So You ve Bought Cot Beds ... Now What
How to Choose the best baby cots Cot Beds for Your Baby
When you are expecting your first child it is essential to select a cot which will provide safety and security for your baby. Find a cot which has fixed sides rather than drop-sides. This will be in line with UK safety standards.
This minimalist, elegant coffin is our top pick from the Anyday range by John Lewis. It has three mattress height positions, teething rails, and a storage drawer. It's also easy to assemble with clear instructions.
Comfort
The best cot beds (relevant site) keep children warm and cozy. Look for a breathable soft and comfortable fabric. Make sure the mattress is fitted snugly to prevent any gaps that could cause the danger of the mattress becoming suffocated. There are many mattresses on the market including coil springs, foam and natural materials for allergy sufferers - so do your research before deciding on the right one for your baby's needs.
No matter if you choose a standard cot or a convertible the mattress is essential to comfort. It should provide proper support and encourage a healthy posture. The same is true for the slats, which should be securely attached and not sagging or bent. The slats should also be securely fixed to the frame, so that your child does not be caught when they move during sleep.
Ask your friends and family for recommendations or look at online reviews. Choose mattresses that are breathable, as they help regulate your body temperature, and are less likely to hold bacteria.
When it comes to style, there's a wide choice of styles, from traditional sleigh designs with elaborate details to sleek, contemporary designs. Some are even painted with vibrant primary colours which is perfect if you want your baby to wake up feeling fresh and content!
Most cots come with an under-bed storage drawer teething rails to prevent your child from chewing the sides of the cot, and height bases that are adjustable to accommodate baby's growth. You can also buy a drop-side for babies who are small or have medical conditions that make it difficult to bend over.
For added peace of mind, look for a cot that is compliant with the stringent UK safety standards and can easily transform into an infant cot bed bed when the time is right. Find this information in the product description or in the specifications.
Safety
A safe and secure sleeping environment is a must and a major factor when selecting a bed. The mattress should fit snugly and there shouldn't be gaps between the mattress and the sides or ends of the cot or cot-bed (large gaps could restrict the child's arms or head). Make sure the mattress is not too firm and thin. Thick mattresses can increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies sell mattresses in various materials from foam to natural materials that are good for those suffering from allergies. Some even come with an anti-microbial treatment. If your cot features a drop-side, make sure it is secured and in the upward position.
A drop side should only be allowed to drop when an adult is present - this will prevent accidental releases. If your cot has a solid end be sure to avoid placing it against the wall because this will restrict airflow and could cause death in the coffin. According to the latest research, cots with slatted edges may be safer because they allow for more airflow.
If your crib has a fixed side you should choose this because it is the most secure option when your child starts to crawl and then pull themselves up. Once your child is confidently standing and climbing, this is a sign that they're ready to transition into a junior bed.
Some cots come with an option that allows the base to be raised to three levels. This is a wonderful security feature that allows the cot of your child to grow with them. Some cots come with adjustable footplates that are perfect for toddlers who want to stand up.
Whenever you place your child in their cot, make sure whether there is no visible danger. It must be kept away from heaters or power points, windows and blind cords and curtains (these pose a strangulation risk). If you're buying furniture from a secondhand store or an heirloom piece Be sure to check for potential dangers to your child's health such as stickers and transfers that can be removed and create the risk of.
If you're unsure about how to use your cot safely consult other parents or attend a local NCT New Baby beds course for support and advice. If your cot comes with a manual be sure to go through it before using it and adhere to the directions.
Style
With its beautiful sleigh design, this gorgeous crib will look stunning in your nursery. Our panel members loved the combination of natural and white pine, and its clever features, such as under-bed storage drawers that can hold all those baby essentials like nappies, bedding, and a dazzling variety of baby outfits. It's also easy to assemble, with concise instructions and separate sets of screws for each section. It can also be transformed into a toddler desk and bed when your child gets older (see product description for more information).
The teething rails are among our most loved features. They prevent your child from hitting their head on the side of the crib or any protruding portion of the crib, like the corner post or handle. They also prevent them from chewing on the wood and preventing them from suffocating. The cot also has 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 sturdy enough to last for four years. It also met the strict UK safety standards. These are listed in the main specifications below each product.
Cot beds can be converted into toddler beds when your child is old enough. This lets you avoid purchasing a new bed as your child gets ready to make the leap. However, they can be more expensive than the standard crib.
If your nursery is small, a crib could be the best option for you since it is smaller and takes up less space. However, if your child is likely to spend a lot of time in their parents' rooms or you're looking for a more durable bed, consider a crib.
If a cot doesn't meet the UK safety standards set by BS EN 716 or BS 8509 (which covers mattress thicknesses, materials and other important elements of baby mattresses for cots) It is unsafe for babies to sleep. The slats shouldn't be too far apart to stop your child from falling out.
Stores
Whether you're a first-time parent or a veteran, the amount of stuff the baby will require is immense. This is the reason it's important to consider storage options when selecting a crib bed. A number of cots have additional storage options, like drawers under the bed or a top ranked cribs changer (available separately). Some can be transformed to a toddler or a small single bed, which can extend their usefulness for a longer period of time.
Some cot beds can be transformed into a daybed as shown 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 requires only the removal of one side panel. It also lets parents save money on a bed purchase.
A variety of cot beds have hanging rails that can be used to store muslins dummies and other small items. This helps keep everything neat, tidy and organised. It also looks great. Being able to access these items will make it much easier for parents when feeding their baby.
Another desirable feature to look out for is a teething rail that comes with some cots. This will prevent your child from chewing on the wooden cot, which could cause irritation. Some cots have more traditional designs and have a huge storage drawer beneath the bed, which is perfect for clothes, toys, blankets and other baby necessities.
While this is a great option if you're running out of space, you must be aware that you'll need to buy a separate extra for the drawer. It is also possible to buy a new mattress and bedding, as oval mattresses and sheets aren't usually included in the cot itself.
This sleigh-style cot bed is an exquisite example of Scandi style at its finest. It has a large under-bed storage space that is perfect to keep all baby necessities away from view but easily accessible. The alphabetically labeled components and clear instructions made it simple to put together for our panel. It's suitable for babies from birth and can be made into a toddler bed once your child is ready, meaning it's a good investment too.