Are You Making The Most Of Your Cot Beds?
How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby
If you're expecting a baby it's crucial to select the right cot that is secure and safe for your little one. Look for a cot with fixed sides (rather than drop-sides) that meet strict UK safety standards.
Our top pick is this basic but stylish cot from John Lewis' Anyday range. It comes with three mattress positions, teething bars and storage drawers. It's also easy to set up 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 fits snugly to prevent any gaps which could create a suffocation risk. There are many mattresses available including coil springs, foam and other natural materials suitable for allergy sufferers. So do your research and choose the one that is suitable for your baby's needs.
Whatever you decide to use, whether a standard cot or a convertible cot, a good mattress is vital to your the comfort. It must provide the right support and promote an ideal posture. The same is true for the slats. They should be firmly attached and not bent or sagging. The slats must be secured to the frame, so that your child doesn't get caught in them when moving in their sleep.
If you're not sure what mattress to buy, ask your family members or friends or look up online reviews for recommendations. Select mattresses that are breathable, since they help regulate your body temperature, and are less likely to harbor bacteria.
When it comes to style, there's a wide choice of styles, from traditional sleigh designs with elaborate detailing to sleek, modern designs. Some are decorated with bright primary colors to make your child feel cheerful and cheerful as they awake.
Most cots come with drawers underneath to store items and teething rails to guard your child from chewing on the side of the cot, and adjustable height bases to accommodate baby's growth. You can also purchase a drop-side for babies who are small or have medical conditions that make it hard to bend over.
Choose a cot that meets the strict UK safety standard and is able to be easily converted into a toddler's bed when it is time. Look for 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. Make sure that the mattress is snug and has no gaps between it and the cot's beds edges or sides (big gaps could restrict your child's head or arms). Check that the mattress is firm and thin. Thick mattresses can increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies offer mattresses in a variety of materials, from foam to natural materials that are great for allergy sufferers. Some have anti-microbial treatment. If your cot features a drop-side, make sure it is locked and in the upward position.
Drop sides should only be permitted to fall when an adult is in the room. This can prevent accidental releases. If your coffin has a solid edge be sure to avoid placing it against the wall as this will restrict airflow and can cause the death of a coffin. The latest research suggests that slatted edges could be safer since they allow more airflow.
If your cot is fixed on one side, then you can choose it. It will be the safest option for your child when they begin to crawl and pull themselves up. When your child is standing and climbing, this is a sign that they are ready to transition into the junior bed.
Some cots are equipped with an option that allows the base to be raised to three different levels. This is a fantastic security feature that allows your child's cot to grow with them. Some cots have footplates that can be adjusted, which are ideal for toddlers who wish to sit up in their bed.
If you are putting your child in their cot, check whether there is no visible danger - it must be kept away from heaters or windows, power points and blind cords and curtains (these are a strangulation hazard). If you're purchasing furniture from a secondhand store or an heirloom piece, check for hazards to choking such as stickers and transfers that can be removed and create a risk.
If you're unsure of what you should do to use your cot, ask other parents for advice or go to an local NCT New Baby class. If your cot comes with a manual ensure that you go through it before using it and adhere to the instructions.
Style
With its stunning sleigh design This gorgeous cot bed will look amazing in your nursery. The panel was awed by the combination of natural wood and white and the innovative features like under-bed storage drawers that can hold all baby essentials, like bedding, nappies, and a wide selection of baby clothes. It's also simple to put together with clear instructions and screws for each section. It can also be transformed into a toddler bed and desk when your baby grows older (see the product's description for more details).
The teething rails are one of our favorite features. They prevent your baby from hitting their head on the side of the crib or any protruding part of the crib, like the handle or corner post. They also stop children from chewing on the wood and preventing them from suffocating. It also features drop-sides to make it easier for you to access your newborn. We love that it can be converted into an infant bed, and that it's built to last for up to four years. It also met the strict UK safety standards. You can find these in the key specs below each product.
Cot beds can be transformed into toddler beds if your child is old enough. This allows you to avoid purchasing a new crib as your child gets ready to make the leap. However, they are more expensive upfront than the crib that is standard.
If your nursery is small, a crib might be the best option for you as it is smaller and occupies less space, but if your baby is likely to spend much of their time in their parents' bedroom or you want a longer-lasting bed, opt for a crib.
If a cot does not meet the UK safety standards set by BS EN 716 or BS 8509 (which cover mattress thicknesses, materials and other key elements of baby mattresses for cots) it is not safe for babies to sleep. The slats shouldn't be too far apart to stop your baby from falling out.
Storage
The amount of baby equipment you'll need is overwhelming regardless of whether you're a new mom or an experienced one. It is important to think about storage when selecting a cot. cots to tots of cots have additional storage options like drawers under the bed or a coordinating cot top changer (available separately). Some can be transformed into a toddler or small single bed, extending their usability for longer.
Some cots can be transformed into day beds, as seen on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is a great choice for those who prefer more flexible designs as the conversion process is simple and involves the removal of one side panel. This lets parents reduce the expense of a separate bed.
Some cot beds have a hanging rail that can be used to hang muslins, Dummies, as well as other small items. This keeps everything tidy, neat and organized. It also looks fantastic. Having easy access to these items makes it easier for parents when feeding their infant.
A teething rail is a desired feature that is found in some cots. This will stop your child from chewing on the cot's wooden structure, which could cause irritation. Some cots are designed with a more traditional style and include a large drawer under the bed that is ideal for storing blankets, toys clothing, and other baby essentials.
While this is a great idea for when you're short on space, you should be aware that you'll have to purchase an additional drawer. You may also have to buy a new mattress and bedding since oval mattresses and sheets aren't usually included in the cot itself.
This sleigh-style cot bed stunning illustration of Scandi style at its best. It features a huge under-bed storage compartment that's ideal for keeping all baby essentials out-of-sight but within easy access. The alphabetically labeled parts and clear instructions made it simple to put together for our panel. It's suitable for infants as young as birth, and can be transformed into a toddler's bed when your child's ready.