Five Killer Quora Answers On Cot Beds

How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby

When you are expecting your first child it is essential to select a cot which will ensure safety and security for your baby. Choose a cot that has fixed sides (rather than drop-sides) that are in line with strict UK safety standards.

This slick and elegant crib is our top pick from the Anyday collection by John Lewis. It comes with 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 baby's warm and comfortable. Look for a soft and comfortable fabric. Also, make sure that the mattress is snug to avoid any gaps, which could cause the risk of suffocation. There are a variety of mattresses available - coils springs, foam and natural materials for allergy-sufferers. Do your research to find the ideal mattress for your child.

Whatever you decide to use, whether a standard cot or a convertible cot the mattress is essential to ease of use. It should provide adequate support and promote an upright posture. This is also true for the slats. They should be firmly attached and not bent or sagging. The slats must also be secured to the frame, so your little one doesn't get caught in them when moving during sleep.

If you're unsure of the mattress to buy, ask your family and friends or consult online reviews for suggestions. Choose breathable mattresses, as they help you regulate your body temperature, and are less likely to hold bacteria.

When it comes to fashion there's a variety of styles, from traditional sleigh styles with elaborate details to sleek, contemporary designs. Some are decorated with bright primary colors to make your child feel joyful and cheerful as they wake up.

You'll find most cots have an under-bed drawer for storage, teething rails to protect your child from chewing on the side of the cot, as well as adjustable height bases for infant growth. You can even purchase a drop side for smaller babies or those who have health issues that make it difficult to bend over.

For extra peace of mind, look for a cot that meets the strict UK safety standards and can easily convert into a toddler bed when the time is right. Look for this information in the description or key specs.

Safety

When choosing a cot, best cot Beds the safety of your child's sleep should be the top priority. The mattress should fit snugly and there should be no gaps between the mattress and the sides or ends of the cot/cot-bed (large gaps can hold the child's arms and head). Check that the mattress is firm and thin. Mattresses that are thick could increase the risk of SIDS. There are many companies that offer mattresses made of different materials, from foam to natural materials that are great for allergy sufferers. Some even come with an anti-microbial treatment. If your crib has an inclined side, make sure it is in the up position and secured.

Drop sides should only be permitted to fall when an adult is present in the room. This will prevent accidental release. Avoid placing your cot on a wall if it has a solid end. This will restrict airflow, which can result in death of the coffin. According to the latest research, slatted end cots could be safer as they allow for more airflow.

If your cot is fixed on one side, choose it. It's the safest option for your baby when they begin to crawl and pull themselves up. If your child is confidently climbing and standing, it's time to upgrade to a junior bed.

Some cots have an option that allows the base to be raised up to three different levels. This is a wonderful safety measure and enables the cot of your child to grow with their needs. Some cots feature footplates that can be adjusted to suit for toddlers who like to stand up.

Whenever you place your child in their cot, make sure that there is no visible danger - it must be away from heat sources, power points, windows, curtains and blind cords (these pose a strangulation risk). When purchasing second-hand furniture, or heirlooms to look out for potential hazards to your child's safety such as labels and transfers. They may peel off and create a risk.

If you're unsure about 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 has a manual, read it carefully before using it, and be sure to follow the safe-use instructions closely.

Style

With its beautiful sleigh design This gorgeous cot bed will look amazing in your nursery. Our panel members loved the combination of natural and white pine, as well as its clever features, such as under-bed storage drawers to keep everything necessary for babies, including bedding, nappies and a stunning array of baby outfits. It's also simple to construct with clear instructions and screws for each section. It can also be transformed into a toddler bed and desk as your baby gets older (see the product description for more details).

The teething rails are among our top features. They stop your child from hitting their head on the crib's side or any other protruding part of the crib, such as the handle or corner post. They also stop children from chewing on the wood and preventing them from being suffocated. It also features an opening that can be removed to make it easier for you to access your newborn. We appreciate that it is able to be converted into an infant bed, and it's sturdy enough to last for four years. It also meets the strict UK safety standards, which are listed in the key specs beneath each product.

Cot beds are generally bigger than cribs and can be turned into toddler beds once your child is ready, allowing you to avoid buying another bed at an age when they're ready for the transition. However, they may be pricier upfront than the standard crib.

If your nursery is very small, a crib could be the best option for you, as it's smaller and occupies less space. However, if your child is likely to spend most of the time in their parents' room or you'd like a more long-lasting bed, consider a crib.

A cot isn't safe for babies to sleep in if it does not meet the strict UK safety standards as outlined in BS EN 716 and BS 8509, which covers the thickness of mattresses, the materials used and other essential elements of baby cot mattresses. The slats shouldn't be too wide apart to stop your cheap baby cots from falling out.

Stores

If you're a new parent or an experienced one, the amount of stuff the baby will require is immense. This is why it's crucial to think about storage options when choosing the right crib bed. Some cots come with additional storage options, like drawers under the bed or a top changer (available separately). Some cots and tots are able to be converted into a toddler bed or small single bed to extend their usage.

Some cot beds can be further transformed into a daybed, 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 easy and only requires the removal of one side panel. This allows parents to save money on a separate bed.

Some cot beds are equipped with a hanging rail that can be used to hang muslins, Dummies along with other small objects. This makes everything neat, tidy and organised. It also looks beautiful. These items are easily accessible to parents, making it easier for parents to feed their child.

A teething rail is another desirable feature that is included in some cots. This will prevent your child from chewing on the cot's wooden structure, which could cause irritation. Some cots are designed in an older style and include a large drawer under the bed that is ideal to store blankets, toys clothes, and other baby necessities.

While this is a great idea for when you're running out of space, it's important to be aware that you'll require a separate additional drawer. You may also have to buy a new mattress and bedding as oval mattresses and sheets aren't typically included in the mini cot beds.

This sleigh-style cot bed is a beautiful 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 straightforward to put together, thanks to the alphabetically labeled parts and clear instructions. It's suitable for babies from birth and can be transformed into a toddler bed once your child is ready, which means it's good value too.