Buying an Infant Cot Bed
A cot is the most commonly used type of baby bed. It’s a great place to rest your baby. However, it can be difficult for babies to get settled into their cot.
Babies should be able to roll easily. They also require an even surface to sleep on. Avoid using blankets or pillows because they could cause the suffocation.
Safety features
When purchasing an infant cot bed it is important that you check that it was manufactured in a safe manner. This means you should ensure that it has been tested to proper standards and that all components are safe. This can be done by looking for the JPMA certification seal or by checking that there are no gaps between the mattress and sides of the product that could catch an infant’s head, arms or legs. It is also important to ensure that you do not add pillows or blankets to the cot as they could pose a suffocation risk.
You may need to enter your child’s room to change nappy, clean the cot or give them cuddles. You should also check that the cot bed has an waterproof mattress cover to guard it from accidents.
Some cot beds come with removable sides and adjustable mattress heights. These can be adjusted as your child grows. This makes it easier to move your child into and out of their cots as they grow older. However, you must remain vigilant about your child and encourage them to move to a toddler bed around 18 months to two years old if they exhibit indications that they are ready.
It is important to ensure that your child’s cot is away from heating elements and wall lamps. Also, the cords of curtains or blinds can cause strangulation. It is a good idea to also take away any climbing aids like large toys and create a zone around the cot free of bedding or toys that could cause death by suffocation. This will help keep your baby safe from injuries and help allow the transition to a toddler bed a less stressful process for all of you.
Convenience
A well-designed cot provides a supportive sleep environment that encourages healthy posture. Its deliberate spacing reduces the possibility of entanglement which can cause suffocation for babies. Its minimalist design also provides parents with a choreography of convenience in attending to their baby’s needs during diaper changes or evening feedings.
Most cots offers are of standard size, meaning that they will fit the majority of standard baby mattresses. The cots usually come with a mattress pad and fitted sheets to protect the cot against scratches and bumps. Some cots feature a removable side, which allows you to easily reach your baby during the time of bed. It is important to follow the Lullaby Trust’s recommendations and only use a mattress for your child’s weight and age.
When your baby outgrows their crib, it’s time to move them to a toddler bed. It can be a stressful time for parents as well as babies, but there are ways to make the transition easier. Make sure you check the height of the best crib first. You want it to be lower than the baby’s bed, so that they don’t have to jump or climb out of it.
Drop-side cots are a good alternative for older children, who are able to crawl and lift their feet. These cots also come with pedals or catch that stop your child from unlatching the best cot beds by themselves. These are particularly useful for parents who are taller, but do not have the height to get their child out of the cot.
Some cots have a drop-down side that is able to be adjusted to lower or raise, which is great for older babies who are starting to roll around and wiggle in their sleep. This type of cot also comes with a safety guard which is usually made from metal or plastic, and can help keep your baby safe from falling out.
Alternatively, you can buy an Moses basket that converts into bed, which is ideal for toddlers and babies who are younger. It’s an incredibly smaller cot than a standard one, so it occupies less space in your child’s room. It’s also simple to move around, and most have wheels that make it easy to maneuver.
Aesthetics
A good cot-bed should be stylish and blend with the rest your nursery cots. It will create a calm environment for your baby. It will also add to overall ambiance in the room. It shouldn’t be placed too close to doors or windows, as this may expose your baby’s sleep to drafts.
You can pick from a wide range of baby cots, however the top ones have a sleek design that looks stunning and is easy to clean. Some are constructed out of sturdy wood and have fixed safety rails to ensure your child’s safety. Some are made of steel and are simple to assemble. It is crucial to select the cot that won’t cause your baby to overheat and the fabric should be soft. A cot should not be placed near an open fire since it may catch on fire.
Some cots have a drawer or basket under the mattress which 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 more peacefully at night. It is also recommended to choose a mattress that is the same size as the cot your baby is using. If possible you should choose organic cotton.
The cot will be used by your baby until she is about four years older. Some cots are used as toddler beds. If you are looking for a top quality cot, the Mamas and Papas Coxley is a great choice. It is available in a range of colors and was named the best cot beds cot in the 2022 Mother&Baby Awards. It’s easy to put together and features a beautiful design, and has three mattress base heights.
Incorporating a few toys into your infant’s cot bed will help them sleep for longer. However, don’t try to make the cot more comfortable with pillows or extra mattresses in case they pose a risk of suffocation and injuries. You can purchase a hygienic mattress cover to decrease the frequency of washing the mattress. The cover will protect your mattress from staining which are caused by shedding or sweat.
Space Savings
Cot beds can be transformed to toddler beds, and are designed to accommodate your child’s growth. This lowers the cost of replacing cot furniture and makes the transition from crib to bed more comfortable for your child. A lot of cots have built-in storage for items like toys, blankets and books. This feature is particularly useful when you’re short of space in your home.
Unlike bassinets and cribs, the cots have a slatted structure that allows air to circulate. This helps regulate the temperature of your baby’s body. The slats also help 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 a variety of sizes of slats, such as standard, narrow, and wide. Whatever slats you pick, it is crucial to choose a thick and firm mattress for the security and comfort of your child.
Some cots have a metal or plastic top to help prevent your baby from climbing on the bed. However, these tops should be removed when your child is older, since they could cause injuries. There are a myriad of cots available and they come in various styles and colors. Some cots come with additional features, such as teething bars, and under-bed storage drawers.
One of our favorites is the Mamas and Papas Coxley cot bed, with an attractive design and simple assembly. It is a great option for parents with limited funds since it is cheaper than other options. The cot has the mattress of standard size. This makes it much easier to buy bedding.
Another alternative is an alternative is the Leander cot bed, which comes with an under-bed drawer that can be used to store bedding and toys. The cot is also suitable for newborns and is super compact, which makes it an ideal choice if you’re working with little space. Finally, the Boori Oasis oval cot is an elegant and attractive option that’s easy to put together and looks beautiful in any nursery. It’s a bit more pricey than the other cots we tested however, it’s worth a look if you’re looking for a high-quality cot that will grow with your child.