A baby cot is a small bed designed specifically for infants and young children. It has high barred sides to ensure that babies can’t climb out of the cot without parents being able to see them. There are many different types of cots available and they can be both stationary or portable. Some cots come with a drop gate, which can be lowered from the top of the cot to allow you to easily place your baby into it. There are also a range of different safety features that you should be aware of when choosing your baby cot , including the distance between the bars and whether they are smooth or have a gap in which your child could get trapped.
A good quality cot will have a firm mattress that fits snuggly inside the bed frame. The Lullaby Trust recommends that you choose a new mattress for your child’s cot, rather than buying one second-hand, but if you are purchasing a second-hand one then you should check that it is clean, free from cracks or tears and isn’t too thin. It is important that you keep the cot space clear, too – avoid putting cuddly toys or blankets in it as this can cause your baby to overheat or become tangled up in them and don’t use cot bumpers as these increase the risk of SIDS by encouraging babies to sleep on their stomachs.
Depending on your lifestyle, you might prefer a portable cot that can be taken with you as you travel. They’re usually smaller in size and made from lighter materials, but they still feature the same safety standards as stationary cots. They can be great for when you’re visiting family and friends, or if your baby is sleeping in a hospital with you.
If your baby has reflux or indigestion, you may want to buy a cot that can be used with the incline function to help with their symptoms. This can be added to the cot when it’s in standalone mode, or to other beds with a separate incline stand. Parents who reviewed this cot said it was easy to assemble and lightweight for moving from room to room, as well as being simple to store and transport in its handy carry bag for trips away.
Some cots are also available in a choice of colours and patterns to match the decor in your nursery. This can be a fun way to personalise your baby’s bedroom and make it feel like their own special space. However, it’s important to remember that cot bedding should be white as babies are more likely to develop allergies if there are any coloured fabrics in their room. You’ll also need a fitted sheet and a mattress protector to go with your chosen cot. These can be purchased from most supermarkets and stores that stock nursery furniture and supplies. You can also find a selection online. You should always follow the manufacturer’s instructions when using these.