The Main Issue With Cot Beds And How You Can Fix It
How to Choose the Best cot Bed Cot Beds for Your Baby
If you are expecting your first child it is essential to select a cot which can provide security and safety for your baby. Look for a cot with fixed sides (rather than drop-sides) that are in line with strict UK safety standards.
This minimalist, elegant crib is our top choice from the Anyday range of John Lewis. It has three mattress positions, teething bars and storage drawers. It is also simple to assemble, with clear instructions.
Comfort
The best cot beds keep children warm and cozy. Look for a soft, breathable fabric and make sure the mattress fits snugly to avoid any gaps, which could pose the risk of suffocation. There are many mattresses available - foam, coil springs and natural materials for allergy sufferers. So do your research and select the one that is suitable for your baby's requirements.
If you choose a convertible or standard cot, the key to comfort is a good-quality mattress that is supportive and encourages healthy posture. The same applies to the slats, which should be securely attached and not bent or sagging. The slats should also be secured to the frame, so your child isn't caught in them when moving in their sleep.
Ask your friends and family for recommendations, or read online reviews. Look for ones that are ventilated, as they'll aid in regulate temperature and are less likely to harbour bacteria.
There are a variety of styles to choose from that include traditional sleighs with elaborate details and modern, sleek designs. Some are painted in vibrant primary colors to make your child feel joyful and cheerful as they awake.
You'll find most cots have a drawer underneath for storage, teething rails to protect your baby from chewing on the sides of the cot, and adjustable height bases for infant growth. You can also purchase an extra drop-side for babies that are small or suffer from health issues that make it difficult to bend over.
For extra security, opt for a cot that is compliant with the strict UK safety standards and will easily convert into a toddler bed when the time is appropriate. This information is available in the description of the product and the specifications.
Safety
When choosing a cot the safety of your child's sleep should be a priority. The mattress should be snugly fitted and there shouldn't be gaps between the mattress and the ends or sides of the cot or cot-bed (large gaps could restrict the child's arms or head). Check that it's firm and thin. Thicker mattresses aren't recommended since they could increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies offer a choice of mattresses, from simple foam to natural materials for allergy sufferers. Some even have anti-microbial treatment. If your crib has an inclined side, make sure that it is in the up position and secured.
A drop side should only be allowed to go down only if an adult is present - to prevent accidental releases. If your coffin has a solid bottom do not place it against the wall because it can block airflow and can cause coffin death. According to the latest research, cots with slatted ends could be safer as they permit more airflow.
If your crib has a fixed side you should choose this because it's safer when your child starts to crawl and pull themselves up. When your child is standing and climbing, this is a sign that they're ready to transition into the junior bed.
Some cots come with a feature where the base can be raised to three different levels in order to increase with your child's growth which is extremely useful and is a security measure. Other cots come with footplates that can be adjusted, which are ideal for toddlers who wish to sit up in their beds.
If you are putting your child in their cot, check that there is no visible danger. It must be away from heat sources or power points, windows and curtains and blind cords (these can be strangulation hazards). If you are buying second-hand furniture or heirlooms to check for choking hazards such as stickers and transfers. They can come off and pose a danger.
If you are unsure how to safely use your cot, consult other parents for help or attend an local NCT New Baby class. If your cot comes with a manual be sure to read it before using it and adhere to the directions.
Style
With its beautiful sleigh design This gorgeous cot bed will look amazing in your nursery. The panel was impressed by the combination of natural wood and white as well as the innovative features like under-bed storage drawers for everything needed by babies, such as bedding, nappies, and a huge selection of baby clothes. It's also easy to assemble with clear instructions and separate packs of screws for each section. It can also be converted into a toddler desk or bed when your child gets older (see the product description for more information).
The teething rails are among our top features. They prevent 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 prevent them from chewing on the wood, and prevent them from suffocating. There's also an opening that can be dropped to make it easier for access to your infant. We appreciate that the cot could be transformed into a toddler bed, and that it's built to last for four years. It also met strict UK safety standards. These are listed in the key specs below each product.
Cot beds can be transformed into toddler beds if your child is old enough. This allows you to not have to buy a new bed when your child's ready to go up. They can be more expensive than a crib.
If your nursery is small, you might want to consider a crib. It is smaller and takes less space. However, if you plan to spend a significant portion of your baby's time in your bedroom or if you require a bed that lasts longer, you should opt for a crib.
If a cot doesn't meet the UK safety standards set by BS EN 716 or BS 8509 (which cover the thickness of mattresses, the materials used, and other essential elements of Baby beds mattress cots) it is not safe for babies to sleep. The slats shouldn't be too far apart, to ensure your baby doesn't get tossed out.
Stores
No matter if you're a first-time parent or a veteran the amount of items the baby will require is immense. This is why it's essential to consider the storage options when you choose a crib bed. Some cots have additional storage options, including drawers beneath the bed or a top ranked cribs changer (available separately). Some cots can be converted into a toddler bed or small single bed to increase their use.
Some cots are able to be converted into day beds, as shown here on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is a great option for those who prefer a more flexible design. The conversion is easy and requires only the removal of ONE side panel. This allows parents to save money on a separate bed.
A number of cot beds feature hanging rails that can be used to store muslins, dolls and other small cot beds objects. This keeps everything neat, tidy and organised. It also looks great. These items are easily accessible to parents which makes it easier for them to feed their baby cots on sale.
Another desirable feature to look for is a toothing rail that is available with some cots. This will stop your child from chewing on the wooden cot which could cause irritation. Some cots feature an older style and come with a large storage drawer underneath the bed that is ideal for toys, clothes, blankets and other baby necessities.
While this is a great idea if you're running out of space, you should keep in mind that you'll have to purchase an additional drawer. You might need to purchase an additional mattress and bedding since oval mattresses and sheets do not come with the cot.
This sleigh-style cot bed is stunning example of Scandi style at its finest. It features a huge under-bed storage space that is perfect for keeping all baby essentials away from view but easily accessible. The alphabetically labeled pieces and clear instructions made it easy to put together for our panel. It's suitable for babies as young as birth and can be made into a toddler bed once your child is ready, which means it's also a good value.