5 Things That Everyone Is Misinformed About Regarding 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's secure and safe for your baby. Look for a cot that has fixed sides, rather than drop-sides. This will meet UK safety standards.
Our top choice is this simple but elegant cot from John Lewis' Anyday range. It comes with three mattress positions, teething bars, and an storage drawer. It's also easy to assemble with clear instructions.
Comfort
The best cot beds will keep babies comfy and cosy. Choose a soft, airy fabric, and ensure that the mattress fits snugly to avoid any gaps, which could pose a suffocation risk. There are a variety of mattresses available - foam, coils springs, and even natural materials for allergy sufferers. Do your research to find the best one for your child.
It doesn't matter if you pick a conventional cot or a convertible, a good mattress is essential to the comfort. It should provide proper support and promote a healthy posture. The slats should also be firmly attached, and not sagging. The slats must be secured to the frame, so that your child isn't caught in them when moving in their sleep.
Ask your family and friends for recommendations, or read online reviews. Make sure you choose a mattress that's air-conditioned, as they'll help regulate temperature and are less likely to harbor bacteria.
There are many styles to choose from, including traditional sleighs with ornate details and modern, sleek designs. Some are even painted in bright primary colors which is perfect when you want your child to wake up feeling bright and cheerful!
The majority of cots 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 purchase a drop-side for babies who are small or have medical conditions that make it difficult for them to bend over.
Choose a cot that is compliant with the strict UK safety standard and is easily converted into a toddler's bed when it is time. Find this information in the product description or in the specifications.
Safety
When choosing a mini cot beds an environment that is safe for sleeping should be a 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 hold the child's arms and head). Verify that the mattress is firm and thin. Thick mattresses can increase the risk of SIDS. There are many companies that offer mattresses made of a variety of materials including foam and natural materials that are suitable for those suffering from allergies. Some even have an anti-microbial treatment. If your mattress has a drop side, ensure it is in the upward position and secured.
Drop sides should only be permitted to fall when an adult is present in the room. This will prevent accidental releases. If your coffin has a solid bottom, avoid placing it against the wall since it can block airflow and could cause the death of a coffin. According to the latest research, cots with slatted edges could be safer as they permit more airflow.
If your cot is fixed on one side, choose it. It will be the safest option for your baby when they begin to crawl and pull themselves upward. If your child is climbing with confidence and standing, it's the time to move to a junior bed.
Some cots come with a feature that allows the base to be raised up to three levels. This is a great security feature that allows your child's cot to expand with the child. Some cots also have footplates that are adjustable, which is ideal for toddlers who wish to sit up in their beds.
Whenever you place your child in their cot, make sure that there is no visible danger - it must be kept away from heaters, power points, windows and blind cords and curtains (these are a strangulation hazard). When buying second-hand furniture or heirlooms, be sure to look for any dangers to your child's health such as stickers and transfers. They can come off and pose a danger.
If you're unsure of how to use your cot safely, ask parents around or go to a local NCT New Baby course for support and advice. If your cot has an instruction manual, read it carefully before you start using it, and be sure to follow the safe-use instructions closely.
Style
With its beautiful sleigh design, this gorgeous crib will look stunning in your nursery. Our panel was impressed by the combination of natural and white pine, as well as its smart features, including drawers under the bed to store all the baby necessities like nappies, bedding, and an enviable assortment of baby clothes. It's also easy to construct with clear instructions and screws for each section. It could also be transformed into a toddler's desk and bed as your child gets older (see the product description for more details).
One of our most loved features are the teething rails, which shield your baby from smacking their head against the cot's side or any protruding part of the cot, like the handle or corner post, and which will also stop them from chewing on the wood, preventing them from getting in danger of being suffocated. It also features drop-sides to allow parents to reach their 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 meets the strict UK safety standards, which are listed in the main specifications beneath each product.
sale cot beds are generally bigger than cribs - deepzone.Net, and can be converted into toddler beds when your child is ready and you can avoid purchasing a bed when they're ready for the transition. They are more expensive than cribs.
If your nursery isn't big enough, you might be considering the possibility of a crib. It is smaller and requires less space. However should you be planning to spend a lot of your baby's time in the room, or if you need a bed that will last longer, you should consider a crib.
A cot isn't suitable for babies to sleep in if it does not meet the strict UK safety standards as outlined in BS EN 716 and BS 8509, which deals with mattress thicknesses, materials and other essential elements of baby cot mattresses. The slats should not be too wide apart to prevent your baby from falling out.
Stores
The amount of baby equipment you'll need is overwhelming regardless of whether you're a first-time parent or an experienced one. This is why it's essential to think about the storage options when you choose the crib bed. There are a variety of cots that have additional storage options, such as drawers in the under-bed or a coordinating top changer (available separately). Some can even be adapted into a toddler bed or a single bed, extending their usability for longer.
Some cot beds can be adapted into a day bed like this one on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is an excellent option for those who like a more flexible design. The conversion is simple and only requires the removal of one side panel. This allows parents to reduce the expense of the purchase of a separate bed.
Some cot beds come with a hanging rail that can be used to hang muslins and Dummies, as well as other small things. This keeps everything neat, tidy and organized. It also looks great. Having easy access to these items will make it easier for parents to feed their baby.
Another desirable feature to look for is a toothing rail that is available with cots. This will stop your child from chewing on the wooden cot which can cause irritation. Some cots feature an older style and come with a large storage drawer underneath the bed that is ideal for clothes, toys blankets, and other baby essentials.
While this is a great idea for when you're in a tight space, you should remember that you will need to buy a separate extra drawer. You may also have to purchase a different mattress and bedding since sheets and mattresses that are oval aren't typically included in the cot itself.
This sleigh cot bed by Stokke is a beautiful example of the Scandi-style at its finest and comes with a massive under-bed storage drawer that's great to keep all the baby's essentials out of view but within easy reach. Our panel of experts found it easy to put together, thanks to alphabetically labelled parts and clear instructions. It's suitable for infants from birth and can be converted into a toddler's bed when your child's ready.