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's safe and secure for your little one. Choose a cot that has fixed sides (rather than drop-sides) that meet strict UK safety standards.
Our top pick is this basic but elegant cot from John Lewis' Anyday range. It comes with three mattress positions, teething rails as well as a storage drawer. It is also easy to assemble, with clear instructions.
Comfort
The best cot beds keep children warm and cozy. Choose a soft, comfortable fabric. Also, make sure that the mattress is fitted snugly to avoid any gaps, which could cause an suffocation threat. There are many types of mattresses available: coils springs, foam and natural materials for allergy-sufferers. Do your research to find the most suitable one for your child.
It doesn't matter if you pick a conventional cot or a convertible one, a comfortable mattress is essential to the comfort. It should provide proper support and promote a healthy posture. The same is true for the slats. They should be secured and not bent or sagging. The slats should also be firmly fixed to the frame, to ensure that your child will not become caught in the movement in their sleep.
If you're not sure which mattress to purchase, talk to your family members or friends or look up online reviews for suggestions. Make sure you choose a mattress that's ventilated, as they'll aid in regulate temperature and are less likely to harbour bacteria.
There are a myriad of styles to choose from such as traditional sleighs, with elaborate details and sleek, modern designs. Some are painted in vibrant primary colors to make your child feel joyful and cheerful when they wake up.
Most cots come with drawers underneath to store items, teething rails to protect your baby from chewing on the sides of the cot, and adjustable height bases to accommodate baby's growth. You can also purchase an extra drop-side for babies that aren't big or have health issues that make it difficult for them to bend over.
For added peace of mind, search for a cot that complies with the stringent UK safety standards and can easily transform into an infant bed when the time is appropriate. This information can be found in the description of the product and the key specifications.
Safety
When selecting a Mini Cot Bed, the safety of your child's sleep should be a 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 it's firm and thin - thicker mattresses aren't recommended as they may increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies offer mattresses in a variety of materials, from foam to natural materials that are great for allergy sufferers. Some have anti-microbial treatment. If your cot has a drop-side, make sure it is secured and in the upward position.
Drop sides should only be allowed to go down only when an adult is present in the room. This will prevent accidental releases. If your coffin has a solid edge do not place it against the wall since it will block airflow and can cause coffin death. According to the most recent research, cots with slatted edges could be safer as they allow for greater airflow.
If your cot is set on one side, then you can choose it. It's the safest option for your baby cot online when they start to crawl and pull themselves up. When your child is confidently climbing and standing, it's time to upgrade to a junior bed.
Some cots feature a feature where the base can be raised to three different levels to allow it to increase with your child's growth - this is very practical and a great safety measure. Some cots have adjustable footplates, which are ideal for toddlers wanting to sit up in their beds.
When you put your child in their cot, ensure whether there is no visible danger. It must be away from heat sources or windows, power points and blind cords and curtains (these are a strangulation hazard). When buying second-hand furniture or heirlooms, be sure to look out for choking hazards such as stickers and transfers. They can come off and cause danger.
If you are unsure how to safely use your cot, ask other parents for help or take part in an local NCT New Baby class. If your Mini Cot Bed comes with instructions, read them carefully before using it, and follow the safety guidelines closely.
Style
With its stunning sleigh design This gorgeous cot bed will look great in your nursery. The panel was awed by the mix of white and natural wood as well as the clever features like drawers under the bed for everything needed by babies, such as bedding, nappies and a huge selection of baby clothes. It's also a breeze to put together with clear instructions and separate sets of screws for each section. It can also be converted into a bed for toddlers and a desk when your child gets older (see the product description for details).
One of our favorite features are the teething rails that protect your baby from smacking their head against the side of the cot or any other protruding parts of the cot, such as the handle or corner post. They also help stop them chewing on the wood, preventing them from becoming in danger of being suffocated. There's also a drop-side to allow easier access to your newborn. We appreciate that it is able to be converted into an infant 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 key specs below each product.
Cot beds are usually larger than cribs and can be converted into toddler beds when your child is ready and you can avoid purchasing a new bed when they're ready to transition. However, they may be more expensive upfront than a standard crib.
If your nursery isn't big enough, you might want to consider a crib. It is smaller and takes less space. However it is recommended to consider a cot if you are planning on spending a lot of your baby's time in the room or you need a bed that will last longer, you should consider a crib.
A crib 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 deals with mattress thicknesses, materials and other key elements of cot mattresses for baby. The slats shouldn't be too close together to ensure your baby doesn't fall out.
Stores
If you're a new parent or a veteran, the amount of stuff a baby needs is staggering. This is why it's essential to think about storage options when choosing the cot bed. Certain cots offer additional storage options, including drawers beneath the bed or a coordinating top changer (available separately). Some are even able to be converted to a toddler or a small single bed, which can extend their usefulness for a longer period of time.
Some cot beds can be adapted into a day bed, as seen here on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is a great option for those who prefer more flexible designs as the process of conversion is simple and requires just the removal of one side panel. This allows parents to save money on a separate bed purchase.
A variety of cheap cot bed beds come with hanging rails that can be used to store muslins, dolls and other small objects. This helps to keep everything organised, neat and tidy and looks fantastic. Having easy access to these items will make it easier for parents when feeding their baby.
A teething rail is another desired feature that is found in some cots. This can stop your child from chewing on the wood that can cause irritation. Some cots are designed in more traditional designs and have a huge drawer under the bed that is ideal for storing toys, blankets clothing, and other baby necessities.
This is a great option if space is an issue but you'll need to purchase a drawer separately. You may also have to buy a new mattress and bedding, as oval mattresses and sheets aren't usually included in the cot.
This sleigh-style cot bed is a beautiful example of Scandi style at its best. It features a huge under-bed storage compartment that's ideal to keep all baby necessities out of sight but still easily accessible. The alphabetically labeled components and clear instructions made it simple to assemble our panel. It's suitable for babies as young as birth and can be converted into a toddler's crib when your child is ready.
