The Biggest Problem With Cot Beds And How You Can Fix It
How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby
When you are expecting a baby it is essential to select a cot which can provide security and safety for your baby. Find a cot with fixed sides (rather than drop-sides) that meet strict UK safety standards.
This simple but stylish crib is our top choice from the Anyday collection by John Lewis. It has three mattress positions, teething bars, and storage drawers. It's also easy to assemble with clear instructions.
Comfort
The best cot beds keep children warm and cozy. Choose a breathable, soft fabric. Make sure the mattress fits snugly, to avoid any gaps that could pose a risk of being suffocated. There are a variety of mattresses available on the market - foam, coil springs, natural materials for allergy sufferers, so do your research before deciding on the right one for your baby's requirements.
If you choose an ordinary or convertible cot, the primary factor to comfort is a mattress of high-quality that provides proper support and promotes healthy posture. The slats must be firmly attached, and not sliding. The slats must be securely fixed to the frame, so your little one doesn't get caught in them when moving in their sleep.
Ask your friends and family for recommendations or browse online reviews. Choose breathable mattresses, as they can aid in regulating your body temperature and are less likely to be a breeding ground for bacteria.
In terms of style there's a broad selection from classic sleigh styles with elaborate details to sleek, contemporary designs. Some are painted in bright primary colours to make your child feel joyful and cheerful as they wake up.
Most cots come with a drawer for storage underneath, teething rails that prevent your child from chewing the sides of the cot, and height bases that can be adjusted to accommodate the growth of your baby. You can even purchase drop sides for small babies or those who have medical conditions that make it difficult to bend over.
To ensure your security, opt for a cot that meets the strict UK safety standards and will easily transform into an infant bed when the time is appropriate. This information can be found in the product description and the specifications.
Safety
When choosing a cot, an environment that is safe for sleeping is a must. Make sure the mattress is snug and has no gap between it and the cot/cot bed sides or ends (big gaps could restrict your child's head or arms). Verify that the mattress is not too firm and thin. Mattresses that are thick could increase the risk of SIDS. There are many companies that offer a variety of mattresses, ranging from basic foam to natural materials suitable for allergy sufferers. Some contain anti-microbial treatments. If your cot has drop-sides, ensure that it is locked and in the upward position.
Drop sides should only be permitted to fall when an adult is present in the room. This will prevent accidental releases. Avoid placing your sale cot against walls if it has a solid end. This will hinder airflow and could cause death in the coffin. According to the latest research, cots with slatted ends may be safer because they allow for greater airflow.
If your crib has a fixed side, opt for this as it is the most secure option when your child begins to crawl and climb up. When your child is confidently climbing and standing, it's time to upgrade to a junior bed.
Some cots have an option that allows the base to be raised up to three different levels. This is a great security feature that allows your child's cot bed sales to grow with their needs. Some cots come with footplates that can be adjusted to suit for toddlers who want to stand up.
Whenever you place your child in their cot, make sure that there isn't any visible danger - it must be away from heat sources and power points, windows and curtains and blind cords (these are a strangulation hazard). When buying second-hand furniture or heirlooms, be sure to look for any choking hazards such as stickers and transfers. They can come off and create a risk.
If you're unsure of how to safely use your cot, consult other parents for help or take part in a local NCT New Baby class. If your cot comes with a guide, make sure you go through it before using it and follow the instructions.
Style
With its gorgeous sleigh style, this gorgeous crib will look stunning in your nursery. Our panel loved the combination of natural and white pine, as well as its clever features, such as under-bed storage drawers to keep everything necessary for babies, including bedding, nappies and an enviable array of baby outfits. It's also simple to put together with clear instructions and screws for each section. What's more, it can be converted into a toddler bed and desk when your baby grows older (see the product's description for more details).
The teething rails are among our most loved features. They stop your child from hitting their head against the crib's side or any protruding portion of the crib, such as the corner post or handle. They also stop children from chewing on the wood and preventing them from being suffocated. It also features a drop-side to allow parents to reach their newborn. We are thrilled that the cot can be converted into a toddler bed and that it's sturdy enough to last up to four years. It also complies with the stringent UK safety standards, which can be found in the specifications that are listed under each product.
cheap cot bed beds are usually larger than cribs and can be transformed into toddler beds when your child is ready, allowing you to avoid purchasing a new bed at an age when they're ready to move on. They can be more expensive than cribs.
If your nursery is small, you might want to consider the possibility of a crib. It is smaller and occupies less space. However should you be planning to spend a significant portion of your baby's time in the room or if you require a bed that will last longer, you should consider a crib.
If a cot doesn't meet the UK safety standards outlined by BS EN 716 or BS 8509 (which covers mattress thicknesses, materials and other important elements of baby mattress cots) it is not safe for babies to sleep. The slats must not be too far apart to prevent your baby from falling out.
Storage
The amount of baby equipment you need is overwhelming, whether you're a new parent or a seasoned one. It's crucial to think about storage when you choose a cot. Some cots come with additional storage options, such as drawers under the bed or a coordinating top rated cots changer (available separately). Some are even able to be converted into a toddler or small single bed, increasing their usability for longer.
Some cot beds can be transformed into a daybed as shown 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 a single side panel. This also allows parents to save money on a separate bed purchase.
Some cot beds are equipped with a hanging rail that can be used to hang muslins and dolls, as well as other small objects. This allows you to keep everything organized tidy and neat and looks great. Having easy access to these items will make it much easier for parents to feed their infant.
Another desirable feature to look for is a toothing rail which is included in a few cots. This will stop your child from chewing on the cot's wooden structure, which could cause irritation. Some cots are designed with more traditional designs and have a huge under-bed storage drawer that is perfect for storing toys, blankets clothing, and other baby necessities.
While this is a great idea for when you're in a tight space, you should be aware that you'll have to purchase an extra for the drawer. It is also possible to purchase a different mattress and bedding, as sheets and mattresses that are oval are not typically included with the cot itself.
This sleigh-style cheap cot bed bed is a beautiful example of Scandi style at its finest. It has a spacious under-bed storage space that is perfect to keep all baby necessities out-of-sight but within easy access. The alphabetically labeled parts and clear instructions made it simple to put together for our panel. It's suitable for infants from birth and can be made into a toddler bed once your child is ready, which means it's a good investment too.