During the first weeks of life, a baby cannot yet distinguish day from night. On average, a baby sleeps for around 18 hours at this stage. Sleep is important for healthy development because key processes of regeneration and growth take place during sleep, and the nervous system also develops. To help the baby sleep peacefully, the cot and essential accessories should be prepared before the birth to support safety and comfort during naps. In today’s post, we explain how to choose the best equipment.
Cot and mattress
A newborn cot commonly measures 120 × 60 cm or 140 × 70 cm. It may have a wooden frame with slatted sides and an adjustable mattress-base height so the mattress can be set at a level appropriate to the child's stage of development. A wooden cot should comply with the applicable safety standards and certification requirements for the market in which it is sold.
As we know, a newborn spends many hours lying down. It is therefore very important to buy a suitable mattress. Parents often wonder about the correct firmness and thickness, as the mattress will provide essential support for the baby's spine. A medium-firm mattress is best, providing the baby with suitable comfort. The baby will sink into a mattress that is too soft, while a hard mattress will cause considerable discomfort during sleep. Importantly, the mattress should have anti-allergenic and antiseptic properties. A latex or foam mattress is therefore a good choice, as it effectively inhibits the growth of microorganisms while ensuring adequate air circulation.
Where Should You Place the Cot?
Choosing where to place a baby's cot takes some thought. Many parents want the baby close because young babies wake frequently to feed, so the first sleep space is often in the parents' bedroom. The source says that a cot can instead be placed in the child's room according to preference and available space, before introducing a list of locations… should not it should be located:
- near a radiator – in winter, heating can reduce indoor humidity; air close to a radiator may feel particularly dry and can contribute to dry or irritated nasal passages;
- under the window – when ventilating the room, keep the child away from uncomfortable draughts and temperature extremes. A mobile baby may also reach or manipulate an accessible window;
- at the entrance – this location may be exposed to draughts, noise and light from other rooms.
Cot accessories - pleasant and soft to the touch
- Bed Sheet – the best option is a fitted sheet with elastic that can easily be adjusted to the mattress. Made from cotton or soft terry fabric, it will give the little one uninterrupted sleep. It is available in many different patterns. Beautiful designs include jungle_bird, eucalyptus whether bloom, which will suit both a girl and a boy.
- Muslin Baby Wrap – it makes it quick and easy to wrap the baby snugly. During the baby's first weeks of life, it can successfully replace bedding. It is made from a fabric that is very gentle on a newborn baby's sensitive skin while providing conditions resembling those the baby experienced inside their mother's womb.
- Bamboo Blanket – it can be used successfully throughout the year thanks to its thermoregulatory properties. It will provide an appropriate level of comfort regardless of the weather. It also has hypoallergenic and antibacterial properties, making it an ideal product for a little one. Ultra Soft Bamboo Blanket is available in many colours: grey, beige, pink, greenish and yellow.
- Filled bedding and a pillow – are discouraged by specialists for at least the first few months of a child’s life. Until the age of 6 months, the baby should sleep directly on the mattress without a pillow. The same applies to a duvet: a newborn can easily pull it over their face, which significantly increases the risk of suffocation. However, if the child is over 6 months old, you can confidently buy them a beautiful set filled bedding.
During the first weeks of a child's life, peaceful sleep is the most important consideration for parents. A baby needs to be warm and comfortable and, above all, feel safe. The purchase of a cot and textile accessories should therefore be considered carefully. You now know which products are worth buying and which accessories can be purchased later. All that remains is for us to wish you happy shopping!