Five Killer Quora Answers On Cot Beds

How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby

If you're expecting a child it's crucial to select the right cot that is secure and safe 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 simple yet elegant coffin from John Lewis' Anyday range. It comes with three mattress height positions, teething rails, and a storage drawer. It's also easy to assemble with clear instructions.

Comfort

The best cot beds keep babies comfy and cosy. Look for a soft, comfortable fabric. Also, make sure that the mattress fits snugly to prevent any gaps which could pose an suffocation threat. There are many types of mattresses available: coils springs, foam, and natural materials for allergy-sufferers. Do your research to find the best crib newborn one for your child.

It doesn't matter if you pick a conventional cot or a convertible cot, a good mattress is vital to your ease of use. It should provide adequate support and encourage an ideal posture. The slats need to be securely attached and not sagging. The slats must also be firmly fixed to the frame, to ensure that your child will not get caught when they move during sleep.

Ask your family and friends for recommendations or look at online reviews. Choose breathable mattresses, as they can aid in regulating your body temperature and are less likely to hold bacteria.

There are a myriad of styles to choose from, including traditional sleighs with elaborate details and modern, sleek designs. Some are even painted in bright primary colors which is great when you want your baby to wake up feeling bright and content!

The majority of cots have a drawer for storage underneath, teething rails that prevent your child from chewing the sides of the cot and adjustable height bases to accommodate your child's growth. You can even buy a drop side for petite babies or those who have medical conditions that make it difficult for them to bend over.

Find a cot that is compliant with the strict UK safety standard and can easily be transformed into a toddler's bed when it is time. This information is found in the product description and key specifications.

Safety

A safe and secure sleeping environment is an essential aspect to consider when choosing a crib. The mattress should fit snugly and there should be no gaps between the mattress and the sides or ends of the cot/cot-bed (large gaps can restrict the child's arms or head). Verify that the mattress is firm and thin. Mattresses that are too thick can increase the risk of SIDS. There are many companies that offer mattresses made of a variety of materials including foam and natural materials that are great for those suffering from allergies. Some have anti-microbial treatment. If your cot has a drop side, ensure that it is in the up position and locked securely.

A drop side should be allowed to drop only when an adult is present; this will prevent accidental release. If your coffin has a solid bottom, avoid placing it against the wall because it will block airflow and can cause death in the coffin. The latest research suggests that slatted ends could be safer since they allow for more airflow.

If your cot has a fixed side you should choose this because it's safer when your baby starts to crawl and pull themselves up. When 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 levels. This is a great safety measure and enables your child's cot to expand with the child. Some cots have footplates that can be adjusted to suit for toddlers who like to stand up.

If you are putting your child in their cot, ensure whether there is no obvious danger - it must be away from heat sources and windows, power points and curtains and blind cords (these can be strangulation hazards). If you're buying second-hand or heirloom furniture be sure to look for any dangers to your child's health such as stickers and transfers that may peel off and present a risk.

If you're unsure of about how to use your cot, ask other parents for help or take part in a local NCT New Baby Cot Bed class. If your crib comes with a manual ensure that you go through it before using it and adhere to the directions.

Style

With its stunning sleigh design This gorgeous crib will look stunning in your nursery. The panel was impressed by the combination of natural and white wood and the clever features such as under-bed storage drawers that can hold everything needed by babies, such as bedding, nappies and an impressive array of baby clothes. It is also easy to put together with clear instructions and separate screws for each section. What's more, it can be converted 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, which shield your little one from bumping their head against the side of the cot or any protruding parts of the cot, such as the handle or corner post, and which can also stop them from chewing on the wood, preventing them from becoming in danger of being suffocated. It also has a drop-side for easier access to your newborn. We are thrilled that it can be converted to an infant bed, and it's built to last for up to four years. It also met the strict UK safety standards. You can find these in the key specs below each product.

Cot beds are generally bigger than cribs and can be converted into toddler beds once your child is ready, allowing you to avoid purchasing a bed at an age when they're ready to move on. They can be more expensive than a crib.

If your nursery is small, a crib could be the best choice for you, as it's smaller and occupies less space. However, if your baby is likely to spend most of the time in their parents' room or you're looking for a more durable bed, opt for a crib.

A cot 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 mattress thicknesses, materials and other essential elements of cot mattresses for baby. The slats must not be too close together, to ensure that your child doesn't fall off.

Storage

The amount of baby cots on sale stuff you'll need is overwhelming regardless of whether you're a new mom or an experienced one. It is important to think about storage when choosing a cot-bed. A number of cots have additional storage solutions available like drawers under the bed or a top changer (available separately). Some cots can be converted into a toddler bed or small single beds to expand their use.

Some cot beds can be transformed into a daybed like this one on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is a great option for those who like an edgier design. The conversion is easy and requires only the removal of a single side panel. This lets parents reduce the expense of an additional bed.

A number of cot beds feature hanging rails that can be used to store muslins dolls and other small objects. This keeps everything neat, tidy and organised. It also looks beautiful. The ease of access to these items makes it easier for parents when feeding their child.

A teething rail is a desirable feature that is included in some cots. This can help to stop your child from chewing on the wood, which could cause them irritation. Some cots have an older style and come with a large storage drawer under the bed, which is perfect for clothes, toys blankets, baby essentials.

This is a great option if space is an issue, but you will have to purchase a drawer on your own. You may have to purchase a separate mattress and bedding, as oval sheets and mattresses do not come with the cot.

This sleigh cot from Stokke is a stunning example of Scandi-style at its best and has a huge under-bed storage drawer that's great to keep all the baby's essentials out of view but still within reach. Our panel of experts found it easy to put together, Best Crib thanks to the alphabetically labeled parts and clear instructions. It's suitable for babies from birth and can be converted into a toddler bed when your child is ready, meaning it's good value too.