The Advanced Guide To Cot Beds

How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby

If you're expecting a child, it's important to choose a cot that's safe and secure for your child. Find a cot with fixed sides (rather than drop-sides), which comply with strict UK safety standards.

Our top pick is this basic but stylish coffin from John Lewis' Anyday range. It comes with three mattress positions, teething bars, and an storage drawer. It is also easy to put together, and comes with clear instructions.

Comfort

The best cot beds keep baby's warm and comfortable. Choose a breathable soft and comfortable fabric. Make sure the mattress is snug to prevent any gaps that could cause the risk of being suffocated. There are many types of mattresses available: foam, coils springs, and natural materials for allergy-sufferers. Do your research to determine the ideal mattress for your child.

Whether you opt for an ordinary or convertible cot, the primary factor to comfort is a mattress of high-quality that is supportive and encourages healthy posture. This is also true for the slats. They should be securely attached and not sagging or bent. The slats must also be securely fixed to the frame, so that your child isn't trapped in them while moving in their sleep.

If you're not sure what mattress to buy, ask your family and friends or consult online reviews for suggestions. Choose breathable mattresses, as they can help you regulate your body temperature and are less likely to harbor bacteria.

When it comes to fashion there's a variety of styles of styles, from traditional sleigh designs with intricate detailing to sleek, modern designs. Some are decorated with bright 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 to prevent your child from chewing on the sides of the cot, and height bases that can be adjusted to accommodate your child's growth. You can also purchase a drop side for smaller infants or those with medical conditions that make it difficult for them to bend over.

For extra peace of mind, search for a cot that is compliant with the stringent UK safety standards and will easily convert into an infant bed when the time is right. This information is found in the product description as well as key specifications.

Safety

When selecting a cot, an environment that is safe for sleeping is a must. The mattress should be able to fit snugly and there shouldn't be gaps between the mattress and the sides or ends of the cot/cot-bed (large gaps can restrict the child's arms or head). Check that it's firm and thin. Thicker mattresses aren't recommended as they may increase the risk of SIDS. There are many companies that offer a variety of mattresses, from simple foam to natural materials suitable for allergy sufferers. Some even come with anti-microbial treatment. If your cot features drop-sides, make sure it is secured and in the upward position.

A drop side should only be allowed to fall only when an adult is present - to prevent accidental releases. Avoid placing your cot against a wall if it has an end that is solid. This can hinder airflow and could lead to coffin death. Recent research suggests that slatted ends may be safer because they permit more airflow.

If your cot has a fixed side choose this option as it will be safest when your child starts to crawl and pull themselves up. If your child is confidently climbing and standing, it's time to move to a junior bed.

Some cots offers have an option that allows the base to be raised to three levels. This is a wonderful security feature that allows your child's cot to grow with the child. Some cots come with adjustable footplates that are perfect for toddlers who like to stand up.

Whenever you place your child in their cot, make sure that there is no obvious danger - it must be away from heat sources, power points, windows, curtains and blind cords (these are a strangulation hazard). If you're buying second-hand or heirloom furniture Be sure to check for potential choking hazards like stickers and transfer tapes that could be removed and create a risk.

If you're unsure of what you should do to use your cot, ask other parents for advice or go to an local NCT New Baby class. If your cot has a manual, read it carefully before you begin using it, and follow the safe-use instructions closely.

Style

With its gorgeous sleigh style, this gorgeous cot bed will look amazing in your nursery. The panel was impressed by the mix of natural wood and white, as well as the clever features such as under-bed storage drawers for all baby essentials, like bedding, nappies, and a wide selection of baby clothes. It's also simple to put together, with concise instructions and separate sets of screws for each section. It can also be transformed into a toddler bed or desk when your child gets older (see the product description for more details).

The rails for teething are among our most recommended cribs loved features. They stop your child from hitting their head on the side of the crib or any protruding portion of the crib, like the handle or corner post. They also stop them from chewing the wood and preventing them from getting suffocated. The cot also has a drop-side to allow easier access to your newborn. We are thrilled that the cot can be transformed into a toddler bed and that it's built to last up to four years. It also met the strict UK safety standards, which can be found in the main specifications beneath each product.

Cot beds can be transformed into toddler beds when your child is old enough. This lets you not have to buy an entirely new bed as your child gets ready to go up. However, they can be more expensive than a crib that is standard.

If your nursery is very small, a crib could be the best option for you, as it's smaller and takes up less space. However, if your baby is likely to spend a lot of time in their parents' room or you want a longer-lasting bed, consider a cot.

If the cot you are using does not meet the UK safety standards set by BS EN 716 or BS 8509 (which covers mattress thicknesses, materials and other essential elements of baby mattresses for cots) It is unsafe for babies to sleep. The slats must not be too far apart to stop your baby cot online from falling out.

Storage

If you're a new parent or a seasoned one the amount of things a baby needs is staggering. This is why it's crucial to think about the storage options when you choose the cot bed. Many cots come with additional storage options like drawers under the bed or a top changer (available separately). Some cots are able to be converted into a toddler bed or small single bed to increase their use.

Some cot beds can be converted into a daybed, as seen here on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin cheap cot bed. This is a great choice for those who prefer an edgier design. The conversion is simple and only requires the removal of ONE side panel. This also allows parents to save money on a bed purchase.

Some cot beds have a hanging rail that can be used to hang muslins, dolls along with other small objects. This keeps everything neat, tidy and organized. It also looks great. The ease of access to these items makes it much easier for parents to feed their child.

A teething rail is another desired feature that is found in some cots. This will help stop your child from chewing on the wood that can cause irritation. Some cots have more traditional designs and have a huge storage drawer underneath the bed that is ideal for clothes, toys blankets, baby essentials.

While this is a great idea for when you're running out of 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 cot from Stokke is a beautiful example of Scandi-style in its finest and has a huge under-bed storage drawer that's great to keep all the baby necessities out of sight but within easy reach. The alphabetically labeled pieces and clear instructions made it easy to assemble our panel. It's suitable for babies from birth and can be transformed into a toddler bed when your child is ready. This means it's good value too.