How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby
If you are expecting your first child 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.
Our top pick is this simple yet stylish cot from John Lewis' Anyday range. It comes with three mattress height positions, teething rails, and a storage drawer. It is also easy to assemble, with clear instructions.
Comfort
The best cot bed will keep infants comfortable and warm. Look for a soft, comfortable fabric. Also, make sure that the mattress is fitted snugly to prevent any gaps which could create the risk of suffocation. There are many 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.
No matter if you choose a conventional cot or a convertible the mattress is essential to ease of use. It must provide the right support and promote a healthy posture. The slats need to be securely attached and not sliding. The slats need to be securely connected to the frame so that your child does not be caught when they move in their sleep.
If you're not sure which mattress to buy, ask your family members or friends or look up online reviews for recommendations. Choose breathable mattresses, as they help you regulate your body temperature and less likely to harbor bacteria.
There are a variety of styles to pick from that include traditional sleighs with elaborate details and sleek, modern designs. Some are painted in bright primary colours to make your child feel happy and cheerful when they awake.
There are a lot of cots that have a drawer underneath 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.
For extra peace of mind, look for a cot that meets the strict UK safety standards and can easily convert into an infant bed when the time is appropriate. This information can be found in the description of the product and the key specifications.
Safety
A secure sleeping space is a must and a major aspect to consider when choosing a bed. Make sure the mattress fits snugly, with no gap between it and the cot's bed's sides or ends (big gaps can restrict your child's head or arms). Verify that the mattress is not too firm and thin. Thick mattresses could increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies offer a range of mattresses, from simple foam to natural materials for allergy sufferers and some even contain anti-microbial treatments. 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 down when an adult is present in the room. This can prevent accidental releases. If visit the next internet site has a solid end, avoid placing it against the wall because it will block airflow and could cause death in the coffin. According to the most recent research, cots with slatted edges could be safer as they allow for greater airflow.
If your cot is set on one side, choose it. It's the most secure choice for your baby as they start to crawl and pull themselves upward. Once your child is standing and climbing, it is a sign that they're ready to transition into the junior bed.
Some cots come with an option that allows the base to be raised to three different levels. This is a great security measure that allows your child's cot to expand with the child. Some cots come with adjustable footplates that are perfect for toddlers who want to stand up.
When you place your child's cot, make sure there are no visible hazards. It should be placed away from heaters and power points. Also be sure to keep it away from windows, curtains, and blind cords. They all could pose a strangulation risk. When purchasing second-hand furniture, or heirlooms, make sure to check for choking hazards such as stickers and transfers. These can peel off and cause danger.
If you're not sure how to safely use your cot, consult other parents for help or go to a local NCT New Baby class. If your cot has an instruction manual, read it carefully before using it, and be sure to follow the safety-use guidelines carefully.
Style
With its stunning sleigh design, this gorgeous cot bed will look amazing in your nursery. The panel was impressed by the combination of natural wood and white and the clever features such as under-bed storage drawers that can hold everything needed by babies, such as bedding, nappies, and a huge selection of baby clothes. It's also simple to construct, with clear instructions and separate screws for each section. It can also be transformed into a toddler's desk and bed as your child gets older (see the product description for more details).
The rails for teething are among our most loved features. They stop your baby from hitting their head on the crib's side or any other protruding part of the crib, such as the corner post or handle. They also stop them from chewing on the wood, and prevent them from suffocating. The cot also has a drop-side to make it easier for you to access your newborn. We love that it can be converted into an infant bed, and that it is sturdy enough to last up to four years. It also met strict UK safety standards. You can find these in the main specifications below each product.
Cot beds can be transformed into toddler beds in the event that your child is old enough. This lets you not have to buy an entirely new bed when your child is ready to go up. However, they are pricier upfront than the standard crib.
If your nursery is very small, a crib may be the best choice for you since it is smaller and occupies less space, but if your child is likely to spend most of the time in their parents' room or you're looking for a more durable bed, consider a crib.
If a cot does not meet the UK safety standards as defined by BS EN 716 or BS 8509 (which covers the thickness of mattresses, the materials used, and other key elements in baby cot mattresses), it is unsafe for babies to sleep. The slats must not be too far apart to prevent your baby from falling off.
Stores
No matter if you're a first-time parent or a seasoned one the amount of things a baby needs is staggering. Baby Crib is why it's crucial to consider storage options when selecting the cot bed. Some cots have additional storage options, like drawers beneath the bed or a top changer (available separately). Some cots are able to be converted into a toddler bed or small single beds to expand their use.
Some cot beds can be transformed into a daybed, as seen 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 involves the removal of a side panel. This allows parents to save money on a separate bed.
Some cot beds have a hanging rail that can be used to hang muslins, dummies and other small things. This allows you to keep everything organised tidy and neat and also looks great. The ease of access to these items makes it easier for parents when feeding their child.
A teething rail is another important feature that's included in some cots. This will prevent your child from chewing on the wooden cot, which can cause irritation. Some cots are designed in an older style and include a large under-bed storage drawer which is ideal to store blankets, toys, clothes and other baby necessities.
While this is a great option if you're in a tight space, you should remember that you will need to buy a separate extra drawer. You may also need to purchase a different mattress and bedding as sheets and mattresses that are oval aren't usually included in the cot.
This sleigh cot bed from Stokke is a stunning example of Scandi-style in its finest and has a huge under-bed storage drawer that's great to keep all the baby necessities out of sight but easily reachable. The alphabetically labeled pieces and clear instructions made it simple to assemble for our panel. It is suitable for babies from birth and can be converted into a toddler's bed when your child's ready.