What Freud Can Teach Us About Cot Beds
How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby
If you are expecting a baby it is crucial to select a cot which will ensure safety and security for your baby. Find a cot with fixed sides (rather than drop-sides) that are in line with strict UK safety standards.
This slick and stylish cot is our top pick from the Anyday range by John Lewis. It comes with three mattress height positions, teething rails and storage drawers. It's also easy to set up with clear instructions.
Comfort
The best cot bed will keep babies comfortable and cozy. Find a comfortable soft and comfortable fabric. Make sure the mattress is snug to prevent any gaps that could pose the danger of the mattress becoming suffocated. There are a variety of mattresses available: coils springs, foam and even natural materials for allergy sufferers. Do your research to determine the best one for your child.
Whether you opt for a standard or convertible cot, the most important thing to ensure comfort is a good-quality mattress that is supportive and promotes healthy posture. The same applies to the slats, which must be secured and not bent or sagging. The slats should also be secured to the frame, so your little one doesn't get trapped in them while moving in their sleep.
If you're unsure of the mattress to purchase, talk to friends and family or check online reviews for recommendations. Select mattresses that are breathable, since they will help you regulate your body temperature, and are less likely to hold bacteria.
In terms of style, there's a wide choice, from traditional sleigh styles with elaborate detailing to sleek, modern designs. Some are even painted with vibrant primary colours which is perfect for those who want their baby to wake up feeling fresh and happy!
Most cots come with an under-bed storage drawer, teething rails that prevent your child from chewing the sides of the cot, and adjustable height bases to accommodate baby's growth. You can also purchase a drop side for smaller infants or those with health issues that make it difficult for them 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 appropriate. This information is found in the description of the product and the key specifications.
Safety
When choosing a cot, an environment that is safe for sleeping should be the top priority. The mattress should be able to fit snugly and there shouldn't be gaps between the mattress and the edges or sides of the cot or cot-bed (large gaps can restrict the child's arms or head). Make sure the mattress is firm and thin. Thick mattresses can increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies offer a range of mattresses, from simple foam to natural materials for allergy sufferers and some even have anti-microbial treatment. If your crib has an inclined side, make sure it is in the upward position and locked securely.
Drop sides should only be permitted down only when an adult is present in the room. This can prevent accidental release. Avoid placing your cot on a wall if it has an end that is solid. This can limit airflow, which could lead to coffin death. Recent research suggests that slatted edges could be safer since they allow more airflow.
If your cot has a fixed side, opt for this as it will be safest when your child begins to crawl and pull themselves up. When your child is standing and climbing, it is a sign that they are ready to move into a junior bed.
Some cots have a feature that allows the base to be raised to three levels. This is a wonderful security measure that allows the cot of your child to grow with the child. Other cots come with adjustable footplates, which are great for toddlers who want to sit up in their bed.
When putting your child's cot in the crib, make sure there aren't any obvious dangers. It should be kept away from heaters and power points. Also make sure it is away from windows, curtains, and blind cords. These can all present a strangulation threat. If you are buying second-hand furniture or heirlooms, make sure to look out for choking hazards such as stickers and transfers. They can come off and cause danger.
If you're unsure of how to use your cot safely consult parents around or go to the local NCT New Baby course for assistance and guidance. If your cot has a manual, read it carefully before you start using it, and then follow the safety guidelines closely.
Style
This gorgeous cot bed with its sleigh style will look amazing in your nursery. The panel was impressed by the mix of natural wood and white and the clever features like under-bed storage drawers for everything needed by babies, such as bedding, nappies, and a wide selection of baby clothes. It's also a breeze to put together, with concise instructions and separate sets of screws for each section. Additionally, it can be transformed into a bed for toddlers and a desk when your baby grows older (see the product's description for more details).
One of our favorite features is the teething rails that protect your baby cot online from bumping their head against the cot's side or any protruding parts of the cot, like a handle or a corner post, and which will also stop them from chewing on the wood, which prevents them from being in danger of being suffocated. It also features an opening that can be removed 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 main specifications beneath each product.
Cot beds can be turned into toddler beds when your child is old enough. This lets you not have to buy an entirely new bed when your child's ready to go up. They can be more expensive than a crib sets.
If your nursery is very small, a crib may be the best crib for newborn option for you as it is smaller and takes up less space, but if your child is likely to spend most of the time in their parents' rooms or you're looking for a more durable bed, consider a cot.
A cot isn't safe for babies to sleep in if it doesn't meet the strict UK safety standards outlined in BS EN 716 and BS 8509, which deals with the thickness of mattresses, the materials used and other key elements of baby cot mattresses. The slats shouldn't be too close together, to ensure that your baby won't fall out.
Stores
The amount of baby gear you'll need is overwhelming regardless of whether you're a new mom or an experienced one. This is the reason it's important to think about storage options when selecting the cot bed. Some cots come with additional storage options, such as drawers under the bed or a coordinating top changer (available separately). Some cots are able to be converted into a toddler bed or small single beds to expand their usage.
Some cot beds can be transformed into a daybed like this one on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is an ideal option for those who prefer more flexible designs as the process of conversion is simple and requires just the removal of a side panel. This allows parents to save money on a separate bed.
A variety of cot beds come with a hanging rail which can be used to store muslins, dolls and other small objects. This helps to keep everything organised tidy, neat and tidy and looks fantastic. These items are easily accessible to parents and make it easier for parents to feed their child.
Another thing to look out for is a teething rail that is available in a few cots. This will help stop your child from chewing on the wood that could cause them irritation. Some cots feature more traditional designs and have a huge storage drawer beneath the bed that is ideal for clothes, toys blankets, and other baby essentials.
This is a great crib option if space is an issue however, you will need to purchase a drawer separately. You may need to buy bedding and a mattress separately, as oval mattresses and sheets do not come with the cot.
This sleigh cot from Stokke is a beautiful example of Scandi-style at its best and comes with a massive under-bed storage drawer that's great to keep all the baby essentials 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 converted into a toddler bed once your child is ready. This means it's a good investment too.