How to Choose the best cot beds (Read Beauty Wellness Trends) for Your Baby
If you're expecting a Baby Cot Bed it's crucial to select the right cot that is secure and safe for your baby. Find a cot which has fixed sides, rather than drop-sides. This will meet UK safety standards.
Our top pick is this basic but stylish coffin from John Lewis' Anyday range. It has three mattress positions, teething bars, and a storage drawer. It's also easy to assemble with clear instructions.
Comfort
The Best cot for newborn cot beds keep baby's warm and comfortable. Look for a soft, breathable fabric and make sure the mattress fits snugly to avoid any gaps, which could cause a suffocation risk. There are a variety of mattresses available: foam, coils springs, and natural materials for allergy sufferers. Do your research to determine the best one for your child.
No matter if you select an ordinary or convertible cot, the primary factor to satisfaction is a high-quality mattress that provides proper support and promotes healthy posture. The slats need to be firmly attached, and not sliding. The slats must also be firmly fixed to the frame, to ensure that your child does not become caught in the movement in their sleep.
Ask your friends and family for recommendations or browse online reviews. Make sure you choose a mattress that's air-conditioned, as they'll help regulate temperature and are less likely to harbor bacteria.
There are a myriad of styles to choose from that include traditional sleighs with elaborate details and sleek, modern designs. Some are painted in bright primary colours to make your child feel cheerful and cheerful when they wake up.
You'll find most cots have drawers underneath to store items and teething rails to guard your child from chewing on the side of the cot, and adjustable height bases to accommodate baby's growth. You can also purchase a drop-side for babies who aren't tall enough or have medical conditions that make it difficult to bend over.
For added peace of mind, search for a cot that is compliant with the stringent UK safety standards and can easily convert into a toddler bed when the time is appropriate. This information is available in the product description as well as key specifications.
Safety
A secure sleeping space is a must and a major factor when selecting a crib. The mattress should fit snugly and there should be no gaps between the mattress and the edges or sides of the cot or cot-bed (large gaps can hold the child's arms and head). Verify that the mattress is not too firm and thin. Thick mattresses could increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies offer mattresses in different materials, from foam to natural materials that are great for allergy sufferers. Some even have an anti-microbial treatment. If your crib has a drop side, ensure that it is in the up position and secured.
A drop side should only be allowed to fall only if an adult is present - this prevents accidental release. Avoid placing your cot on a wall if it has an end that is solid. This could restrict airflow, which can lead to coffin death. According to the most recent research, cots with slatted ends may be safer because they allow for more airflow.
If your cot is set on one side, then you can choose it. It will be the most secure choice for your baby when they start to crawl and then pull themselves upwards. When your child is confidently standing and climbing, this is a sign that they're ready to transition into a junior bed.
Some cots come with a feature that allows the base to be raised up to three levels. This is a wonderful security feature that allows the cot of your child to grow with the child. Some cots also have footplates that are adjustable, which is great for toddlers who want to sit up in their beds.
If you are putting your child in their cot, ensure that there isn't any obvious danger - it should be away from heaters or power points, windows, blind cords and curtains (these pose a strangulation risk). If you are buying second-hand furniture or heirlooms to check for potential hazards to your child's safety such as labels and transfers. These can peel off and create a risk.
If you're unsure about how to use your cot safely consult other parents or visit an local NCT New Baby course for support and advice. If your cot comes with a guide, make sure you go through it prior to using it and follow all the instructions.
Style
This stunning cot bed with its sleigh design will look fantastic in your nursery. Our panel was impressed by the mix of white and natural pine, and its innovative features, like under-bed storage drawers that can hold all the baby necessities like bedding, nappies and a dazzling variety of baby outfits. It's also simple to put together with clear instructions and separate packs of screws for each section. It could also be transformed into a toddler's desk and bed as your child gets older (see product description for more information).
The rails for teething are among our most loved features. They prevent your baby from hitting their head on the crib's side or any protruding part of the crib, such as the corner post or handle. They also prevent them from chewing the wood, and prevent them from being suffocated. There's also a drop-side to make it easier for you to get access to your baby. We appreciate that it is able to be converted to an infant bed, and that it is sturdy enough to last for four years. It also complies with the stringent UK safety standards, which you'll find in the main specifications beneath each product.
Mini Cot Bed beds can be turned into toddler beds when your child is old enough. This allows you to not have to buy an entirely new bed when your child's ready to move up. However, they may be more expensive than the crib that is standard.
If your nursery is small, you may think about the possibility of a crib. It is smaller and requires less space. However it is recommended to consider a cot if you are planning to spend a significant portion of your baby's time in your room or you need a bed that will last longer, you should opt for a cot.
A cot isn't safe for babies to sleep in if it doesn't meet the strict UK safety standards outlined in BS EN 716 and BS 8509, which deals with the thickness of mattresses, the materials used and other essential elements of cot mattresses for babies. The slats shouldn't be too far apart to stop your child from falling out.
Storage
No matter if you're a first-time parent or a seasoned one, the amount of stuff the baby cots online will require is immense. This is the reason it's important to consider the storage options when you choose the right cot bed. Some cots come with additional storage options, such as drawers beneath the bed or a coordinating top changer (available separately). Some cots can be converted into a toddler bed or small single beds to expand their use.
Some cots are able to be converted into day beds, like the one shown here on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is a great option for those who prefer an unstructured design since the process of conversion is simple and requires just the removal of one side panel. This will allow parents to save money on an additional bed.
A number of cheap cot bed beds have a hanging rail which can be used to store muslins, dummies and other small items. This makes everything neat, tidy and organised. It also looks beautiful. These items are easily accessible to parents, making it easier for them to feed their baby.
Another desirable feature to look for is a toothing rail which is included with cots. This can help to prevent your little one chewing on the wood, which could cause them irritation. Some cots are designed with an older style and come with a large drawer under the bed that is ideal to store blankets, toys clothing, and other baby essentials.
While this is a great idea if you're short on space, you must remember that you will have to purchase an additional drawer. You may also need to buy a new mattress and bedding as sheets and mattresses that are oval aren't typically included in the cot.
This sleigh-style cot is stunning illustration of Scandi style at its finest. It features a huge under-bed storage area that is ideal for keeping all baby essentials away from view but easily accessible. The alphabetically labeled pieces and clear instructions made it simple to put together for our panel. It's suitable for babies as young as birth, and can be made into a toddler's crib when your child is ready.