This Is The History Of Cot Beds
How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby
If you are expecting your first child it is essential to select a cot which will ensure safety and security for your baby. Find a cot with fixed sides (rather than drop-sides) that are in line with strict UK safety standards.
This minimalist, stylish crib is our top choice from the Anyday range of 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 bed [darksside.com] cot beds keep babies comfy and cosy. Look for a soft and comfortable fabric. Also, make sure that the mattress is fitted snugly to avoid any gaps, which could pose the risk of suffocation. There are many mattresses available that include coil springs, foam, natural materials for allergy sufferers - so do your research before deciding on the one that is suitable for your baby's requirements.
It doesn't matter if you pick a conventional cot or a convertible, a good mattress is crucial to ensure your comfort. It should provide adequate support and promote a healthy posture. The slats must be firmly attached, and not sagging. The slats should also be securely attached to the frame, so your child doesn't get caught in them when moving in their sleep.
Ask your family and friends for recommendations or look at online reviews. Make sure you choose a mattress that's air-conditioned, as they'll help 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 ornate detailing to sleek, modern designs. Some are even painted in vibrant primary colours, which is ideal when you want your baby to wake up feeling bright and content!
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 the growth of your baby. You can also buy an extra drop-side for babies that aren't tall enough or have medical conditions that make it difficult to bend over.
To ensure your peace of mind, search for a cot that is compliant with the stringent UK safety standards and will easily convert into an infant bed when the time is right. This information is found in the product description as well as the specifications.
Safety
A safe sleeping environment is essential and a big factor when selecting a bed. Make sure that the mattress fits snugly, with no gap between it and the cot/cot beds edges or sides (big gaps could trap your child's head or arms). Make sure the mattress is firm and thin. Mattresses that are too thick could increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies offer mattresses in various materials from foam to natural materials that are great for allergy sufferers. Some have anti-microbial treatment. If your crib has drop sides, make sure that it is in the up position and secured.
A drop side should be allowed to go down when an adult is present - this will prevent accidental releases. If your cot has a solid end do not place it against the wall because it will block airflow and could cause the death of a coffin. The latest research suggests that slatted ends could be safer because they permit more airflow.
If your cot is fixed on one side, choose it. It's the most recommended cribs secure option for your child when they start to crawl and pull themselves up. If your child is confidently climbing and standing, it's the time to upgrade to a junior bed.
Some cots and tots have a feature that allows the base to be raised to three different levels. This is a fantastic safety measure and enables your child's cot to expand with their needs. Some cots feature footplates that can be adjusted to suit for toddlers who want to stand up.
When placing your child's cot be sure that there are no visible hazards. It should be placed away from power and heater points. Also make sure it is away from windows, curtains, and blind cords. All of these could present a strangulation threat. If you're buying second-hand or heirloom furniture be sure to look for any hazards to choking such as stickers and transfers that can be removed and create a risk.
If you are unsure how to safely use your cot, consult other parents for help or go to a local NCT New Baby class. If your cot has an instruction manual, read it carefully before you start using it, and then follow the safe-use instructions closely.
Style
With its beautiful sleigh design This stunning crib will look stunning in your nursery. Our panel members loved the mix of natural and white pine, as well as its clever features, such as under-bed storage drawers to keep all the baby necessities like nappies, bedding, and a dazzling array of baby outfits. It's also easy to assemble with clear instructions and separate sets of screws for each section. It can also be transformed into a toddler desk and bed as your child gets older (see the product description for more details).
The teething rails are among our top rated cots features. They stop your baby from hitting their head against the crib's side or any protruding portion of the crib, like the corner post or handle. They also prevent children from chewing on the wood and also preventing them from suffocating. It also has a drop-side for easier access to your infant. We are thrilled that it can be converted to a toddler bed, and it is sturdy enough to last up to four years. It also met the strict UK safety standards, which can be found in the key specs beneath each product.
Cot beds are generally bigger than cribs and can be converted into toddler beds once your child is ready which means you don't have to worry about buying another bed at an age when they're ready to transition. They may cost more than a crib.
If your nursery is small, you might think about the possibility of a crib. It is smaller and occupies less space. However it is recommended to consider a cot if you are planning on spending a lot of your baby's time in your bedroom or you need a bed that lasts longer, you should consider a crib.
A cot isn't safe for babies to sleep in if it does not 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 essential elements of cot mattresses for babies. The slats must not be too wide apart to stop your baby from falling off.
Storage
The amount of baby gear you'll need is a mess whether you're a new parent or an experienced one. This is why it's crucial to consider storage options when choosing the cot bed. Certain cots offer additional storage options, such as drawers beneath the bed or a top changer (available separately). Some can be transformed to a toddler or a small single bed, extending their usefulness for a longer period of time.
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 like the flexibility of a design. The conversion is easy and requires only the removal of ONE side panel. This allows parents to save money on a bed purchase.
A number of cot beds have a hanging rail which can be used to store muslins, Dummies, and other small items. This allows you to keep everything organised, neat and tidy - and it also looks great. These items are easily accessible to parents and make it easier for them to feed their baby.
Another desirable feature to look for is a toothing rail that comes in a few cots. This will prevent your child from chewing on the wooden cot, which can cause irritation. Some cots come with more traditional designs and include a large storage drawer under the bed that is ideal for clothes, toys blankets, baby essentials.
This is a great choice if space is an issue but you'll need to purchase a drawer on your own. You may need to buy an additional mattress and bedding because oval sheets and mattresses don't come with the cot.
This sleigh-style cot is an exquisite example of Scandi style at its best. It has a large under-bed storage space that is perfect for keeping all baby essentials out of sight but still easily accessible. Our panel was able to find it straightforward to put together, thanks to alphabetically labelled parts and clear instructions. It is suitable for babies as young as birth, and can be converted into a toddler's bed once your child's ready.
