Five Killer Quora Answers To Cot Beds

How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby

If you're expecting a baby it is essential to select a cot that's secure and safe for your child. Find a cot which has fixed sides, rather than drop-sides. This will comply with 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 a storage drawer. It is also easy to put together, and comes with clear instructions.

Comfort

The best baby cots cot beds keep children warm and cozy. Look for a breathable soft and comfortable fabric. Make sure that the mattress fits snugly, to avoid any gaps that could create the risk of suffocation. There are many mattresses on the market including coil springs, foam and other natural materials suitable for allergy sufferers - so do your research and select the right one for your baby's requirements.

If you choose a standard or convertible cot, the primary factor to comfort is a mattress of high-quality that is supportive and encourages healthy posture. The slats must be securely attached and not sliding. The slats should also be secured to the frame, so your little one doesn't get stuck in them while they move during sleep.

Ask your family and friends for recommendations, or read online cots reviews. Select mattresses that are breathable, since they will help you regulate your body temperature and less likely to be a breeding ground for bacteria.

When it comes to style there's a broad selection of styles, from traditional sleigh designs with elaborate details to sleek, contemporary designs. Some are even painted with bright primary colors which is great for those who want their little one to wake up feeling bright and content!

Most cots come with an under-bed drawer for storage, teething rails to protect your baby from chewing on the sides of the cot, and adjustable height bases for infant growth. You can also buy a drop-side for babies who aren't tall enough or have health issues that make it difficult to bend over.

For extra peace of mind, look for a cot that is compliant with the stringent UK safety standards and will easily transform into an infant bed when the time is right. This information is found in the product description and the specifications.

Safety

When choosing a cot a safe sleeping environment is a must. The mattress should be snugly fitted and there should be no gaps between the mattress and the edges or sides of the cot or cot-bed (large gaps can restrict the child's arms or head). Make sure the mattress is firm and thin. Mattresses that are too thick could increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies offer a choice of mattresses, ranging from basic foam to natural substances for allergy sufferers. Some come with anti-microbial treatment. If your crib has an inclined side, make sure it is in the up position and locked securely.

A drop side should only be allowed to fall when an adult is present; this prevents accidental release. If your coffin has a solid edge, avoid placing it against the wall as this will restrict airflow and may contribute to death in the coffin. According to the most recent research, cots with slatted edges could be safer as they permit more airflow.

If your cot is set to one side, you should choose it. It's the most secure choice for your baby when they begin to crawl and pull themselves up. When your child is standing and climbing, this is a sign that they're ready to transition into the junior bed.

Some cots feature features that allow the base can be raised to three different heights in order to expand with your child - this is very convenient and an added security measure. Some cots also have footplates that can be adjusted, which are great for toddlers who want to sit up in their beds.

When you put your child in their cot, make sure whether there is no obvious danger - it must be kept away from heaters or windows, power points and curtains and blind cords (these are a strangulation hazard). If you're buying furniture that is second-hand or an heirloom, check for choking hazards like stickers and transfer tapes that could be removed and pose danger.

If you're unsure of what you should do to use your cot, ask other parents for advice or go to an local NCT New Baby class. If your cot has instructions, read them carefully before using it, and then follow the safety guidelines closely.

Style

With its beautiful sleigh design, this gorgeous cot bed will look great in your nursery. Our panel members loved the mix of white and natural pine, as well as its smart features, including drawers under the bed to store all those baby essentials like bedding, nappies and a dazzling variety of baby outfits. It's also easy to construct, with clear instructions and separate screws for each section. Additionally, it can be transformed into a toddler bed or desk as your baby gets older (see the product description for details).

One of our favourite features is the teething rails, which shield your little one from smacking their head against the side of the cot or any protruding parts of the cot like the handle or corner post, and which can also stop them from chewing on the wood, which prevents them from becoming suffocated. There's also a drop-side for easier access to your infant. We love that it can be converted to an infant bed, and it is sturdy enough to last up to four years. It also meets the strict UK safety standards, which you'll find in the main specifications beneath each product.

Cot beds are usually larger than cribs and can be turned into toddler beds once your child is ready which means you don't have to worry about purchasing a new bed until they're ready to move on. However, they are pricier upfront than a crib that is standard.

If your nursery is very small, a crib could be the best choice for you as it is smaller and takes up less space, but should your baby be expected to spend most of the time in their parents' rooms or you'd like a more long-lasting bed, consider a cot.

A cot isn't safe for babies to sleep in if it doesn't meet the strict UK safety standards as outlined in BS EN 716 and BS 8509, which deals with mattress thicknesses, materials and other key elements of baby cot mattresses. The slats must not be too far apart, to ensure that your baby won't fall out.

Storage

If you're a new parent or an experienced one, the amount of stuff that a baby requires is overwhelming. This is why it's essential to think about storage options when selecting the crib bed. Some cots have additional storage options, such as drawers underneath the bed or a coordinating top changer (available separately). Some are even able to be converted to a toddler or a small single bed, extending their use for a longer time.

Some cot beds can be further converted into a daybed as shown on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is a great option for those who prefer a more flexible design. The conversion is easy and requires only the removal of ONE side panel. It also lets parents save money on a separate bed.

A few cot beds come with hanging rails that can be used to store muslins, dummies and other small items. This helps to keep everything organised tidy and neat and looks amazing. Being able to access these items makes it easier for parents to feed their child.

A teething rail is a important feature that's included in some cots. This can help to stop your child from chewing on the wood which can cause irritation. Some cots are designed in an older style and have a huge drawer under the bed that is ideal to store blankets, toys clothing, and other baby essentials.

This is a great choice for those who have limited space, but you will have to purchase a drawer on your own. You may also have to purchase a different mattress and bedding as sheets and mattresses that are oval are not typically included with the cot itself.

This sleigh cot bed by Stokke is a stunning example of Scandi-style at its best crib and comes with a massive under-bed storage drawer that's great for keeping all those baby's essentials out of view but easily reachable. Our panel found it very easy to put together thanks to 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, meaning it's good value too.