Buying an Infant Cot Bed
A cot is the most commonly used type of baby bed. most recommended cribs is a great place for your infant to sleep. However it can be a struggle for infants to settle into their cot.
Babies should be able to roll over easily. They should also be able to sleep on an even surface. This means avoiding pillows or blankets in their cots as they could be an obstructing factor.
Safety features
It is crucial to test the safety of a cot for infants prior to purchasing it. It is crucial to ensure that the product is tested to the correct standards and that the components are secure. This can be done by searching for the JPMA certification seal or checking whether there are no gaps between the mattress and the sides of the product that could trap an infant's head, arms or legs. It is also recommended to avoid putting on pillows, stuffed animals or blankets because they can be a suffocation hazard.
You may have to enter your child's room to change their 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 to protect it from any injuries your infant might have.
Some cots have removable sides and adjustable mattress heights. These can be adjusted as your child gets older. This makes it easier to get your child in and out of their cot when they get older. However, you must be watching your child and make sure they move to a toddler bed between 18 months to 2 years old if they display indications that they are ready.
It is crucial to ensure that the cot bed is away from wall lamps. Also, the cords of blinds or curtains could cause strangulation. It is recommended to also take away any climbing aids such as large toys and make a space surrounding the cot that is free of toys or bedding which could cause death by suffocation. This will help to keep your baby safe from injuries and make the transition to a toddler bed a smoother process for everyone.
Convenience
A well-designed cot fosters an environment for sleep that encourages healthy posture. Its deliberate spacing reduces the risk of entanglement, which can lead to suffocation in infants. Its simple design also offers parents an array of options for 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 baby mattresses. They usually also come with a fitted sheet as well as a soft mattress pad that protects the cot from scratches and bumps. There are some cots that feature a removable side, which allows you to easily reach your child during the nighttime. However, it's essential to follow the guidelines of The Lullaby Trust and only use a mattress that is suitable for your child's weight and age.
When your baby is no longer in their cot, it's time to move them into an adult bed. It can be a stressful time for both parents and babies, but there are ways to make the transition easier. Check the height of the crib first. It should be lower than the baby's bed, so they won't need to climb or jump out of it.
Drop-side cots are a good 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 particularly useful for parents with taller heights, who don't have the reach to get their baby out of the crib themselves.
Some cots have a side that can be raised and lowered. This is perfect for older babies, who are starting to roll over or wriggle while sleeping. This kind of cot comes with a safety shield, which is usually made from plastic or metal and helps to prevent your baby from falling out.
If you prefer, you can purchase a Moses basket that converts into bed, which is ideal for toddlers and infants. The benefit of this is that it's smaller than a standard cot therefore it will take up less space in the nursery of your baby's. It's also simple to move around, and most come with wheels that make it easy to move around.
Aesthetics
A good cot-bed should be fashionable and blend with the rest your nursery. This will help to create a calm and peaceful space for your baby, and it will also add to the overall ambiance of the room. It should not be too close to a door or window, as this could expose your baby to drafts which could disturb their sleep.
You can choose from a range of baby cots, but the best 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 ensure your child's safety. Some are made of steel and are easy to assemble. Select a cot that is made of soft fabric that doesn't cause your baby overheat. The cot shouldn't be set close to a fire, as it could catch the flame.
Some cots come with an under-bed drawer or basket, which is useful for holding muslin cloths and blankets. You can also put on the hood to shield your child from light and sound, which will allow them to sleep better at night. It is also recommended to choose a mattress the same size as the cot your baby is using. If you can you should choose organic cotton.
A cot is an essential piece of furniture for your baby, and it will last until they reach around four years old. Some cots convert to toddler beds. If you're seeking a high-end cot that is well-built, the Mamas and Papas Coxley is a great alternative. It comes in a variety of colours and was named the best cot at the 2022 Mother&Baby Awards. It's beautiful in design, is easy to assemble and features 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 more comfortable by adding mattresses or pillows in case they pose the risk of suffocation and injury. You can also purchase an appropriate cover for the mattress to reduce the need to clean it frequently. The cover will protect your mattress from stains that are caused by shedding or sweat.
Space Savings

Cot beds can be converted to toddler beds and are specifically designed for your child's growth. This reduces 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 shelves to store things like toys, blankets and books. This feature is especially helpful when you're short of space in your home.
Unlike bassinets, cot beds typically have a slatted design that allows air to circulate and regulate your baby's temperature. The slats also help to keep the mattress fresh and clean. They are also less susceptible to sagging, unlike bassinets which can be uncomfortable for your baby. You can choose from various slats including wide, standard and narrow. Whatever slats you pick, it is crucial to select a thick and firm mattress to ensure the safety and comfort of your child.
Some cots have a cover made of plastic or metal, which helps to prevent your baby from getting out of bed. However, these tops should be removed when your child gets older, as they can cause injuries. There are a variety of cots available on the market. There are a variety of cots offered in various styles and colors. Some even have extra features like teething rails, under-bed drawers, and even a bed.
One of our favorites is one of our favorites is the Mamas and Papas Coxley cot bed, which features a beautiful aesthetic and easy assembly. It's also a good choice for parents in a financial crunch, as it's less expensive than other options available. The cot has an ordinary mattress size. This makes it easier to buy bedding.
Leander cot beds are another great option. They come with an under-bed storage drawer which can be used to store toys and bedding. This cot is ideal for infants and is compact. It's an excellent choice if you have limited space. Lastly, the Boori Oasis oval cot is a stylish and attractive choice that's simple to put together and looks gorgeous in any nursery. It's a bit more pricey than the other cots that we tested however, it's worth a look if you're looking for a high-end cot that can grow with your baby.