One of the essential steps of setting up a baby nursery is selecting the right bedding and furniture for the little ones. Since newborns require up to 17 hours of sleep, ensuring they have a comfortable sleep setup is crucial. But for new parents, choosing the right furniture can be confusing. Questions like ‘’What is the difference between a baby cradle or cot, and which one does their baby need?’’ may arise often. Fret not! This comprehensive guide will walk you through the differences between these options and provide essential tips to consider for purchasing a baby cot or baby cradle online. 

What Is A Baby Cot & Baby Cradle? 

Putting a baby to sleep can be quite a task, and at first, they might even get accustomed to sleeping with their parents. Thus, it’s often recommended to introduce baby beds like cots or cradles to foster the habit of independent sleeping. Though both these options offer a cosy and restful sleep environment, they differ in size and functionalities. While baby cots are often equipped with adjustable height frames and drop-side rails and are suitable for infants and toddlers, a baby cradle, also known as a baby swing cradle, is specifically designed for newborns and typically features a swing-lock function to lull babies to sleep gently. 

Why Choose A Baby Cradle or Cot?  

Though many parents may choose to have their baby sleep by their side, baby cradles and cots come with unique benefits of their own.  

• Promoting Comfort & Independent Sleep: A baby swing cradle or cot provides a safe and cosy sleeping space for the little one. While cradles foster a sense of calm and safety and soothe babies with a gentle rocking motion that mimics the mother’s womb, cots, on the other hand, encourage toddlers to sleep independently as they grow.  

• Encourages Bonding: With adjustable side rails and easy mobility, parents can place the baby swing cradle or cot near their bed to encourage a close and comfortable connection with their little one.  

• Portability: A baby cradle or cot is designed to be conveniently portable, allowing you to move them from room to room quickly. So, whether you want to effortlessly switch your baby’s sleeping spot or keep them close by while you manage other household activities, a baby cradle or cot is a valuable addition to the baby’s nursery. 

• Safety: Staying close to your baby 24/7 can be challenging, especially during nap time. A baby cradle or cot serves as a supportive furniture piece that keeps your little one safe as they sleep, and as you simultaneously manage other tasks peacefully. 

Also Read: How do I select a maternity pillow? 

What Features Should I Look for When Buying A Baby Cradle or Cot? 

Picking the perfect baby cradle or cot may initially seem confusing and tricky, but it’s not as complex. To ensure you select the ideal choice for your little one, tick off the following features: 

• Material: The most crucial factor to consider when selecting a baby cradle or cot is the material used in construction. Despite various options available, it’s imperative to ensure that the baby cradle or cot is made from non-toxic and child-safe materials, such as sustainable and eco-friendly rubberwood, to provide a safe sleeping environment for the little one.  

• Functionalities: Consider the product features carefully before making a purchase. For a baby cot, look for features such as drop-side rails and adjustable mattress base height for added protection. When choosing a baby cradle online in India, focus on features such as swing-lock functions and appropriate frame height to ensure the baby’s safety. 

• Safety Features: Look for extra safety features in the swing cradle for baby or baby cot, such as a sturdy build, high frame height, and a smooth finish that won’t easily chip off and pose a risk to your baby’s health.  

• Hassle-Free Assembly: Refer to the instruction manual provided with the cot or cradle to confirm if it can be assembled easily. 

• Size and Weight: Check if the size and weight of the cot or cradle are comfortable for you to manage. Opting for a lightweight structure helps in ensuring easy portability and use. 

Investing In Your Baby’s Comfort: 

As you navigate the joyful journey of parenthood, witnessing your little one reach new milestones in the day and drift into a deep sleep at night, remember that every product you choose is an investment to build a happy and healthy environment around them during their growing years. That’s why it’s essential to be mindful of all the key features before purchasing one. To simplify the process of finding the perfect baby cot or baby cradle online in India, visit https://miarcus.com/collections/furniture to explore a range of thoughtfully crafted options for the little one!