A baby cot is the focal point of nursery design. It is also one of the most important things to prepare for your bundle of joy! Follow these simple tips to find the perfect balance between comfort, safety, and aesthetics.
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When you put your baby down to sleep, safety is the first priority. This means no pillows, bumpers, toys, or loose bedding. This simple precaution has been proven to reduce the risk of SIDS. Putting some decorative pillows or toys in the cot is acceptable only when your baby is awake.
So, what can you put in the cot for the night? Two things: a waterproof mattress and a baby sleep bag.
The mattress must fit snuggly. Make sure there are no gaps between it and the edge of the cot. The maximum allowed space is 20 mm. Otherwise, your baby’s head, arms or legs could get trapped.
The mattress must also be firm and flat. Note that sizes of cots, cot beds and travel cots are different. Avoid second-hand products as they may be too soft. A waterproof cover is a must.
Choose breathable, hypoallergenic and temperature-regulating materials so your bundle of joy can cool down when necessary. Bamboo viscose is a great choice: it is naturally antibacterial, antifungal and luxuriously soft. Organic cotton and merino are also popular.
If you choose a sleeping bag, make sure it is safe and up to standards. These items must be designed with wriggly arms and legs in mind. Different models suit different ages, weights, and room temperatures. You can order a personalized sleeping bag with a cute design — for example, an owl or panda.
The distance between the top of the mattress and the top of the cot must be at least 50 cm. The bars may be positioned up to 6.5 cm apart from each other. Reputable furniture brands follow these standards, but it never hurts to double-check. As babies grow, they start crawling around. Make sure your little one will not be able to fall out of the cot.
Place the cot against a wall next to a quiet room, not a noisy space like a bathroom or kitchen. Make sure there is enough distance between the cot and the radiator and window. The same applies to shelves, curtains, cables, mirrors and photo frames. Basically, avoid any hazard that may fall or change the temperature. This way, you will have one less worry while your baby is in the nursery!