crib encourages an upright posture and supportive sleeping environment. Its thoughtful spacing minimizes the chance of entanglement which can cause suffocation for infants. Its simple design enables parents to pay attention to the needs of their infant when changing diapers and during nighttime feedings.
Most cots are of standard size, which means they can be used with most standard mattresses for babies. The cots are typically equipped with a mattress pad and fitted sheets to protect the cot against scratches and bumps. There are some cots that feature a removable side, which makes it easier to reach your baby during bedtime. But, it is essential to follow the advice from The Lullaby Trust and only use mattresses that are suitable for your child's age and weight.
If your child is outgrowing their crib, it's time to move them to an adult bed. It can be a stressful moment for parents and babies, but there are ways to make the transition easier. First, check the height of the cot. You want it to be lower that the crib of your baby so they aren't forced to climb or jump out of it.
Cots with drop sides are a different option, since they're safer for older babies who can reach their feet and crawl over the edge. 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 by themselves.
Some cots have a side that can be lowered and raised. This is perfect for older children who are starting to roll over or wiggle during sleep. This kind of cot comes with a safety guard that is typically made of metal or plastic and helps to prevent your baby from falling out.
If you prefer, you can purchase a Moses basket that converts into a bed, which is ideal for toddlers and babies who are younger. The advantage is that it's smaller than a standard cot, therefore it will take up less room in your baby's nursery. It's also easy to move and many of them have wheels to help you move it.
Aesthetics
A good cot-bed must be fashionable and blend with the rest of your nursery. It will create a calm atmosphere for your baby and will also add to overall ambience in the room. It shouldn't be too close to a door or window as it could expose your baby to drafts that could disrupt their sleep.
You can choose from a range of cots for babies, but the top ones have a sleek design that looks great and is easy to clean. Some of them are crafted with sturdy wood, and come with safety rails that are fixed to keep your child safe. Some are made of steel and are simple to assemble. Select a cot that is made of soft fabric that won't make your baby overheat. It is also important to be aware that a cot shouldn't be placed near a fire because it could catch fire.
Some cots come with a basket or drawer under the mattress that can be used to store blankets and muslins. A hood can be used to shield your child from light and noise and allow them to sleep better at night. It is also crucial to purchase a mattress that is similar in size to your crib, and you should opt for organic cotton if possible.
A cot is an important piece of furniture for your baby, and it will last them until they reach around four years old. Some cots can even be used as 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 variety of colours and was voted the top cot at the 2022 Mother&Baby Awards. It's easy to put together and features a beautiful design and comes with three mattress heights.
Add a few toys to the crib bed of your baby to help them sleep for longer. It is not recommended to add extra mattresses or pillows to the cot since they could result in suffocation or injury. You can buy a hygienic mattress cover to cut down on the frequency of cleaning the mattress. The cover will protect your mattress from stains that are caused by shedding or sweat.
Space Savings
Cot beds are designed to expand with your child and can usually be converted into the size of a toddler bed. This can help reduce the cost of replacing cot furniture and makes the transition from crib to bed a breeze for your child. Many cots come with built-in storage for items like toys, blankets and books. This feature is particularly useful in the event that you have a limited amount of space in your home.
Unlike bassinets, cot beds typically have a slatted design that allows air to circulate and regulate your baby's temperature. The slats also help keep the mattress clean and fresh. They are less likely to sag than bassinets, which can be uncomfortable for infants. You can pick from a variety of slat sizes, including standard, narrow and wide. No matter what size you choose it is important to select a thick and firm mattress to ensure your baby's comfort and security.
Some cots have a top that is made of metal or plastic that helps prevent your baby from climbing out of the bed. These tops could cause injuries to your child, and they should be removed when they reach a certain age. There are a myriad of cots for sale and they come in a variety of styles and colors. Some cots have additional features, such as teething bars, and drawers under the bed for storage.
The Mamas and Papas cot bed is among our top picks. It has a stunning design and is simple to put together. It's also a good choice for parents on a tight budget, since it's less expensive than other options available. The cot also includes an adjustable mattress that is standard size, making it easier to buy bedding for.
Leander cribs beds are another excellent option. They have an under-bed storage drawer that is able to be used to store toys and bedding. This cot is ideal for newborns, and it is small. It is an ideal choice for those who are limited in space. Finally, the Boori Oasis oval cot beds for sale is an elegant and attractive choice that's easy to put together and looks stunning in any nursery. It's more expensive than the other cots we tried, but it's still worth a look if you're looking for a cot that's high-quality and will grow with your child.