How can I make a cot bed more cosy?

[IfAtFirstUDontSucceed]

DS is almost 5 months and has been in his cot bed for a number of weeks now, but will not settle in it. He will only sleep soundly in it if he is completely zonked when he's laid down. If he wakes in the night it's easier to just keep him in our bed than battle with him to sleep in his cot.

I'm wondering if its because his cot isn't that cosy. He wears a sleeping bag as he just kicks off blankets and I've avoided using bumpers because of the suffocation risk. So there is just one small boy plonked in this vast bed with just a firm mattress and sheet

He's quite a warm baby so lots of covers isn't an option!

Thanks

You can try using flanette sheets rather than cotton as will be warmer on his face/ hands etc and slightly more snug

Also introduce a small comforter, ie small teddy, small muslin cloth he can snuggle against. Something he can cover face with though or something breathable ie muslin cloth ( can just cut normal one up into 4 to make small for him)

Something he CAN'T cover face with!

I think bumpers are Ok till they can stand up, and climb on them?

I have to admit I have never used a cot at night. I just sleep with the baby/toddler/small child, they settle far better.

I think it's kind of natural for them to want to be near to us.

Oh a friend said, something that smells of you, and also a warm water bottle can help, I also find mine settle better if put down onto a woollen blanket as it is a kind of warm texture iyswim.

Any time I put them down onto a cotton sheet they wake instantly!

These are lovely

m.johnlewis.com/mt/www.johnlewis.com/jellycat-bredita-duck-soother/p230887064

He does like to snuggle a muslin cloth through the day, I might give it a go at night too.

Would flannelette sheets not make him really warm?

He has a tendency to roll through the night and has often woken himself up by rolling on his tummy. Other times his face has been up against the bars so really don't want bumpers in the cot.

I have a lambskin under the sheet for dd. From Gabe and Grace. Sorry can't link on phone. Very lovely and keeps them cool in summer and warm in winter. Not cheap though!

Bumpers are a no no safety wise. I used single bar "bumpsters" when ds started banging his head. Did help a lot with night wakings but i won't use them for dd until she's confidently rolling.