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 crucial to select a cot that will be safe and secure for your little one. Find a cot with fixed sides (rather than drop-sides) that meet strict UK safety standards.
This minimalist, elegant cot is our top pick from the Anyday collection by John Lewis. It comes with three mattress height positions, teething rails as well as a storage drawers. It is also simple to assemble, with clear instructions.
Comfort
The best cot beds keep children warm and cozy. Look for a soft and breathable fabric and make sure the mattress fits snugly to avoid any gaps, which could cause an suffocation threat. There are a range of mattresses available including coil springs, foam and natural materials for allergy sufferers - so do your research and choose the best one for your baby's requirements.
Whether you opt for an ordinary or convertible cot, the key to comfort is a mattress of high-quality that is supportive and promotes a healthy posture. The slats should also be securely attached and not sliding. The slats must also be securely attached to the frame, so that your child doesn't get caught in them when moving in their sleep.
If you're unsure of the mattress to purchase, talk to your family and friends or consult online reviews for recommendations. Choose mattresses that are breathable, as they will aid in regulating your body temperature and less likely to hold bacteria.
There are many styles to choose from that include traditional sleighs with elaborate details and sleek, modern designs. Some are even painted in bright primary colors which is perfect for those who want their child to wake up feeling bright and cheerful!
Most cots come with an under-bed storage drawer and teething rails that stop your child from chewing the sides of the cot and adjustable height bases to accommodate your child's growth. You can even buy drop sides for small babies or those who have medical conditions that make it difficult to bend over.
Find a cot that meets the strict UK safety standards and is easily transformed into a toddler's cot when it's time. This information is available in the product description as well as key specifications.
Safety
A safe and secure sleeping environment is an essential consideration when choosing a crib sets. The mattress should fit snugly and there should be no gaps between the mattress and the edges or sides of the cot/cot-bed (large gaps can restrict the child's arms or head). Verify that the mattress is firm and thin - thicker mattresses aren't advised as they may increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies offer mattresses in a variety of materials, from foam to natural materials that are good for those suffering from allergies. Some even come with an anti-microbial treatment. If your mattress has an inclined side, make sure that it is in the up position and secured.
Drop sides should only be allowed to go to fall when an adult is present in the room. This prevents accidental release. Avoid placing your cheap cot beds on a wall if it has a solid end. This will restrict airflow, which can cause death in the coffin. According to the most recent research, cots with slatted edges may be safer because they permit more airflow.
If your cot has a fixed side, opt for this as it is the most secure option when your baby starts to crawl and pull themselves up. If your child is climbing with confidence and standing, it's the time to upgrade to a junior bed.
Some cots have an option where the base can be raised to three different heights, so that it will increase with your child's growth which is extremely useful and is a safety measure. Some cots feature footplates that can be adjusted to suit for toddlers who want to stand up.
If you are putting your child in their cot, ensure whether there is no visible danger - it should be away from heaters and power points, windows, curtains and blind cords (these can be strangulation hazards). If you are buying second-hand furniture or heirlooms to check for dangers to your child's health such as stickers and transfers. They may peel off and cause danger.
If you're unsure of how to use your cot safely you can ask other parents or attend a local NCT New Baby Cot course for assistance and guidance. If your cot has instructions, read them carefully before you start using it, and follow the safety-use guidelines carefully.
Style
With its stunning sleigh design, this gorgeous cot bed will look great in your nursery. The panel was impressed with the combination of white and natural wood, as well as the clever features like under-bed storage drawers for everything essential for babies, including bedding, nappy and a huge selection of baby clothes. It is also easy to construct, with clear instructions and screws for each section. It can also be converted into a toddler desk or bed as your child gets older (see product description for more details).
The rails for teething are among our top features. They keep your child from hitting their head against the crib's side or any other protruding part of the crib, such as the handle or corner post. They also stop them from chewing the wood and also preventing them from suffocating. The cot also has a drop-side to allow parents to reach their newborn. We are thrilled that the cot can be converted into a toddler bed, and that it's built to last for up to four years. It also complies with strict UK safety standards. You can find these in the main specifications below each product.
Cot beds are usually larger than cribs and can be converted into toddler beds when your child is ready which means you don't have to worry about purchasing a bed when they're ready to move on. However, they are more expensive upfront than a standard crib.
If your nursery is small, you may think about the possibility of a crib. It is smaller and requires 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 you need an item that lasts longer, you should consider a crib.
If a cot doesn't meet the UK safety standards as defined by BS EN 716 or BS 8509 (which covers the thickness of mattresses, the materials used, and other key elements in baby mattress cots), it is unsafe for babies to sleep. The slats should not be too far apart, to ensure that your baby won't fall off.
Storage
The amount of baby gear you'll need is a mess regardless of whether you're a new mom or an experienced one. It's important to consider storage when selecting a cot. Some cots come with additional storage options, such as drawers beneath the bed or a coordinating top changer (available separately). Some cots can be converted into a toddler bed or small single beds to expand their usage.
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 like a more flexible design. The conversion is simple and only requires the removal of a single side panel. This also allows parents to save money on a bed purchase.
A variety of cot sales beds feature a hanging rail which can be used to store muslins dolls and other small objects. This allows you to keep everything organised tidy and neat and also looks amazing. The ease of access to these items makes it much easier for parents to feed their baby.
Another desirable feature to look out for is a teething rail which is included with some cots. This will help stop your child from chewing on the wood, which can cause irritation. Some cots are designed in more traditional designs and come with a large drawer under the bed that is ideal for storing blankets, toys, clothes and other baby necessities.
While this is a great idea for when you're running out of space, you should be aware that you'll require a separate additional drawer. You might need to purchase an additional mattress and bedding, as oval sheets and mattresses don't come with the cot.
This sleigh Cot Bed - Suggested Site - by Stokke is a stunning example of Scandi-style at its best and features a huge under-bed storage drawer that's ideal to keep baby necessities out of sight but still within reach. Our panel was able to find it easy to put together due to the alphabetically-labelled parts and clear instructions. It's suitable for babies from birth and can be made into a toddler bed when your child is ready, meaning it's good value too.