Five Tools That Everyone In The Cot Beds Industry Should Be Making Use Of
How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby
If you're expecting a child, it's important to choose the right cot that is secure and safe for your baby. Find a cot with fixed sides (rather than drop-sides) that are in line with strict UK safety standards.
cot bed sales and elegant coffin is our top pick from the Anyday range by John Lewis. It comes with three mattress positions, teething bars, and storage drawers. It's also simple to put together with clear instructions.
Comfort
The best cot bed keeps children comfortable and warm. Look for a soft and airy fabric, and ensure that the mattress is fitted snugly to prevent any gaps which could create a suffocation risk. There are a variety of mattresses available: coils springs, foam and even natural materials for allergy sufferers. Do your research to determine the best one for your child.
No matter if you select a convertible or standard cot, the most important thing to ensure comfort is a good-quality mattress that is supportive and encourages healthy posture. This is also true for the slats. They should be secured and not sagging or bent. The slats need to be securely fixed to the frame, so that your child does not become caught in the movement during sleep.
If you're not sure which mattress to purchase, talk to your family and friends or consult online reviews for recommendations. Choose breathable mattresses, as they 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 broad selection from classic sleigh styles with elaborate detailing to sleek, modern designs. Some are painted in bright primary colours to make your child feel cheerful and happy when they wake up.
Most cots come with a drawer for storage underneath, teething rails that prevent your child from chewing on the sides of the cot, and height bases that can be adjusted to accommodate the growth of your baby. You can also buy an extra drop-side for babies that are small or have medical conditions that make it hard to bend over.
To ensure your peace of mind, search for a cot that meets the strict UK safety standards and can easily transform into a toddler bed when the time is right. Look for this information in the product description or key specs.
Safety
A safe sleeping environment is an essential consideration when choosing a bed. The mattress should fit snugly and there should be no gaps between the mattress and the ends or sides of the cot or cot-bed (large gaps can hold the child's arms and head). Check that the mattress is not too firm and thin. Thick mattresses could increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies offer a choice of mattresses, from simple foam to natural substances for allergy sufferers. Some even have anti-microbial treatment. If your cot features drop-sides, make sure it is secured and in the upward position.
Drop sides should only be permitted to fall when an adult is present in the room. This can prevent accidental releases. Avoid placing your cot on the wall if it is a solid end. This can limit airflow, which could lead to coffin death. According to the latest research, cots with slatted edges could be safer as they allow for greater airflow.
If your cot is fixed to one side, you should choose it. It will be the safest option for your child when they begin to crawl and then pull themselves upwards. Once your child is standing and climbing, it is a sign they're ready to move into the junior bed.
Some cots have an option that allows the base to be raised to three levels. This is a fantastic security feature that allows your child's cot to expand with them. Some cots come with footplates that can be adjusted to suit for toddlers who want to stand up.
When you place your child's cot, make sure there aren't any obvious dangers. It should be kept away from power and heater points. Also make sure it is away from windows, curtains and blind cords. These can all pose a strangulation risk. When purchasing second-hand furniture, or heirlooms to look out for dangers to your child's health such as stickers and transfers. These can peel off and pose a danger.
If you're not sure how to safely use your cot, consult other parents for help or attend an local NCT New Baby class. If your cot comes with an instruction manual, read it carefully before you begin using it, and then follow the safety guidelines closely.
Style
With its stunning sleigh design This gorgeous crib will look stunning in your nursery. The panel was impressed by the mix of white and natural wood and the clever features like under-bed storage drawers for everything needed by babies, such as bedding, nappy and a huge selection of baby clothes. It's also easy to construct, with clear instructions and separate screws for each section. What's more, it can be converted into a toddler bed and desk as your baby gets older (see the product's description for more details).
One of our favorite features is the teething rails which protect your little one from bumping their head on the side of the cot or any protruding parts of the cot like a handle or a corner post, and which can also stop them from chewing on the wood, which prevents them from becoming trapped. The cot also has a drop-side for easier access to your infant. We love that the cot can be converted into a toddler bed, and that it's sturdy enough to last for up to four years. It also complies with strict UK safety standards. You can find these in the key specs below each product.
Cot beds are generally bigger than cribs and can be turned into toddler beds when your child is ready and you can avoid purchasing a bed at an age when they're ready to transition. 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, but if your baby is likely to spend most of the time in their parents' room or you'd like a more long-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 as outlined in BS EN 716 and BS 8509, which deals with mattress thicknesses, materials and other key elements of baby cot mattresses. The slats should not be too close together to ensure that your baby won't fall off.
Storage
The amount of baby equipment you'll need is a mess regardless of whether you're a first-time parent or an experienced one. It is important to think about storage when choosing a cot-bed. Some cots come with additional storage options, like drawers underneath the bed or a top changer (available separately). Some can even be adapted into a toddler bed or a single bed, extending their usefulness for a longer period of time.
Some cot beds can be converted into a daybed, as seen here on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is a great option for those who like the flexibility of a design. The conversion is easy and only requires the removal of a single side panel. This allows parents to save money on a separate bed.
Some cot beds come with a hanging rail that can be used to hang muslins and dummies, as well as other small items. This makes it easier to keep everything organized, neat and tidy and also looks amazing. These items are easily accessible to parents which makes it easier for them to feed their baby.
Another feature worth looking for is a toothing rail that comes with cots. This can help to stop your child from chewing on the wood which can cause irritation. cot bed sales have more traditional designs and come with a large storage drawer under the bed, which is perfect for clothes, toys, blankets and other baby necessities.
While this is a great option if you're short on space, it's important to remember that you will require a separate extra drawer. It is also possible to buy a new mattress and bedding, as sheets and mattresses that are oval aren't usually included in the cot.
This sleigh-style cot bed an exquisite illustration of Scandi style at its best. It has a large under-bed storage compartment that's ideal to keep baby's essentials away from view but easily accessible. The alphabetically labeled pieces and clear instructions made it easy to put together for our panel. It's suitable for babies as young as birth and can be transformed into a toddler bed once your child is ready. This means it's good value too.