3 Reasons You're Cot Beds Is Broken (And How To Fix It)
How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby
If you're expecting a child it's crucial to select a cot that's safe and secure for your little one. Find a cot which has fixed sides instead of drop-sides. This will meet UK safety standards.
Our top choice is this simple but elegant coffin from John Lewis' Anyday range. It has three mattress positions, teething bars and a storage drawer. It's also easy to assemble with clear instructions.
Comfort
The best cot mattress keeps babies comfortable and cozy. Find a comfortable soft, soft fabric. Make sure the mattress fits snugly, to eliminate any gaps that could pose the risk of suffocation. There are many types of mattresses available: coils springs, foam and natural materials for allergy sufferers. Do your research to find the best one for your child.
No matter if you select an ordinary or convertible cot, the primary factor to comfort is a mattress of high-quality that provides proper support and encourages healthy posture. The same applies to the slats. They should be securely attached and not bent or sagging. The slats must be securely fixed to the frame, so your child doesn't get stuck in them while they move in their sleep.
Ask your friends and family for recommendations or browse online reviews. Make sure you choose a mattress that's breathable, as they'll help regulate temperature and are less likely to be a home for bacteria.
When it comes to fashion, there's a wide choice, from traditional sleigh styles with elaborate details to sleek, contemporary designs. Some are even painted in bright primary colors, which is ideal if you want your baby to wake up feeling fresh and cheerful!
You'll find most cots have an under-bed drawer for storage, teething rails to protect your baby from chewing on the side of the cot, as well as adjustable height bases for infant growth. You can also purchase a drop-side for babies who aren't tall enough or have medical conditions that make it hard to bend over.
For added security, opt for a cot that is compliant with the stringent UK safety standards and can easily transform into a toddler bed when the time is appropriate. Look for this information in the product description or in the specifications.
Safety
A safe sleeping environment is essential and a big aspect to consider when choosing a bed. The mattress should be able to fit snugly and there should be no gaps between the mattress and the sides or ends of the cot or cot-bed (large gaps could hold the child's arms and head). Check that the mattress is not too firm and thin. Mattresses that are thick can increase the risk of SIDS. There are many companies that offer mattresses made of a variety of materials including foam and natural materials that are good for allergy sufferers. Some even have an anti-microbial treatment. If your cot has drop-sides, make sure it is locked and in the upward position.
Drop Continuing should only be allowed down when an adult is present in the room. This prevents accidental releases. Do not place your cot against a wall if it has a solid end. This can restrict airflow, which can result in death of the coffin. According to the most recent research, cots with slatted ends may be safer because they allow for more airflow.
If your cot is set on one side, then you can choose it. It will be the safest option for your baby as they start to crawl and then pull themselves upwards. If your child is confidently climbing and standing, it's the time to move to a junior bed.
Some cots are equipped with an option that allows the base to be raised to three levels. This is a wonderful security measure that allows your child's cot to grow with the child. Some cots feature footplates that can be adjusted to suit for toddlers who love to stand up.
When you place your child's cot ensure there are no visible hazards. It should be placed away from power and heater points. Also, keep it away from windows, curtains and blind cords. They all could create strangulation risks. If you are buying second-hand furniture or heirlooms, make sure to check for potential hazards to your child's safety such as labels and transfers. These can peel off and create a risk.
If you're not sure how to safely use your cot, consult other parents for help or go to an local NCT New Baby class. If your cot comes with a guide ensure that you read it before using it and adhere to the instructions.
Style
This gorgeous cot bed, with its sleigh style will look fantastic in your nursery. The panel was impressed with the mix of natural wood and white and the innovative features like drawers under the bed for everything needed by babies, such as bedding, nappy and a wide selection of baby clothes. It's also easy to construct with clear instructions and separate screws for each section. It can also be converted into a toddler's desk and bed as your child gets older (see the product description for more information).
One of our favourite features is the teething rails which protect your baby from bumping their head against the cot's side or any protruding parts of the cot like the handle or corner post. They will also stop them from chewing on the wood, preventing them from getting trapped. The cot also has drop-sides to make it easier for parents to reach their newborn. We love that the cot can be transformed into a toddler bed, and that it's sturdy enough to last up to four years. It also complies with the stringent UK safety standards, which can be found in the specifications that are listed under each product.
Cot beds can be converted into toddler beds in the event that your child is old enough. This allows you to avoid buying a new bed as your child gets ready to move up. They may cost more than cribs.
If your nursery is small, a crib could be the best option for you, as it's smaller and takes up less space. However, 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 cot.
A cot isn't suitable for babies to sleep in if it doesn't meet the strict UK safety standards set out in BS EN 716 and BS 8509, which covers mattresses' thicknesses, materials, and other essential elements of cot mattresses for baby. The slats must not be too far apart, to ensure that your child doesn't fall off.
Stores
The amount of baby equipment you'll need is a mess regardless of whether you're a new mom or an experienced one. This is why it's essential to think about storage options when choosing the right cot bed. Certain cots offer additional storage options, including drawers beneath the bed or a top changer (available separately). Certain cots can be transformed into an infant bed or a small single beds to expand their usage.
Some cots can be transformed into day beds, like the one shown on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is an ideal option for those who prefer more flexible designs as the conversion process is simple and requires just the removal of one side panel. This allows parents to reduce the expense of an additional bed.
A few cot beds have a hanging rail which can be used to store muslins, dummies and other small items. This keeps everything neat, tidy and organised. It also looks beautiful. These items are easily accessible to parents which makes it easier for them to feed their baby.
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 more traditional designs and include a large drawer under the bed that is ideal for storing toys, blankets clothes, and other baby essentials.
While this is a great idea for when you're short on space, you should be aware that you'll need to buy a separate extra drawer. You might need to purchase a separate mattress and bedding, as oval mattresses and sheets do not come with the cot.
This sleigh cot from Stokke is a lovely example of the Scandi-style at its finest and has a huge under-bed storage drawer that's great to keep all the baby's essentials out of view but still within reach. Our panel found it very easy to put together due to the alphabetically-labelled parts and clear instructions. It's suitable for infants as young as birth, and can be made into a toddler's bed when your child's ready.