Five Killer Quora Answers On Cot Beds
How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby
When you are expecting a baby it is essential to choose a cot that can provide security and safety for your baby. Look for a cheap cot bed with fixed sides (rather than drop-sides), which comply with 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 bars and an storage drawer. It's also easy to set up 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 fits snugly to prevent any gaps which could create a suffocation risk. 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.
Whatever you decide to use, whether a standard cot or a convertible cot, a good mattress is crucial to ensure your comfort. It should provide proper support and encourage an ideal posture. The slats should also be firmly attached, and not sagging. The slats must be securely fixed to the frame so that your child isn't stuck in them while they move in their sleep.
Ask your family and friends for recommendations, or read online reviews. Look for ones that are air-conditioned, as they'll help regulate temperature and are less likely to harbor bacteria.
There are a myriad of styles to choose from such as traditional sleighs, with ornate details and modern, sleek designs. Some are decorated with bright primary colors to make your child feel happy and cheerful when they wake up.
Most cots come with an under-bed storage drawer, teething rails that prevent your child from chewing the sides of the cot, and adjustable height bases to accommodate the growth of your baby. You can even purchase a drop side for petite infants or those with medical conditions that make it difficult to bend over.
Look for a cot which meets the strict UK safety standards and can easily be converted into a toddler's bed when it's time. This information can be found in the description of the product and key specifications.
Safety
When choosing a cot a safe sleeping environment is a must. Make sure that the mattress fits snugly, with no gaps between it and the cot/Cot Bed (click through the following page) sides or ends (big gaps can restrict your child's head or arms). Check that the mattress is not too firm and thin. Mattresses that are thick can increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies offer mattresses in a variety of materials including foam and natural materials that are good for allergy sufferers. Some have anti-microbial treatment. If your cot has an inclined side, make sure that it is in the up position and locked securely.
Drop sides should only be allowed down when an adult is in the room. This can prevent accidental releases. If your cot has a solid end be sure to avoid placing it against the wall as this will restrict airflow and can cause the death of a coffin. According to the most recent research, slatted end cots may be safer because they permit more airflow.
If your crib has a fixed side you should choose this because it's safer when your baby starts to crawl and climb up. When your child is confidently climbing and standing, it's time to move to a junior bed.
Some cots have features that allow the base can be raised to three different levels to allow it to increase with your child's growth This is extremely convenient and an added security measure. Some cots have adjustable footplates that are perfect for toddlers who want to stand up.
When you place your child's cot be sure that there aren't any visible dangers. It should be placed away from heaters and power points. Also, keep it away from windows, curtains and blind cords. They all could present a strangulation threat. If you're purchasing furniture from a secondhand store or an heirloom piece be sure to look for any choking hazards like stickers and transfers that may be removed and pose danger.
If you're unsure of how to safely use your cot, consult other parents for advice or attend an local NCT New Baby class. If your crib comes with a manual, make sure you go through it before using it and adhere to the instructions.
Style
With its stunning sleigh design, this gorgeous cot bed will look great in your nursery. Our panel members loved the combination of natural and white pine, and its clever features, such as drawers under the bed to store all the baby necessities like bedding, nappies and a stunning array of baby outfits. It's also simple to put together, with concise instructions and separate packs of screws for each section. Additionally, it can be transformed into a toddler bed and desk as your baby gets older (see the product's description for more details).
One of our favorite features is the teething rails that protect your little one from bumping their head against the side of the cot or any protruding part of the cot like a handle or a corner post. They also help stop them chewing on the wood, preventing them from getting in danger of being suffocated. There's also a drop-side to allow easier access to your baby. We are thrilled that it can be converted into an infant bed, and 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 typically larger than cribs and can be turned into toddler beds when your child is ready which means you don't have to worry about buying another bed until they're ready to transition. However, they can be more expensive upfront than a crib that is standard.
If your nursery is small, you may be considering a crib. It is smaller and requires less space. However should you be planning to spend a lot of your baby's time in your bedroom or if you require an item that lasts longer, you should opt for a crib.
A crib isn't safe for babies to sleep in if it doesn't meet the strict UK safety standards outlined in BS EN 716 and BS 8509, which deals with the thickness of mattresses, the materials used and other essential elements of cot mattresses for baby. The slats must not be too close together to ensure that your baby won't fall out.
Stores
If you're a new parent or a veteran the amount of things that a baby requires is overwhelming. It's important to consider storage when choosing a cot-bed. Many cots come with additional storage options such as drawers in the under-bed or a coordinating cot top changer (available separately). Some can even be adapted to a toddler or a small single bed, extending their use for a longer time.
Some cot beds can be adapted into a day bed like this one on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is a great option for those who prefer more flexible designs as the conversion process is fairly easy and only requires the removal of one side panel. This lets parents save money on an additional bed.
A variety of cot beds feature a hanging rail which can be used to store muslins, dummies and other small items. This helps to keep everything organised tidy and neat and also looks great. The ease of access to these items will make it much easier for parents when feeding their infant cot bed.
Another thing to look for is a toothing rail that comes with cots. This can stop your child from chewing on the wood which could cause them irritation. Some cots have an older style and have a huge storage drawer under the bed. It is perfect for clothes, toys, blankets and other baby necessities.
This is a great solution when space is a problem, but you will have to purchase a drawer separately. You may also need to purchase a different mattress and bedding as sheets and mattresses that are oval are not typically included with the cot.
This sleigh-style cot bed a beautiful example of Scandi style at its finest. It has a large under-bed storage area that is ideal to keep all baby necessities out of sight but still easily accessible. The alphabetically labeled pieces and clear instructions made it easy to assemble our panel. It's suitable for babies as young as birth, and can be converted into a toddler's bed once your child is ready.