The Ultimate Guide To Cot Beds
How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby
If you are expecting a child it is crucial to choose a cot that can provide security and safety for your baby. Look for a cot with fixed sides (rather than drop-sides) that are in line with strict UK safety standards.
This slick and stylish crib is our top choice from the Anyday collection by John Lewis. It comes with three mattress positions, teething bars and storage drawers. It's also simple to put together with clear instructions.
Comfort
The best cot beds keep baby's warm and comfortable. Choose a soft, airy fabric, and ensure that the mattress fits snugly to avoid any gaps, which could pose the risk of suffocation. There are a variety of mattresses available: foam, coils springs, and natural materials for allergy sufferers. Do your research to determine the ideal mattress for your child.
Whether you opt for 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 slats should also be securely attached and not sliding. The slats must also be securely attached to the frame, so your child isn't trapped in them while moving in their sleep.
If you're unsure of the mattress to purchase, talk to friends and family or check online reviews for recommendations. Make sure you choose a mattress that's ventilated, as they'll aid in maintain temperature and are less likely to harbour bacteria.
In terms of style there's a variety of styles, from traditional sleigh styles with intricate detailing to sleek, modern designs. Some are even painted with bright primary colors which is perfect if you want your baby to wake up feeling fresh and happy!
Most cots come with drawers underneath to store items, teething rails to protect your child from chewing on the side of the cot, and adjustable height bases for baby growth. You can also buy a drop-side for babies who are small or suffer from health issues that make it difficult for them to bend over.
For added peace of mind, look for a cot that complies with the stringent UK safety standards and can easily transform into an infant bed when the time is appropriate. Find this information in the product description or in the key specifications.
Safety
A safe sleeping environment is a must and a major factor when selecting a cot. The mattress should be able to fit snugly and there should be no gaps between the mattress and the sides or ends of the cot or cot-bed (large gaps can hold the child's arms and head). Verify that the mattress is solid and thin - more thick mattresses aren't recommended as they may increase the risk of SIDS. There are many companies that offer mattresses made of a variety of materials, from foam to natural materials that are suitable for allergy sufferers. Some even have an anti-microbial treatment. If your cot features drop-sides, make sure it is secured and in the up position.
Drop sides should only be allowed to fall when an adult is present in the room. This can prevent accidental release. If your cot has a solid end be sure to avoid placing it against the wall because this will restrict airflow and can cause death in the coffin. Recent research suggests that slatted ends may be safer since they permit more airflow.
If your cot is set to one side, you should choose it. It's the safest option for your baby as they start to crawl and pull themselves upward. If your child is confidently climbing and standing, it's time to move to a junior bed.
Some cots come with a feature that allows the base to be raised to three levels. This is a fantastic security feature that allows the cot of your child to grow with their needs. Other cots come with footplates that can be adjusted, which are great for toddlers who want to sit up in their bed.
If you are putting your child in their cot, ensure that there is no obvious danger - it must be kept away from heaters and power points, windows and blind cords and curtains (these are a strangulation hazard). If you're purchasing second-hand or heirloom furniture be sure to look for any dangers to your child's health such as stickers and transfer tapes that could be removed and create the risk of.
If you're not sure how to use your cot in a safe manner you can ask parents around or go to an local NCT New Baby course for assistance and guidance. If your cot comes with a manual, read it carefully before using it, and then follow the safety guidelines closely.
Style
With its beautiful sleigh design This stunning cot bed will look great in your nursery. The panel was impressed with the mix of white and natural wood, as well as the clever features such as under-bed storage drawers for all baby essentials, like bedding, nappies, and a huge selection of baby clothes. It's also easy to build, with clear instructions and screws for each section. What's more, it can be converted into a toddler bed or desk as your baby gets older (see the product description for more details).
One of our favorite features are the teething rails, which shield your baby from bumping their head on the side of the cot or any other protruding parts of the cot, like a handle or a corner post. They can also stop them from chewing on the wood, preventing them from being in danger of being suffocated. There's also a drop-side to make it easier for parents to reach their newborn. We are thrilled that the cot can be converted into a toddler bed, and that it's built to last for up to four years. It also met strict UK safety standards. These are listed in the main specifications below each product.
Cot beds can be turned into toddler beds in the event that your child is old enough. This allows you to not have to buy a new bed when your child's ready to make the leap. They can be more expensive than cribs.
If your nursery is small, you might be considering the possibility of a crib. It is smaller and occupies less space. However should you be planning to spend a significant portion of your baby's time in your bedroom or you need an item that lasts longer, you should consider a cot.
A cot isn't safe for babies to sleep in if it doesn't meet the strict UK safety standards set out in BS EN 716 and BS 8509, which covers the thickness of mattresses, the materials used and other important elements of baby cot mattresses. The slats must not be too wide apart to prevent your baby from falling out.
Stores
The amount of baby equipment you'll need is a mess regardless of whether you're a new mom or an experienced one. This is the reason it's important to consider the storage options when you choose the right crib bed. Some cots have additional storage options, including drawers beneath the bed or a coordinating top changer (available separately). Some can be transformed to a toddler or a small single bed, which can extend their use for a longer time.
Some cots can be transformed into day beds, like the one shown here on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Mini Cot Bed. This is a great choice for those who like a more flexible design. The conversion is simple and only requires the removal of a single side panel. This also allows parents to save money on a separate bed.
Some cot beds have hanging rails that can be used to hang muslins and dummies along with other small objects. This makes it easier to keep everything organised, neat and tidy and also looks fantastic. Having easy access to these items will make it easier for parents to feed their infant cot bed.
A teething rail is another desired feature that is found in some cots. This can stop your child from chewing on the wood which can cause irritation. Some cots have more traditional designs and have a huge storage drawer beneath the bed that is ideal for toys, clothes, blankets and other baby essentials.
While this is a great idea for when you're in a tight space, you must keep in mind that you'll require a separate extra for the drawer. You may have to purchase bedding and a mattress separately, as oval sheets and mattresses do not come with the cot.
This sleigh cot from Stokke is a beautiful example of the Scandi-style at its finest and has a huge under-bed storage drawer that's perfect to keep baby's essentials out of view but within easy reach. The alphabetically labeled components and clear instructions made it simple to assemble our panel. It's suitable for infants as young as birth and can be converted into a toddler's crib when your child's ready.
