This Is The Advanced Guide To Cot Beds
How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby
If you're expecting a baby, it's important to choose the right cot that is safe and secure for your little one. Find a cot with fixed sides (rather than drop-sides), which comply with strict UK safety standards.
Our top pick is this simple yet stylish coffin from John Lewis' Anyday range. It has three mattress height positions, teething rails and storage drawer. It is also easy to put together, and comes with clear instructions.
Comfort
The best crib newborn cot beds keep children warm and cozy. Choose a soft, breathable fabric and make sure the mattress is fitted snugly to prevent any gaps which could cause the risk of suffocation. There are a range of mattresses on the market including coil springs, foam and natural materials for allergy sufferers, so do your research and select the best cot bed one for your baby's needs.
No matter if you choose a conventional cot or a convertible cot the mattress is essential to ease of use. It must provide the right support and promote an ideal posture. The slats need to be firmly attached, and not sliding. The slats should also be firmly attached to the frame to ensure that your child will not get caught when they move during sleep.
If you're unsure of the mattress to buy, ask friends and family or check online reviews for suggestions. Make sure you choose a mattress that's ventilated, as they'll aid in maintain temperature and are less likely to harbour bacteria.
There are a variety of styles to pick from, including traditional sleighs with ornate details and sleek, modern designs. Some are decorated with bright primary colors to make your child feel happy and cheerful when they wake up.
Most cots come with an under-bed storage drawer teething rails to prevent your child from chewing the sides of the cot and height bases that can be adjusted to accommodate baby's growth. You can even buy a drop side for petite babies or those with health issues that make it difficult for them to bend over.
Find a sale cot that is compliant with the strict UK safety standards and can easily be converted into a toddler's bed when it is time. Look for this information in the product description or in the key specifications.
Safety
When choosing a cot an environment that is safe for sleeping should be a priority. Make sure the mattress is snugly fitted, with no gaps between it and the cot/cot bed sides or ends (big gaps could restrict your child's head or arms). Check that the mattress is firm and thin. Thick mattresses can increase the risk of SIDS. There are many companies that offer mattresses made of various materials including foam and natural materials that are great for allergy sufferers. Some even come with an anti-microbial treatment. If your cot has a drop-side, make sure it is locked and in the up position.
Drop sides should only be allowed to go down only when an adult is in the room. This prevents accidental releases. Avoid placing your cot on the wall if it is an end that is solid. This can restrict airflow, which can cause death in the coffin. Recent research suggests that slatted ends could be safer since they allow for more airflow.
If your cot is fixed on one side, choose it. It will be the most secure option for your baby when they start to crawl and pull themselves up. Once your child is confidently standing and climbing, it is a sign that they're ready to transition into a junior bed.
Some cots have a feature that allows the base to be raised up to three levels. This is a fantastic safety measure and enables your child's cot to grow with their needs. Some cots also have footplates that are adjustable, which is ideal for toddlers who wish to sit up in their beds.
When you place your child's cot ensure there aren't any visible dangers. It should be put away from power and heater points. Also make sure it is away from windows, curtains, and blind cords. All of these could present a strangulation threat. If you're purchasing furniture that is second-hand or an heirloom, check for hazards to choking such as stickers and transfer tapes that could peel off and present a risk.
If you're not sure how to safely use your cot, ask other parents for help or go to a local NCT New Baby class. If your crib comes with a manual be sure to go through it before using it and follow the directions.
Style
With its beautiful sleigh design This gorgeous cot bed will look amazing in your nursery. Our panel loved the mix of natural and white pine, as well as its innovative features, like under-bed storage drawers that can hold all those baby essentials like nappies, bedding, and a dazzling variety of baby outfits. It's also easy to assemble with clear instructions and separate packs of screws for each section. It can also be transformed into a toddler's desk and bed as your child gets older (see the product description for more information).
The rails for teething are among our top features. They keep your child from hitting their head against the crib's side or any other protruding part of the crib, such as the handle or corner post. They also stop them from chewing on the wood and preventing them from getting suffocated. There's also an opening that can be removed to allow parents to reach their newborn. We are thrilled that it can be converted into a toddler bed, and it's sturdy enough to last up to four years. It also complies with the stringent UK safety standards, which are listed in the main specifications beneath each product.
Cot beds are generally bigger than cribs and can be turned into toddler beds once your child is ready which means you don't have to worry about purchasing a new bed until they're ready for the transition. They may cost more than cribs.
If your nursery is small, you might want to consider a crib. It is smaller and requires less space. However it is recommended to consider a cot if you are planning on spending a lot of your Baby beds's time in the room or if you require a bed that lasts longer, you should opt for a cot.
A cot isn't safe for babies to sleep in if it does not meet the strict UK safety standards outlined in BS EN 716 and BS 8509, which deals with mattress thicknesses, materials and other important elements of baby cot mattresses. The slats must not be too wide apart to stop your baby from falling off.
Storage
The amount of baby stuff you'll need is a mess whether you're a new parent or an experienced one. This is why it's crucial to consider storage options when selecting the right cot bed. Some cots come with additional storage options, like drawers under the bed or a coordinating top ranked cribs changer (available separately). Certain cots can be transformed into an infant bed or a small single bed to extend their use.
Some cot beds can be adapted into a day bed like this one on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is a great option for those who like the flexibility of a design. The conversion is simple and only requires the removal of ONE side panel. It also lets parents save money on a bed purchase.
Some cot beds are equipped with a hanging rail that can be used to hang muslins, dolls, as well as other small things. This makes everything neat, tidy and organized. It also looks great. The ease of access to these items will make it easier for parents when feeding their infant.
A teething rail is an additional desirable feature that is included in some cots. This can help to stop your child from chewing on the wood that could cause irritation. Some cots are designed with an older style and come with a large under-bed storage drawer which is ideal for storing toys, blankets clothes, and other baby necessities.
This is a great choice when space is a problem, but you will have to purchase a drawer on your own. You may need to buy an additional mattress and bedding since oval sheets and mattresses do not come with the cot.
This sleigh cot from Stokke is a beautiful example of Scandi-style in its finest and features a huge under-bed storage drawer that's perfect for keeping all those baby's essentials out of view but within easy reach. The alphabetically labeled parts and clear instructions made it easy to assemble our panel. It is suitable for babies as young as birth and can be transformed into a toddler's bed when your child's ready.