Are You Getting The Most Out The Use Of Your Cot Beds?
How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby
If you are expecting a baby it is essential to select a cot which 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 simple but stylish cot is our top pick from the Anyday collection by John Lewis. It comes with three mattress positions, teething rails, and a storage drawers. It is also simple to put together, and comes with clear instructions.
Comfort
The best cot beds keep baby's warm and comfortable. Look for a soft, comfortable fabric. Also, make sure that the mattress fits snugly to avoid any gaps, which could cause the risk of suffocation. There are a range of mattresses available on the market that include coil springs, foam, natural materials for allergy sufferers. So do your research and choose the right one for your baby's needs.
Whatever you decide to use, whether a standard cot or a convertible one, a comfortable mattress is crucial to ensure your ease of use. It must provide the right support and encourage a healthy posture. The slats need to be securely attached and not sliding. The slats should also be securely connected to the frame so that your child does not get caught when they move during sleep.
Ask your family and friends 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 harbor bacteria.
There are many styles to pick from that include traditional sleighs with intricate details and modern, sleek designs. Some are even painted in vibrant primary colours which is great if you want your child to wake up bright and cheerful!
The majority of cots have a drawer for storage underneath, teething rails that prevent your child from chewing the sides of the cot and height bases that are adjustable to accommodate your child's growth. You can also purchase a drop-side for infants who aren't tall enough or suffer from health issues that make it difficult to bend over.
Choose a cot that meets the strict UK safety standard and is able to be easily transformed into a toddler's cot when it's time. This information is found in the description of the product and the key specifications.
Safety
When selecting a cot, the safety of your child's sleep should be the top priority. Make sure the mattress is snugly fitted, with no gaps between it and the cot/cot bed's sides or ends (big gaps could restrict your child's head or arms). Make sure it's firm and thin. Thicker mattresses aren't advised since they could increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies sell mattresses in various materials including foam and natural materials that are good for those suffering from allergies. Some have anti-microbial treatment. If your mattress has drop sides, make sure that it is in the up position and secured.
Drop sides should only be allowed to go to fall when an adult is present in the room. This will prevent accidental release. If your cot has a solid end do not place it against the wall since it can block airflow and may contribute to death in the coffin. According to the latest research, cots with slatted edges could be safer as they permit more airflow.
If your cot is fixed on one side, then you can choose it. It will be the most secure choice for your child when they start to crawl and then pull themselves upwards. Once your child is confidently standing and climbing, it is a sign that they're ready to move into a junior bed.
Some cots feature features that allow the base can be raised to three different heights in order to increase with your child's growth which is extremely useful and is a safety measure. Some cots have adjustable footplates, which are great for toddlers who want to stand up in their bed.
When you place your child's cot be sure that there aren't any visible dangers. best cots should be placed away from any heaters or power points. Also be sure to keep it away from windows, curtains and blind cords. These can all create strangulation risks. If you're purchasing furniture from a secondhand store or an heirloom piece be sure to look for any choking hazards like stickers and transfers that may peel off and present the risk of.
If you're not sure how to safely use your cot, consult other parents for advice or go to a local NCT New Baby class. If your cot has an instruction manual, read it carefully before you begin using it, and follow the safety-use guidelines carefully.
Style
This gorgeous cot bed, with its sleigh design will look amazing 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 all baby essentials, like bedding, nappies, and a wide selection of baby clothes. It's also simple to put together with clear instructions and separate packs of screws for each section. Additionally, it can be converted into a bed for toddlers and a desk as your baby gets older (see the product description for more details).
One of our most loved features is the teething rails that protect your little one from bumping their head against the side of the cot or any other protruding parts of the cot like a handle or a corner post. They also help stop them chewing on the wood, preventing them from becoming suffocated. There's also a drop-side for easier access to your newborn. We appreciate that it is able to be converted to a toddler bed, and it's sturdy enough to last for four years. It also met strict UK safety standards. These are listed in the specifications below for each product.
Cot beds can be turned into toddler beds in the event that your child is old enough. This lets you avoid buying a new crib when your child's ready to make the leap. They can be more expensive than a crib.
If your nursery is very small, a crib could be the best option for you as it is smaller and occupies less space. However, if top ranked cribs is likely to spend most of the time in their parents' rooms or you want a longer-lasting bed, you should consider a crib.
A cot isn't safe for babies to sleep in if it doesn't meet the strict UK safety standards outlined in BS EN 716 and BS 8509, which covers mattress thicknesses, materials and other important elements of cot mattresses for babies. The slats shouldn't be too close together to ensure your baby doesn't fall 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 crucial to think about storage when choosing a cot-bed. There are a variety of cots that have additional storage options like drawers under the bed or a coordinating cot top changer (available separately). Some can even be adapted into a toddler bed or a single bed, which can extend their usefulness for a longer period of time.
Some cots can be transformed into day beds, like the one shown here on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is an excellent option for those who like an edgier design. The conversion is simple and only requires the removal of one side panel. This allows parents to save money on a separate bed purchase.
A number of cot beds feature hanging rails that can be used to store muslins, dolls and other small objects. This helps to keep everything organised, neat and tidy - and it also looks fantastic. These items are easily accessible to parents, making it easier for them to feed their baby.
Another desirable feature to look out for is a teething rail that is available in a few cots. This will stop your child from chewing on the cot's wooden structure, which can cause irritation. Some cots feature a more traditional design and have a huge storage drawer under the bed, which is perfect for toys, clothes, blankets and other baby essentials.
While this is a great idea if you're short on space, you must remember that you will have to purchase an extra for the drawer. It is also possible to purchase a different mattress and bedding, as sheets and mattresses that are oval aren't usually included in the cot itself.
This sleigh-style cot bed stunning illustration of Scandi style at its finest. It features a huge under-bed storage space that is perfect to keep all baby necessities out of sight but still easily accessible. Our panel was able to find it straightforward to put together, thanks to the alphabetically labeled parts and clear instructions. It's suitable for babies as young as birth and can be converted into a toddler bed when your child is ready, meaning it's good value too.