14 Questions You Might Be Uneasy To Ask Cot Beds
How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby
If you are expecting a child, it is important to choose a cot that will ensure safety and security for your baby. Find a cot which has fixed sides rather than drop-sides. This will meet UK safety standards.
This minimalist, elegant cot is our top pick from the Anyday range of John Lewis. It comes with three mattress positions, teething rails, and a storage drawers. It's also simple to put together with clear instructions.
Comfort
The best cot bed keeps infants comfortable and warm. Look for a soft and comfortable fabric. Also, make sure that the mattress is fitted snugly to avoid any gaps, which could cause the risk of suffocation. There are a range of mattresses available on the market - foam, coil springs and natural materials for allergy sufferers. So do your research before deciding on the one that is suitable for your baby's needs.
Whether you opt for a standard or convertible cot, the key to satisfaction is a high-quality mattress that provides proper support and promotes a healthy posture. This is also true for the slats. They should be secured and not bent or sagging. The slats must also be firmly attached to the frame so that your child does not get caught when they move in their sleep.
Ask your family and friends for recommendations, or read online reviews. Make sure you choose a mattress that's ventilated, as they'll aid in maintain temperature and are less likely to harbour bacteria.
When it comes to style, there's a wide choice from classic sleigh styles with ornate details to sleek, contemporary designs. Some are even painted in vibrant primary colours which is great for those who want their child to wake up feeling bright and cheerful!
You'll find most cots have an under-bed drawer for storage as well as teething rails that protect your baby from chewing on the side of the cot, as well as adjustable height bases for infant growth. You can even purchase a drop side for smaller babies or those who have medical conditions that make it difficult to bend over.
To ensure your peace of mind, search for a cot that is compliant with the strict UK safety standards and can easily convert into an infant bed when the time is appropriate. Find this information in the product description or in the specifications.
Safety
When choosing a cot an environment that is safe for sleeping should be the top priority. The mattress should be snugly fitted and there shouldn't be gaps between the mattress and the edges or sides of the cot or cot-bed (large gaps could hold the child's arms and head). Verify that the mattress is firm and thin. Thick mattresses can increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies offer mattresses in various materials, from foam to natural materials that are great for those suffering from allergies. Some even come with an anti-microbial treatment. If your cot has drop sides, make sure it is in the upward position and locked securely.
A drop side should only be allowed to fall only when an adult is present, this will prevent accidental release. If your cot has a solid end, avoid placing it against the wall since it will block airflow and can cause the death of a coffin. According to the most recent research, cots with slatted edges are safer since they permit more airflow.
If your crib has a fixed edge choose this option as it is the most secure option when your child starts to crawl and pull themselves up. When your child is confidently climbing and standing, it's time to move to a junior bed.
Some cots come with an option where the base can be raised to three different heights, so that it will grow with your child This is extremely convenient and an added security measure. Some cots also have adjustable footplates, which are ideal for toddlers who wish to stand up in their bed.
If you are putting your child in their cot, make sure that there is no visible danger. It must be kept away from heaters or power points, windows, blind cords and curtains (these can be strangulation hazards). If you're buying furniture from a secondhand store or an heirloom piece be sure to look for any hazards to choking such as stickers and transfer tapes that could peel off and present danger.
If you're unsure about how to use your cot safely you can ask parents around or go to the local NCT New Baby course for assistance and guidance. If your cot comes with a manual, read it carefully before you begin using it, and be sure to follow the safety guidelines closely.
Style
With its gorgeous sleigh style, this gorgeous cot bed will look amazing in your nursery. Our panel members loved the mix of natural and white pine, as well as its smart features, including drawers under the bed to store everything necessary for babies, including nappies, bedding and an en via ble variety of baby outfits. It's also simple to put together with clear instructions and separate sets of screws for each section. What's more, it can be converted into a bed for toddlers and a desk when your baby grows older (see the product's description for more details).
The rails for teething are among our top features. They keep your child from hitting their head against the crib's side or any protruding part of the crib, such as the handle or corner post. They also prevent children from chewing on the wood and preventing them from suffocating. It also features a drop-side to make it easier for you to access your newborn. We appreciate that the cot could be transformed into a toddler bed and that it's built to last for up to four years. It also complies with the stringent UK safety standards, which can be found in the key specs beneath each product.
Cot beds are usually larger than cribs and can be transformed into toddler beds once your child is ready and you can avoid purchasing a new bed at an age when they're ready to transition. However, they may be more expensive than a crib that is standard.
If your nursery isn't big enough, you might want to consider a crib. It is smaller and occupies less space. However should you be planning to spend a lot of your baby's time in your room or you need a bed that will last longer, you should opt for a cot.
If the cot you are using does not meet the UK safety standards set by BS EN 716 or BS 8509 (which refers to the thickness of mattresses, the materials used, and other important elements in baby cot mattresses) it is not safe for babies to sleep. The slats should not be too far apart to stop your baby from falling out.
Stores
No matter if you're a first-time parent or a veteran the amount of items a baby needs is staggering. It's important to consider storage when you choose a cot. Many cots come with additional storage solutions available like drawers under the bed or a coordinating cot top changer (available separately). Some can even be adapted into a toddler or small single bed, which can extend their usability for longer.
Some cot beds can be adapted into a day bed as shown on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is a great option for those who prefer a less rigid design as the conversion process is simple and requires just the removal of one side panel. It also lets parents save money on a separate bed purchase.
A few cot beds come with a hanging rail which can be used to store muslins dolls and other small objects. This makes it easier to keep everything organized, neat and tidy and also looks great. Being able to access these items will make it much easier for parents when feeding their child.
Another desirable feature to look for is a toothing rail that is available with cots. This can help to keep your baby from chewing on the wood which could cause irritation. Some cots come with a more traditional design and include a large storage drawer under the bed. It is perfect for clothes, toys blankets, baby essentials.
This is a great solution for those who have limited space but you'll need to purchase a drawer on your own. mini cotbed is also possible to purchase a different mattress and bedding as oval mattresses and sheets aren't usually included in the cot itself.
This sleigh-style cot bed 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. The alphabetically labeled parts and clear instructions made it easy to assemble our panel. It's suitable for infants from birth and can be converted into a toddler bed when your child is ready. This means it's also a good value.