Among the many decisions you need to make when preparing for a new baby, the choice of the right cot mattress is perhaps one of the most important ones, since it will determine whether your little one enjoys safe, sound and restful sleep. The cot mattress makes an even greater impact on how well he sleeps, but it is also much connected to his safety. Moreover, an oversized or undersized cot mattress could become dangerous to your baby. Conversely, the wrong firmness may detract from your baby's comfort and sleep quality.
In this post, we'll have a discussion on why to get the right size cot mattress and learn how to measure and choose the perfect fit for your cot type. You'll understand by the end of this article why size and fit are two major factors of any quality mattress purchase for your baby.
Why Size and Fit of Mattress Matter
Your baby will spend a lot of time sleeping in their cot, especially in the first year of life. Provided that safe sleeping habits are also well executed, there is little else to compare with these early months.
Here's why size and fit matter:
Safety Issues
There are many reasons due to which a cot mattress having improper size would give a great number of risks. The gaps that are thus created in the cot can catch up a baby's limbs or can worsen the chance of suffocation or SIDS. Thus, for a safe cot mattress, there should not be more than 2 cm gap between the sides and the mattress.
Comfort and Support
The right support will be provided by an appropriately fitted mattress for the growing body of your baby. An ill-fitting mattress may sag or bunch up, which would have a negative impact on your baby's spinal alignment and comfort. It may even break their sleep at times.
Durability and Longevity
The right cot mattress size will last longer and maintain its shape and structure. A wrongly fitted mattress, however, may degrade faster- especially at the edge sides where there is friction with the cot frame.
How to Measure for the Right Cot Mattress Size
Before you purchase a cot mattress, you should measure the cot accurately so that there is no flopping around or sliding when your baby lies in the cot. Although UK cots are nearly uniform in size, dimensions still do vary between brand and design. Here's how to measure your baby's cot correctly so you know exactly what you're looking for:
Measure the Inside of the Cot Frame
Use your tape to measure the inside length and width of the cot. Measure from the inside edges of the cot frame since that's where the mattress would sit. Ensure you get precise measurements to avoid any inconvenience about fitting. Record these measurements in centimeters and inches.
Ideally, the gap between the cot frame and edges of the mattress should not be more than 2 cm. This presents a problem when it is too small of a mattress and significant gaps between the mattress and the cot, then it is on the other hand, a big mattress that would not lay flat, which may compromise the comfort and safety of the baby.
Before you purchase a cot mattress, it is best if you check the recommendation of the manufacturer for the cot on its ideal size of mattress. The best thing to do would be to refer to the product manual or the web site for recommendations on what would be the best fit in a mattress.
Uk Standard Cot Mattress Sizes
Standard cot mattresses are of various sizes offered by the UK. These dimensions may be standard but it's always best to use the sizes of your cot for actual fitting. Here are the most common cot mattress sizes:
Standard Cot Size: 60cm x 120cm
This size is fit for most UK cots and will go along great with most traditional baby cots. They accommodate babies from birth to about two years old.
Cot Bed Size: 70cm x 140cm
The cot beds are a little bigger than an average cot, and most of the time, it becomes a toddler bed once converted. A cot bed with mattress size of 140 x 70 will easily last up until your child is four or five years old.
Mini Cot Size: 50cm x 100cm
Mini cots can be very useful for smaller nurseries or as a way to add an extra sleeping space in another room. These small mattresses are best for newborns but only possibly for the first six to twelve months.
Choosing the Right Type of Mattress for Your Baby's Cot
Once you have made a choice of the right size, you'd then make a decision of choosing the right type of mattress which can give more comfort and safety for your baby. Here are a few popular options: Foam Mattresses: Foam mattresses are lightweight, affordable, and give a good support to babies. It is mostly available in various thicknesses but ensure that it is firm enough to prevent sinking, which could pose a suffocation risk.
Sprung Mattresses
These consist of coil springs covered in padding. More supportive and robust than foam, they are, but costlier. However, they are the most comfy and breathable; thus, they enable a better control of temperatures.
Natural Fibre Mattresses
Made from organic coconut fibre, these natural fibre mattresses are highly breathable and easy on the environment, making them a great option for eco-sensitive parents. Though a little expensive, all costs are balanced by the benefits of naturally sourced and chemical-free materials.
Double-Sided Mattresses
A cot mattress with a double-sided surface will give you the option of a firmer side for babies and the softer side for toddlers and can offer total versatility as your child grows. Please make sure that when your child is still small, you will be using the firm side of the cot mattress for safety reasons.
Fitting and Installation Tips
After you have chosen the right cot mattress, it would help to remember the following fitting and installation tips to ensure that your cot mattress is fitted right.
Fit Test
It should fit the cot snugly, totally filling the space. Check if you could insert more than two fingers into the gaps between the mattress and the cot frame. This is too small if you could, and this may even pose a risk to safety.
Check the Height Setting
Ensure that the mattress of the cot is at a height suitable for the age of your child. For a newborn, the highest setting is often the most practical but as your child grows and becomes more active, it is recommended to lower the mattress as this will reduce the chances of your child climbing out.
Use a Waterproof Mattress Protector: You can protect your mattress by using a waterproof protector which will keep it clean and hygienic also, and there is no compromise on breathability.
Conclusion
Getting a right cot mattress size is a serious business for your baby's comfort, safety, and quality sleep. The snuggly fit of the mattress in the cot will ensure that your baby sleeps well. Be careful with your cot measurements. In addition to choosing the right, safe, and comfortable mattress, firmness, breathability, and durability form major influences upon your choice. A well-equipped baby nursery furniture set, including a cot, mattress, and storage, ensures a functional and cosy space for your little one. And, after all, there's a good night's sleep waiting for your baby that means a good night's sleep for you as well.
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