A Step-By-Step Guide To Cot Beds
How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby
If you're expecting a baby, it's important to choose a cot that's secure and safe for your little one. 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 range of John Lewis. It comes with three mattress height positions, teething rails and storage drawers. It's also easy to set up with clear instructions.
Comfort
The best cot mattress keeps infants comfortable and warm. Look for a breathable, soft fabric. Make sure the mattress fits snugly, to eliminate any gaps that could create a risk of being suffocated. There are many mattresses on the market that include coil springs, foam and natural materials for allergy sufferers - so do your research and choose the best one for your baby's needs.
Whatever you decide to use, whether a conventional cot or a convertible cot the mattress is vital to your the comfort. It should provide adequate support and encourage an upright posture. The slats need to be firmly attached, and not sagging. The slats should also be firmly connected to the frame so that your child does not become caught in the movement during sleep.
Ask your family and friends for recommendations, or read online reviews. Choose breathable mattresses, as they will help regulate your body temperature and are less likely to harbor bacteria.
There are a myriad of styles to pick from such as traditional sleighs, with elaborate details and sleek, modern designs. Some are even painted with bold primary colours, which is ideal if you want your baby to wake up feeling bright and content!
There are a lot of cots that have an under-bed drawer for storage, teething rails to protect your child from chewing on the sides of the cot and adjustable height bases to accommodate baby's growth. You can also buy a drop-side for infants who aren't big or have health issues that make it hard to bend over.
Find a cot that is compliant with the strict UK safety standard and can easily be transformed into a toddler's cot when it's time. Look for this information in the product description or in the specifications.
Safety
A safe and secure sleeping environment is an essential aspect to consider when choosing a cot. The mattress should be able to fit snugly and there shouldn't be 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). Make sure it's firm and thin. Thicker mattresses aren't recommended, as they may increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies offer a choice of mattresses, ranging from basic foam to natural materials suitable for allergy sufferers and some even have anti-microbial treatment. If your crib has an inclined side, make sure it is in the upward position and locked securely.
A drop side should only be allowed to go down when an adult is present; this will prevent accidental releases. Avoid placing your cot against a wall if it has a solid end. This can hinder airflow and could result in death of the coffin. According to the most recent research, cots with slatted edges 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 begin to crawl and pull themselves up. Once your child is confidently standing and climbing, it is a sign they're ready to transition into the junior bed.
Some cots come with a feature where the base can be raised to three different heights in order to grow with your child - this is very convenient and an added security measure. Some cots come with adjustable footplates that are ideal for toddlers who want to stand up.
When placing your child's cot, make sure there are no visible hazards. It should be kept away from power and heater points. Also, keep it away from windows, curtains, and blind cords. All of these could pose a strangulation risk. If you're purchasing furniture from a secondhand store or an heirloom piece be sure to look for any dangers to your child's health such as stickers and transfer tapes that could be removed and pose the risk of.
If you're not sure how to use your cot in a safe manner you can ask other parents or visit an local NCT New Baby course for assistance and guidance. If your cot has an instruction manual, read it carefully before using it, and follow the safe-use instructions closely.
Style
This gorgeous cot bed with its sleigh style will look fantastic in your nursery. The panel was impressed by the mix of natural and white wood as well as the clever features such as drawers under the bed for everything essential for babies, including bedding, nappy and a huge selection of baby clothes. It's also simple to put together, with concise instructions and separate packs of screws for each section. It can also be converted into a bed for toddlers and a desk when your baby grows older (see the product description for more details).
The rails for teething are one of our favorite features. They stop your baby from hitting their head against the side of the crib or any other protruding part of the crib, such as the corner post or handle. They also stop them from chewing the wood, and prevent them from suffocating. It also features a drop-side to make it easier for parents to reach their newborn. We love that it can be converted to a toddler bed, and it's sturdy enough to last for up to four years. It also meets the strict UK safety standards, which can be found in the key specs beneath each product.
Cot beds can be transformed into toddler beds in the event that your child is old enough. This allows you to avoid buying an entirely new bed when your child is ready to go up. However, they are more expensive than the standard crib.
If your nursery is small, a crib may be the best option for you as it is smaller and occupies less space. However, if your child is likely to spend much of their time in their parents' bedroom or you're looking for a more durable bed, consider a cot.
If best crib are using does not meet the UK safety standards outlined by BS EN 716 or BS 8509 (which cover mattress thicknesses, materials and other important elements of baby cot mattresses), it is unsafe for babies to sleep. The slats must not be too far apart to stop your baby from falling out.
Storage
The amount of baby stuff you'll need is overwhelming regardless of whether you're a first-time parent or a seasoned one. This is why it's essential to think about storage options when choosing a cot bed. Some cots come with additional storage options, like drawers beneath the bed or a coordinating top changer (available separately). Some cots can be converted into an infant bed or a small single beds to expand their use.
Some cot beds can be further converted into a daybed like this one on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is an excellent option for those who like the flexibility of a design. The conversion is easy and requires only the removal of ONE side panel. This allows parents to save money on the purchase of a separate bed.
A number of cot beds come with a hanging rail which can be used to store muslins, Dummies, and other small items. This helps keep everything neat, tidy and organized. It also looks fantastic. These items are easily accessible to parents which makes it easier for parents to feed their child.
A teething rail is an additional desirable feature that is included in some cots. This can keep your baby from chewing on the wood, which could cause irritation. Some cots are designed in more traditional designs and include a large drawer under the bed that is perfect to store blankets, toys clothes, and other baby necessities.
While this is a great option if you're in a tight space, you should keep in mind that you'll need to buy a separate additional drawer. You may also need to buy a new mattress and bedding as oval mattresses and sheets aren't typically included in the cot itself.
This sleigh cot bed by Stokke is a stunning example of Scandi-style at its best and has a huge under-bed storage drawer that's great to keep all the baby necessities out of sight but within easy reach. best cot bed labeled pieces and clear instructions made it easy to assemble for our panel. It's suitable for babies as young as birth and can be transformed into a toddler bed when your child is ready, meaning it's a good investment too.