Buying an Infant Cot Bed
A cot is the most common kind of bed for babies. It's a great place to rest your baby. However it can be a challenge for babies to get settled into their cot.
Babies should be able roll over easily. They also require a flat surface to lay on. Avoid using blankets or pillows as they can cause the suffocation.
Safety features
When purchasing a cot for your infant, it is crucial to confirm that it was manufactured safely. This means ensuring that it has been tested according to required standards and that all parts are secure. You can do this by looking for the JPMA certification seal or ensuring that there are no gaps between the mattress and product sides that could trap an infant's head, arms or legs. Also, avoid adding pillows blankets, stuffed animals, or pillows because they can be a suffocation hazard.
You may need to enter your child's room to change nappy, clean the cot or give them cuddles. It is also important to make sure that the cot is equipped with a waterproof mattress protector to protect it from any accidents that your infant might have.
Some cots come with removable sides and adjustable mattress heights. They 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 should be watching the child and move them to a toddler bed at 18 months to 2 years old if they exhibit signs they are ready.
When your child is in the cot bed it is recommended to place the bed away from heaters, windows, wall lamps and cords for curtains or blinds as these can be an injury to babies who are strangulated. It is recommended to create a space around the cot, free from any toys or bedding that could cause the risk of suffocation and to remove climbing aids, such as large toys. This will help to keep your baby safe from injuries and help allow the transition to a toddler bed a less stressful process for everyone.
Convenience
A well-designed crib encourages an ideal posture and supportive sleeping environment. Its thoughtful spacing minimizes the dangers of entanglement, which can cause suffocation for babies. Its simple design enables parents to be attentive to the needs of their infant when changing diapers and during nighttime feedings.
Most cots are a standard size, which means they can be used with the majority of regular mattresses for babies. They usually also come with a fitted sheet as well as a soft mattress pad that protects the cot from scratches and bumps. Some cots have removable sides, which make it easier to reach your baby when it's time to go to bed. It's important to follow The Lullaby Trust's guidelines and only use a suitable mattress that is suitable for your child's weight and age.
When your child outgrows his or her crib and you decide to move them to a bed for toddlers. It can be a stressful time for both parents and babies, but you can help ease the transition. Examine the height of the crib first. You want it to be lower than your baby's crib, so they do not have to climb up or leap out.
Drop-side cots can be a great alternative for older children, who can crawl and walk. They also come with catches or pedals that prevent your baby from unlatching themselves. best cots uk are especially helpful for taller parents who don't have the ability to take their child from the cot.
Some cots have an adjustable side that can be lowered or raised to accommodate older babies who are beginning to roll around and wiggle in their sleep. This type of cot also comes with a safety shield, which is usually made of metal or plastic, and can help keep your baby safe from falling out.
Alternatively, you can buy a Moses basket that can be converted into a bed, which is perfect for toddlers and infants. This is smaller than one that is standard, which means it takes up less space in your baby's room. It's also easy to move and many have wheels to make it easier to manoeuvre.
Aesthetics
A good cot-bed should be stylish and blend with the rest your nursery. This will help to create a relaxing environment for your baby, and it will also add to the overall ambience of the room. It should not be set too close to windows or doors, as this may expose your baby's sleep to drafts.
There are many alternatives for baby cots. The best ones have a sleek, modern design that is easy to maintain and looks beautiful. Some are constructed of durable wood and have fixed safety rails to keep your child safe. Others are made of steel and are easy to assemble. It is crucial to select a cot that won't cause your baby to overheat and the fabric must be soft. The cot shouldn't be set close to a fire since it may catch fire.
Some cots have an under-bed storage basket or drawer beneath the mattress which can be used to store blankets and muslins. You can also use a hood to shield your baby from noise and light which will allow them to sleep better at night. It is also crucial to get a mattress that is the same size as your cot, and go with organic cotton whenever possible.
A cot is an essential piece of furniture for your baby and it will last until they reach around four years old. Some cots can be used as toddler beds. If you're looking for a high-quality cot, consider the Mamas and Papas Coxley cot bed, that comes in a variety of colours and has been voted best cot in the 2022 Mother&Baby awards. It's beautiful in design and is simple to assemble and features three mattress base heights.
Adding a few toys to your infant's cot bed can encourage them to sleep for longer. Do not add pillows or extra mattresses to the cot since they could cause suffocation or injury. You can also buy an appropriate cover for the mattress to lessen the requirement to wash it frequently. The cover shields your mattress from stains that result from sweat or shedding sweat.
Space Savings
Cot beds can be converted to toddler beds and are specifically designed for your child's development. This reduces the cost of replacing furniture for a cot and makes the transition from crib to bed effortless for your little one. Many cots come with built-in storage for things like toys, blankets and books. This feature is especially helpful if your home is limited in space.
Unlike bassinets and cribs, cots have a slatted structure that allows air to circulate. This helps regulate the temperature of your baby's body. The slats help keep the mattress clean and fresh. They are also less prone to sagging than bassinets which can be uncomfortable for your baby. You can choose between various slats including wide, standard, and narrow. Whatever slats you pick, it is crucial to select a thick and firm mattress for the security and comfort of your baby.
Some cots come with the top made of plastic or metal to stop your baby from climbing onto the bed. However, these tops should be removed when your child is older, as they may cause injuries. There are many cots for sale, and some are available in a variety of styles and colors. Some have additional features, such as teething rails and under-bed drawers.
The Mamas and Papas cot bed is among our top picks. It has a stunning design and is simple to assemble. It's an excellent choice for parents on a budget, as it's cheaper than other options available. The cot comes with the mattress of standard size. This makes it easier to purchase bedding.
Leander cribs are another excellent alternative. They come with an under-bed storage drawer that can be used to store toys and bedding. This cot is also suitable for newborns and is extremely compact making it a great option if you have small space. The Boori Oasis is a stylish and beautiful cot that's easy to put together. It is a great addition to any nursery. It's more expensive compared to other cots, but it's worth considering in the event that you are trying to find a crib of high-quality that will grow with your child.