Five Killer Quora Answers On 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 Baby beds. Look for a cot with fixed sides (rather than drop-sides), which comply with strict UK safety standards.
This simple but stylish coffin is our top pick from the Anyday range by John Lewis. It comes with three mattress height positions, teething rails and storage drawer. It is also easy to put together, and comes 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 prevent any gaps which could cause the risk of suffocation. There are a range of mattresses on the market including coil springs, foam and other natural materials suitable for allergy sufferers, so do your research and select the right one for your baby's requirements.
It doesn't matter if you pick a conventional cot or a convertible cot, a good mattress is vital to your the comfort. It should provide proper support and encourage an upright posture. The slats must be securely attached and not sliding. The slats must also be secured to the frame, so your little one doesn't get stuck in them while they move during sleep.
If you're not sure which mattress to buy, consult friends and family or check online reviews for recommendations. Make sure you choose a mattress that's air-conditioned, as they'll help maintain temperature and are less likely to be a home for bacteria.
In terms of style there's a variety of styles, from traditional sleigh styles with ornate detailing to sleek, modern designs. Some are painted in bright primary colours to make your child feel happy and cheerful as they awake.
The majority of cots have a drawer for storage underneath teething rails to prevent your child from chewing on the sides of the cot, and adjustable height bases to accommodate the growth of your baby. You can also purchase a drop side for petite babies or those with health issues that make it difficult to bend over.
To ensure your peace of mind, search for a cot that complies with the strict UK safety standards and can easily convert into an infant bed when the time is right. Find this information in the description or key specs.
Safety
When selecting a cot, a safe sleeping environment should be the top priority. Make sure the mattress is snug and has no gap between it and the cot/cot bed sides or ends (big gaps could keep your child's head from being caught in the arms). Verify that the mattress is solid and thin - more thick mattresses aren't recommended, because they can increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies offer a choice of mattresses, from simple foam to natural materials for allergy sufferers. Some come with anti-microbial treatment. If your crib has a drop side, ensure it is in the up position and locked securely.
Drop sides should only be allowed to go down when an adult is present in the room. This prevents accidental release. Do not place your cot against walls if it has an end that is solid. This will restrict airflow, which can result in death of the coffin. According to the latest research, cots with slatted ends may be safer because they allow for greater airflow.
If your cot is set on one side, then you can choose it. It's the most secure choice for your child when they start to crawl and then pull themselves upwards. 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 heights to allow it to expand with your child which is extremely useful and is a safety measure. Other cots come with footplates that can be adjusted, which are ideal for toddlers wanting to stand up in their bed.
If you are putting your child in their cot, ensure whether there is no visible danger. It must be away from heat sources and windows, power points and blind cords and curtains (these pose a strangulation risk). When buying second-hand furniture or heirlooms, make sure to check for dangers to your child's health such as stickers and transfers. They can come off and create a risk.
If you're not sure about how to use your cot, consult other parents for advice or attend an local NCT New Baby class. If your cot comes with a manual ensure that you read it before using it and follow all the directions.
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 nappies, bedding, and an enviable array of baby outfits. It's also a breeze to put together, with concise instructions and separate packs of screws for each section. It can also be transformed into a toddler bed or desk when your baby grows older (see the product description for more details).
The rails for teething are among our top features. They keep your baby from hitting their head against the crib's side or any protruding part of the crib, such as the corner post or handle. They also stop them from chewing the wood, and prevent them from suffocating. The cot also has drop-sides to make it easier for you to access your newborn. We appreciate that the cot could be transformed into a toddler bed, and that it's strong enough to last for four years. It also complies with the stringent UK safety standards, which you'll find in the key specs beneath each product.
Cot beds are typically larger than cribs and can be transformed into toddler beds when your child is ready, allowing you to avoid purchasing a bed until they're ready to move on. They can be more expensive than cribs.
If your nursery isn't big enough, you might want to consider the possibility of a crib. It is smaller and occupies less space. However it is recommended to consider a cot if you are planning to spend a lot of your baby's time in your room or if you require a bed that will last longer, you should opt for a cot.
If the cot you are using does not meet the UK safety standards as defined by BS EN 716 or BS 8509 (which cover the thickness of mattresses, the materials used, and other essential elements of baby cot mattresses) it is not safe for babies to sleep. The slats should not be too close together, to ensure that your baby won't fall out.
Storage
The amount of baby stuff you need is overwhelming, whether you're a new parent or a seasoned one. It's important to consider storage when choosing a cot-bed. Many cots come with additional storage options, such as under-bed drawers or a coordinating top changer (available separately). Some cots can be converted into a toddler bed or small single bed to increase their use.
Some cot beds can be adapted into a day bed, as seen here on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is a great choice for those who prefer a less rigid design as the conversion process is simple and involves the removal of one side panel. This also allows parents to save money on a separate bed purchase.
A few cot beds have hanging rails that can be used to store muslins dolls and other small cot beds objects. This helps to keep everything organised, neat and tidy and looks amazing. Being able to access these items makes it easier for parents to feed their baby.
Another desirable feature to look out for is a teething rail that comes in a few cots. This will help stop your child from chewing on the wood that could cause them irritation. Some cots feature a more traditional design and include a large storage drawer under the bed, which is perfect for toys, clothes, blankets and other baby essentials.
This is a great solution when space is a problem, but you will have to purchase a drawer on your own. It is also possible to buy a new mattress and bedding since sheets and mattresses that are oval aren't typically included in the cot itself.
This sleigh-style cot bed an exquisite example of Scandi style at its finest. It features a huge under-bed storage compartment that's ideal to keep all baby necessities out-of-sight but within easy access. 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 transformed into a toddler bed when your child is ready. This means it's also a good value.