Buying an Infant Cot Bed
The most common type is a crib. It's a fantastic place to sleep for your baby. It can be difficult for your baby to get settled in their cot.
Babies should be able to roll easily. They should also be able to sleep on a flat surface. Avoid using pillows or blankets because they could cause an airway obstruction.
Safety features
It is essential to verify the safety of a cot bed for infants prior to purchasing it. This means that you must ensure that it has been tested to proper standards and that all components are safe. You can check this by searching for a JPMA certification seal or ensuring that there aren't any gaps between the mattress and product sides that could trap an infant's head or legs. Also, make sure that you do not add pillows, stuffed toys or blankets to the cot as they could pose an entrapment risk.
You may need to enter the room of your child to change the nappy, clean the cot, or give them some cuddles. You will also want to make sure that the cot is equipped with a waterproof mattress protector because this will shield it from any accidents that your baby may suffer.
The majority of cot beds come with adjustable mattress heights and some have sides that are removable and can be adjusted as your child grows. This makes it easier for your child to climb in and out of the cot as they grow older, but it is important to keep an eye on them and move them onto the toddler bed around 18 months or 2 years old when they begin to exhibit signs that they are ready for this.
If your child is sleeping in the cot bed it is recommended that you position the bed away from heating sources and wall lamps, windows and cords for curtains or blinds as these can be an entrapment risk for infants. It is recommended to also take away any climbing aids, such as large toys and create a zone around the cot, free of toys or bedding which could be a danger of suffocation. This will help keep your baby safe from injuries and make the transition into a toddler bed a smoother process for you all.
Convenience

A well-designed cot provides a supportive sleep environment that encourages healthy posture. Its intentional spacing minimises the risk of entanglement that could result in a risk of suffocation for babies. Its simple design also provides parents with a choreography of convenience in caring for their child during diaper changes and nighttime feedings.
Most cots are of standard size, meaning that they can fit the majority of regular mattresses for babies. They are also typically equipped with a fitted sheet as well as an extra cushion that protects the mattress from bumps and scratches. Some cots have removable sides, making it easier to reach the baby when it's time to go to bed. It is important to follow the Lullaby Trust's advice and only use a suitable mattress 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 stressful time for both parents and infants, but you can help ease the transition. First, check the height of the cot. It should be lower than the baby's bed, so that they don't be forced to jump or climb out of it.
Drop-side cots are a good option for older babies who are able to crawl and lift their feet. They also feature catches or pedals that prevent your baby from unlatching themselves. They are particularly useful for taller parents, who do not have the reach to get their baby out of the cot themselves.
Some cots have a drop-down side that is able to be raised or lowered and is ideal for older babies who are beginning to roll over and wriggle in their sleep. This type of cot also comes with a safety shield, that is typically made of metal or plastic, and can help to prevent your baby from falling out.
You can also buy an Moses Basket that can convert into bed. This is ideal for toddlers and babies who are younger. The advantage is that it's smaller than a standard cot which means it takes up less space in the nursery of your baby's. It's also easy to move around, and most come with wheels that make it easy to manoeuvre.
Aesthetics
A cot bed that is suitable for your child should be fashionable and blend with the rest your nursery. It will create a calm atmosphere for your baby and will also improve the overall ambience in the room. It should not be placed too close to windows or doors, as this may expose your baby's sleeping to drafts.
You can pick from a range of cots for babies, but the top ones have a sleek design that is stylish and easy to clean. Some are constructed with sturdy wood, and have fixed safety rails to keep your child safe. Some are made from metal and are easy to assemble. Choose a cot with a soft fabric that doesn't cause your baby overheat. It is also important to be aware that a cot shouldn't be placed near a flame, as it can catch fire.
Some cots come with an under-bed drawer or basket which is great for storing muslin cloths as well as blankets. You can also use a hood to shield your child from sound and light which can help them sleep better at night. It is also crucial to choose a mattress that is similar in size to your cot, and opt for organic cotton if it is possible.
The cot will last your baby until is around four years old. older. 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 is available in a range of colours and has been voted best cot in the 2022 Mother&Baby awards. It is easy to assemble and has a stunning design and includes three mattress heights.
Include a few toys in the crib bed of your baby to encourage them to sleep for longer. But, do not try to make the cot comfortable with mattresses or pillows, as this could pose the risk of suffocation and injury. You can buy a hygienic mattress cover to reduce the frequency of washing the mattress. The mattress is protected from stains caused by shedding sweat, soaking or soaking.
Space Savings
Cot beds are designed to grow with your child. They are able to be converted into an adult bed. This lowers the cost of replacing furniture for the cot, and makes the transition from crib to bed easier for your child. A lot of cots have built-in storage that can be used to store things like blankets, toys and books. This feature is especially helpful in the event that you have a limited amount of space in your home.
Contrary to bassinets, cot beds typically have slatted designs that allows air to circulate and regulate your baby's temperature. The slats help keep your mattress clean and fresh. They are also less vulnerable to sagging than bassinets which can be uncomfortable for babies. You can pick from a variety of slat sizes, including narrow, standard, and wide. Whatever slats you choose, it is important to choose a thick and firm mattress for the security and comfort of your child.
best cots uk have a top made of plastic or metal, which helps to stop your child from getting out of bed. These tops may cause injury to your child, so they should be removed when they are older. There are many cots on the market. Some are available in a variety of styles and colors. Some cots have additional features like teething bars and drawers for storage under the bed.
The Mamas and Papas cot bed is one of our favorites. It has a beautiful design and is simple to put together. The cot is also a great option for parents in a financial crunch, as it's less expensive than other options on the market. The cot also includes a mattress that is a standard size, making it simpler to purchase bedding for.
Another good alternative is another option is the Leander cot bed, which features an under-bed drawer that can be used for storing bedding and toys. The cot is also suitable for babies and is extremely compact, making it a great option for those working with small space. The Boori Oasis oval cot is a chic and appealing option that is easy to assemble and looks stunning in any nursery. It's more expensive than other cots but is worth considering when you want to find a crib of high-quality that will grow with your child.