How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby
When you are expecting a baby it is essential to choose a cot that will provide safety and security for your baby. Find a cot which has fixed sides, rather than drop-sides. This will be in line with UK safety standards.
This minimalist, stylish cot is our top choice from the Anyday range of John Lewis. It comes with three mattress height positions, teething rails and storage drawer. It is also easy to put together, and comes with clear instructions.
Comfort
The best cot mattress keeps infants comfortable and warm. Find a comfortable soft, soft fabric. Make sure the mattress is snug to prevent any gaps that could create a risk of suffocation. There are a range of mattresses on the market - foam, coil springs and natural materials for allergy sufferers, so do your research and choose the best one for your baby's requirements.
Whether you opt for a convertible or standard cot, the most important thing to ensure comfort is a mattress of high-quality that provides proper support and encourages healthy posture. The same is true for the slats. They should be secured and not bent or sagging. The slats should also be secured to the frame so that your child doesn't get stuck in them while they move in their sleep.
If you're unsure of the mattress to buy, ask your family members or friends or look up online reviews for suggestions. Choose a mattress that is air-conditioned, as they'll help maintain temperature and are less likely to be a home for bacteria.
There are a variety of styles to pick from that include traditional sleighs with elaborate details and modern, sleek designs. Some are painted in vibrant 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 baby from chewing on the side of the cot and adjustable height bases for baby growth. You can also buy a drop-side for babies who aren't tall enough or suffer from medical conditions that make it hard to bend over.
Find a cot that is in compliance with the strict UK safety standards and can easily be converted into a toddler's bed when it's time. This information is available in the product description and the key specifications.
Safety
A secure sleeping space is an essential factor when selecting a bed. The mattress should be able to 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). Make sure the mattress is firm and thin. Mattresses that are thick can increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies sell mattresses in different materials, from foam to natural materials that are good for those suffering from allergies. Some have anti-microbial treatment. If your cot features a drop-side, make sure it is locked and in the upward position.
Drop sides should only be allowed to go to fall when an adult is in the room. This will prevent accidental releases. Avoid placing your cot against walls if it has a solid end. This can limit airflow, which could lead to coffin death. According to the most recent research, cots with slatted edges may be safer because they permit more airflow.
If your crib has a fixed side you should choose this because it will be safest when your child begins to crawl and climb up. If your child is confidently climbing and standing, it's time to upgrade to a junior bed.
Some cots have an option where the base can be raised to three different heights in order to expand with your child This is extremely useful and is a security measure. 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, check that there is no obvious danger - it must be away from heat sources or power points, windows, blind cords and curtains (these are a strangulation hazard). If you're purchasing furniture from a secondhand store or an heirloom piece Be sure to check for potential hazards to choking such as stickers and transfers that may peel off and present the risk of.
If you're unsure of how to safely use your cot, consult other parents for advice or go to an local NCT New Baby class. If your cot has a manual, read it carefully before you start 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 with the mix of white and natural wood, as well as the innovative features like under-bed storage drawers for everything needed by babies, such as 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 could also be transformed into a toddler desk or bed when your child gets older (see product description for more details).
The teething rails are among our most loved features. cots 4 tots stop your child from hitting their head on the side of the crib or any protruding part of the crib, such as the handle or corner post. They also stop them from chewing the wood, and prevent them from being suffocated. It also has an opening that can be dropped to make it easier for access to your infant. We love that the cot can be transformed into a toddler bed, and that it's sturdy enough to last for four years. It also met the strict UK safety standards, which are listed in the main specifications beneath each product.
Cot beds are generally bigger than cribs and can be transformed into toddler beds once your child is ready, allowing you to avoid purchasing a new bed until they're ready to move on. However, they can be pricier upfront than the crib that is standard.
If your nursery is small, you may want to consider a crib. It is smaller and takes less space. However it is recommended to consider a cot if you are planning to spend a lot of your baby's time in the room or if you require a bed that lasts longer, you should opt for a cot.
A crib isn't safe 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 deals with mattress thicknesses, materials and other key elements of cot mattresses for babies. The slats must not be too wide apart to stop your baby from falling off.
Storage
No matter if you're a first-time parent or a veteran the amount of things a baby needs is staggering. It's important to consider storage when choosing a cot-bed. There are a variety of cots that have additional storage solutions available such as under-bed drawers or a top changer (available separately). Certain cots can be transformed into a toddler bed or small single bed to increase their usage.
Some cots can be converted into day beds, like the one shown here on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is an ideal option for those who prefer more flexible designs as the conversion process is simple and involves the removal of one side panel. This allows parents to save money on the purchase of a separate bed.
A variety of cot beds come with a hanging rail which can be used to store muslins, dolls and other small objects. This keeps everything neat, tidy and organised. It also looks great. The ease of access to these items makes it much easier for parents to feed their child.
Another feature worth looking out for is a teething rail that comes in a few cots. This will help keep your baby from chewing on the wood which could cause irritation. Some cots come with a more traditional design and have a huge storage drawer underneath the bed that is ideal for toys, clothes blankets, and other baby necessities.
This is a great solution for those who have limited space but you'll need to purchase a drawer on your own. You might need to purchase an additional mattress and bedding because oval sheets and mattresses do not come with the cot.
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 ideal to keep baby essentials out of sight but within easy reach. The alphabetically labeled components and clear instructions made it simple to put together for our panel. It's suitable for babies from birth and can be converted into a toddler bed when your child is ready. This means it's good value too.