Five Killer Quora Answers To Cot Beds

How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby

If you are expecting a child, it is important to select a cot which can provide security and safety for your baby. Choose a cot that has fixed sides, rather than drop-sides. This will meet UK safety standards.

Our top choice is this simple but elegant coffin from John Lewis' Anyday range. It comes with three mattress positions, teething bars, and storage drawers. It's also easy to assemble with clear instructions.

Comfort

The best cot beds keep children warm and cozy. Choose a soft, comfortable fabric. Also, make sure that the mattress is fitted snugly to prevent any gaps which could pose a suffocation risk. There are many mattresses on the market - foam, coil springs and natural materials for allergy sufferers, so do your research and choose the best cot newborn one for your baby's needs.

Whether you opt for a convertible or standard cot, the primary factor to comfort is a mattress of high-quality that provides proper support and promotes a healthy posture. This is also true for the slats. They should be securely attached and not sagging or bent. The slats must also be securely attached to the frame, so your child doesn't get stuck in them while they move in their sleep.

If you're not sure which mattress to buy, consult your family and friends or consult online reviews for recommendations. Choose mattresses that are breathable, as they help you regulate your body temperature, and are less likely to be a breeding ground for bacteria.

In terms of style, there's a wide choice of styles, from traditional sleigh designs with ornate details to sleek, contemporary designs. Some are even painted in vibrant primary colours which is great for those who want their baby to wake up feeling bright and happy!

The majority of cots have a drawer for storage underneath, teething rails that prevent your child from chewing the sides of the cot and height bases that can be adjusted to accommodate baby's growth. You can even buy drop sides for small babies or those with medical conditions that make it difficult for them to bend over.

Find a cot that is compliant with the strict UK safety standard and is easily converted into a toddler's bed when it is time. This information is found in the product description as well as key specifications.

Safety

A secure sleeping space is a must and a major aspect to consider when choosing a cot. Make sure the mattress is snug and has no gaps between it and the cot's bed's sides or ends (big gaps can keep your child's head from being caught in the arms). Verify that the mattress is not too firm and thin. Thick mattresses can 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 contain anti-microbial treatments. If your crib has drop sides, make sure that it is in the up position and secured.

A drop side should only be allowed to go down when an adult is present, this will prevent accidental releases. If your cot has a solid end, avoid placing it against the wall because it can block airflow and could cause the death of a coffin. Recent research suggests that slatted ends may be safer since they allow more airflow.

If your cot is set to one side, you should choose it. It will be the safest option for your child when they begin to crawl and then pull themselves upwards. When your child is climbing with confidence and standing, it's time to upgrade to a junior bed.

Some cheap cots come with a feature that allows the base to be raised to three levels. This is a fantastic security measure that allows your child's cot to grow with them. Some cots have adjustable footplates that are perfect for toddlers who want to stand up.

When you place your child's cot ensure there aren't any obvious dangers. It should be placed away from power and heater points. Also, keep it away from windows, curtains, and blind cords. They all could present a strangulation threat. If you are buying second-hand furniture or heirlooms to look for any choking hazards such as stickers and transfers. These can peel off and pose a danger.

If you are unsure what you should do to use your cot, consult other parents for help or go to an local NCT New Baby class. If your cot comes with a manual, read it carefully before you begin using it, and follow the safety-use guidelines carefully.

Style

This stunning cot bed with its sleigh design will look amazing in your nursery. The panel was impressed by the mix of white and natural wood and the clever features like under-bed storage drawers that can hold everything essential for babies, including bedding, nappies and a wide selection of baby clothes. It's also easy to assemble, with concise instructions and separate sets of screws for each section. It can also be transformed into a bed for toddlers and a desk as your baby gets older (see the product description for details).

One of our most loved features is the teething rails which protect your little one from bumping their head on the cot's side or any protruding part of the cot, such as the handle or corner post. They also help stop them chewing on the wood, which prevents them from being in danger of being suffocated. It also has a drop-side to allow easier access to your infant. We are thrilled that the cot can be transformed into a toddler bed and that it's strong enough to last for up to four years. It also complies with strict UK safety standards. These are listed in the main specifications below each product.

Cot beds are usually larger than cribs and can be turned into toddler beds once your child is ready and you can avoid purchasing a new bed at an age when they're ready to move on. They are more expensive than a crib.

If your nursery is small, a crib could be the best option for you as it is smaller and takes up less space, but if your child is likely to spend much of their time in their parents' room or you're looking for a more durable bed, consider a crib.

A crib isn't safe for babies to sleep in if it doesn't meet the strict UK safety standards 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 that your child doesn't fall out.

Stores

The amount of baby equipment you'll need is overwhelming whether you're a new parent or an experienced one. It's crucial to think about storage when choosing a cot-bed. Some cots come with additional storage options, like drawers underneath the bed or a coordinating top changer (available separately). Some cots are able to be converted into toddler beds or a smaller single bed to extend their use.

Some cot beds can be transformed into a daybed, as seen here on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is an excellent option for those who prefer an edgier design. The conversion is simple and only requires the removal of ONE side panel. This allows parents to save money on a separate bed.

A few cot beds come with a hanging rail which can be used to store muslins Dummies, and other small items. This allows you to keep everything organised tidy and neat - and it also looks amazing. The ease of access to these items makes it easier for parents when feeding their infant.

A teething rail is an additional desirable feature that is included in some cots. This will stop your child from chewing on the wooden cot which could cause irritation. Some cots are designed with an older style and come with a large under-bed storage drawer that is perfect for storing blankets, toys, clothes and other baby essentials.

While this is a great idea for when you're running out of space, you must be aware that you'll require a separate extra drawer. You may also have to purchase a different mattress and bedding, as sheets and mattresses that are oval aren't usually included in the cot.

This sleigh cot bed from Stokke is a lovely example of Scandi-style in its finest and has a huge under-bed storage drawer that's perfect to keep all the baby's essentials out of view but easily reachable. Our panel of experts found it easy to put together due to the alphabetically-labelled parts and clear instructions. It's suitable for babies as young as birth and can be made into a toddler bed when your child is ready, which means it's good cribs value too.