How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby
When you are expecting your first child it is crucial to choose a cot that can provide security and safety for your baby. Look for a cot that has fixed sides instead of drop-sides. This will be in line with UK safety standards.
This minimalist, elegant cot sales is our top pick from the Anyday collection by John Lewis. It comes with three mattress positions, teething rails as well as a storage drawers. It's also simple to put together with clear instructions.
Comfort
The best infant cribs cot mattress keeps infants comfortable and warm. Look for a soft and breathable fabric and make sure the mattress is snug to prevent any gaps which could create the risk of suffocation. There are many mattresses available on the market - foam, coil springs and natural materials for allergy sufferers - so do your research and choose the one that is suitable for your baby's needs.
Whatever you decide to use, whether a standard cot or a convertible cot, a good mattress is crucial to ensure your comfort. It should provide proper support and encourage an ideal posture. The slats need to be secured and not sliding. The slats must also be secured to the frame so that your child isn't stuck in them while they move in their sleep.
If you're unsure of the mattress to buy, consult friends and family or check online reviews for suggestions. Make sure you choose a mattress that's breathable, as they'll help to regulate temperature and are less likely to harbour bacteria.
When it comes to style there's a variety of styles of styles, from traditional sleigh designs with ornate detailing to sleek, modern designs. Some are painted in vibrant primary colors to make your child feel joyful and cheerful when they awake.
You'll find most cots have a drawer underneath for storage and teething rails to guard your baby from chewing on the side of the cot and adjustable height bases to accommodate baby's growth. You can even purchase a drop side for petite babies or those who have medical conditions that make it difficult for them to bend over.
To ensure your security, opt for a cot that is compliant with the strict UK safety standards and can easily transform into an infant bed when the time is right. This information can be found in the product description as well as the specifications.
Safety
A safe and secure sleeping environment is an essential aspect to consider when choosing a bed. Make sure that the mattress is snug and has no gap between it and the cot's bed sides or ends (big gaps could restrict your child's head or arms). Make sure it's firm and thin. Thicker mattresses aren't advised because they can increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies offer mattresses in various materials, from foam to natural materials that are great for allergy sufferers. Some even come with an anti-microbial treatment. If your cot features a drop-side, make sure it is locked and in the upward position.
A drop side should only be allowed to drop only when an adult is present, this will prevent accidental release. If your coffin has a solid edge do not place it against the wall as this will restrict airflow and can cause death in the coffin. Recent research suggests that slatted ends could be safer since they permit more airflow.
If your cot is fixed to one side, you should choose it. It will be the most secure option for your baby when they begin to crawl and then pull themselves upwards. When your child is confidently climbing and standing, it's time to upgrade to a junior bed.
Some cots come with a feature where the base can be raised to three different levels, so that it will expand with your child - this is very useful and is a security measure. Other cots come with footplates that can be adjusted, which are great for toddlers who want to stand up in their bed.
When placing your child's cot be sure that there aren't any obvious dangers. It should be put away from any heaters or power points. Also, keep it away from windows, curtains, and blind cords. All of these could present a strangulation threat. If you're purchasing second-hand or heirloom furniture be sure to look for any hazards to choking such as stickers and transfers that can be removed and create danger.
If you're not sure what you should do to use your cot, consult other parents for advice or attend a local NCT New Baby class. If your cot comes with an instruction manual, read it carefully before you start using it, and be sure to follow the safety-use guidelines carefully.
Style
With its beautiful sleigh design This gorgeous crib will look stunning in your nursery. The panel was impressed with the combination of white and natural wood, as well as the innovative features like drawers under the bed for everything needed by babies, such as bedding, nappies and a wide selection of baby clothes. It is also easy to build, with clear instructions and screws for each section. It can also be transformed into a toddler desk or bed as your child gets older (see the product description for more information).
The rails for teething are one of our favorite features. They keep your baby from hitting their head on the crib's side or any protruding part of the crib, like the handle or corner post. They also prevent them from chewing the wood and preventing them from being suffocated. The cot also has drop-sides to make it easier for you to access your newborn. We love that it can be converted into an infant bed, and it's sturdy enough to last up to four years. It also complies with the stringent UK safety standards, which you'll find in the specifications that are listed under each product.
Cot beds are generally bigger than cribs and can be turned into toddler beds once your child is ready and you can avoid purchasing a new bed until they're ready to transition. However, they can be more expensive than a standard crib.
If your nursery is very small, a crib could be the best choice for you as it is smaller and occupies less space. However, should your baby be expected to spend a lot of time in their parents' rooms 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 as outlined in BS EN 716 and BS 8509, which covers mattress thicknesses, materials and other important elements of Baby Cot; Suggested Reading, mattresses. The slats must not be too far apart, to ensure your baby doesn't fall off.
Storage
The amount of baby gear you'll need is overwhelming whether you're a new parent or an experienced one. It's important to consider storage when selecting a cot. Some cots come with additional storage options, including drawers beneath 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 cots can be converted into day beds, like the one shown on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is a great option for those who prefer a more flexible design. The conversion is simple and requires only the removal of ONE side panel. This lets parents reduce the expense of an additional bed.
A few cot beds come with hanging rails that can be used to store muslins Dummies, and other small items. This allows you to keep everything organized tidy, neat and tidy - and it also looks great. Being able to access these items makes it much easier for parents when feeding their child.
A teething rail is an additional important feature that's included in some cots. This will stop your child from chewing on the cot's wooden structure, which can cause irritation. Some cots are designed in more traditional designs and have a huge under-bed storage drawer which is perfect to store blankets, toys, clothes and other baby necessities.
This is a great crib option if space is an issue however, you will need to purchase a drawer on your own. You may also need to purchase a different mattress and bedding since sheets and mattresses that are oval aren't usually included in the cot.
This sleigh cot from Stokke is a stunning example of Scandi-style at its best and comes with a massive under-bed storage drawer that's perfect for keeping all those baby necessities out of sight but easily reachable. The alphabetically labeled components and clear instructions made it simple to assemble our panel. It is suitable for babies from birth and can be made into a toddler's crib when your child is ready.