Buying an Infant Cot Bed
A crib is the most popular kind of bed for babies. It's a fantastic place to sleep for your baby. However it can be a struggle for babies to get settled into their cot.
Babies must be able to roll easily. They also need a flat surface to sleep on. This means that they should not use pillows or blankets in their cots since they can act as a suffocation hazard.
Safety features
When you purchase an infant cot bed it is important that you check that it has been manufactured safely. This means you should ensure that it has been tested according to required standards and that all components are safe. You can check this by looking for the JPMA certification seal or checking that there aren't any gaps between the mattress and the sides of the product that could trap an infant's head or legs. It is also important to ensure that you don't put in any pillows or blankets to the cot since they could pose an air suffocation hazard.
It is also worth looking into whether or not the cot bed is able to let you climb over it easily with your child in it, this is because you might have to go into the room from time to time to change nappies or clean the cot and/or give your little one some cuddles. It is also important to ensure that the cot bed has a waterproof mattress cover to shield it from accidents.
Some cots have removable sides and adjustable mattress heights. These can be adjusted as your child gets older. This will make it easier for your baby to climb in and out of the cot as they grow older, but it is important to keep an eye on 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 heaters and wall lamps, windows and curtain or blind cords as these can be an injury to babies who are strangulated. It is a good idea to also take away any climbing aids such as large toys and create a zone surrounding the cot that is free of toys or bedding which could be a danger of death by suffocation. This will help protect your child from injury and make the transition into the toddler bed a more comfortable process for everyone.
Convenience
A well-designed crib encourages an upright posture and safe sleeping environment. The deliberate spacing of the cot reduces the possibility of entanglement which could lead to suffocation for babies. Its simple design also offers parents an array of options for attending to their baby's needs during diaper changes and evening feedings.
The majority of cots are standard size, meaning that they will fit the majority of standard baby mattresses. They also usually come with a fitted sheet as well as an extra cushion that shields the mattress from bumps and scratches. There are some cots that feature a removable side, which allows you to easily reach your child during the nighttime. It is essential to follow The Lullaby Trust's guidelines and only use a mattress for your child's weight and age.
When your baby is no longer in their crib, it's time to transition them to an adult bed. It can be a stressful moment for parents and babies, but you can help ease the transition. Examine the height of the 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 can be a great option for older babies, who can crawl and lift their feet. They also have pedals or catch that stop your child from unlatching the cot on their own. They are especially useful for parents who are taller, but don't have the height to take their child out of the cot.
Some cots are designed with a drop-down side that can be adjusted to lower or raise and is ideal for older babies who are starting to roll over and wiggle in their sleep. This type of cot also comes with a safety guard that is typically made of metal or plastic, and can help to prevent your baby from falling out.
You can also purchase an Moses basket that can be converted into a bed, which is perfect for younger babies and toddlers. It's an incredibly smaller cot than a standard one, so it occupies less space in your baby's room. It's also simple to move around, and most have wheels that make it simple to move around.
Aesthetics
A cot bed that is of good quality should be stylish and blend perfectly with the other furniture in your nursery. This will create a peaceful environment for your baby. It will also add to overall ambiance in the room. It shouldn't be placed too close to a door or window as it could expose your baby to drafts that may disrupt their sleep.
You can pick from a wide range of cots for babies, but the top ones have a sleek design that looks great and is easy to clean. Some are made out of sturdy wood and come with safety rails that are fixed to keep your child safe. Others are made of metal and are easy to assemble. It is essential to select a cot that will not make your baby overheat and the fabric should be soft. The cot shouldn't be set near an open fire because it could catch fire.
Some cots come with an under-bed storage basket or drawer beneath the mattress which can be used to store blankets and muslins. A hood can be used to protect your child from light and noise which will allow them to sleep more peacefully at night. It is also recommended to choose a mattress the same size as your baby's cot. If you can, you should use organic cotton.
The cot will be used by your baby until is approximately four years older. Some cots can even be used as toddler beds. If you're looking for a top-quality cot, look into the Mamas and Papas Coxley cot bed, which is available in a variety of colors and has been voted best cot at the 2022 Mother&Baby awards. It's easy to put together and has a stunning design, and comes with three mattress heights.
Include a few toys in the crib mattress of your child to encourage them to sleep for longer. It is not recommended to add pillows or extra mattresses to the cot as they could result in suffocation or injury. You can buy a hygienic mattress cover to cut down on the frequency of washing the mattress. The cover shields your mattress from stains that result from shedding or sweat.
Space saving
Cot beds can be transformed into toddler beds and are designed to accommodate your child's growth. This lowers the cost of replacing the furniture in the cot and makes the transition from crib into bed easier for your child. A lot of cots have built-in storage for items such as toys, blankets and books. This feature is particularly useful if you are short on space in your home.
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 also help keep the mattress fresh and clean. They are also less prone to sagging than bassinets, which can be uncomfortable for babies. You can choose from a range of slats, including standard, wide, and narrow. Whatever slats you select, it is essential to choose a thick and firm mattress to ensure the security and comfort of your child.
Some cots come with an aluminum or plastic top to stop your baby from climbing the bed. However it is important to have these tops removed when your child is older, since they could cause injuries. There are a myriad of cots for sale and many are available in various styles and colors. Some come with additional features, like teething rails or drawers under the bed.
One of our top picks is one of our favorites is the Mamas and Papas Coxley cot bed, which has a beautiful aesthetic and simple assembly. The cot is an excellent option for parents on a tight budget as it is less expensive than other alternatives. The cot comes with an adjustable mattress that is standard size, which makes it simpler to purchase bedding for.
Leander cot beds are another good option. They have an under-bed storage drawer that can store bedding and toys. This cot is ideal for babies, and it is small. It's an ideal choice for those who have a limited space. cots and tots is a stylish, beautiful cot that's easy to assemble. It is a great addition to any nursery. It's a bit more pricey than the other cots we tried, but it's still worth considering if you're looking for a high-quality cot that will grow with your child.