The Top Companies Not To Be In The Cot Beds Industry
How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby
When you are expecting a baby it is crucial to select a cot which can provide security and safety for your baby. Look for a cot with fixed sides (rather than drop-sides), which comply with strict UK safety standards.
This minimalist, stylish cot is our top choice from the Anyday range of John Lewis. It comes with three mattress height positions, teething rails and storage drawer. It is also easy to put together, and comes with clear instructions.
Comfort
The best cot beds keep children warm and cozy. Look for a soft and comfortable fabric. Also, make sure that the mattress is snug to avoid any gaps, which could cause a suffocation risk. There are a variety of mattresses available: coils springs, foam, and even natural materials for allergy sufferers. Do your research to determine the best crib one for your child.
Whether you opt for a convertible or standard cot, the most important thing to ensure satisfaction is a high-quality mattress that is supportive and encourages healthy posture. The same applies to the slats, which must be firmly attached and not sagging or bent. The slats must be securely attached to the frame, so that your child doesn't get caught in them when moving in their sleep.
Ask your friends and family for recommendations or look at online reviews. Choose a mattress that is ventilated, as they'll aid in maintain temperature and are less likely to harbor bacteria.
There are many styles to pick from, including traditional sleighs with ornate details and modern, sleek designs. Some are painted in vibrant primary colors 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 are adjustable to accommodate the growth of your baby. You can also buy an extra drop-side for babies that aren't big or suffer from medical conditions that make it difficult for them to bend over.
Choose a cot that is compliant with the strict UK safety standards and is able to be easily converted into a toddler's bed when it's time. This information is found in the product description and the specifications.
Safety
A safe and secure sleeping environment is essential and a big factor when selecting a crib. The mattress should fit snugly and there shouldn't be gaps between the mattress and the sides or ends of the cot or cot-bed (large gaps could restrict the child's arms or head). Verify that the mattress is solid and thin - more thick mattresses aren't recommended, because they can increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies offer a range of mattresses, ranging from basic foam to natural materials suitable for allergy sufferers. Some have anti-microbial treatment. If your cot features drop-sides, make sure it is locked and in the upward position.
A drop side should only be allowed to go down only when an adult is present - this will prevent accidental releases. Avoid placing your cot on a wall if it has an end that is solid. This could hinder airflow and could cause death in the coffin. According to the most recent research, slatted end cots are safer since they allow for greater airflow.
If your crib has a fixed edge, opt for this as it is the most secure option when your baby starts to crawl and pull themselves up. If your child is climbing with confidence and standing, it's the time to upgrade to a junior bed.
Some cots come with a feature that allows the base to be raised up to three different levels. This is a wonderful security measure that allows the cot of your child to grow with the child. 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 is no visible danger - it must be kept away from heaters or power points, windows, curtains and blind cords (these are a strangulation hazard). If you are buying second-hand furniture or heirlooms, make sure to look for any potential hazards to your child's safety such as labels and transfers. They may peel off and cause danger.
If you are unsure how to safely use your cot, ask other parents for help or take part in a local NCT New Baby class. If your cot has instructions, read them carefully before using it, and follow the safety-use guidelines carefully.
Style
With its gorgeous sleigh style This gorgeous cot bed will look great in your nursery. The panel was awed by the combination of natural and white wood, 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 put together, with clear instructions and separate screws for each section. Additionally, it can be transformed into a toddler bed and desk when your child gets older (see the product's description for more details).
One of our favourite features are the teething rails that protect your little one from bumping their head against the side of the cot or any protruding part of the cot, such as a handle or a corner post. They also help stop them chewing on the wood, preventing them from getting suffocated. The cot also has an opening that can be dropped to make it easier for access to your infant. We love that it can be converted into a toddler bed, and it is sturdy enough to last up to four years. It also meets the strict UK safety standards, which can be found in the main specifications beneath each product.
Cot beds are usually larger than cribs and can be converted into toddler beds when your child is ready, allowing you to avoid purchasing a new bed until they're ready to move on. They may cost more than a crib.
If your nursery cots is small, a crib may be the best infant cribs choice for you since it is smaller and takes up less space, but should your baby be expected to spend most of the time in their parents' room or you'd like a more long-lasting bed, opt for a crib.
A cot isn't suitable for babies to sleep in if it doesn't meet the strict UK safety standards outlined in BS EN 716 and BS 8509, which covers the thickness of mattresses, the materials used and other essential elements of baby cot mattresses. The slats shouldn't be too close together, to ensure your baby doesn't fall out.
Stores
The amount of baby gear you'll need is a mess regardless of whether you're a first-time parent or an experienced one. This is the reason it's important to think about storage options when selecting a cot bed. Some cots have additional storage options, like drawers underneath the bed or a coordinating top changer (available separately). Some can be transformed to a toddler or a small single bed, extending their usefulness for a longer period of time.
Some cot beds can be adapted into a day bed like this one on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is a great choice for those who prefer more flexible designs as the conversion process is fairly simple and requires just the removal of a side panel. This also allows parents to save money on a separate bed.
Some cot beds come with a hanging rail that can be used to hang muslins and dummies along with other small objects. This makes it easier to keep everything organised tidy, neat and tidy - and it also looks great. These items are easily accessible to parents and make it easier for them to feed their baby.
Another feature worth looking for is a teething rail that is available in a few cots. This will stop your child from chewing on the wooden cot, which can cause irritation. Some cots are designed with more traditional designs and include a large under-bed storage drawer that is perfect for storing blankets, toys, clothes and other baby essentials.
This is a great option if space is an issue however, you will need to purchase a drawer separately. You may also have to purchase a different mattress and bedding since sheets and mattresses that are oval aren't typically included in the cot.
This sleigh cot from Stokke is a beautiful example of the Scandi-style at its finest and has a huge under-bed storage drawer that's perfect to keep all the baby's essentials out of view but still within reach. Our panel of experts found it straightforward to put together, due to the alphabetically-labelled parts and clear instructions. It's suitable for infants as young as birth and can be transformed into a toddler's bed when your child's ready.