Choosing a cot, cot bed, crib or moses basket for your baby
When considering the sleeping arrangements for your baby, there are just a few considerations.: -
- 1. How old is the baby?
- 2. What do I need to include?
- 3. What do you want the sleeping place to do?.
- 4. Do I want to transport ?
- 5. How long will I use it?
- 6. The TOTAL cost?
The age of the baby is obviously important. Until the baby is about three months a crib or Moses basket should be used. Stands for Moses or wicker cribs can either be rocking or stationary. Cribs can have different motions but rocking is usual. After the baby has grown out of the first stage, a cot or cotbed is the next stage. Cots will last upto 2 years and have variations on base levels and ideally have a dropside. Cot beds can last up to 6/7 years and will also have variations in base positions, few have a dropside.
A Moses basket or wicker crib can be used safely and securely and can be transported from room to room. The wicker crib is more solid and rigid, usually having leather carrying handles. A complete crib whether rocking or not is also an alternative, doesn’t need a stand and will last a wee bit longer.
Cots come in different sizes, there are some v.small Swedish ones or v.thin cheap versions, the regular size being 60x120cm’s, lasting up to the point where the baby tries to climb out. Cot beds are considerably larger and generally are 70x140cm’s. As there are many different woods, metals, colours even shapes the choice is yours.
Sleeping safely is paramount. A safety mattress of which there are: foam core, sprung, or natural fillings, fitted 100% cotton sheets (x4),100% cotton top sheets (x4) blankets (x2) will be needed. Do not use duvets, pillows, sheepskins or hot water bottles for babies under 12 months. Babies sleep better and more easily on their backs, so from day one position the baby on their back; it’s not particularly safe for them to sleep on their front or side. If you find your baby asleep on their tummy, gently turn them over. Don’t feel the need to constantly keep checking the baby especially after six months when babies can usually roll over onto their back themselves. Check the baby is not too hot, looking particularly for sweating, if your baby is too hot; simply remove a layer or blanket. but don’t worry if their hands or feet feel cold, that’s normal. The amount of bedding you use does depend on the room temperature, but one sheet =24c/75f, 1 sheet, 1 blanket= 21c/70f, 1 sheet 2 blankets =18c/65f.
When positioning your baby, place the baby with their feet to the foot end, with the bedclothes firmly tucked in and no higher than their shoulders.
For the first few months, the safest place for your baby to sleep is in a room with you. Please note though, if you or your partner smoke or drink heavily, take medication that makes you drowsy or simply feel very tired do not let your baby sleep in the bed with you.- it is dangerous.
