11 Ways To Completely Redesign Your 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 will be safe and secure for your child. Choose a cot that has fixed sides, instead of drop-sides. This will comply with UK safety standards.
This simple but elegant coffin is our top ranked cribs choice from the Anyday range by John Lewis. It comes with three mattress positions, teething bars, and a storage drawer. It is also simple to put together, and comes with clear instructions.
Comfort
The best cots uk cot bed will keep babies comfortable and cozy. Find a comfortable soft and comfortable fabric. Make sure the mattress is fitted snugly to prevent any gaps that could pose a risk of suffocation. There are a range of mattresses on the market including coil springs, foam and natural materials for allergy sufferers. So do your research before deciding on the right one for your baby's requirements.
No matter if you select a convertible or standard cot, the most important thing to ensure comfort is a mattress of high-quality that is supportive and promotes a healthy posture. The same is true for the slats. They should be firmly attached and not bent or sagging. The slats must also be securely connected to the frame to ensure that your child does not be caught when they move during sleep.
If you're not sure what mattress to buy, ask your family members or friends or look up online reviews for suggestions. Make sure you choose a mattress that's ventilated, as they'll aid in regulate temperature and are less likely to harbour bacteria.
There are many styles to pick from, including traditional sleighs with elaborate details and modern, sleek designs. Some are decorated with bright primary colors to make your child feel happy and cheerful when they wake up.
You'll find most cots have drawers underneath to store items, teething rails to protect your baby from chewing on the side of the cot, as well as adjustable height bases for baby growth. You can also buy an extra drop-side for babies that are small or suffer from medical conditions that make it difficult to bend over.
Look for a cot which is in compliance with the strict UK safety standard and is easily transformed into a toddler's bed when it is time. This information is found in the description of the product and the specifications.
Safety
When selecting a cot, an environment that is safe for sleeping is a must. The mattress should fit snugly and there should be no gaps between the mattress and the ends or sides of the cot/cot-bed (large gaps can hold the child's arms and head). 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, from simple foam to natural materials for allergy sufferers and some even have anti-microbial treatment. If your cot has drop-sides, ensure that it is secured and in the up position.
A drop side should only be allowed to go down only if an adult is present; this prevents accidental releases. If your cot has a solid end be sure to avoid placing it against the wall since this will restrict airflow and may contribute to coffin death. According to the latest research, cots with slatted ends could be safer as they permit more airflow.
If your crib has a fixed edge choose this option as it is the most secure option when your child begins to crawl and pull themselves up. When your child is confidently standing and climbing, this is a sign that they are ready to transition into the junior bed.
Some cots come with an option that allows the base to be raised to three different levels. This is a great 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 who wish to stand up in their bed.
Whenever you place your child in their cot, ensure that there isn't any visible danger - it must be away from heat sources, power points, windows, blind cords and curtains (these pose a strangulation risk). When purchasing second-hand furniture, or heirlooms to look for any choking hazards such as stickers and transfers. They may peel off and pose a danger.
If you're unsure of about how to use your cot, consult other parents for help or attend a local NCT New Baby class. If your cot has instructions, read them carefully before you start using it, and follow the safety-use guidelines carefully.
Style
With its beautiful sleigh design, this gorgeous crib will look stunning in your nursery cots. The panel was awed 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, nappies and an impressive array of baby clothes. It's also simple to put together, with concise instructions and separate packs of 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 description for more details).
One of our favorite features are the teething rails which protect your baby from bumping their head on the cot's side or any protruding part of the cot like the handle or corner post. They can also stop them from chewing on the wood, preventing them from getting suffocated. The cot also has a drop-side for easier access to your baby. We appreciate that it is able to be converted into an infant bed, and that it is sturdy enough to last for up to four years. It also met the strict UK safety standards, which are listed in the key specs beneath each product.
Cot beds can be turned into toddler beds when your child is old enough. This lets you avoid purchasing a new crib when your child's ready to make the leap. However, they may be pricier upfront than a crib that is standard.
If your nursery isn't big enough, you might think about the possibility of a crib. It is smaller and occupies less space. However it is recommended cribs to consider a cot if you are planning to spend a lot of your baby's time in the room, or if you need a bed that lasts longer, you should consider a cot.
A cot isn't suitable 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 important elements of baby cot mattresses. The slats must not be too close together to ensure your baby doesn't fall out.
Storage
Whether you're a first-time parent or an experienced one the amount of items the baby will require is immense. It is important to think about storage when selecting a cot. Some cots have additional storage options, such as drawers underneath the bed or a top changer (available separately). Some cots are able to be converted into toddler beds or a smaller single bed to increase their usage.
Some cot beds can be further converted into a daybed, as seen here on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is a great option for those who prefer more flexible designs as the process of conversion is easy and only requires the removal of a side panel. This allows parents to save on the cost of the purchase of a separate bed.
Some cot beds come with hanging rails that can be used to hang muslins and dolls, as well as other small things. This helps to keep everything organized tidy, neat and tidy and also looks fantastic. These items are easily accessible to parents which makes it easier for parents to feed their child.
A teething rail is another desired feature that is found in some cots. This will stop your child from chewing on the cot's wooden structure, which can cause irritation. Some cots are designed in an older style and have a huge under-bed storage drawer that is ideal for storing toys, blankets, 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 have to purchase an additional drawer. You may also have to buy a new mattress and bedding as sheets and mattresses that are oval aren't usually included in the cot bed sales.
This sleigh cot from Stokke is a stunning example of the Scandi-style at its finest and comes with a massive under-bed storage drawer that's perfect to keep baby necessities out of sight but easily reachable. The alphabetically labeled components 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 when your child is ready. This means it's also a good value.