5 Killer Quora Answers On Cot Beds

How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby

If you are expecting a Baby Cot it is crucial to select a cot which will ensure safety and security for your baby. Choose a cot that has fixed sides (rather than drop-sides) that meet strict UK safety standards.

Our top pick is this basic but elegant coffin from John Lewis' Anyday range. It has three mattress height positions, teething rails and storage drawer. It is also simple to put together and comes with clear instructions.

Comfort

The best cot beds keep babies comfy and cosy. Find a comfortable soft and comfortable fabric. Make sure that the mattress fits snugly, to eliminate any gaps that could cause the risk of the mattress becoming suffocated. There are many types of mattresses available: coils springs, foam and natural materials for allergy-sufferers. Do your research to find the best one for your child.

No matter if you select a convertible or standard cot, the primary factor to comfort is a good-quality mattress that provides proper support and promotes healthy posture. The slats should also be securely attached and not sliding. The slats should also be securely attached to the frame, so your child doesn't get stuck in them while they move in their sleep.

If you're not sure what mattress to buy, consult friends and family or check online reviews for recommendations. Choose a mattress that is air-conditioned, as they'll help maintain temperature and are less likely to harbour bacteria.

When it comes to fashion there's a broad selection from classic sleigh styles with intricate detailing to sleek, modern designs. Some are even painted with bold primary colours which is perfect if you want your baby to wake up feeling bright and content!

Most cots come with a drawer for storage underneath teething rails to prevent your child from chewing on the sides of the cot, and adjustable height bases to accommodate your child's growth. You can also purchase a drop-side for babies who aren't big or have medical conditions that make it difficult to bend over.

Look for a cheap cot bed which is in compliance with the strict UK safety standard and is easily converted into a toddler's bed when it's time. Look for this information in the description or in the key specifications.

Safety

A safe and secure sleeping environment is a must and a major aspect to consider when choosing a cot. Make sure the mattress is snugly fitted, with no gap between it and the cot/cot bed's sides or ends (big gaps could restrict your child's head or arms). Verify that the mattress is firm and thin - thicker mattresses aren't advised as they may increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies offer a choice of mattresses, from simple foam to natural materials for allergy sufferers and some even come with anti-microbial treatment. If your cot features drop-sides, ensure that it is locked and in the upward position.

Drop sides should only be allowed down only when an adult is in the room. This can prevent accidental releases. Avoid placing your cot on walls if it has an end that is solid. This can limit airflow, which could result in death of the coffin. The latest research suggests that slatted ends may be safer because they permit more airflow.

If your crib has a fixed edge, opt for this as it will be safest when your child begins to crawl and then pull themselves up. When your child is confidently climbing and standing, it's time to move to a junior bed.

Some cots have a feature that allows the base to be raised to three levels. This is a fantastic safety measure and enables your child's cot to expand with their needs. Some cots come with adjustable footplates that are ideal for toddlers who want to stand up.

When you place your child's cot ensure there aren't any visible dangers. It should be placed away from power and heater points. Also, keep it away from windows, curtains, and blind cords. All of these could present a strangulation threat. If you're purchasing furniture from a secondhand store or an heirloom piece be sure to look for any hazards to choking such as stickers and transfer tapes that could be removed and create danger.

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, make sure you go through it before using it and follow the directions.

Style

This stunning cot bed with its sleigh design will look amazing in your nursery. Our panel was impressed by the mix of white and natural pine, as well as its clever features, such as under-bed storage drawers that can hold all the baby necessities like nappies, bedding and a stunning variety of baby outfits. It's also simple to construct, with clear instructions and separate screws for each section. It can also be converted into a toddler's desk and bed when your child gets older (see product description for more details).

One of our favourite features is the teething rails, which shield your little one from bumping their head against the cot's side or any other protruding parts of the cot like handles or a corner post. They can also stop them from chewing on the wood, which prevents them from getting suffocated. There's also drop-sides to allow you to get access to your baby. We are thrilled that it can be converted to a toddler bed, and it is sturdy enough to last for up to four years. It also met strict UK safety standards. These are listed in the specifications below for each product.

Cot beds are typically larger than cribs and can be converted into toddler beds when your child is ready and you can avoid purchasing a bed until they're ready to move on. They may cost more than cribs.

If your nursery is very small, a crib might be the best option for you as it is smaller and takes up less space, but if your baby is likely to spend most of the time in their parents' room or you'd like a more long-lasting bed, you should consider a crib.

A crib isn't safe for babies to sleep in if it does not meet the strict UK safety standards as outlined in BS EN 716 and BS 8509, which covers mattresses' thicknesses, materials, and other key elements of cot mattresses for babies. The slats shouldn't be too far apart to stop your child from falling out.

Stores

The amount of baby equipment you need is overwhelming, regardless of whether you're a new mom or an experienced one. This is the reason it's important to think about storage options when selecting the right crib bed. Many cots come with additional storage solutions available such as drawers in the under-bed or a coordinating cot top changer (available separately). Certain cots can be transformed into a toddler bed or small single bed to extend their use.

Some cot beds can be further converted into a daybed as shown on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is a great choice for those who prefer a less rigid design as the conversion process is fairly simple and requires just the removal of a side panel. This allows parents to save money on a separate bed.

A variety of cot beds have hanging rails that can be used to store muslins, Dummies, and other small items. This makes it easier to keep everything organized tidy, neat and tidy - and it also looks fantastic. Having easy access to these items makes it easier for parents to feed their infant.

A teething rail is another desirable feature that is included in some cots. This will help prevent your little one chewing on the wood which can cause irritation. Some cots have more traditional designs and come with a large storage drawer under the bed, which is perfect for clothes, toys, blankets and other baby necessities.

While this is a great idea for when you're in a tight space, it's important to be aware that you'll need to buy a separate extra for the drawer. You may need to buy an additional mattress and bedding since oval sheets and mattresses do not come with the cot.

This sleigh-style cot is a beautiful example of Scandi style at its finest. It features a huge under-bed storage compartment that's ideal to keep baby's essentials out-of-sight but within easy access. Our panel was able to find it easy to put together due to the alphabetically-labelled parts and clear instructions. It's suitable for babies as young as birth and can be transformed into a toddler bed once your child is ready, meaning it's also a good value.