Why You Should Focus On Improving Cot Beds
How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby
If you're expecting a baby it's crucial to select a cot that's safe and secure for your baby. Choose a cot that has fixed sides (rather than drop-sides), which comply with strict UK safety standards.
This minimalist, elegant cot is our top pick from the Anyday collection by John Lewis. It comes with three mattress positions, teething bars, and an storage drawer. It's also simple to put together with clear instructions.
Comfort
The best cot beds will keep baby's warm and comfortable. Choose a breathable soft and comfortable fabric. Make sure that the mattress is snug to eliminate any gaps that could create the danger of being suffocated. There are a variety of mattresses available, including foam, coils springs, and natural materials for allergy sufferers. Do your research to determine the best one for your child.
No matter if you select an ordinary or convertible cot, the key to comfort is a good-quality mattress that is supportive and encourages healthy posture. The same is true for the slats, which must be firmly attached and not bent or sagging. The slats should also be securely attached to the frame, so your child doesn't get caught in them when moving during sleep.
Ask your friends and family for recommendations or browse online reviews. Choose breathable mattresses, as they can aid in regulating your body temperature, and are less likely to be a breeding ground for bacteria.
There are many styles to choose from, including traditional sleighs with intricate details and modern, sleek designs. Some are even painted with vibrant primary colours which is great when you want your little one to wake up bright and content!
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 baby's growth. You can also purchase a drop side for smaller babies or those who have medical conditions that make it difficult for them to bend over.
Look for a cot which is in compliance with the strict UK safety standard and can easily be converted into a toddler's bed when it's time. This information is found in the product description and key specifications.
Safety
When choosing a cot, the safety of your child's sleep is a must. 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 the mattress is not too firm and thin. Thick mattresses can increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies offer a range of mattresses, ranging from basic foam to natural materials suitable for allergy sufferers. Some have anti-microbial treatment. If your crib has an inclined side, make sure it is in the upward position and locked securely.
Drop sides should only be permitted down only when an adult is present in the room. This will prevent accidental releases. Avoid placing your cot against a wall if it has a solid end. This could limit airflow, which could cause death in the coffin. The latest research suggests that slatted ends could be safer as they allow more airflow.
If your cot is fixed on one side, choose it. It will be the safest option for your baby when they start to crawl and pull themselves upward. When your child is confidently standing and climbing, it is a sign they're ready to move into a junior bed.
This Internet page feature a feature where the base can be raised to three different levels to allow it to expand with your child This is extremely practical and a great safety measure. Some cots have adjustable footplates, which are great for toddlers who want to stand up in their bed.
When you put your child in their cot, make sure that there isn't any obvious danger - it should be away from heaters, power points, windows, curtains and blind cords (these pose a strangulation risk). If you're buying second-hand or heirloom furniture, check for hazards to choking such as stickers and transfers that can peel off and present a risk.
If you're not sure about how to use your cot, consult other parents for advice or take part in a local NCT New Baby class. If your cot comes with instructions, read them carefully before you start using it, and follow the safe-use instructions closely.
Style
With its gorgeous sleigh style This gorgeous crib will look stunning in your nursery. The panel was awed by the mix of natural wood and white and the clever features like drawers under the bed for all baby essentials, like bedding, nappies and an impressive array of baby clothes. It's also easy to put together, with clear instructions and separate screws for each section. It can also be converted into a toddler desk and bed as your child gets older (see product description for more details).
One of our favourite features is the teething rails that protect your little one from bumping their head against the side of the cot or any protruding part of the cot, like a handle or a corner post, and which also help stop them chewing on the wood, preventing them from becoming trapped. It also has a drop-side for easier access to your baby. We appreciate that it is able to be converted into a toddler bed, and it's built to last up to four years. It also met the strict UK safety standards. These are listed in the key specs below each product.
Cot beds are usually larger than cribs and can be converted into toddler beds when your child is ready, allowing you to avoid buying another bed until they're ready to transition. They can be more expensive than a crib.
If your nursery is small, you may be considering a crib. It is smaller and occupies less space. However should you be planning on spending a lot of your baby's time in your room, or if you need an item that lasts longer, you should opt for a crib.
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 shouldn't be too close together, to ensure that your child doesn't fall off.
Stores
No matter if you're a first-time parent or a veteran the amount of items that a baby requires is overwhelming. This is the reason it's important to consider the storage options when you choose the right crib bed. There are a variety of cots that have additional storage options such as under-bed drawers or a coordinating top changer (available separately). Certain cots can be transformed into an infant bed or a small single bed to extend their usage.
Some cots are able to be converted into day beds, like the one shown 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 a side panel. This allows parents to save money on a bed purchase.
Some cot beds have hanging rails that can be used to hang muslins, dummies, as well as other small items. This helps to keep everything organized tidy, neat and tidy and also looks amazing. Having easy access to these items makes it much easier for parents to feed their child.
A teething rail is another important feature that's included in some cots. This will help stop your child from chewing on the wood, which could cause irritation. Some cots feature a more traditional design and have a huge storage drawer beneath the bed, which is perfect for clothes, toys blankets, baby essentials.
This is a great choice for those who have limited space however, you will need to purchase a drawer on your own. It is also possible to purchase a different mattress and bedding as oval mattresses and sheets aren't typically included in the cot.
This sleigh-style cot bed is stunning illustration of Scandi style at its best. It features a huge under-bed storage compartment that's ideal to keep baby's essentials away from view but easily accessible. Our panel of experts found it straightforward to put together, due to the alphabetically-labelled parts and clear instructions. It's suitable for infants from birth and can be made into a toddler bed when your child is ready. This means it's also a good value.