How to Choose the best crib for newborn Cot Beds for Your Baby
If you're expecting a baby it's crucial to select a cot that's secure and safe for your child. Choose a cot that has fixed sides rather than drop-sides. This will be in line with UK safety standards.
This slick and stylish crib is our top choice from the Anyday range by John Lewis. It comes with three mattress positions, teething bars and storage drawers. It's also easy to set up with clear instructions.
Comfort
The best cot bed keeps infants comfortable and warm. Look for a soft and airy fabric, and ensure that the mattress is fitted snugly to avoid any gaps, which could cause a suffocation risk. There are a variety of mattresses available on the market - foam, coil springs and other natural materials suitable for allergy sufferers - so do your research and choose the right one for your Baby Cots Online's needs.
If you choose an ordinary or convertible cot, the primary factor to comfort is a mattress of high-quality that provides proper support and promotes a healthy posture. The same applies to the slats. They should be securely attached and not sagging or bent. The slats need to be securely fixed to the frame, to ensure that your child will not be caught when they move in their sleep.
If you're not sure what mattress to purchase, talk to your family members or friends or look up online reviews for recommendations. Look for ones that are breathable, as they'll help maintain temperature and are less likely to be a home for bacteria.
In terms of style there's a variety of styles from classic sleigh styles with intricate details to sleek, contemporary designs. Some are decorated with bright primary colors to make your child feel cheerful and happy when they awake.
Most cots come with an under-bed drawer for storage, teething rails to protect your child from chewing on the side of the cot and adjustable height bases for baby growth. You can also buy a drop-side for infants who aren't tall enough or suffer from health issues that make it difficult for them to bend over.
To ensure your security, opt for a cot that is compliant with the stringent UK safety standards and will easily convert into a toddler bed when the time is right. This information is available in the product description and key specifications.
Safety
When choosing a cot the safety of your child's sleep should be the top priority. Make sure that the mattress fits snugly, with 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 solid and thin - more thick mattresses aren't recommended since they could increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies offer a range of mattresses, from simple foam to natural materials for allergy sufferers. Some come with anti-microbial treatment. If your cot has drop-sides, make sure it is locked and in the upward position.
A drop side should be allowed to go down only if an adult is present; this will prevent accidental releases. If your coffin has a solid edge be sure to avoid placing it against the wall as it will block airflow and can cause death in the coffin. Recent research suggests that slatted ends could be safer as they allow more airflow.
If your crib has a fixed edge, opt for this as it is the most secure option when your child starts to crawl and climb up. When your child is standing and climbing, this is a sign they're ready to move into a junior bed.
Some cots have a feature where the base can be raised to three different levels to allow it to grow with your child which is extremely practical and a great security measure. Some cots have adjustable footplates that are ideal for toddlers who like to stand up.
When putting your child's cot in the crib ensure there aren't any visible dangers. It should be put away from any heaters or power points. Also be sure to keep it away from windows, curtains, and blind cords. All of these could pose a strangulation risk. If you're buying furniture from a secondhand store or an heirloom piece Be sure to check for potential dangers to your child's health such as stickers and transfers that can be removed and pose the risk of.
If you're unsure of how to use your cot in a safe manner you can ask other parents or visit a local NCT New Baby course for support and advice. If your cot has a manual, read it carefully before you begin using it, and be sure to follow the safety-use guidelines carefully.
Style
This stunning cot bed with its sleigh style will look amazing in your nursery. The panel was impressed with the mix of natural wood and white, as well as the clever features like under-bed storage drawers for everything essential for babies, including bedding, nappies and an impressive array of baby clothes. It's also simple to build, with clear instructions and separate screws for each section. It can also be transformed into a bed for toddlers and a desk when your child gets older (see the product's description for more details).
The teething rails are among our most loved features. They stop your child from hitting their head against the crib's side or any protruding portion of the crib, such as the corner post or handle. They also stop them from chewing on the wood, and prevent them from being suffocated. It also has a drop-side for easier access to your newborn. We appreciate that it is able to be converted into a toddler bed, and it's built to last for four years. It also complies with the stringent UK safety standards, which can be found in the key specs beneath each product.
Cot beds are typically larger than cribs and can be turned into toddler beds when your child is ready, allowing you to avoid purchasing a bed until they're ready to transition. They may cost more than cribs.
If your nursery is small, you may be considering a crib. It is smaller and requires less space. However, if you plan to spend a significant portion of your baby's time in your room or if you require a bed that lasts longer, you should consider a cot.
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 mattress thicknesses, materials and other essential elements of cot mattresses for baby. The slats shouldn't be too far apart, to ensure that your child doesn't fall off.
Storage
Whether you're a first-time parent or a veteran the amount of things the baby will require is immense. This is why it's crucial to think about storage options when selecting the cot bed. A number of cots have additional storage options, such as under-bed drawers or a coordinating top changer (available separately). Some cots and tots can be converted into a toddler bed or small single bed to increase their use.
Some cots can be transformed into day beds, as seen on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is a great option for those who prefer more flexible designs as the conversion process is simple and requires just the removal of a side panel. This allows parents to save money on a separate bed purchase.
A few cot beds for sale beds feature hanging rails that can be used to store muslins, dummies and other small items. This makes it easier to keep everything organized, neat and tidy and looks amazing. The ease of access to these items will make it easier for parents when feeding their infant.
A teething rail is an additional desired feature that is found in some cots. This will stop your child from chewing on the wooden cot which could cause irritation. Some cots are designed with more traditional designs and include a large under-bed storage drawer which is ideal for storing toys, blankets clothes, and other baby essentials.
While this is a great option if you're short on space, it's important to keep in mind that you'll need to buy a separate extra drawer. It is also possible to buy a new mattress and bedding, as sheets and mattresses that are oval aren't usually included in the cot.
This sleigh cot bed by Stokke is a beautiful example of the Scandi-style at its finest and has a huge under-bed storage drawer that's great for keeping all those baby essentials out of sight but still within reach. Our panel was able to find it easy to put together, thanks to alphabetically labelled parts and clear instructions. It's suitable for babies from birth and can be made into a toddler bed once your child is ready, meaning it's good cribs value too.