Why You Should Concentrate On Improving Cot Beds
How to Choose Baby Cot for Your Baby
If you're expecting a child it's crucial to select a cot that will be secure and safe for your baby. Choose a cot that has fixed sides (rather than drop-sides), which comply with 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 a storage drawer. It is also easy to put together and comes with clear instructions.
Comfort
The best cot beds keep babies comfy and cosy. Choose a soft, comfortable fabric. Also, make sure that the mattress is fitted snugly to avoid any gaps, which could pose a suffocation risk. There are many types of mattresses available - foam, coils springs, and natural materials for allergy-sufferers. Do your research to determine the best one for your child.
No matter if you choose a standard cot or a convertible cot one, a comfortable mattress is crucial to ensure your the comfort. It should provide adequate support and promote an ideal posture. The slats must be secured and not sliding. The slats should also be securely fixed to the frame, to ensure that your child does not be caught when they move during sleep.
Ask your friends and family for recommendations or look at online reviews. Look for ones that are breathable, as they'll help to regulate temperature and are less likely to harbour bacteria.
In terms of style there's a broad selection of styles, from traditional sleigh designs with elaborate detailing to sleek, modern designs. Some are painted in bright primary colours to make your child feel happy and happy when they wake up.
The majority of cots have an under-bed storage drawer, teething rails that prevent your child from chewing on the sides of the cot, and height bases that can be adjusted to accommodate baby's growth. You can also purchase drop sides for small 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 meets the strict UK safety standards and can easily transform into a toddler bed when the time is right. This information can be found in the product description as well as the specifications.
Safety
When choosing a cot, the safety of your child's sleep is a must. Make sure that the mattress is snug and has no gap between it and the cot's bed sides or ends (big gaps can trap your child's head or arms). Verify that the mattress is solid and thin - more thick mattresses aren't recommended, since they could increase the risk of SIDS. There are many companies that offer mattresses made of different materials from foam to natural materials that are good for those suffering from allergies. Some even have an anti-microbial treatment. If your cot has drop-sides, ensure that it is locked and in the upward position.
A drop side should be allowed to drop when an adult is present; this will prevent accidental releases. Do not place your cot against a wall if it has a solid end. This could hinder airflow and could result in death of the coffin. According to the latest research, cots with slatted ends may be safer because they allow for more airflow.
If your cot is set on one side, choose it. It's the safest option for your baby as they start to crawl and pull themselves up. 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 up to three different levels. This is a wonderful security feature that allows your child's cot to grow with their needs. Some cots also have footplates that are adjustable, which is ideal for toddlers wanting to sit up in their beds.
When you place your child's cot ensure there aren't any obvious dangers. It should be placed away from any heaters or power points. Also be sure to keep it away from windows, curtains, and blind cords. They all could present a strangulation threat. If you're buying second-hand or heirloom furniture Be sure to check for potential choking hazards like stickers and transfer tapes that could be removed and pose the risk of.
If you're not sure how to use your cot safely you can ask parents around or go to a local NCT New Baby course for assistance and guidance. If your crib comes with a manual ensure that you go through it prior to using it and follow all the directions.
Style
This stunning cot bed with its sleigh-style design will look fantastic in your nursery. The panel was awed by the combination of natural wood and white, as well as the clever features like under-bed storage drawers that can hold everything essential for babies, including bedding, nappy and an impressive array of baby clothes. It is also easy to construct with clear instructions and screws for each section. It could also be transformed into a toddler desk or bed when your child gets older (see product description for more details).
One of our favourite features is the teething rails, which shield your baby from bumping their head against the cot's side or any protruding parts of the cot, like a handle or a corner post. They will also stop them from chewing on the wood, preventing them from being trapped. The cot also has a drop-side to make it easier for parents to reach their newborn. We appreciate that it is able to be converted into a toddler bed, and that it's sturdy enough to last for four years. It also complies with the stringent UK safety standards, which you'll find in the main specifications beneath each product.
Cot beds can be transformed into toddler beds when your child is old enough. This allows you to not have to buy an entirely new bed when your child is ready to go up. However, they may be more expensive upfront than a crib that is standard.
If your nursery is small, a crib could be the best option for you as it is smaller and occupies less space, but if your baby is likely to spend most of the time in their parents' bedroom or you're looking for a more durable bed, consider a crib.
A cot isn't safe for babies to sleep in if it does not meet the strict UK safety standards as outlined in BS EN 716 and BS 8509, which deals with mattresses' thicknesses, materials, and other essential elements of baby cot mattresses. The slats shouldn't be too wide apart to stop your baby from falling off.
Storage
The amount of baby stuff you'll need is a mess regardless of whether you're a first-time parent or an experienced one. It's crucial to think about storage when selecting a cot. Some cots have additional storage options, including drawers under the bed or a top changer (available separately). Some can be transformed to a toddler or a small single bed, which can extend their use for a longer time.
Some cots can be converted into day beds, as seen on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is an ideal option for those who prefer a less rigid design as the process of conversion is simple and involves the removal of a side panel. This allows parents to save money on a separate bed.
A variety of cot beds have a hanging rail which can be used to store muslins dummies and other small items. This makes everything neat, tidy and organised. It also looks fantastic. Having easy access to these items will make it much easier for parents when feeding their baby.
Baby Cot to look for is a toothing rail that is available with some cots. This will prevent your child from chewing on the wooden cot, which could cause irritation. Some cots feature an older style and include a large storage drawer beneath the bed, which is perfect for clothes, toys blankets, and other baby essentials.
While this is a great idea if you're in a tight space, you must be aware that you'll need to buy a separate extra drawer. You may need to buy bedding and a mattress separately, as oval mattresses and sheets do not come with the cot.
This sleigh cot bed by Stokke is a beautiful example of the Scandi-style at its finest and features a huge under-bed storage drawer that's ideal for keeping all those baby's essentials out of view but still within reach. Our panel of experts found it straightforward to put together, thanks to alphabetically labelled parts and clear instructions. It's suitable for babies from birth and can be transformed into a toddler bed when your child is ready, which means it's a good investment too.