10 Top Mobile Apps For Cot Beds
How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby
If you're expecting a baby it is essential to select a cot that's safe and secure for your baby. Find a cot with fixed sides (rather than drop-sides) that are in line with strict UK safety standards.
Our top pick is this simple yet stylish coffin from John Lewis' Anyday range. It comes with three mattress positions, teething bars and storage drawers. It is also easy to assemble, with clear instructions.
Comfort
The best cot beds will keep children warm and cozy. Choose a soft, breathable fabric and make sure the mattress is snug to avoid any gaps, which could pose the risk of suffocation. There are infant cot bed of mattresses available - coils springs, foam, and natural materials for allergy-sufferers. Do your research to find the ideal mattress for your child.
Whether you opt for an ordinary or convertible cot, the most important thing to ensure comfort is a good-quality mattress that provides proper support and promotes a healthy posture. The slats should also be securely attached and not sagging. The slats must be secured to the frame so that your little one doesn't get trapped in them while moving during sleep.
If you're not sure what mattress to purchase, talk to your family and friends or consult online reviews for recommendations. Choose mattresses that are breathable, as they can help you regulate your body temperature and are less likely to be a breeding ground for bacteria.
When it comes to style there's a variety of styles of styles, from traditional sleigh designs with ornate detailing to sleek, modern designs. Some are painted in vibrant primary colors to make your child feel happy and happy when they wake up.
Most cots come with a drawer for storage underneath teething rails to prevent your child from chewing on the sides of the cot, and adjustable height bases to accommodate baby's growth. You can also purchase an extra drop-side for babies that aren't big or have health issues that make it difficult to bend over.
To ensure your peace of mind, look for a cot that is compliant with the stringent UK safety standards and can easily transform into an infant bed when the time is appropriate. Look for this information in the product description or in the specifications.
Safety
A safe and secure sleeping environment is a must and a major factor when selecting a cot. The mattress should be snugly fitted and there should be no gaps between the mattress and the edges or sides of the cot or cot-bed (large gaps can trap the child's arms or head). Verify that the mattress is firm and thin. Thicker mattresses aren't recommended because they can increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies sell mattresses in different materials from foam to natural materials that are suitable for those suffering from allergies. Some even have an anti-microbial treatment. If your cot has a drop side, ensure it is in the upward position and secured.
A drop side should only be allowed to drop only if an adult is present - to prevent accidental releases. If your coffin has a solid bottom, avoid placing it against the wall because this will restrict airflow and may contribute to the death of a coffin. The latest research suggests that slatted ends could be safer since they permit more airflow.
If your cot is set on one side, choose it. It will be the safest option for your baby as they start to crawl and pull themselves up. When your child is climbing with confidence and standing, it's time to upgrade to a junior bed.
Some cots have features that allow the base can be raised to three different levels, so that it will increase with your child's growth This is extremely useful and is a safety measure. Some cots have footplates that are adjustable, which is great for toddlers who want to stand up in their bed.
When placing your child's cot, make sure there aren't any visible dangers. It should be put away from heaters and power points. Also, keep it away from windows, curtains, and blind cords. They all could create strangulation risks. When buying second-hand furniture or heirlooms, be sure to look for any dangers to your child's health such as stickers and transfers. They can come off and pose a danger.
If you're unsure of how to use your cot safely, ask other parents or attend a local NCT New Baby course for support and advice. If your cot has an instruction manual, read it carefully before you start using it, and follow the safety guidelines closely.
Style
This gorgeous cot bed with its sleigh design will look fantastic in your nursery. The panel was impressed with the mix of natural wood and white, as well as the clever features like drawers under the bed for everything essential for babies, including bedding, nappies, and a huge selection of baby clothes. It's also a breeze to put together, with concise instructions and separate sets of screws for each section. What's more, it can be transformed into a bed for toddlers and a desk when your child gets older (see the product description for more details).
One of our favourite features are the teething rails which protect your baby from bumping their head on the cot's side or any protruding part of the cot, such as handles or a corner post. They can also stop them from chewing on the wood, preventing them from being in danger of being suffocated. The cot also has a drop-side to allow easier access to your newborn. We love that it can be converted into a toddler bed, and that it's built to last for up to four years. It also met the strict UK safety standards. These are listed in the main specifications below each product.
Cot beds can be transformed into toddler beds if your child is old enough. This lets you avoid buying a new bed when your child's ready to go up. However, they are more expensive upfront than the crib that is standard.
If your nursery is small, a crib may be the best option for you since it is smaller and takes up less space. However, if your child is likely to spend much of their time in their parents' room or you'd like a more long-lasting bed, you should consider a cot.
If a cot doesn't meet the UK safety standards as defined by BS EN 716 or BS 8509 (which covers mattress thicknesses, materials, and other important elements in baby mattresses for cots), it is unsafe for babies to sleep. The slats should not be too far apart to prevent your baby from falling out.
Stores
Whether you're a first-time parent or an experienced one the amount of items that a baby requires is overwhelming. It's crucial to think about storage when choosing a cot-bed. Some cots come with additional storage options, including drawers under the bed or a coordinating top changer (available separately). Some cots are able to be converted into toddler beds or a smaller single bed to extend their usage.
Some cot beds can be transformed into a daybed like this one on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is a great option for those who prefer a more flexible design. The conversion is easy and only requires the removal of ONE side panel. This lets parents save on the cost of an additional bed.
A number of cot beds have hanging rails that can be used to store muslins, dolls and other small objects. This helps keep everything neat, tidy and organized. It also looks great. Being able to access these items makes it easier for parents to feed their child.
Another feature worth looking out for is a teething rail that comes with some cots. This will prevent your child from chewing on the wooden cot, which can cause irritation. Some cots have a more traditional design and include a large storage drawer under the bed. It is perfect for toys, clothes blankets, baby essentials.
While this is a great option if you're in a tight space, it's important to remember that you will have to purchase an extra for the drawer. You may need to buy a separate mattress and bedding since oval sheets and mattresses don't come with the cot.
This sleigh-style cot bed stunning illustration of Scandi style at its best. It has a spacious under-bed storage area that is ideal for keeping all baby essentials out of sight but still easily accessible. The alphabetically labeled pieces and clear instructions made it simple to assemble for our panel. It's suitable for infants as young as birth, and can be made into a toddler's crib when your child is ready.