As you go through your pre-baby delivery checklist, you will need to focus on the first furniture piece your infant will spend the most time in, the baby cot! It is not just about the design or the budget. But also the safety features these cots have. We’ve gone ahead and collected what needs to be considered in choosing the best cot for your baby.
Things to consider while buying a Cot first time
Aside from those we just noted, there is an essential requirement in buying a cot for your infant. That it meets the safety standards of whichever country you are living in. It is easy to get too excited or pressured to grab the trendiest, the most expensive, and Instagram-worthy cots. But always remember, whatever works for you and your baby’s comfort and safety should always be the top priority.
Types of Baby Cots
- There are standard cots, Moses baskets, co-sleeping cots, convertibles, combos, portable, Pack ‘N Play, and the list goes on and on. So which is best for you? Here is a sample checklist:
- -Will there be a separate nursery, or will the infant stay with you in your room?
- – Do you plan to use this crib for just a few months, or do you want your purchase to last until the baby’s toddler years?
- – Are you planning for the cot to be a permanent fixture inside the nursery, or should it be mobile?
Cot Mattresses and Guard-Rails
Comfy, sturdy, and safe. These are the essentials when talking about other parts of the cots, like the mattress and the railings. Ensure that the mattresses or foams are firm, not soft or sagging, durable, and hypoallergenic. Also, additional beddings must be avoided to prevent suffocation. The railings should also follow the standard height and distance to prevent an infant from getting stuck. It is recommended that all four sides should have bars or rails for better air circulation.
Special Features and Additional Cot Functions
Since your infant will be using this cot for at least the first six months, here is one thing that may help you decide: what else can this cot do?
- Space-savers with additional storage drawers beneath or beside the cot
- Connected or separately provided changing table toppers with built-in or removable mobile toys
- Lightweight and can be easily set up or folded by one person
- Adjustable height for easy access. (As the infant gets older, the base can be adjusted downward to prevent them from climbing out.)
On the other hand, some features have been deemed unsafe or even illegal in some countries, like drop-side cots. These were found to be the cause of many infant deaths in the past years.
Brand-New or Pre-loved Cots
You may have a limited budget. Or a family member or friend has something stowed away as their kids have grown up. Or you just found a great bargain. Some parents consider looking for cheaper and pre-loved cots or accepting hand-me-downs.
- You will need to inspect the cot thoroughly.
- Has it been repainted or manufactured way back? Check if the paint is toxic and contains lead.
- The wood or plastic should not be compromised or warped.
- No nails or screws or any other thing sticking out.
- The mattress should still be fresh and clean. But it is recommended to grab a new one.