Buying an Infant Cot Bed
The most well-known kind is a cot. It's a fantastic place to rest your baby. However it can be a challenge for infants to settle into their cot.
Babies must be able to roll over easily. They also require a flat surface to lay on. Avoid using pillows or blankets since they can cause an airway obstruction.
Safety features
It is crucial to test the safety of a cot for an infant before purchasing it. This means you should ensure that it has been tested to the appropriate standards and that all parts are secure. This can be done by checking for the JPMA certification seal, or by ensuring that there aren't any gaps between the mattress and the product sides which could trap an infant's head, legs or arms. You should also make sure that you do not add pillows, stuffed toys or blankets to the cot since they could pose an entrapment risk.
You may need to enter your child's room to change nappy, clean the cot or give them cuddles. Also, you should ensure that the cot has a waterproof mattress protector to protect it from any injuries your infant might have.
Most cots have adjustable mattress heights. Some have sides that can be lowered as your child grows. This will make it easier for your infant to climb into and out of the cot as they get older, but it is important to be watching the bed and make sure that they are moved to a toddler bed at 18 months or 2 years when they start to begin to show signs that they are ready for this.
When your child is in the cot bed it is recommended to place the bed away from heating sources, windows, wall lamps and curtain or blind cords since they could be an entrapment risk for infants. It is also a good idea to create a clear zone surrounding the cot that is free from any toys or bedding that could create a suffocation risk and remove climbing aids like 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 promotes an ideal posture and supportive sleeping environment. Its thoughtful spacing minimizes the risk of entanglement, which could lead to suffocation for infants. Its simple design allows parents to attend to the needs of their infant during diaper changes and nighttime feedings.
Most cots come in standard sizes, so they can fit on any regular baby mattresses. The cots are typically equipped with a fitted mattress pad and fitted sheets to protect the cot against scratches and bumps. Some cots feature a removable side, which makes it easier to reach your child at the time of bed. But, it is essential to follow the recommendations of The Lullaby Trust and only use a mattress that is suitable for your child's weight and age.
When your child has outgrown the cot they are in, you should move them to a toddler's bed. This can be a difficult moment for both parents and baby, however there are some steps you can take to help to make the transition easier. First, check the height of the cot. You want it to be lower than your baby's crib, so they don't have to climb or jump out.
Drop-side cots can be a great alternative for older children, who can crawl and lift their feet. They also feature catches or pedals that prevent your baby from unlatching themselves. tots and cots are especially useful for parents who are taller and don't have the height to lift their child from the cot.
Some cots come with a drop-down side that is able to be lowered or raised, which is great for older babies who are beginning to roll around and wiggle in their sleep. This kind of cot comes with a safety shield, which is usually made of metal or plastic and helps keep your baby safe from falling out.
You can also purchase a Moses basket that converts into bed, which is great for younger babies and toddlers. This is smaller than the standard one, meaning it occupies less space in your baby's room. It's also easy to move around in, and the majority of them have wheels that make it easy to move around.
Aesthetics
A good cot bed should look stylish and fit in perfectly with the rest of your nursery. This will create a calm and peaceful space for your baby and will also contribute to the overall ambience of the room. It shouldn't be placed too close to a door or window, as this could expose your baby to drafts that could disrupt 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 great. Some are made of sturdy wood and come with fixed safety rails that keep your child secure. Some are made from metal and are easy to put together. It is important to choose the cot that won't cause your baby to overheat and the fabric should be soft. You should also be aware that a cot shouldn't be placed near a fire since it could catch flames.
Some cots include an under-bed drawer or basket that can be useful for storing muslin cloths as well as blankets. A hood can be used to protect your baby against light and noise which will allow them to sleep better at night. It is also important to choose a mattress that is similar in size to your crib, and you should choose organic cotton if possible.
The cot will last your baby until is approximately four years old. Some cots can be converted into toddler beds. If you're looking for a high-quality cot, consider the Mamas and Papas Coxley cot bed, that comes in a range of colours and was voted the top cot in the 2022 Mother&Baby awards. It has a beautiful aesthetic and is simple to assemble and features three mattress heights.
Include a few toys in the cot bed of your infant to encourage them to stay asleep for longer. However, don't try to make the cot more comfortable with pillows or extra mattresses as they could create the risk of suffocation and injuries. You can buy a hygienic mattress cover to cut down on the frequency of washing the mattress. The cover shields the mattress from stains caused by shedding sweat, soaking or sweat.
Space saving
Cot beds can be transformed to toddler beds and are designed for your child's growth. This can reduce the cost of replacing furniture for the cot, and makes the transition from crib into bed easier for your child. Many cots come with built-in storage that can be used to store things like toys, blankets, and books. This feature is especially useful when your home is small in space.
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 can also help keep the mattress fresh and clean. They are also less susceptible to sagging, unlike bassinets which can be uncomfortable for your baby. You can choose between several slats including wide, standard and narrow. Whatever slats you choose, it is important to select a thick and firm mattress to ensure the security and comfort of your child.
Some cots have a cover that is made of metal or plastic, which helps to keep your child from climbing out of the bed. These tops can cause injury to your child, which is why they should be removed when they reach a certain age. There are many cots that are available. There are a variety of cots available in a variety of styles and colors. Certain cots are equipped with extra features like teething bars, and drawers for storage under the bed.
The Mamas and Papas cot bed is one of our top picks. It has a beautiful design and is simple to assemble. It is a great option for parents with limited funds since it is cheaper than many other options. The cot also includes an adjustable mattress that is standard size, making it easier to buy bedding for.
Leander cribs are another excellent option. They have an under-bed storage drawer which can store bedding and toys. cots and tots is also suitable for infants and is extremely compact, making it a great option if you have little space. The Boori Oasis oval cot is an elegant and attractive choice that's easy to put together and looks beautiful in any nursery. tots and cots 's a bit more pricey than the other cots we tested however, it's worth a look if you're looking for a high-end cot that can grow with your baby.