How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby
When you are expecting a baby it is essential to select a cot which will provide safety and security for your baby. Look for a cot that has fixed sides instead of drop-sides. This will comply with UK safety standards.
Our top choice is this simple but stylish cot from John Lewis' Anyday range. It comes with three mattress positions, teething rails and storage drawers. It is also simple to put together, and comes 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 create the risk of suffocation. There are many types of mattresses available - coils springs, foam, and even natural materials for allergy sufferers. Do your research to find the most suitable one for your child.
No matter if you select a convertible or standard cot, the key to comfort is a mattress of high-quality that is supportive and encourages healthy posture. The slats must be firmly attached, and not sliding. The slats should also be firmly attached 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 buy, consult friends and family or check online reviews for recommendations. Look for ones that are ventilated, as they'll aid in maintain temperature and are less likely to be a home for bacteria.
There are many styles to pick from that include traditional sleighs with ornate details and sleek, modern designs. Some are painted in vibrant primary colors to make your child feel cheerful and cheerful as they wake up.
The majority of cots have a drawer for storage underneath teething rails to prevent your child from chewing the sides of the cot, and height bases that can be adjusted to accommodate the growth of your baby. You can also purchase a drop-side for babies who aren't tall enough or suffer from medical conditions that make it difficult to bend over.
Find linked resource site that is in compliance with the strict UK safety standards and is able to be easily transformed into a toddler's bed when it's time. Look for this information in the description or in the key specifications.
Safety
A safe and secure sleeping environment is an essential aspect to consider when choosing a cot. Make sure the mattress is snug and has no gap between it and the cot's bed's sides or ends (big gaps can restrict your child's head or arms). Check that the mattress is firm and thin. Mattresses that are thick can increase the risk of SIDS. There are many companies that offer mattresses made of various materials, from foam to natural materials that are good for those suffering from allergies. Some even have an anti-microbial treatment. If your crib has an inclined side, make sure that it is in the up position and secured.
Drop sides should only be allowed to go down when an adult is present in the room. This prevents accidental release. If your coffin has a solid edge do not place it against the wall because it can block airflow and may contribute to coffin death. Recent research suggests that slatted edges could be safer since they allow more airflow.
If your cot is set on one side, choose it. It's the most secure option for your child when they begin to crawl and pull themselves up. If your child is climbing with confidence 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 in order to grow with your child which is extremely useful and is a safety measure. Some cots have footplates that can be adjusted to suit for toddlers who want to stand up.
When placing your child's cot, make sure there aren't any obvious dangers. It should be placed away from power and heater points. Also be sure to keep it away from windows, curtains and blind cords. All of these could present a strangulation threat. When buying second-hand furniture or heirlooms to look for any choking hazards such as stickers and transfers. These can peel off and cause danger.
If you are unsure what you should do to use your cot, ask other parents for advice or take part in a local NCT New Baby class. If your cot comes with a manual, make sure you read it before using it and follow all the directions.
Style
This gorgeous cot bed with its sleigh design will look stunning in your nursery. The panel was impressed by the mix of natural and white wood, as well as the clever features such as under-bed storage drawers that can hold everything essential for babies, including bedding, nappies and an impressive array of baby clothes. It's also simple to construct, with clear instructions and screws for each section. It can also be transformed into a toddler's desk and bed when your child gets older (see the product description for more information).
The rails for teething are among our most loved features. They keep your child from hitting their head on the crib's side or any other protruding part of the crib, such as the handle or corner post. They also stop them from chewing the wood and preventing them from suffocating. The cot also has an opening that can be dropped to make it easier for access to your baby. We appreciate that it is able to be converted into an infant bed, and that it is sturdy enough to last for up to four years. It also meets the strict UK safety standards, which can be found in the specifications that are listed under each product.
Cot beds are generally bigger than cribs and can be transformed into toddler beds when your child is ready, allowing you to avoid purchasing a bed until they're ready to transition. However, they can be pricier upfront than a crib that is standard.
If your nursery is very small, a crib may be the best option for you since it is smaller and takes up less space, but if your baby is likely to spend most of the time in their parents' rooms or you'd like a more long-lasting 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 outlined in BS EN 716 and BS 8509, which covers mattresses' thicknesses, materials, and other key elements of baby cot mattresses. The slats must not be too far apart to prevent your child from falling out.
Stores
Whether you're a first-time parent or an experienced one, the amount of stuff that a baby requires is overwhelming. This is why it's essential to think about the storage options when you choose the crib bed. A number of cots have additional storage solutions available such as under-bed drawers or a top changer (available separately). Some can be transformed into a toddler or small single bed, extending their use for a longer time.
Some cot beds can be converted into a daybed like this one 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 involves the removal of one side panel. This also allows parents to save money on a separate bed.
Some cot beds have hanging rails that can be used to hang muslins, dolls and other small objects. This allows you to keep everything organised tidy, neat and tidy and also looks great. Being able to access these items will make it much easier for parents to feed their infant.
A teething rail is a desired feature that is found in some cots. This will help stop your child from chewing on the wood that could cause irritation. Some cots have a more traditional design and come with a large storage drawer beneath the bed, which is perfect for toys, clothes, blankets and other baby essentials.
This is a great choice if space is an issue however, you will need to purchase a drawer separately. You may have to purchase an additional mattress and bedding since oval mattresses and sheets do not come with the cot.
This sleigh cot from Stokke is a beautiful example of Scandi-style in its finest and comes with a massive under-bed storage drawer that's perfect for keeping all those baby essentials out of sight but easily reachable. The alphabetically labeled pieces and clear instructions made it simple to put together for our panel. It's suitable for infants from birth and can be made into a toddler's bed when your child is ready.