10 Reasons Why People Hate Cot Beds
How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby
If you are expecting a baby it is crucial to select a cot which will ensure safety and security for your baby. Choose a cot that has fixed sides (rather than drop-sides), which comply with strict UK safety standards.
Our top choice is this simple but stylish coffin from John Lewis' Anyday range. It comes with three mattress height positions, teething rails as well as a storage drawers. It's also easy to assemble with clear instructions.
Comfort
The most comfortable cot beds keep children warm and cozy. Look for a breathable, soft fabric. Make sure the mattress is fitted snugly to eliminate any gaps that could pose the danger of the mattress becoming suffocated. There are a variety of mattresses on the market - foam, coil springs and natural materials for allergy sufferers. So do your research and choose the one that is suitable for your baby's requirements.
Whether you opt for a standard or convertible cot, the most important thing to ensure comfort is a mattress of high-quality that provides proper support and encourages healthy posture. best cots for newborns need to be firmly attached, and not sliding. The slats must also be firmly attached to the frame to ensure that your child will not be caught when they move during sleep.
If you're unsure of the mattress to buy, ask friends and family or check online reviews for suggestions. Make sure you choose a mattress that's ventilated, as they'll aid in regulate temperature and are less likely to be a home for bacteria.
There are a myriad of styles to pick from that include traditional sleighs with intricate details and modern, sleek designs. Some are painted in bright primary colours to make your child feel cheerful and happy when they awake.
There are a lot of cots that have drawers underneath to store items, teething rails to protect your baby from chewing on the side of the cot, as well as adjustable height bases for baby growth. You can even purchase a drop side for petite babies or those who have health issues that make it difficult for them to bend over.
For extra peace of mind, look 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 found in the product description and the key specifications.
Safety
A safe sleeping environment is an essential factor when selecting a crib. The mattress should fit snugly and there shouldn't be gaps between the mattress and the ends or sides of the cot or cot-bed (large gaps can restrict the child's arms or head). Make sure the mattress is firm and thin. Mattresses that are too thick could increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies sell mattresses in different materials, from foam to natural materials that are great for allergy sufferers. Some even have an anti-microbial treatment. If your cot has a drop side, ensure it is in the up position and secured.
Drop sides should only be allowed to go down only when an adult is present in the room. This prevents accidental releases. Avoid placing your cot against walls if it has a solid end. This will restrict airflow, which can cause death in the coffin. According to the latest research, cots with slatted edges are safer since they allow for more airflow.
If your cot has a fixed side you should choose this because it's safer when your baby starts to crawl and then 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 features that allow the base can be raised to three different levels to allow it to increase with your child's growth which is extremely practical and a great security measure. Some cots feature adjustable footplates that are perfect for toddlers who love to stand up.
When placing your child's cot ensure there aren't any visible dangers. It should be kept away from power and heater points. Also make sure it is away from windows, curtains, and blind cords. These can all present a strangulation threat. If you are buying second-hand furniture or heirlooms, make sure to look for any choking hazards such as stickers and transfers. They may peel off and create a risk.
If you're unsure of how to safely use your cot, ask other parents for help or take part in an local NCT New Baby class. If your cot comes with a guide be sure to go through it before using it and follow the instructions.
cots to tots with its sleigh style will look fantastic in your nursery. Our panel loved the combination of natural and white pine, as well as its clever features, such as under-bed storage drawers to keep everything necessary for babies, including nappies, bedding and a dazzling variety of baby outfits. It's also easy to assemble, with concise instructions and separate sets of screws for each section. What's more, it can be transformed into a toddler bed or desk when your baby grows older (see the product's description for more details).
The rails for teething are one of our favorite features. They prevent your baby from hitting their head against the side of the crib or any other protruding part of the crib, like the handle or corner post. They also stop children from chewing on the wood and preventing 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 an infant bed, and that it's built to last up to four years. It also meets the strict UK safety standards, which you'll find in the main specifications beneath each product.
Cot beds can be transformed into toddler beds in the event that your child is old enough. This lets you avoid purchasing a new bed when your child is ready to make the leap. They can be more expensive than cribs.
If your nursery is small, you might think about a crib. It is smaller and requires less space. However should you be planning to spend a significant portion of your baby's time in your room or if you require a bed that lasts longer, you should opt for a cot.
If a cot does not meet the UK safety standards outlined by BS EN 716 or BS 8509 (which covers mattress thicknesses, materials and other essential elements of baby mattress cots) it is not safe for babies to sleep. The slats shouldn't be too far apart to prevent your baby from falling out.
Stores
No matter if you're a first-time parent or an experienced one the amount of items a baby needs is staggering. It is important to think about storage when you choose a cot. There are a variety of cots that have additional storage options such as drawers in the under-bed or a top changer (available separately). Some cots are able to be converted into an infant bed or a small single beds to expand their usage.
Some cots are able to be converted into day beds, as seen on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is an excellent option for those who prefer an edgier design. The conversion is easy and requires only the removal of a single side panel. This will allow parents to save on the cost of a separate bed.
A few cot beds feature a hanging rail which can be used to store muslins, dummies and other small items. This helps to keep everything organized, neat and tidy - and it also looks amazing. Having easy access to these items makes it much easier for parents to feed their child.
Another desirable feature to look out for is a teething rail that comes with cots. This will stop your child from chewing on the wooden cot which can cause irritation. Some cots are designed in a more traditional style and include a large drawer under the bed that is perfect to store blankets, toys clothes, and other baby essentials.
While this is a great idea for when you're in a tight space, you must be aware that you'll have to purchase an additional drawer. You may have to purchase bedding and a mattress separately because oval sheets and mattresses don't come with the cot.
This sleigh-style cot bed is an exquisite example of Scandi style at its best. It features a huge under-bed storage compartment that's ideal for keeping all baby essentials away from view but easily accessible. Our panel was able to find it easy to put together due to the alphabetically-labelled parts and clear instructions. It's suitable for babies as young as birth and can be made into a toddler bed when your child is ready, which means it's also a good value.