5 Killer Quora Answers To Cot Beds
How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby
When you are expecting a child, it is important to select a cot which will ensure safety and security for your baby. Find a cot with fixed sides (rather than drop-sides), which comply with strict UK safety standards.
Our top pick is this basic but elegant coffin from John Lewis' Anyday range. 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 children warm and cozy. Look for a soft, breathable fabric and make sure the mattress is fitted snugly to prevent any gaps which could cause an suffocation threat. 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 choose the best one for your Baby beds's requirements.
No matter if you choose a standard cot or a convertible cot one, a comfortable mattress is crucial to ensure your ease of use. It must provide the right support and encourage an upright posture. The same applies to the slats. They should be firmly attached and not bent or sagging. The slats must be securely fixed to the frame, so your child doesn't get trapped in them while moving during sleep.
Ask your family and friends for recommendations or look at online reviews. Select mattresses that are breathable, since they can help regulate your body temperature and are less likely to be a breeding ground for bacteria.
When it comes to style there's a broad selection from classic sleigh styles with intricate detailing to sleek, modern designs. Some are even painted in vibrant primary colours which is perfect if you want your little one to wake up bright and content!
The majority of cots have an under-bed storage drawer and teething rails that stop your child from chewing the sides of the cot bed sales, and adjustable height bases to accommodate baby's growth. You can even purchase a drop side for petite babies or those with health issues that make it difficult for them to bend over.
Look for a cot which is in compliance with the strict UK safety standard and is easily converted into a toddler's bed when it's time. This information can be found in the product description as well as the key specifications.
Safety
A safe and secure sleeping environment is essential and a big factor when selecting a cot. Make sure the mattress fits snugly, with no gap between it and the cot's bed sides or ends (big gaps could trap your child's head or arms). Verify that the mattress is firm and thin. Mattresses that are thick can increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies sell mattresses in different materials from foam to natural materials that are suitable for allergy sufferers. Some even come with an anti-microbial treatment. If your cot has drop-sides, ensure that it is secured and in the up position.
A drop side should only be allowed to go down when an adult is present; this prevents accidental releases. Avoid placing your cot on the wall if it is an end that is solid. This can restrict airflow, which can lead to coffin death. According to the most recent research, cheap cots with slatted edges may be safer because they permit more airflow.
If your cot is fixed to one side, you should choose it. It will be the most secure option for your baby when they begin to crawl and pull themselves upward. When your child is standing and climbing, this is a sign that they are ready to move into the junior bed.
Some cots are equipped with an option that allows the base to be raised to three levels. This is a fantastic security feature that allows the cot of your child to grow with them. Other cots come with footplates that are adjustable, which is ideal for toddlers who wish to sit up in their bed.
When placing your child's cot be sure that there are no visible hazards. It should be kept away from power and heater points. Also, keep it 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 out for potential hazards to your child's safety such as labels and transfers. They may peel off and pose a danger.
If you're unsure about how to use your cot in a safe manner consult other parents or attend the local NCT New Baby course for support and advice. If your cot comes with a manual, read it carefully before you begin using it, and follow the safety-use guidelines carefully.
Style
With its beautiful sleigh design This stunning cot bed will look great in your nursery. Our panel loved the mix of white and natural pine, as well as its clever features, such as drawers under the bed to store all the baby necessities like nappies, bedding, and a dazzling variety of baby outfits. It's also simple to put together, with concise instructions and separate packs of screws for each section. It could also be transformed into a toddler desk or bed as your child gets older (see product description for more information).
The teething rails are one of our favorite features. They keep your baby from hitting their head on the crib's side or any protruding portion of the crib, like the corner post or handle. They also stop children from chewing on the wood, and prevent them from getting suffocated. There's also a drop-side to allow easier access to your baby. We are thrilled that the cot can be transformed into a toddler bed, and that it's built to last up to four years. It also met the strict UK safety standards. These are listed in the specifications below for each product.
Cot beds are typically larger than cribs and can be transformed into toddler beds once your child is ready and you can avoid buying another bed when they're ready to transition. However, they can be more expensive than the crib that is standard.
If your nursery isn't big enough, you might want to consider the possibility of a crib. It is smaller and requires less space. However, if you plan to spend a significant portion of your baby's time in the room or if you require a bed that lasts longer, you should consider a crib.
If a cot doesn't meet the UK safety standards outlined by BS EN 716 or BS 8509 (which covers mattress thicknesses, materials and other key elements of baby cot mattresses) it is not safe for babies to sleep. The slats shouldn't be too wide apart to stop your child from falling out.
Storage
Whether you're a first-time parent or a seasoned one, the amount of stuff the baby will require is immense. It is important to think about storage when selecting a cot. Certain cots offer additional storage options, including drawers under the bed or a coordinating top changer (available separately). Some can be transformed into a toddler or small single bed, extending their usefulness for a longer period of time.
Some cot beds can be further adapted into a day bed like this one on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is a great option for those who prefer an unstructured design since the process of conversion is simple and requires just the removal of a side panel. This will allow parents to reduce the expense of a separate bed.
A few cot beds come with a hanging rail which can be used to store muslins, Dummies, and other small items. This keeps everything neat, tidy and organised. It also looks beautiful. The ease of access to these items will make it easier for parents to feed their child.
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 can cause irritation. Some cots are designed with more traditional designs and come with a large drawer under the bed that is perfect for storing toys, blankets clothes, and other baby necessities.
This is a great choice for those who have limited space but you'll need to purchase a drawer separately. You may have to purchase an additional mattress and bedding, as oval sheets and mattresses don't come with the cot.
This sleigh cot bed by Stokke is a stunning example of the Scandi-style at its finest and comes with a massive under-bed storage drawer that's great to keep baby necessities out of sight but still within reach. Our panel found it very easy to put together, thanks to the alphabetically labeled parts and clear instructions. It's suitable for infants from birth and can be made into a toddler's bed when your child's ready.