How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby
If you're expecting a baby it is essential to select a cot that's safe and secure for your little one. Find a cot with fixed sides (rather than drop-sides), which comply with strict UK safety standards.
This simple but stylish cot is our top choice from the Anyday range by John Lewis. It has three mattress positions, teething bars and storage drawers. It is also easy to put together, and comes with clear instructions.
Comfort
The best cot beds keep babies comfy and cosy. Choose a breathable, soft fabric. Make sure the mattress fits snugly, to eliminate any gaps that could cause the danger of suffocation. There are a variety of mattresses available - coils springs, foam, and natural materials for allergy sufferers. Do your research to determine the most suitable one for your child.
No matter if you select a convertible or standard cot, the key to comfort is a mattress of high-quality that is supportive and encourages healthy posture. The slats must be firmly attached, and not sagging. The slats must also be securely fixed to the frame, to ensure that your child will not become caught in the movement in their sleep.
Ask your family and friends for recommendations or look at online reviews. Choose breathable mattresses, as they can help regulate your body temperature and are less likely to be a breeding ground for bacteria.
When it comes to fashion there's a broad selection, from traditional sleigh styles with ornate details to sleek, contemporary designs. Some are decorated with bright primary colors to make your child feel happy and cheerful when they wake up.
Most cots come with a drawer underneath for storage and teething rails to guard your baby from chewing on the side of the cot, and 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 difficult to bend over.
Find a cot that is in compliance with the strict UK safety standard and is able to be easily converted into a toddler's bed when it's time. Look for this information in the description or in the specifications.
Safety
A secure sleeping space is essential and a big consideration when choosing a cot. Make sure the mattress is snugly fitted, with no gaps between it and the cot's bed sides or ends (big gaps can 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. There are many companies that offer a variety of mattresses, ranging from basic foam to natural materials for allergy sufferers and some even contain anti-microbial treatments. If your mattress has a drop side, ensure it is in the upward position and locked securely.
A drop side should only be allowed to drop when an adult is present - to prevent accidental release. If your coffin has a solid bottom, avoid placing it against the wall since this will restrict airflow and can cause the death of a coffin. According to the most recent research, cots with slatted ends could be safer as they permit more airflow.
If your crib has a fixed side choose this option as it will be safest when your child starts to crawl and pull themselves up. When your child is climbing with confidence and standing, it's the time to upgrade to a junior bed.
Some cots come with an option where the base can be raised to three different levels in order to expand with your child which is extremely useful and is a security measure. Some cots feature adjustable footplates that are ideal for toddlers who like to stand up.
When putting your child's cot in the crib 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. These can all present a strangulation threat. When buying second-hand furniture or heirlooms, be sure to look for any potential hazards to your child's safety such as labels and transfers. They may peel off and pose a danger.
If you're not sure how to use your cot in a safe manner you can ask other parents or attend the local NCT New Baby course for assistance and guidance. If your crib comes with a manual, make sure you go through it prior to using it and follow the instructions.
Style
This stunning cot bed with its sleigh style will look fantastic in your nursery. The panel was impressed with the mix of natural and white wood and the clever features such as under-bed storage drawers that can hold everything essential for babies, including bedding, nappies and a wide selection of baby clothes. It's also a breeze to put together, with concise instructions and separate sets of screws for each section. It can also be converted into a toddler bed and desk as your baby gets older (see the product's description for more details).
One of our favourite features is the teething rails which protect your baby from bumping their head on the cot's side or any protruding part of the cot, like handles or a corner post. They can also stop them from chewing on the wood, which prevents them from becoming trapped. It also features drop-sides to allow you to get access to your baby. We love that it can be converted into an infant bed, and it is sturdy enough to last for up to four years. It also complies with the stringent UK safety standards, which can be found in the specifications that are listed under each product.
Cot beds are usually larger than cribs and can be turned into toddler beds when your child is ready, allowing you to avoid purchasing a bed at an age when they're ready for the transition. However, they may be more expensive upfront than a standard crib.
If your nursery is small, a crib could be the best option for you since it is smaller and takes up less space. However, should please click the following page be expected to spend much of their time in their parents' bedroom or you're looking for a more durable bed, opt for a crib.
A cot isn't suitable for babies to sleep in if it does not meet the strict UK safety standards outlined in BS EN 716 and BS 8509, which deals with mattresses' thicknesses, materials, and other key elements of cot mattresses for babies. The slats should not be too wide apart to stop your child from falling out.
Stores
No matter if you're a first-time parent or a veteran the amount of items that a baby requires is overwhelming. It's crucial to think about storage when you choose a cot. Some cots have additional storage options, like drawers underneath the bed or a top changer (available separately). Some cots are able to be converted into a toddler bed or small single beds to expand their use.
Some cot beds can be further adapted into a day bed as shown on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is an ideal option for those who prefer an unstructured design since the process of conversion is simple and involves the removal of a side panel. This allows parents to save money on the purchase of a separate bed.
Some cot beds come with a hanging rail that can be used to hang muslins, dummies and other small objects. This makes everything neat, tidy and organised. It also looks fantastic. These items are easily accessible to parents which makes it easier for them to feed their baby.
A teething rail is another important feature that's included in some cots. This will help prevent your little one chewing on the wood, which could cause them irritation. Some cots have more traditional designs and have a huge storage drawer under the bed. It is perfect for toys, clothes blankets, and other baby necessities.
This is a great choice when space is a problem, but you will have to purchase a drawer on your own. You might need to purchase bedding and a mattress separately since oval sheets and mattresses don't come with the cot.
This sleigh-style cot bed stunning example of Scandi style at its finest. It has a spacious under-bed storage compartment that's ideal to keep baby's essentials away from view but easily accessible. Our panel found it very easy to put together, due to the alphabetically-labelled parts and clear instructions. It's suitable for infants as young as birth and can be transformed into a toddler's crib when your child is ready.