How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby
If you are expecting a child it is crucial to choose a cot that will ensure safety and security for your baby. Choose a cot that has fixed sides instead of 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 height positions, teething rails and storage drawer. cots to tots 's also easy to set up with clear instructions.
Comfort
The most comfortable cot beds keep babies comfy and cosy. Look for a soft and airy fabric, and ensure that the mattress is fitted snugly to prevent any gaps which could create a suffocation risk. There are many types of mattresses available - coils springs, foam and natural materials for allergy-sufferers. Do your research to find the best one for your child.
Whether you opt for a standard or convertible cot, the most important thing to ensure comfort is a mattress of high-quality that is supportive and promotes a healthy posture. The same applies to the slats. They should be secured and not sagging or bent. The slats should also be securely fixed to the frame so that your child isn't stuck in them while they move in their sleep.
Ask your friends and family for recommendations or look at online reviews. Choose breathable mattresses, as they help you regulate your body temperature and are less likely to be a breeding ground for bacteria.
There are a myriad of styles to choose from that include traditional sleighs with intricate details and modern, sleek designs. Some are even painted with vibrant primary colours which is perfect for those who want their child to wake up bright and cheerful!
You'll find most cots have drawers underneath to store items as well as teething rails that protect your child from chewing on the sides of the cot, and adjustable height bases to accommodate baby's growth. You can also buy a drop-side for infants who aren't tall enough or suffer from medical conditions that make it difficult to bend over.
For extra peace of mind, look for a cot that complies with the strict UK safety standards and will easily convert into a toddler bed when the time is appropriate. Find this information in the product description or key specs.
Safety
When choosing a cot the safety of your child's sleep should be the top priority. Make sure the mattress is snug and has no gap between it and the cot's beds edges or sides (big gaps can restrict your child's head or arms). Verify that the mattress is firm and thin. Mattresses that are thick can increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies sell mattresses in a variety of materials, from foam to natural materials that are great for those suffering from allergies. Some even have an anti-microbial treatment. If your cot features a drop-side, make sure it is locked and in the up position.
Drop sides should only be allowed to go down only when an adult is present in the room. This will prevent accidental releases. Do not place your cot against the wall if it is a solid end. This could hinder airflow and could result in death of the coffin. According to the latest research, cots with slatted ends could be safer as they allow for greater airflow.
If your crib has a fixed side you should choose this because it will be safest when your child begins to crawl and then pull themselves up. If best cot newborn is climbing with confidence and standing, it's time to upgrade to a junior bed.
Some cots are equipped with a feature that allows the base to be raised up to three levels. This is a fantastic security feature that allows the cot of your child to grow with the child. Some cots have adjustable footplates that are perfect for toddlers who want to stand up.
When putting your child's cot in the crib ensure there aren't any visible dangers. It should be placed away from any heaters or power points. Also, keep it away from windows, curtains, and blind cords. All of these could create strangulation risks. If you're purchasing furniture from a secondhand store or an heirloom piece be sure to look for any hazards to choking such as stickers and transfers that may be removed and create a risk.
If you're unsure of about how to use your cot, ask other parents for advice or go to a local NCT New Baby class. If your cot comes with a manual ensure that you go through it prior to using it and adhere to the directions.
Style
With its beautiful sleigh design This gorgeous cot bed will look great in your nursery. The panel was impressed by the mix of white and natural wood as well as the clever features such as drawers under the bed for everything essential for babies, including bedding, nappies and a huge selection of baby clothes. It is also easy to build, with clear instructions and screws for each section. It can also be transformed into a toddler desk or bed when your child gets older (see product description for more information).
One of our favorite features is the teething rails which protect your baby from smacking their head against the side of the cot or any protruding parts of the cot, like a handle or a corner post. They can also stop them from chewing on the wood, which prevents them from getting suffocated. The cot also has a drop-side for easier access to your newborn. We appreciate that it is able to be converted to an infant bed, and it's sturdy enough to last up to four years. It also complies with the stringent UK safety standards, which you'll find in the key specs beneath each product.
Cot beds are usually larger than cribs and can be converted into toddler beds once your child is ready and you can avoid purchasing a bed until they're ready to move on. They may cost more than cribs.
If your nursery is small, a crib may be the best option for you as it is smaller and takes up less space. However, should your baby be expected to spend a lot of time in their parents' room or you want a longer-lasting bed, you should consider a crib.
If a cot doesn't meet the UK safety standards set by BS EN 716 or BS 8509 (which cover mattress thicknesses, materials, and other key elements in baby mattress cots) It is unsafe for babies to sleep. The slats should not be too close together to ensure your baby doesn't get tossed out.
Stores
The amount of baby equipment you need is overwhelming, regardless of whether you're a new mom or a seasoned one. This is why it's crucial to consider storage options when selecting the cot bed. A number of cots have additional storage options, such as under-bed drawers or a coordinating cot top changer (available separately). Some cots are able to be converted into an infant bed or a small single bed to increase their use.
Some cots are able to be converted into day beds, like the one shown here on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is a great option for those who like an edgier design. The conversion is easy and only requires the removal of ONE side panel. This also allows parents to save money on a bed purchase.
Some cot beds come with a hanging rail that can be used to hang muslins, Dummies and other small items. This keeps everything neat, tidy and organised. It also looks beautiful. Being able to access these items will make it much easier for parents to feed their infant.
A teething rail is a desirable feature that is included in some cots. This can help to prevent your little one chewing on the wood which can cause irritation. Some cots feature a more traditional design and have a huge storage drawer underneath the bed that is ideal for clothes, toys blankets, baby essentials.
This is a great solution when space is a problem but you'll need to purchase a drawer on your own. It is also possible to buy a new mattress and bedding as oval mattresses and sheets are not typically included with the cot.
This sleigh-style cot bed stunning example of Scandi style at its finest. It has a spacious under-bed storage space that is perfect to keep all baby necessities out of sight but still easily accessible. The alphabetically labeled components and clear instructions made it easy to assemble for our panel. It is suitable for babies as young as birth, and can be transformed into a toddler's crib when your child is ready.