Are You Getting The Most Of Your Cot Beds
How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby
If you're expecting a child it's crucial to select a cot that will be safe and secure for your baby. Find a cot which has fixed sides instead of drop-sides. This will meet UK safety standards.
Our top pick is this simple yet elegant coffin from John Lewis' Anyday range. It has three mattress positions, teething bars, and a storage drawer. It's also simple to put together with clear instructions.
Comfort
The best cot beds keep baby's warm and comfortable. Choose a soft, breathable fabric and make sure the mattress is snug to avoid any gaps, which could cause an suffocation threat. There are a variety of mattresses on the market including coil springs, foam, natural materials for allergy sufferers - so do your research and choose the best cots one for your baby's requirements.
No matter if you select an ordinary or convertible cot, the primary factor to satisfaction is a high-quality mattress that is supportive and encourages healthy posture. The same is true for the slats, which must be securely attached and not bent or sagging. The slats should also be securely fixed to the frame, to ensure that your child will not get caught when they move during sleep.
If you're unsure of the mattress to buy, consult friends and family or check online reviews for recommendations. Select mattresses that are breathable, since they help you regulate your body temperature, and are less likely to be a breeding ground for bacteria.
In terms of style, there's a wide choice from classic sleigh styles with intricate detailing to sleek, modern designs. Some are even painted in bright primary colors which is perfect when you want your baby to wake up bright and happy!
The majority of cots offers have an under-bed storage drawer teething rails to prevent your child from chewing the sides of the cot, and adjustable height bases to accommodate your child's growth. You can also buy a drop-side for infants who are small or suffer from medical conditions that make it difficult for them to bend over.
For extra peace of mind, search for a cot that meets the strict UK safety standards and can easily transform into a toddler bed when the time is appropriate. This information can be found in the description of the product and the specifications.
Safety
A safe sleeping environment is an essential consideration when choosing a cot. Make sure that the mattress is snugly fitted, with no gaps between it and the cot/cot bed's 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 could increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies offer a choice of mattresses, ranging from basic foam to natural materials for allergy sufferers. Some even have anti-microbial treatment. If your Mini Cot Bed has drop-sides, make sure it is locked and in the up position.
A drop side should be allowed to drop when an adult is present - this will prevent accidental release. If your coffin has a solid edge do not place it against the wall since it will block airflow and may contribute to coffin death. Recent research suggests that slatted ends may be safer as they permit more airflow.
If your cot is set to one side, you should choose it. It's the most secure choice for your baby as they begin to crawl and pull themselves upward. Once your child is standing and climbing, it is a sign that they're ready to transition into a junior bed.
Some cots have a feature that allows the base to be raised up to three different levels. This is a wonderful security feature that allows your child's cot to grow with them. Some cots come with adjustable footplates that are ideal for toddlers who like to stand up.
If you are putting your child in their cot, check that there isn't any visible danger. It must be away from heat sources and windows, power points and blind cords and curtains (these can be strangulation hazards). If you're buying second-hand or heirloom furniture, check for dangers to your child's health such as stickers and transfers that can be removed and create a risk.
If you are unsure about how to use your cot, consult other parents for help or Best Crib take part in a local NCT New Baby class. If your crib comes with a manual, make sure you go through it prior to using it and follow the directions.
Style
With its gorgeous sleigh style This gorgeous crib will look stunning in your nursery. The panel was impressed by the mix of natural wood and white as well as the clever features such as drawers under the bed for everything essential for babies, including bedding, nappy and a huge selection of baby clothes. It is also easy to build with clear instructions and separate screws for each section. What's more, it can be converted into a bed for toddlers and a desk as your baby gets older (see the product's description for more details).
The rails for teething are among our top features. They stop your baby from hitting their head against the side of the crib or any protruding part of the crib, such as the handle or corner post. They also prevent children from chewing on the wood, and prevent them from suffocating. The cot also has an opening that can be removed to make it easier for you to access your newborn. We are thrilled that the cot can be transformed into a toddler bed and that it's built to last for four years. It also complies with the stringent UK safety standards, which you'll find in the specifications that are listed under each product.
Cot beds can be transformed into toddler beds when your child is old enough. This lets you avoid buying an entirely new bed as your child gets ready to make the leap. They can be more expensive than a crib.
If your nursery is very small, a crib might be the best option for you as it is smaller and takes up less space, but should your baby be expected to spend much of their time in their parents' room or you'd like a more long-lasting bed, opt for a cot.
A crib isn't safe 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 mattress thicknesses, materials and other key elements of cot mattresses for baby. The slats should not be too close together to ensure your baby doesn't get tossed out.
Stores
The amount of baby equipment you'll need is a mess regardless of whether you're a first-time parent or an experienced one. It is important to think about storage when you choose a cot. Certain cots offer additional storage options, like drawers beneath the bed or a coordinating top ranked cribs changer (available separately). Some cots are able to be converted into a toddler bed or small single bed to extend their use.
Some cots can be converted into day beds, as seen on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is a great choice for those who prefer an unstructured design since the conversion process is fairly simple and requires just the removal of one side panel. This will allow parents to reduce the expense of an additional bed.
A few cot beds have a hanging rail which can be used to store muslins Dummies, and other small items. This helps keep everything neat, tidy and organized. It also looks fantastic. Being able to access these items makes it easier for parents when feeding their baby.
A teething rail is a desired feature that is found in some cots. This will help prevent your little one chewing on the wood, which could cause them irritation. Some cots feature more traditional designs and come with a large storage drawer beneath the bed. It is perfect for toys, clothes, blankets and other baby necessities.
This is a great solution if space is an issue however, you will need to purchase a drawer on your own. It is also possible to buy a new mattress and bedding since oval mattresses and sheets are not typically included with the cot.
This sleigh cot from Stokke is a stunning example of Scandi-style at its best and has a huge under-bed storage drawer that's great to keep all the baby's essentials out of view but easily reachable. 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.