A cot is the most common type of baby bed. It is a wonderful place for your baby to sleep. It can be difficult for your baby to settle in their cot.
Babies should be able roll over easily. They should also sleep on a flat surface. Avoid using pillows or blankets because they could cause the suffocation.
Safety features
When purchasing an infant cot bed it is crucial to confirm whether it was made in a safe manner. This means ensuring that it has been tested to the required standards and that all parts are safe. This can be accomplished by looking for the JPMA certification seal, or ensuring that there aren't any gaps between the mattress and its sides that could trap an infant's head, arms or leg. It is also recommended to avoid putting on pillows blankets, stuffed animals or stuffed animals as these can pose a suffocation hazard.
It is also worth looking into whether or not the bed will allow you to reach over it easily with your baby in it. This is because you may need to visit the room on occasion to change nappies or clean the cot, and also give your baby a few cuddles. Also, you should make sure that the cot is equipped with a waterproof mattress protector because this will shield it from any accidents your baby may suffer.
Most cots have adjustable mattress heights. Some have removable sides that can be adjusted as your child grows. This will make it easier to get your child in and out of their cot as they get older. However, you should be watching your child and encourage them to move to a toddler bed at 18 months to two years old if they show signs they are ready.
When your child is in the cot bed it is recommended to position 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 important to create a space surrounding the cot that is free of any toys or bedding that could pose a suffocation risk and remove climbing aids, such as large toys. This will keep your baby secure and make the transition to a toddler bed a lot easier for all of you.
Convenience
A well-designed crib can promote a healthy posture and a supportive sleeping environment. Its deliberate spacing reduces entanglement hazards that can lead to a suffocation risk for infants. Its simple design allows parents to be attentive to the needs of their infant during diaper changes and nighttime feedings.
Most cots are a standard size, which means they will fit most regular mattresses for babies. The cots are usually equipped with a fitted mattress pad and an upholstered sheet to shield the cot against bumps and scratches. Some cots come with a removable side which allows you to easily reach your child during bedtime. It is essential to follow The Lullaby Trust's recommendations and only use a suitable mattress that is suitable for your child's weight and age.
When your baby outgrows their cot, it's time to move them to an adult bed. This can be a difficult moment for both parents and baby, but there are a few things you can do to make the transition smoother. First, check the height of the cot. You want it to be lower than your child's bed, so that they don't need to climb or jump out of it.
Drop-sides on the sides of cots are another option, as they're safer for older babies who are able to reach their feet and crawl over the edge. They also feature catches or pedals that prevent your baby from releasing themselves. They are especially helpful for parents who are taller and do not have the height to get their child out of the cot.
Some cots come with an option to be lowered and raised. This is perfect for older babies, who are starting to roll around or wiggle while sleeping. This type of cot has the safety guard constructed of plastic or metal and protects your baby from falling.
You can also buy a Moses Basket that can be converted into bed. This is ideal for toddlers and infants who are a little older. This is a smaller cot than the standard one, meaning it will take up less space in your baby's room. It's also easy to move around in, and most come with wheels that make it easy to manoeuvre.
Aesthetics
A cot bed that is suitable for your child should be stylish and blend in with the rest of your nursery. This will help create a calm and peaceful space for your baby and will add to the overall ambience of the room. It should not be too close to a window or door, as this could expose your baby to drafts which could disrupt their sleep.
You can choose from a wide range of baby cots, but the best ones have a sleek design that is stylish and easy to clean. Some are constructed of durable wood and feature fixed safety rails that keep your child secure. Others are made of steel and are simple to put together. It is crucial to select the cot that won't make your baby sweat and the fabric must be soft. A cot shouldn't be placed near a flame because it could catch the flame.
Some cots have an underneath basket or drawer that can be useful for holding muslin cloths and blankets. A hood can be used to shield your infant from light and noise, allowing them to sleep more peacefully at night. You should also select an identical size mattress as the cot your baby is using. If you can, you should use organic cotton.
A cot is a crucial piece of furniture for your baby, and it will last until they are around four years old. Some cots can be used as toddler beds. If you are looking for a top quality cot that is well-built, the Mamas and Papas Coxley is a great alternative. It comes in a variety of colors and was voted the top cot at the 2022 MotherBaby Awards. It has a beautiful aesthetic and is simple to assemble and comes with three mattress base heights.
Include a few toys in the crib bed of your baby to encourage them to sleep for longer. However, you should not try to make the cot comfortable with mattresses or pillows, as this could pose the risk of suffocation and injury. You can also buy a hygienic cover for the mattress to lessen the need to wash it frequently. The cover protects your mattress from staining that are caused by shedding or sweat.
Space Savings
Cot beds are designed to grow with your child. They can be transformed into the size of a toddler bed. This reduces the cost of replacing the cot furniture and makes the transition from crib to bed easier for your child. A lot of cots have built-in storage for items like blankets, toys, and books. This feature is particularly useful when your home is small in space.
Contrary to cribs and bassinets cots have a slatted structure that allows air to circulate. This helps regulate the temperature of your baby's body. The slats help keep your mattress clean and fresh. They are less likely to slide than bassinets which can be uncomfortable for the baby. You can choose from a range of sizes for slats, including standard, narrow and wide. No matter what slats you choose, it is important to select a thick and firm mattress for the safety and comfort of your child.
Some cots come with an aluminum or plastic top to help prevent your baby from climbing on the bed. These tops could cause injuries to your child, so they should be removed when they are older. There are a variety of cots that are available. There are a variety of cots offered in various styles and colors. Some cots have additional features like teething bars and under-bed storage drawers.
One of our favorites is the Mamas and Papas Coxley cot bed, which has stunning design and simple assembly. It is a great choice for parents on a tight budget as it is less expensive than other options. The cot also comes with an adjustable mattress that is standard size, which makes it simpler to purchase bedding for.
Leander cot beds are another excellent option. They have 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 which makes it an ideal option if you have limited space. The Boori Oasis oval cot is an elegant and appealing option that is easy to assemble and looks beautiful in any nursery. It's more expensive than other cots but is worth a look if your goal is to find a quality crib that can grow with your child.
