What s Holding Back The Cot Beds Industry
How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby
If you are expecting a baby it is crucial to select a cot which can provide security and safety for your baby. Find a cot which has fixed sides, instead of 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 has three mattress positions, teething bars, and a storage drawer. It is also easy to put together and comes with clear instructions.
Comfort
The best cot beds keep baby's warm and comfortable. Look for a soft and breathable fabric and make sure the mattress fits snugly to prevent any gaps which could pose an suffocation threat. There are many mattresses on the market that include coil springs, foam and other natural materials suitable for allergy sufferers - so do your research before deciding on the best rated cribs one for your baby's needs.
Whatever you decide to use, whether a conventional cot or a convertible, a good mattress is crucial to ensure your ease of use. It should provide adequate support and promote a healthy posture. The same applies to the slats, which must be firmly attached and not bent or sagging. The slats must also be firmly attached to the frame to ensure that your child does not get caught when they move in their sleep.
If you're unsure of the mattress to purchase, talk to your family members or friends or look up online reviews for recommendations. Make sure you choose a mattress that's air-conditioned, as they'll help regulate temperature and are less likely to harbor bacteria.
In terms of style there's a broad selection, from traditional sleigh styles with ornate detailing to sleek, modern designs. Some are even painted with bright primary colors which is great for those who want their child to wake up feeling bright and happy!
Most cots come with a drawer for storage underneath, teething rails that prevent your child from chewing the sides of the cot, and height bases that are adjustable to accommodate your child's growth. You can also buy a drop-side for infants who aren't tall enough or have health issues that make it hard to bend over.
For added peace of mind, search for a cot that complies with the strict UK safety standards and can easily convert into a toddler bed when the time is appropriate. Look for this information in the description or key specs.
Safety
When choosing a cot, an environment that is safe for sleeping should be the top priority. The mattress should be snugly fitted and there shouldn't be gaps between the mattress and the ends or sides of the cot or cot-bed (large gaps could trap the child's arms or head). Check 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. Some have anti-microbial treatment. If your mattress has drop sides, make sure it is in the up position and locked securely.
Drop sides should only be allowed to go down when an adult is in the room. This prevents accidental releases. Do not place your cot against the wall if it is an end that is solid. This will limit airflow, which could cause death in the coffin. According to the most recent research, cots with slatted ends could be safer as they permit more airflow.
If your cot has a fixed side choose this option as it is the most secure option when your baby starts to crawl and climb up. If your child is climbing with confidence and standing, it's time to upgrade to a junior bed.
Some cots have an option where the base can be raised to three different heights, so that it will increase with your child's growth which is extremely useful and is a safety measure. Other cots come with footplates that are adjustable, which is great for toddlers who want to stand up in their bed.
When you place your child's cot ensure there aren't any visible dangers. It should be placed away from any heaters or power points. Also make sure it is away from windows, curtains and blind cords. All of these could present a strangulation threat. If you are buying second-hand furniture or heirlooms to check for choking hazards such as stickers and transfers. They can come off and cause danger.
If you're unsure about how to use your cot in a safe manner consult other parents or visit the local NCT New Baby course for support and advice. If your cot comes with an instruction manual, read it carefully before you start using it, and follow the safety guidelines closely.
Style
This gorgeous cot bed, with its sleigh style will look stunning in your nursery. Our panel members loved the mix of natural and white pine, and its innovative features, like under-bed storage drawers that can hold all the baby necessities like bedding, nappies and a dazzling assortment of baby clothes. It's also a breeze to put together, with concise instructions and separate sets of screws for each section. Additionally, it can be converted into a bed for toddlers and a desk as your baby gets older (see the product description for details).
The rails for teething are among our most loved features. They keep your child from hitting their head on the crib's side or any protruding portion of the crib, like the corner post or handle. They also stop them from chewing the wood and also preventing them from suffocating. The cot also has an opening that can be dropped to make it easier for access to your infant. We love that it can be converted to a toddler bed, and that it's built to last up to four years. It also complies with the stringent UK safety standards, which are listed in the key specs beneath each product.
Cot beds are typically larger than cribs beds and can be turned into toddler beds once your child is ready, allowing you to avoid buying another bed when they're ready to transition. However, they may be pricier upfront than a crib that is standard.
If your nursery is small, a crib could be the best option for you since it is smaller and occupies less space, but if your baby is likely to spend most of the time in their parents' bedroom or you want a longer-lasting bed, consider a cot.
If the cot you are using does not meet the UK safety standards as defined by BS EN 716 or BS 8509 (which covers the thickness of mattresses, the materials used, and other key elements in baby mattresses for cots), it is unsafe for babies to sleep. The slats shouldn't be too far apart, to ensure that your child doesn't fall off.
Storage
No matter if you're a first-time parent or an experienced one the amount of things that a baby requires is overwhelming. It's important to consider storage when you choose a cot. Some cheap cots come with additional storage options, including drawers beneath the bed or a coordinating top changer (available separately). Some cots can be converted into a toddler bed or small single bed to extend their use.
Some cots are able to be converted into day beds, like the one shown on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is a great option for those who prefer an unstructured design since the conversion process is simple and involves the removal of one side panel. This lets parents save money on an additional bed.
Some cot beds have hanging rails that can be used to hang muslins, Dummies and other small items. This helps keep everything tidy, neat and organized. It also looks beautiful. These items are easily accessible to parents and make it easier for them to feed their baby.
Another feature worth looking for is a toothing rail that comes in a few cots and tots. This can help to keep your baby from chewing on the wood which could cause them irritation. Some cots are designed with more traditional designs and come with a large under-bed storage drawer which is perfect for storing toys, blankets clothes, and other baby necessities.
This is a great solution if space is an issue, but you will have to purchase a drawer separately. You might need to purchase a separate mattress and bedding because oval sheets and mattresses don't come with the cot.
This sleigh-style cot bed is stunning illustration of Scandi style at its finest. It features a huge under-bed storage area that is ideal to keep all baby necessities away from view but easily accessible. The alphabetically labeled components 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's bed when your child is ready.
