7 Things About Cot Beds You ll Kick Yourself For Not Knowing
How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby
If you're expecting a child it's crucial to select the right cot that is safe and secure for your baby. Look for a cot that has fixed sides rather than drop-sides. This will comply with UK safety standards.
Our top pick is this simple yet stylish cot from John Lewis' Anyday range. It has three mattress positions, teething bars and a storage drawer. It is also simple to assemble, with clear instructions.
Comfort
The best cot bed keeps children comfortable and warm. Look for a soft, airy fabric, and ensure that the mattress is fitted snugly to prevent any gaps which could cause an suffocation threat. There are many types of mattresses available, including coils springs, foam and natural materials for allergy-sufferers. Do your research to find the best one for your child.
If you choose a convertible or standard cot, the primary factor to comfort is a mattress of high-quality that is supportive and promotes a healthy posture. This is also true for the slats. They should be securely attached and not bent or sagging. The slats must be securely fixed to the frame, so that your little one doesn't get trapped in them while moving in their sleep.
If you're unsure of the mattress to buy, ask your family and friends or consult online reviews for recommendations. Choose mattresses that are breathable, as they will help regulate your body temperature, and are less likely to hold bacteria.
When it comes to style, there's a wide choice, from traditional sleigh styles with intricate detailing to sleek, modern designs. Some are even painted with bold primary colours which is perfect for those who want their child to wake up bright and cheerful!
There are a lot of cots that have an under-bed drawer for storage and teething rails to guard your baby from chewing on the sides of the cot, as well as adjustable height bases to accommodate baby's growth. You can also purchase a drop-side for infants who aren't tall enough or suffer from medical conditions that make it difficult for them to bend over.
Find a cot that is compliant with the strict UK safety standard and is easily converted into a toddler's bed when it's time. Look for this information in the product description or in the key specifications.
Safety
When selecting a cot, the safety of your child's sleep is a must. Make sure that the mattress is snugly fitted, with no gaps between it and the cot/cot bed's sides or ends (big gaps can trap your child's head or arms). Check that it's firm and thin. Thicker mattresses aren't advised as they may increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies sell mattresses in various materials from foam to natural materials that are suitable for those suffering from allergies. Some have anti-microbial treatment. If your cot has drop-sides, make sure it is secured and in the upward position.
A drop side should be allowed to drop only when an adult is present; to prevent accidental release. Avoid placing your cot on walls if it has a solid end. This could hinder airflow and could result in death of the coffin. Recent research suggests that slatted edges could be safer because they allow for more airflow.
If your cot is fixed on one side, choose it. It's the most secure option for your baby as they begin to crawl and pull themselves upward. When your child is climbing with confidence and standing, it's time to move to a junior bed.
Some cots feature a feature where the base can be raised to three different heights in order to grow with your child - this is very practical and a great safety measure. Some cots also have footplates that can be adjusted, which are ideal for toddlers wanting to sit up in their bed.
Whenever you place your child in their cot, ensure that there isn't any obvious danger - it must be kept away from heaters or power points, windows, curtains and blind cords (these are a strangulation hazard). When buying second-hand furniture or heirlooms, make sure to look for any choking hazards such as stickers and transfers. They can come off and cause danger.
If you're not sure what you should do to use your cot, consult other parents for help or take part in a local NCT New Baby class. If your cot comes with a manual, read it carefully before using it, and be sure to follow the safety guidelines closely.
Style
With its gorgeous sleigh style This stunning cot bed will look amazing in your nursery cots. The panel was impressed by the combination of natural and white wood, as well as the clever features such as under-bed storage drawers that can hold everything essential for babies, including bedding, nappy and an impressive array of baby clothes. It is also easy to construct, with clear instructions and 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).
One of our most loved features are the teething rails which protect your little one 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, preventing them from getting in danger of being suffocated. There's also a drop-side to allow easier access to your baby. We love that the cot can be transformed into a toddler bed and that it's built to last up to four years. It also met the strict UK safety standards, which you'll find in the key specs beneath each product.
Cot beds are typically 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 are more expensive than a crib.
If your nursery is small, you might be considering the possibility of a crib. It is smaller and requires less space. However it is recommended to consider a cot if you are planning on spending a lot of your baby's time in the room, or if you need a bed that lasts longer, you should opt for a crib.
A cot isn't safe 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 deals with mattress thicknesses, materials and other essential elements of Baby Cot - Read Alot more - mattresses. The slats should not be too far apart to prevent your child from falling out.
Stores
Whether you're a first-time parent or a seasoned one, the amount of stuff that a baby requires is overwhelming. It's crucial to think about storage when choosing a cot-bed. A number of cots have additional storage options, like drawers under the bed or a top changer (available separately). Some can even be adapted into a toddler bed or a single bed, increasing their use for a longer time.
Some cots are able to be converted into day beds, like the one shown on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin mini cot beds. This is a great option for those who like the flexibility of a design. The conversion is easy and requires only the removal of one side panel. This also allows parents to save money on a bed purchase.
Some cot beds come with hanging rails that can be used to hang muslins, dolls and other small things. This keeps everything tidy, neat and organized. It also looks fantastic. Being able to access these items makes it easier for parents when feeding their baby.
Another thing to look out for is a teething rail that is available in a few cots. This can help to stop your child from chewing on the wood which could cause them irritation. Some cots are designed in a more traditional style and come with a large under-bed storage drawer which is ideal to store blankets, toys clothing, and other baby necessities.
While this is a great option if you're in a tight space, you should remember that you will have to purchase an additional drawer. You may need to buy a separate mattress and bedding since oval sheets and mattresses do not come with the cot.
This sleigh-style cot bed a beautiful example of Scandi style at its finest. It has a large under-bed storage compartment that's ideal to keep baby's essentials out-of-sight but within easy access. The alphabetically labeled parts and clear instructions made it simple to assemble for our panel. It's suitable for infants from birth and can be made into a toddler bed once your child is ready. This means it's also a good value.