Five Killer Quora Answers To Cot Beds
How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby
If you're expecting a baby, it's important to choose a cot that will be safe and secure for your child. Find a cot with fixed sides (rather than drop-sides) that meet strict UK safety standards.
This simple but elegant crib is our top pick from the Anyday collection by John Lewis. It has three mattress positions, teething bars and an storage drawer. It's also simple to put together with clear instructions.
Comfort
The best cot beds keep babies comfy and cosy. Find a comfortable, soft fabric. Make sure the mattress is snug to avoid any gaps that could create the danger of being suffocated. There are a range of mattresses available on the market including coil springs, foam and other natural materials suitable for allergy sufferers - so do your research before deciding on the one that is suitable for your baby's needs.
If you choose an ordinary or convertible cot, the primary factor to satisfaction is a high-quality mattress that is supportive and promotes healthy posture. The slats need to be securely attached and not sagging. The slats should also be firmly attached to the frame to ensure that your child will not be caught when they move during sleep.
If you're not sure which mattress to buy, ask your family members or friends or look up online reviews for suggestions. Look for ones that are ventilated, as they'll aid in maintain temperature and are less likely to be a home for bacteria.
In terms of style there's a broad selection of styles, from traditional sleigh designs with intricate details to sleek, contemporary designs. Some are even painted with bright primary colors which is perfect if you want your child to wake up bright and happy!
The majority of cots have an under-bed storage drawer teething rails to 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 purchase drop sides for small 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 sale that is compliant with the stringent UK safety standards and can easily convert into an infant bed when the time is appropriate. Find this information in the description or in the specifications.
Safety
A secure sleeping space is essential and a big aspect to consider when choosing a crib. Make sure the mattress fits snugly, with no gap between it and the cot's bed's sides or ends (big gaps could keep your child's head from being caught in the arms). Check that it's firm and thin. Thicker mattresses aren't advised since they could increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies sell mattresses in various materials including foam and natural materials that are good for allergy sufferers. Some even come with an anti-microbial treatment. If your cot has an inclined side, make sure that it is in the up position and secured.
Drop sides should only be permitted down only when an adult is in the room. This will prevent accidental release. If your coffin has a solid bottom, avoid placing it against the wall as it will block airflow and may contribute to the death of a coffin. According to the latest research, cots with slatted ends are safer since they allow for more airflow.
If your cot is set to one side, you should choose it. It's the most secure choice for your baby as they begin to crawl and pull themselves upward. If your child is climbing with confidence and standing, it's the time to move to a junior bed.
Some cots feature an option where the base can be raised to three different heights, so that it will expand with your child - this is very practical and a great safety measure. Some cots come with adjustable footplates that are ideal for toddlers who love to stand up.
When placing your child's cot ensure there are no visible hazards. It should be kept away from power and heater points. Also, keep it away from windows, curtains and blind cords. All of these could create strangulation risks. If you're purchasing furniture from a secondhand store or an heirloom piece Be sure to check for potential choking hazards like stickers and transfer tapes that could be removed and pose the risk of.
If you're unsure of how to use your cot safely, ask other parents or visit an local NCT New Baby course for assistance and guidance. If your cot comes with a manual, make sure you go through it before using it and adhere to the instructions.
Style
This gorgeous cot bed with its sleigh design will look stunning in your nursery. Our panel members loved the mix of white and natural pine, and its innovative features, like under-bed storage drawers that can hold all the baby necessities like nappies, bedding, and an enviable variety of baby outfits. It's also simple to put together, with concise instructions and separate sets of screws for each section. It can also be converted into a toddler's desk and bed as your child grows older (see product description for more information).
One of our favourite features are the teething rails which protect your baby from bumping their head against the side of the cot or any other protruding parts of the cot, like handles or a corner post. They can also stop them from chewing on the wood, preventing them from becoming in danger of being suffocated. The cot also has drop-sides to allow you to access your newborn. We appreciate that the cot could be converted into a toddler bed, and that it's sturdy enough to last up to four years. It also complies with strict UK safety standards. You can find these in the specifications below for each product.
Cot beds are usually larger than cribs and can be turned into toddler beds when your child is ready which means you don't have to worry about purchasing a bed when they're ready to move on. However, they are more expensive than the standard crib.
If your nursery is small, a crib might be the best option for you, as it's smaller and takes up less space, but if your child is likely to spend much of their time in their parents' rooms or you want a longer-lasting bed, consider a cot.
If a cot does not meet the UK safety standards set by BS EN 716 or BS 8509 (which cover the thickness of mattresses, the materials used, and other important elements in baby mattress cots) it is not safe for babies to sleep. The slats shouldn't be too far apart, to ensure that your child doesn't fall off.
Stores
If you're a new parent or an experienced one the amount of items the baby will require is immense. This is why it's crucial to consider storage options when selecting the right cot bed. Certain cots offer additional storage options, such as drawers under the bed or a top changer (available separately). Certain cots can be transformed into an infant bed or a small single bed to increase their usage.
Some cot for sale beds (visit the following website) can be further converted into a daybed like this one on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is a great option for those who like a more flexible design. The conversion is easy and only requires the removal of one side panel. This also allows parents to save money on a bed purchase.
A few cot beds have hanging rails that can be used to store muslins dolls and other small objects. This helps to keep everything organized, neat and tidy and looks great. These items are easily accessible to parents, making it easier for parents to feed their child.
A teething rail is a 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 have an older style and include a large storage drawer under the bed. It is perfect for toys, clothes, blankets and other baby necessities.
While this is a great idea if you're running out of space, you must keep in mind that you'll require a separate additional drawer. You may also have to buy a new mattress and bedding, as oval mattresses and sheets are not typically included with the cot.
This sleigh-style cheap cot beds is stunning example of Scandi style at its best. It has a spacious under-bed storage area that is ideal to keep all baby necessities out-of-sight but within easy access. The alphabetically labeled parts and clear instructions made it simple to assemble for our panel. It is suitable for babies from birth and can be converted into a toddler's bed when your child is ready.
