9 Signs You re A Cot Beds Expert
How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby
When 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 that has fixed sides, rather than drop-sides. This will meet UK safety standards.
Our top choice is this simple but stylish coffin from John Lewis' Anyday range. It comes with three mattress positions, teething rails, and a storage drawer. It's also easy to set up with clear instructions.
Comfort
The best cot beds keep children warm and cozy. Find a comfortable soft, soft fabric. Make sure the mattress fits snugly, to avoid any gaps that could create the danger of the mattress becoming suffocated. There are a variety of mattresses on the market including coil springs, foam, natural materials for allergy sufferers - so do your research and choose the right one for your baby's needs.
It doesn't matter if you pick a standard cot or a convertible one, a comfortable mattress is crucial to ensure your ease of use. It should provide proper support and encourage an ideal posture. The same applies to the slats, which must be securely attached and not sagging or bent. The slats should also be securely connected to the frame to ensure that your child does not get caught when they move 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 harbor bacteria.
There are many styles to choose from, including traditional sleighs with elaborate details and sleek, modern designs. Some are even painted in bold primary colours, which is ideal when you want your baby to wake up feeling bright and cheerful!
The majority of affordable cots have a drawer for storage underneath teething rails to prevent your child from chewing on the sides of the cot, and height bases that can be adjusted to accommodate your child's growth. You can also buy a drop-side for infants who are small or suffer from medical conditions that make it difficult for them to bend over.
Choose a cot that is compliant with the strict UK safety standards and can easily be transformed into a toddler's cot when it is time. Find this information in the product description or in the specifications.
Safety
A secure sleeping space is essential and a big consideration when choosing a cot. 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 could hold the child's arms and head). Make sure it's firm and thin. Thicker mattresses aren't advised because they can increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies offer a range of mattresses, ranging from basic foam to natural materials for allergy sufferers and some even contain anti-microbial treatments. If your cot has an inclined side, make sure that it is in the up position and locked securely.
Drop sides should only be permitted down only when an adult is in the room. This prevents accidental releases. If your cot has a solid end, avoid placing it against the wall as it can block airflow and can cause death in the coffin. Recent research suggests that slatted ends may be safer because they permit more airflow.
If your crib has a fixed edge you should choose this because it will be safest when your child starts to crawl and then pull themselves up. If your child is confidently climbing 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 increase with your child's growth This is extremely convenient and an added safety measure. Some cots come with footplates that can be adjusted to suit for toddlers who like to stand up.
If you are putting your child in their cot, make sure that there is no visible danger. It must be kept away from heaters or power points, windows and blind cords and curtains (these pose a strangulation risk). 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 peel off and present the risk of.
If you're not sure how to safely use your cot, consult other parents for advice or take part in a local NCT New Baby class. If your cot comes with a manual, read it carefully before using it, and follow the safety guidelines closely.
Style
With its beautiful sleigh design This gorgeous cot bed will look amazing in your nursery. The panel was impressed by the combination of white and natural wood, as well as the innovative features like under-bed storage drawers that can hold everything needed by babies, such as bedding, nappy and a wide selection of baby clothes. It's also easy to assemble, with concise instructions and separate sets of screws for each section. Additionally, it can be transformed into a toddler bed and desk when your child gets older (see the product's description for more details).
One of our favorite features is the teething rails that protect your baby from bumping their head on the side of the cot beds for sale or any protruding parts of the cot, such as the handle or corner post. They also help stop them chewing on the wood, preventing them from being trapped. It also features an opening that can be removed to make it easier for you to access your newborn. We appreciate that the cot could be transformed into a toddler bed, and that it's sturdy enough to last for up to four years. It also complies with strict UK safety standards. These are listed in the specifications below for each product.
Cot beds are generally bigger than cribs and can be converted into toddler beds when your child is ready and you can avoid purchasing a bed at an age when they're ready to transition. However, they can be more expensive upfront than the standard crib.
If your nursery is small, you may be considering a crib. It is smaller and occupies less space. However, if you plan to spend a lot of your baby's time in your bedroom or you need a bed that will last longer, you should choose a crib.
A cot isn't suitable for babies to sleep in if it doesn't meet the strict UK safety standards outlined in BS EN 716 and BS 8509, which covers mattresses' thicknesses, materials, and other key elements of cot mattresses for babies. The slats should not be too close together to ensure your baby doesn't fall out.
Stores
The amount of baby gear you'll need is overwhelming regardless of whether you're a first-time parent or a seasoned one. It's crucial to think about storage when choosing a cot-bed. Some cots have additional storage options, like drawers underneath the bed or a coordinating top changer (available separately). Some cots are able to be converted into a toddler bed or small single bed to increase their use.
Some cots are able to be converted into day beds, as shown on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is a great option for those who prefer an unstructured design since the process of conversion is easy and only requires the removal of a side panel. It also lets parents save money on a separate bed purchase.
Some cot beds are equipped with hanging rails that can be used to hang muslins and dummies, as well as other small objects. This makes everything neat, tidy and organized. It also looks beautiful. The ease of access to these items will make it easier for parents when feeding their Baby Cot Bed.
A teething rail is another important feature that's included in some cots. This can help to stop your child from chewing on the wood that can cause irritation. Some cots are designed in a more traditional style and include a large under-bed storage drawer that is perfect to store blankets, toys clothing, and other baby necessities.
While this is a great option if you're in a tight space, you must be aware that you'll have to purchase an additional drawer. You may have to purchase a separate mattress and bedding, as oval mattresses and sheets do not come with the cheap cot beds.
This sleigh-style cot bed is stunning example of Scandi style at its best. It has a spacious under-bed storage area that is ideal for keeping all baby essentials away from view but easily accessible. Our panel of experts found it easy to put together thanks to alphabetically labelled parts and clear instructions. It's suitable for infants from birth and can be transformed into a toddler bed when your child is ready, which means it's also a good value.
