Buying an Infant Cot Bed
The most common kind is a cot. It is a great space for your infant to rest. However it can be a struggle for babies to settle into their cot.
Babies must be able to roll over easily. They also require a flat surface to lay on. This means that they should not use pillows or blankets in their cot as they could pose an air suffocation risk.
Safety features
It is crucial to test the safety of a cot bed for the infant prior to buying it. This means that you must ensure that it has been tested according to proper standards and that all components are safe. You can check this by searching for a JPMA certification seal or checking that there aren't any gaps between the mattress and product sides that could trap the infant's head, arms or legs. You should also avoid adding pillows blankets, stuffed animals, or pillows as these can pose dangers of suffocation.
You may have to enter your child's room to change their diapers, clean the cot, or give them some cuddles. You should also check whether the cot bed is covered with a mattress cover that is waterproof to shield it from accidents.
Most cot beds have adjustable mattress heights and some have sides that can be adjusted as your child grows. This makes it easier to get your child into and out of their cot when they get older. However, it is important to still keep an eye on your child and encourage them to move to a toddler bed around 18 months to 2 years old if they show signs that they are ready.
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 also a good idea to create a clear zone surrounding the cot that is free from any bedding or toys that could cause an suffocation hazard and also remove climbing aids, such as large toys. This will help protect your child from injury and make the transition to a toddler bed a less stressful process for everyone.
Convenience
A well-designed cot provides an environment for sleep that promotes healthy posture. Its deliberate spacing reduces entanglement hazards that can result in a risk of suffocation for babies. Its minimalist design also gives parents a the ability to easily taking care of their baby's needs during diaper changes and evening feedings.
The majority of cots are standard size, meaning that they can fit the majority of regular mattresses for babies. The cots are usually equipped with a mattress pad and fitted sheets to protect the cot from bumps and scratches. Some cots are able to be removed from the sides, which makes it easier for the baby to get in at night. However, it's important to follow the recommendations of The Lullaby Trust and only use mattresses that are suitable for your child's weight and age.
If your child is outgrowing their crib, it's time to transition them to a toddler bed. It can be a difficult moment for parents and infants, but you can make the transition smoother. Examine the height of the crib first. It should be lower than your child's bed, so they won't be forced to jump or climb out of it.
Drop-side cots are a great alternative for older children, who can crawl and reach their feet. They also have pedals or catches that can stop your child from unlatching the cot on their own. They are especially helpful for taller parents who don't have the ability to take their child from the crib.
Some cots have an option to be lowered and raised. This is ideal for older babies who are beginning to roll over or wriggle when they sleep. This type of cot has a safety guard that is made from metal or plastic and stops your baby from falling.
You can also buy a Moses Basket that can be converted into an actual bed. This is ideal for toddlers and infants who are younger. This is a smaller cot than one that is standard, which means it takes up less space in your child's room. It's also easy to move around in, and the majority of them have wheels that make it easy to manoeuvre.
Aesthetics
A good cot bed must look stylish and fit in well with the rest of your nursery. This will create a relaxing atmosphere for your baby and will also improve the overall ambience of the room. It shouldn't be placed too close to a window or door because this could expose your baby to drafts that may disrupt their sleep.
You can pick from a wide range of baby cots, but the most effective ones are sleek and stylish that looks great and is easy to clean. Some are constructed of durable wood and come with fixed safety rails to keep your child secure. Others are made of steel and are easy to assemble. It is essential to select the cot that won't cause your baby to overheat and the fabric should be soft. It is also important to be aware that a cot shouldn't be placed near a flame since it could catch fire.
Some cots come with an underneath basket or drawer which is great for storing muslin cloths as well as blankets. You can also put on a hood to shield your child from light and sound, which will allow them to sleep better at night. You should also select a mattress that is the same size as the cot your baby is using. If possible you should opt for organic cotton.
A cot is an essential piece of furniture for your baby, and it will last them until they reach the age of four years old. Some cots convert to toddler beds. If you're looking for a high-quality cot, look into the Mamas and Papas Coxley cot bed, that comes in a variety of colors and has been voted best cot at the 2022 Mother&Baby awards. It has a beautiful aesthetic and is simple to assemble and comes with three mattress heights.
Include a few toys in the crib mattress of your child to help them sleep for longer. However, you should not attempt to make the cot comfortable by adding mattresses or pillows, as this could pose the risk of suffocation or injury. You can also purchase an hygienic cover for your mattress to eliminate the requirement to wash it frequently. The cover will protect your mattress from staining which result from sweat or shedding sweat.
Space Savings
Cot beds are designed to expand with your child. They can be converted into an adult bed. This can reduce the cost of replacing furniture in the cot and makes the transition from crib to bed more comfortable for your child. Many cots come with built-in storage that can be used to store items like toys, blankets and books. This feature is particularly useful when you're short of space in your home.
In contrast to cribs and bassinets, cots have a slatted structure that allows air to circulate. This helps to regulate your baby's body temperature. The slats help keep the mattress clean and fresh. They are also less vulnerable to sagging, unlike bassinets which can cause discomfort for your baby. You can choose from a variety of sizes of slats, such as narrow, standard, and wide. Whatever slats you choose, it is important to select a firm and firm mattress for the safety and comfort of your baby.
Some cots have a cover made of plastic or metal, which helps to keep your child from climbing out of the bed. However the tops must be removed when your child is older, as they may cause injuries. 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 such as teething bars or drawers under the bed for storage.
The Mamas and Papas cot bed is among our top picks. It has a beautiful design and is simple to put together. It's an excellent choice for parents in a financial crunch, as it's less expensive than other options on the market. The cot comes with mattresses that are a standard size, which makes it easy to purchase bedding for.
Leander cot beds are a great option. They have an under-bed storage drawer which can be used to store toys and bedding. This cot is also suitable for newborns and is super compact, which makes it an ideal choice if you're working with limited space. The Boori Oasis is a stylish, elegant cot that is simple to assemble. It is a great addition to any nursery. It's a bit more expensive than the other cots that we tested however, it's worth considering if you're searching for a cot that's high-quality and will grow with your child.