Buying an Infant Cot Bed
The most common kind is a cot. It's a great place to sleep your baby. However it can be a struggle for babies to settle into their cot.
Babies should be able to roll over easily. They also require a flat surface to sleep on. This means you should avoid pillows or blankets in their cot as they can act as an obstructing factor.
Safety features
When you purchase a cot for your infant, it is important that you check that it was manufactured safely. This means you should ensure that it has been tested according to proper standards and that all components are secure. This can be done by looking for the JPMA certification seal, or by ensuring that there aren't any gaps between the mattress and its sides that could trap an infant's head, legs or arms. Also, make sure that you don't add any pillows, stuffed toys or blankets to the cot as they can be a suffocation risk.
You may have to enter your child's room to change their diapers, clean the cot, or give them some cuddles. It is also important to make sure that the cot is equipped with an appropriate mattress protector that is waterproof as this will protect it from any injuries your infant might have.
Some cot beds come with removable sides and adjustable mattress heights. They can be adjusted as your child grows. This makes it easier to get your child in and out of their cot as they grow older. However, best cots uk should be watching the child and move them to a toddler bed around 18 months to two years old if they display signs that they are ready.
When your child is in the cot bed, it is recommended to place the cot away from heaters and wall lamps, windows and cords for curtains or blinds since they could be a strangulation hazard for babies. It is also a good idea to create a space around the cot, free from any bedding or toys that could create the risk of suffocation and to take away climbing aids such as large toys. This will help keep your baby safe from injury and allow the transition to a toddler bed a less stressful process for all of you.
Convenience
A well-designed cot fosters a supportive sleep environment that encourages healthy posture. Its deliberate spacing reduces entanglement hazards that can result in a risk of suffocation for infants. Its minimalist design allows parents to attend to the needs of their infant during diaper changes and at nighttime feedings.
The majority of cots are standard size, meaning that they can be used with the majority of normal mattresses for babies. The cots are typically equipped with a fitted mattress pad and fitted sheets to protect the cot against bumps and scratches. There are some cots that come with a removable side which makes it easier to reach your child during bedtime. It is essential to follow The Lullaby Trust's advice and only use a mattress that is suitable for your child's weight and age.
When your child has outgrown the cot they are in and you decide to move them to a bed for toddlers. This can be a stressful time for both parent and baby, but there are a few steps you can take to help make the transition smoother. Check the height of the crib first. It should be lower that your baby's crib, so they don't have to climb or leap out of it.
Drop-side cots are a great option for older babies who can crawl and lift their feet. They also have locks or pedals that can stop your baby from releasing themselves. They are especially useful for parents who are taller, but don't have the height to take their child out of the crib.
Some cots come with the option of having a side that can be raised and lowered. This is great for older children who are beginning to roll around or wiggle when they sleep. This type of cot features an safety guard made of plastic or metal and prevents your baby from falling.

Alternatively, you can buy a Moses basket that converts into a bed, which is ideal for toddlers and babies who are younger. This is an incredibly smaller cot than the standard one, meaning it occupies less space in your baby's room. It's also simple to move around, and most have wheels that make it easy to manoeuvre.
Aesthetics
A good cot-bed should be stylish and blend with the rest of your nursery. This will help create a peaceful environment for your baby and will also contribute to the overall ambience of the room. It should not be too close to a door or window because this could expose your baby to drafts that may disturb their sleep.
There are a myriad of alternatives for baby cots. The best ones have a sleek and modern design that is easy to maintain and looks great. Some are made out of sturdy wood and include safety rails fixed to keep your child safe. Some are made of steel and are simple to assemble. It is important to choose the cot that won't make your baby sweat and the fabric must be soft. A cot should not be placed close to a fire since it may catch the flame.
Some cots come with a drawer or basket under the mattress that can be used to store blankets and muslins. You can also put on a hood to protect your baby from noise and light which will help them sleep better at night. It is also crucial to purchase a mattress that is similar in size to your cot, and you should opt for organic cotton if it is possible.
A cot is a crucial piece of furniture for your baby, and it will last them until they reach the age of four years old. Some cots are used as toddler beds. If you're looking for a high-quality cot, look into the Mamas and Papas Coxley cot bed, that is available in a variety of colours and was voted the best cot at the 2022 Mother&Baby awards. It's stylish and is simple to assemble and has three mattress base heights.
Adding a few toys to the cot of your baby will help them sleep for longer. However, you should not attempt to make the cot more comfortable by adding mattresses or pillows as they could create a risk of suffocation and injuries. You can purchase a hygienic mattress cover to decrease the frequency of cleaning the mattress. The cover shields your mattress from staining which result from shedding or sweat.
Space saving
Cot beds are designed to grow with your child and can usually be transformed into a toddler bed. This can help reduce the cost of replacing furniture for a cot as well as making the transition from crib to bed effortless for your baby. Many cots have built-in shelves to store things like blankets, toys, and books. This feature is especially useful in homes that are small in space.
Contrary to cribs and bassinets the cots have a slatted structure that allows air to circulate. This helps to regulate the temperature of your baby's body. The slats keep the mattress clean and fresh. They are less likely to sink than bassinets, which can be uncomfortable for infants. best cot newborn can choose from a range of slats, including standard, wide, and narrow. 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 metal or plastic top to stop your baby from climbing on the bed. However, these tops should be removed when your child gets older, as they may cause injuries. There are many different cots on the market. There are a variety of cots available in a variety of styles and colors. Some cots come with additional features such as teething bars or under-bed storage drawers.
The Mamas and Papas cot bed is one of our favorites. It has a stunning design and is simple to put together. It's also a great option for parents who are in a financial crunch, as it's cheaper than other options on the market. The crib comes with an ordinary mattress size. This makes it easier to purchase bedding.
Leander cot beds are a good alternative. They have an under-bed storage drawer that can store bedding and toys. This cot is ideal for infants and is compact. It is an ideal choice for those who are limited in space. Lastly, the Boori Oasis oval cot is a chic and attractive choice that's easy to put together and looks stunning in any nursery. It's more expensive than the other cots we tried however, it's worth considering if you're looking for a high-end cot that can grow with your baby.