A Step-By -Step Guide For Cot Beds
How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby
If you are expecting your first child it is crucial to choose a cot that will provide safety and security for your baby. Look for a cot that has fixed sides instead of drop-sides. This will comply with UK safety standards.
This minimalist, stylish cot is our top pick from the Anyday range by John Lewis. It comes with three mattress positions, teething rails as well as a storage drawer. It is also easy to put together, and comes with clear instructions.
Comfort
The best cot beds (a knockout post) keep children warm and cozy. Look for a breathable soft, soft fabric. Make sure that the mattress fits snugly, to eliminate any gaps that could create a risk of the mattress becoming suffocated. There are a variety of mattresses available - coils springs, foam, and natural materials for allergy sufferers. Do your research to determine the ideal mattress for your child.
No matter if you select a standard or convertible cot, the primary factor to satisfaction is a high-quality mattress that provides proper support and promotes a healthy posture. The same is true for the slats. They should be secured and not sagging or bent. The slats must also be secured to the frame so that your child isn't stuck in them while they move during sleep.
Ask your friends and family for recommendations or look at online reviews. Make sure you choose a mattress that's air-conditioned, as they'll help maintain temperature and are less likely to harbour bacteria.
There are many styles to choose from that include traditional sleighs with elaborate details and modern, sleek designs. Some are painted in vibrant primary colors to make your child feel joyful and cheerful as they wake up.
The majority of cots have an under-bed storage drawer and teething rails that stop your child from chewing 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 petite babies or those who have health issues that make it difficult for them to bend over.
For extra peace of mind, look for a cot that complies with the stringent UK safety standards and will easily transform into a toddler bed when the time is right. Find this information in the description or in the specifications.
Safety
A safe and secure sleeping environment is essential and a big aspect to consider when choosing a bed. The mattress should be able to fit snugly and there shouldn't be gaps between the mattress and the edges or sides of the cot or cot-bed (large gaps could hold the child's arms and head). Verify that the mattress is firm and thin. Thick mattresses could increase the risk of SIDS. There are many companies that offer a variety of mattresses, ranging from basic foam to natural materials suitable for allergy sufferers. Some come with anti-microbial treatment. If your cot features drop-sides, ensure that it is locked and in the up position.
Drop sides should only be allowed to go down only when an adult is in the room. This will prevent accidental release. Avoid placing your cot on walls if it has an end that is solid. This will hinder airflow and could cause death in the coffin. The latest research suggests that slatted ends may be safer because they allow for more airflow.
If your cot is fixed on one side, then you can choose it. It's the safest option for your baby when they begin to crawl and then pull themselves upwards. When your child is climbing with confidence and standing, it's the time to move to a junior bed.
Some cots are equipped with a feature that allows the base to be raised up to three levels. This is a wonderful security measure that allows your child's cot to expand with their needs. Some cots have adjustable footplates, which are ideal for toddlers who wish to sit up in their bed.
Whenever you place your child in their cot, check whether there is no visible danger - it must be kept away from heaters or windows, power points and curtains and blind cords (these are a strangulation hazard). When purchasing second-hand furniture, or heirlooms, be sure to look for any potential hazards to your child's safety such as labels and transfers. These can peel off and create a risk.
If you're unsure of about how to use your cot, ask other parents for help or attend a local NCT New Baby class. If your cot has a manual, read it carefully before you begin using it, and be sure to follow the safe-use instructions closely.
Style
This stunning cot bed with its sleigh-style design will look fantastic in your nursery. Our panel loved the mix of white and natural pine, as well as its clever features, such as drawers under the bed to store all those baby essentials like nappies, bedding and an enviable assortment of baby clothes. It's also a breeze to put together with clear instructions and separate sets of screws for each section. It can also be transformed into a toddler bed or desk as your baby gets older (see the product's description for more details).
The rails for teething are among our most loved features. They keep your baby from hitting their head on the side of the crib or any protruding portion of the crib, such as the handle or corner post. They also prevent children from chewing on the wood and preventing them from getting suffocated. It 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 it's sturdy enough to last for four years. It also met the strict UK safety standards. These are listed in the main specifications below each product.
Cot beds are typically larger than recommended cribs and can be turned into toddler beds when your child is ready, allowing you to avoid purchasing a bed when they're ready to transition. They are more expensive than a crib.
If your nursery is small, a crib might be the best cots for newborns option for you, as it's smaller and occupies less space. However, should your baby be expected to spend much of their time in their parents' room or you'd like a more long-lasting bed, consider a cot.
A cot isn't safe for babies to sleep in if it does not meet the strict UK safety standards outlined in BS EN 716 and BS 8509, which covers mattresses' thicknesses, materials, and other essential elements of cot mattresses for babies. The slats shouldn't be too wide apart to prevent your child from falling out.
Stores
The amount of Baby Crib gear you'll need is overwhelming regardless of whether you're a first-time parent or an experienced one. This is the reason it's important to consider storage options when choosing the cot bed. There are a variety of cots that have additional storage options, like drawers under the bed or a coordinating cot top changer (available separately). Certain cots can be transformed into a toddler bed or small single beds to expand their usage.
Some cot beds can be further transformed into a daybed as shown on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is a great option for those who like an edgier design. The conversion is easy and only requires the removal of ONE side panel. This lets parents save money on the purchase of a separate bed.
A few cot beds feature 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 great. Being able to access these items will make it much easier for parents to feed their baby.
Another thing to look for is a toothing rail which is included in a few cots. This can help to stop your child from chewing on the wood which can cause irritation. Some cots are designed with a more traditional style and include a large under-bed storage drawer which is ideal for storing blankets, toys clothing, and other baby essentials.
This is a great option for those who have limited space, but you will have to purchase a drawer separately. You might need to purchase bedding and a mattress separately, as oval mattresses and sheets do not come with the cot.
This sleigh-style cot bed is stunning example of Scandi style at its best. It has a spacious under-bed storage compartment that's ideal to keep all baby necessities out of sight but still easily accessible. The alphabetically labeled parts and clear instructions made it easy to put together for our panel. It's suitable for babies from birth and can be converted into a toddler bed when your child is ready. This means it's a good investment too.
