Technology Is Making Cot Beds Better Or Worse
How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby
If you are expecting your first child, it is important to select a cot which can provide security and safety for your baby. Find a cot which has fixed sides rather than drop-sides. This will be in line with UK safety standards.
Our top pick is this basic but elegant cot from John Lewis' Anyday range. It comes with three mattress positions, teething bars, and a storage drawer. It's also easy to assemble with clear instructions.
Comfort
The best cot beds keep babies comfy and cosy. Find a comfortable soft, soft fabric. Make sure that the mattress fits snugly, to eliminate any gaps that could create the danger of the mattress becoming suffocated. There are a variety of mattresses available - coils springs, foam, and natural materials for allergy sufferers. Do your research to find the best one for your child.
If you choose a standard or convertible cot, the most important thing to ensure satisfaction is a high-quality mattress that provides proper support and promotes a healthy posture. The slats should also be firmly attached, and not sliding. The slats must also be securely connected to the frame so that your child does not become caught in the movement during sleep.
Ask your friends and family for recommendations, or read online reviews. Choose mattresses that are breathable, as they can aid in regulating your body temperature, and are less likely to harbor bacteria.
There are a variety of styles to pick from that include traditional sleighs with elaborate details and sleek, modern designs. Some are even painted in bright primary colors which is great if you want your baby to wake up feeling bright and cheerful!
Most cots come with drawers underneath to store items, teething rails to protect your child from chewing on the sides of the cot, as well as adjustable height bases for baby growth. You can even buy a drop side for smaller babies or those who have medical conditions that make it difficult for them to bend over.
To ensure your peace of mind, search for a cot that meets the stringent UK safety standards and can easily transform into an infant bed when the time is appropriate. Look for this information in the product description or key specs.
Safety
A safe and secure sleeping environment is essential and a big consideration when choosing a crib. Make sure the mattress fits snugly, with no gaps between it and the cot's beds edges or sides (big gaps could restrict your child's head or arms). Check that the mattress is not too firm and thin. Mattresses that are too thick could increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies offer a range of mattresses, ranging from basic foam to natural substances for allergy sufferers and some even have anti-microbial treatment. If your mattress has drop sides, make sure it is in the upward position and locked securely.
A drop side should only be allowed to drop only if an adult is present; this prevents accidental releases. Avoid placing your cot against the wall if it is an end that is solid. This could restrict airflow, which can lead to coffin death. The latest research suggests that slatted edges could be safer since they allow more 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. Once your child is standing and climbing, it is a sign they're ready to move into a junior bed.
Some cots come with an option where the base can be raised to three different levels, so that it will grow with your child This is extremely useful and is a safety measure. Some cots also have footplates that are adjustable, which is ideal for toddlers who wish to sit up in their beds.
When you put your child in their cot, make sure that there is no visible danger - it must be away from heat sources, power points, windows, blind cords and curtains (these can be strangulation hazards). If you are buying second-hand furniture or heirlooms, be sure to check for choking hazards such as stickers and transfers. They may peel off and cause danger.
If you are unsure how to safely use your cot, ask other parents for advice or take part in an local NCT New Baby class. If your cot comes with instructions, read them carefully before you begin using it, tots and cots 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 awed by the mix of white and natural wood, as well as the clever features like drawers under the bed for everything needed by babies, such as bedding, nappies, and a wide selection of baby clothes. It's also simple to put together with clear instructions and separate packs of screws for each section. It can also be converted into a toddler desk and bed as your child grows older (see the product description for more information).
One of our favorite features is the teething rails that protect your baby from bumping their head on the side of the cot or any protruding part of the cot, such as handles or a corner post. They can also stop them from chewing on the wood, which prevents them from getting in danger of being suffocated. The cot also has a drop-side to allow parents to reach their newborn. We love that it can be converted into a toddler bed, and that it's sturdy enough to last up to four years. It also meets the strict UK safety standards, which you'll find in the main specifications beneath each product.
Cot beds can be turned into toddler beds if your child is old enough. This lets you not have to buy an entirely new bed when your child's ready to move up. They may cost more than cribs.
If your nursery is very small, a crib might be the best option for you as it is smaller and occupies less space. However, should your baby be expected to spend a lot of time in their parents' room or you'd like a more long-lasting bed, consider a cot.
A cot isn't suitable for babies to sleep in if it doesn't meet the strict UK safety standards as outlined in BS EN 716 and BS 8509, which covers mattress thicknesses, materials and other important elements of baby cot mattresses. The slats should not be too far apart to stop your baby from falling out.
Storage
The amount of baby stuff you need is overwhelming, regardless of whether you're a first-time parent or an experienced one. It's crucial to think about storage when choosing a cot-bed. Many cots come with additional storage solutions available such as drawers in the under-bed or a top changer (available separately). Certain cots can be transformed into toddler beds or a smaller single bed to extend their use.
Some cot beds can be further adapted into a day bed as shown on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is a great choice for those who prefer a more flexible design. The conversion is simple and requires only the removal of a single side panel. This allows parents to save money on a separate bed.
A few cot beds feature a hanging rail which can be used to store muslins, dummies and other small items. This helps to keep everything organized, neat and tidy - and it also looks great. These items are easily accessible to parents which makes it easier for parents to feed their child.
Another thing to look out for is a teething rail that comes with cots. This will prevent your child from chewing on the cot's wooden structure, which could cause irritation. Some cheap cots feature an older style and come with a large storage drawer beneath the bed, which is perfect for toys, clothes blankets, and other baby necessities.
While this is a great idea for when you're short on space, you must be aware that you'll require a separate extra drawer. You may also need to purchase a different mattress and bedding as oval mattresses and sheets are not typically included with the cot itself.
This sleigh-style cot bed a beautiful illustration of Scandi style at its best rated cribs. It features a huge under-bed storage area that is ideal to keep baby's essentials out of sight but still easily accessible. The alphabetically labeled parts and clear instructions made it simple to put together for our panel. It's suitable for infants as young as birth and can be made into a toddler's bed when your child is ready.