How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby
When you are expecting a baby, it is important to select a cot which will provide safety and security for your baby. Choose a cot that has fixed sides rather than drop-sides. This will meet UK safety standards.
This minimalist, elegant coffin is our top pick from the Anyday range by John Lewis. It comes with three mattress positions, teething rails and storage drawers. It is also simple to put together and comes with clear instructions.
Comfort
The best cot bed will keep babies comfortable and cozy. Find a comfortable soft and comfortable fabric. Make sure the mattress fits snugly, to eliminate any gaps that could create a risk of the mattress becoming suffocated. There are a variety of mattresses available - foam, coil springs, natural materials for allergy sufferers. So do your research and choose the best one for your baby's needs.
If you choose an ordinary or convertible cot, the primary factor to comfort is a mattress of high-quality that provides proper support and encourages healthy posture. The slats need to be securely attached and not sliding. cot bed sales need to be firmly connected to the frame so that your child does not get caught when they move during sleep.
Ask your friends and family for recommendations or look at online reviews. Choose breathable mattresses, as they can aid in regulating your body temperature, and are less likely to hold bacteria.
There are a variety of styles to pick from such as traditional sleighs, with intricate details and sleek, modern designs. Some are painted in vibrant primary colors to make your child feel happy and cheerful when they awake.
There are a lot of cots that have drawers underneath to store items, teething rails to protect your baby from chewing on the side of the cot, as well as adjustable height bases for infant growth. You can also buy a drop-side for infants who aren't big or suffer from health issues that make it hard to bend over.
For extra security, opt for a cot that is compliant with the strict UK safety standards and can easily transform into an infant bed when the time is right. This information can be found in the product description and key specifications.
Safety
When choosing a cot the safety of your child's sleep should be a priority. Make sure the mattress fits snugly, with no gaps between it and the cot's beds edges or sides (big gaps could restrict your child's head or arms). Verify that the mattress is not too firm and thin. Mattresses that are too thick can 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 good for allergy sufferers. Some have anti-microbial treatment. If your cot features a drop-side, make sure it is locked and in the up position.
Drop sides should only be allowed to go down only when an adult is present in the room. This can prevent accidental release. Avoid placing your cot against a wall if it has an end that is solid. This will hinder airflow and could result in death of the coffin. According to the most recent research, slatted end cots 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 child when they begin to crawl and pull themselves upward. If your child is confidently climbing and standing, it's time to upgrade to a junior bed.
Some cots are equipped with a feature that allows the base to be raised to three levels. This is a wonderful safety measure and enables your child's cot to grow with them. Some cots have footplates that are adjustable, which is great for toddlers who want to sit up in their beds.
When you place your child's cot ensure there aren't any obvious dangers. It should be placed away from any heaters or power points. Also make sure it is away from windows, curtains and blind cords. All of these could pose a strangulation risk. When buying second-hand furniture or heirlooms, make sure to look out for potential hazards to your child's safety such as labels and transfers. These can peel off and create a risk.
If you're unsure of how to use your cot in a safe manner consult other parents or attend a local NCT New Baby course for assistance and guidance. If your cot comes with an instruction manual, read it carefully before using it, and then follow the safety guidelines closely.
Style
With its gorgeous sleigh style, this gorgeous crib will look stunning in your nursery. Our panel was impressed by the mix of white and natural pine, as well as its smart features, including drawers under the bed to store everything necessary for babies, including bedding, nappies and a stunning assortment of baby clothes. It's also easy to build, with clear instructions and separate screws for each section. It could also be transformed into a toddler desk or bed as your child grows older (see the product description for more details).
One of our favourite features is the teething rails that protect your baby from bumping their head against the side of the cot or any protruding part of the cot like the handle or corner post, and which can also stop them from chewing on the wood, which prevents them from getting in danger of being suffocated. The cot also has an opening that can be removed to allow you to get access to your baby. We are thrilled that it can be converted into a toddler bed, and that it's built to last for four years. It also complies with strict UK safety standards. You can find these in the key specs below each product.
Cot beds are usually larger than cribs and can be transformed into toddler beds once your child is ready, allowing you to avoid purchasing a bed when they're ready to move on. They can be more expensive than cribs.
If your nursery is small, a crib could be the best option for you since it is smaller and takes up less space. However, if your baby is likely to spend a lot of time in their parents' bedroom or you're looking for a more durable bed, you should consider a crib.
A cot isn't safe for babies to sleep in if it doesn't meet the strict UK safety standards as outlined in BS EN 716 and BS 8509, which deals with mattresses' thicknesses, materials, and other key elements of baby cot mattresses. The slats shouldn't be too wide apart to prevent your baby from falling out.
Storage
Whether you're a first-time parent or a veteran the amount of things a baby needs is staggering. This is why it's crucial to consider the storage options when you choose the right crib bed. There are a variety of cots that have additional storage solutions available such as drawers in the under-bed or a coordinating top changer (available separately). Some cots can be converted into toddler beds or a smaller single bed to extend their use.
Some cot beds can be converted into a daybed, as seen here on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is a great option for those who like a more flexible design. The conversion is simple and only requires the removal of a single 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 along with other small objects. This makes it easier to keep everything organized tidy, neat and tidy and also looks fantastic. Having easy access to these items will make it easier for parents to feed their infant.
A teething rail is an additional desired feature that is found in some cots. This will help stop your child from chewing on the wood, which could cause them irritation. Some cots feature an older style and come with a large storage drawer beneath the bed. It is perfect for toys, clothes, blankets and other baby necessities.
This is a great option for those who have limited space, but you will have to purchase a drawer separately. You may also need to purchase a different mattress and bedding, as oval mattresses and sheets aren't typically included in the cot.
This sleigh-style cot is a beautiful example of Scandi style at its finest. It has a spacious under-bed storage compartment that's ideal for keeping all baby essentials out of sight but still easily accessible. The alphabetically labeled parts and clear instructions made it simple to assemble for our panel. It's suitable for infants from birth and can be made into a toddler's crib when your child's ready.