How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby
If you are expecting a child it is crucial to select a cot which can provide security and safety for your baby. Find a cot which has fixed sides rather than drop-sides. This will meet UK safety standards.
This slick and stylish crib is our top choice from the Anyday range by John Lewis. online cots comes with three mattress height positions, teething rails, and a storage drawer. It is also simple to put together, and comes with clear instructions.
Comfort
The most comfortable cot beds keep babies comfy and cosy. Look for a soft, comfortable fabric. Also, make sure that the mattress is fitted snugly to prevent any gaps which could cause a suffocation risk. There are a variety of mattresses available - foam, coils springs, and natural materials for allergy sufferers. Do your research to determine the most suitable one for your child.
No matter if you choose a conventional cot or a convertible, a good mattress is essential to ease of use. It must provide the right support and promote a healthy posture. The slats need to be secured and not sagging. The slats must also be securely attached to the frame so that your child isn't caught in them when moving in their sleep.
If you're not sure which mattress to buy, ask your family and friends or consult online reviews for suggestions. Make sure you choose a mattress that's breathable, as they'll help maintain temperature and are less likely to harbor bacteria.
When it comes to fashion, there's a wide choice, from traditional sleigh styles with intricate details to sleek, contemporary designs. Some are even painted in vibrant primary colours, which is ideal if you want your little one to wake up feeling bright and content!
Most cots come with a drawer underneath for storage, teething rails to protect your child from chewing on the sides of the cot, and adjustable height bases for baby growth. You can also purchase an extra drop-side for babies that aren't tall enough or suffer from health issues that make it hard to bend over.
Look for a cot which meets the strict UK safety standard and is able to be easily transformed into a toddler's cot when it is time. Look for this information in the product description or in the specifications.
Safety
A safe sleeping environment is an essential consideration when choosing a bed. The mattress should fit snugly and there shouldn't be gaps between the mattress and the ends or sides of the cot or cot-bed (large gaps can restrict the child's arms or head). Make sure the mattress is firm and thin. Mattresses that are thick can increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies offer a range of mattresses, ranging from basic foam to natural materials suitable for allergy sufferers and some even have anti-microbial treatment. If your cot has a drop-side, make sure it is secured and in the up position.
A drop side should only be allowed to go down when an adult is present, to prevent accidental releases. Avoid placing your cot on the wall if it is a solid end. This could restrict airflow, which can cause death in the coffin. Recent research suggests that slatted ends could be safer since they allow more airflow.
If your cot has a fixed side choose this option as it is the most secure option when your child starts to crawl and climb up. When your child is climbing with confidence and standing, it's the time to move to a junior bed.
Some cots come with a feature that allows the base to be raised up to three levels. cots offers is a fantastic safety measure and enables your child's cot to expand with their needs. Some cots have footplates that are adjustable, which is great for toddlers who want to stand up in their bed.
When you put your child in their cot, check that there is no visible danger. It should be away from heaters and windows, power points and blind cords and curtains (these are a strangulation hazard). If you are buying second-hand furniture or heirlooms, be sure to check for choking hazards such as stickers and transfers. These can peel off and pose a danger.
If you're unsure of what you should do to use your cot, consult other parents for advice or take part in a local NCT New Baby class. If your cot comes with a guide be sure to read it before using it and follow all the directions.
Style
With its beautiful sleigh design This gorgeous cot bed will look amazing in your nursery. The panel was impressed with the mix of white and natural wood, as well as the clever features such as drawers under the bed for everything needed by babies, such as bedding, nappies and a huge selection of baby clothes. It's also simple to put together, with concise instructions and separate packs of screws for each section. It can also be transformed into a toddler desk and bed when your child gets older (see product description for more information).
The rails for teething are among our top features. They prevent your child from hitting their head against the side of the crib or any protruding part of the crib, such as the corner post or handle. They also stop them from chewing on the wood and also preventing them from suffocating. There's also a drop-side for easier access to your newborn. We love that it can be converted into a toddler bed, and that it's sturdy enough to last for up to four years. It also meets the strict UK safety standards, which are listed in the main specifications beneath each product.
Cot beds can be transformed into toddler beds when your child is old enough. This allows you to avoid buying an entirely new bed when your child's ready to make the leap. They are more expensive than cribs.
If your nursery is small, you may be considering the possibility of a crib. It is smaller and occupies less space. However it is recommended to consider a cot if you are planning on spending a lot of your baby's time in the room, or if you need a bed that lasts longer, you should choose a crib.
If the cot you are using does not meet the UK safety standards as defined by BS EN 716 or BS 8509 (which refers to mattress thicknesses, materials, and other key elements in baby mattress cots), it is unsafe for babies to sleep. The slats must not be too close together, to ensure that your child doesn't fall off.
Storage
The amount of baby stuff you need is overwhelming, whether you're a new parent or an experienced one. This is the reason it's important to think about storage options when choosing the cot bed. Some cots have additional storage options, like drawers beneath the bed or a top changer (available separately). Some cots are able to be converted into an infant bed or a small single bed to extend their use.
Some cots can be converted into day beds, as seen here on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is a great choice for those who prefer the flexibility of a design. The conversion is easy and requires only the removal of a single side panel. This lets parents save money on an additional bed.
Some cot beds have a hanging rail that can be used to hang muslins, Dummies and other small items. This helps to keep everything organized tidy and neat - and it also looks amazing. Having easy access to these items will make it much easier for parents when feeding their infant.
Another thing to look for is a teething rail that comes in a few cots. This will help keep your baby from chewing on the wood that could cause irritation. Some cots are designed with more traditional designs and have a huge under-bed storage drawer which is ideal for storing toys, blankets clothing, and other baby necessities.
While this is a great option if you're running out of space, it's important to remember that you will need to buy a separate extra for the drawer. You might need to purchase an additional mattress and bedding, as oval sheets and mattresses don't come with the cot.
This sleigh cot from Stokke is a stunning example of Scandi-style in its finest and comes with a massive under-bed storage drawer that's great for keeping all those baby's essentials out of view but still within reach. The alphabetically labeled parts and clear instructions made it easy to assemble our panel. It's suitable for infants from birth and can be converted into a toddler's bed when your child's ready.