Why We Enjoy Cot Beds And You Should Also
How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby
If you are expecting a child, it is important to choose a cot that will provide safety and security for your baby. Find a cot which has fixed sides, rather than drop-sides. This will meet UK safety standards.
Our top pick is this basic but elegant coffin from John Lewis' Anyday range. It comes with three mattress height positions, teething rails and storage drawer. It is also simple to assemble, with clear instructions.
Comfort
The best cot bed cot beds will keep baby's warm and comfortable. Look for a breathable soft, soft fabric. Make sure the mattress is snug to prevent any gaps that could create the risk of suffocation. There are a variety of mattresses on the market - foam, coil springs, natural materials for allergy sufferers. So do your research and choose the one that is suitable for Mini Cot Bed your baby's requirements.
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 a healthy posture. The slats need to be securely attached and not sagging. The slats should also be securely attached to the frame to ensure that your child does not get caught when they move during sleep.
If you're not sure which mattress to buy, ask your family and friends or consult online reviews for suggestions. Choose breathable mattresses, as they will aid in regulating your body temperature and less likely to be a breeding ground for bacteria.
When it comes to style there's a variety of styles of styles, from traditional sleigh designs with elaborate details to sleek, contemporary designs. Some are decorated with bright primary colors to make your child feel happy and cheerful as they wake up.
You'll find most cots have a drawer underneath for storage as well as teething rails that protect your baby from chewing on the sides of the cot, as well as adjustable height bases for baby growth. You can also buy an extra drop-side for babies that aren't big or have health issues that make it difficult to bend over.
Choose a cot that meets the strict UK safety standard and can easily be transformed into a toddler's cot when it's time. This information can be found in the description of the product and the specifications.
Safety
When selecting a cot, an environment that is safe for sleeping should be a priority. Make sure that the mattress is snug and has no gaps between it and the cot's bed sides or ends (big gaps can trap your child's head or arms). Check that the mattress is firm and thin. Thick mattresses can increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies sell mattresses in a variety of materials including foam and natural materials that are suitable for those suffering from allergies. Some even come with an anti-microbial treatment. If your cot has a drop-side, make sure it is locked and in the upward position.
A drop side should be allowed to go down only when an adult is present - this will prevent accidental release. Avoid placing your cot against walls if it has an end that is solid. This can restrict airflow, which can result in death of the coffin. The latest research suggests that slatted ends may be safer since they allow more airflow.
If your cot has a fixed side you should choose this because it is the most secure option when your baby starts to crawl and climb up. When your child is confidently climbing and standing, it's time to move to a junior bed.
Some cots have 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 grow with their needs. Some cots have adjustable footplates that are perfect for toddlers who like to stand up.
When you place your child's cot be sure that there aren't any visible dangers. It should be put away from heaters and power points. Also, keep it away from windows, curtains, and blind cords. They all could create strangulation risks. If you are buying second-hand furniture or heirlooms, be sure to look out for potential hazards to your child's safety such as labels and transfers. These can peel off and create a risk.
If you're unsure of how to use your cot in a safe manner you can ask other parents or visit the local NCT New Baby course for support and advice. If your cot comes with an instruction manual, read it carefully before you begin using it, and be sure to follow the safe-use instructions closely.
Style
This gorgeous cot bed with its sleigh-style design will look stunning in your nursery. The panel was awed by the combination of white and natural wood, as well as the innovative features like under-bed storage drawers for all baby essentials, like bedding, nappies, and a wide selection of baby clothes. It's also simple to put together with clear instructions and separate sets of screws for each section. It can also be converted into a toddler desk or bed as your child gets older (see the product description for more details).
The rails for teething are among our top features. They prevent your child from hitting their head on the side of the crib or any protruding part of the crib, such as the corner post or handle. They also stop them from chewing the wood, and prevent them from getting suffocated. The cot also has drop-sides to make it easier for you to get access to your baby. We appreciate that the cot could be converted 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 specifications that are listed under each product.
Cot beds are generally bigger than cribs and can be converted into toddler beds once your child is ready and you can avoid purchasing a new bed at an age when they're ready for the transition. They may cost more than cribs.
If your nursery is small, you may think about a crib. It is smaller and takes less space. However should you be planning to spend a lot of your baby's time in the room or you need a bed that lasts longer, you should opt for a cot.
A cot isn't safe 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 the thickness of mattresses, the materials used and other essential elements of baby cot mattresses. The slats should not be too far apart, to ensure that your baby won't fall off.
Storage
The amount of baby gear you need is overwhelming, whether you're a new parent or a seasoned one. It is important to think about storage when you choose a cot. Certain cots offer additional storage options, such as drawers underneath the bed or a coordinating top changer (available separately). Some cots are able to be converted into an infant bed or a small single bed to extend their use.
Some cots can be transformed into day beds, like the one shown here on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is a great choice for those who prefer more flexible designs as the conversion process is fairly 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 feature a hanging rail which can be used to store muslins Dummies, and other small items. This makes everything tidy, neat and organized. It also looks beautiful. The ease of access to these items will make it much easier for parents to feed their baby.
Another thing to look for is a teething rail which is included in a few cots. This will help stop your child from chewing on the wood which could cause irritation. Some cots have more traditional designs and include a large storage drawer underneath the bed, which is perfect for clothes, toys blankets, and other baby essentials.
While this is a great idea for when you're short on space, you should keep in mind that you'll have to purchase an extra for the drawer. You might need to purchase a separate mattress and bedding since oval mattresses and sheets do not come with the cot.
This sleigh-style cot bed is stunning example of Scandi style at its finest. It has a large under-bed storage area that is ideal to keep baby's essentials away from view but easily accessible. Our panel of experts found it easy to put together, due to the alphabetically-labelled parts and clear instructions. It's suitable for infants as young as birth, and can be transformed into a toddler's bed when your child is ready.