How To Save Money On Cot Beds
How to Choose the best cots uk Cot Beds for Your Baby
If you're expecting a child it is essential to select a cot that's safe and secure for your child. Look for a cot that has fixed sides instead of drop-sides. This will meet UK safety standards.
Our top pick is this simple yet stylish cot from John Lewis' Anyday range. It comes with three mattress height positions, teething rails as well as a storage drawer. It is also easy to put together and comes with clear instructions.
Comfort
The best cot beds keep children warm and cozy. Look for a soft and breathable fabric and make sure the mattress fits snugly to prevent any gaps which could cause an suffocation threat. There are many mattresses on the market including coil springs, foam and other natural materials suitable for allergy sufferers. So do your research and choose the right one for your baby's requirements.
If you choose an ordinary or convertible cot, the primary factor to satisfaction is a high-quality mattress that is supportive and encourages healthy posture. The same applies to the slats, which should be firmly attached and not sagging or bent. The slats should also be securely attached to the frame so that your child isn't stuck in them while they move during sleep.
If you're not sure what mattress to buy, consult your family members or friends or look up online reviews for recommendations. Make sure you choose a mattress that's breathable, as they'll help regulate temperature and are less likely to harbor bacteria.
There are a variety of styles to choose from such as traditional sleighs, with ornate details and sleek, modern designs. Some are even painted in vibrant primary colours which is great for those who want their little one to wake up bright and cheerful!
The majority of cots have a drawer for storage underneath teething rails to prevent your child from chewing on the sides of the cot, and height bases that can be adjusted to accommodate the growth of your baby. You can even buy a drop side for petite babies or those with medical conditions that make it difficult for them to bend over.
For extra peace of mind, look for a cot that meets the stringent UK safety standards and can easily convert into a toddler bed when the time is appropriate. Find this information in the product description or key specs.
Safety
A safe sleeping environment is an essential factor when selecting a crib. Make sure the mattress is snug and has no gaps between it and the cot's bed's sides or ends (big gaps could trap your child's head or arms). Verify that the mattress is solid and thin - more thick mattresses aren't advised since they could increase the risk of SIDS. There are many companies that offer a variety of mattresses, from simple foam to natural substances for allergy sufferers. Some even come with anti-microbial treatment. If your mattress has a drop side, ensure that it is in the up position and secured.
A drop side should only be allowed to fall only when an adult is present - to prevent accidental release. If your cot has a solid end, avoid placing it against the wall as it can block airflow and could cause death in the coffin. Recent research suggests that slatted ends may be safer as they allow for more airflow.
If your crib has a fixed side, opt for this as it's safer when your child begins to crawl and then pull themselves up. When your child is confidently climbing and standing, it's the time to move to a junior bed.
Some cots come with a feature where the base can be raised to three different heights, so that it will grow with your child which is extremely practical and a great safety measure. Other cots 4 tots come with footplates that can be adjusted, which are ideal for toddlers who wish to stand up in their bed.
When putting your child's cot in the crib, make sure there aren't any visible dangers. It should be kept away from any heaters or power points. Also, keep it away from windows, curtains, and blind cords. All of these could pose a strangulation risk. If you are buying second-hand furniture or heirlooms, make sure to look out for potential hazards to your child's safety such as labels and transfers. They can come off and create a risk.
If you're unsure about how to use your cot in a safe manner, ask parents around or go to a local NCT New Baby course for assistance and guidance. If your cot comes with a guide, make sure you go through it prior to using it and adhere to the instructions.
Style
With its stunning sleigh design This stunning cot bed will look amazing in your nursery. The panel was awed by the combination of natural and white wood and the innovative features like under-bed storage drawers for all baby essentials, like bedding, nappy and a huge selection of baby clothes. It's also easy to put together with clear instructions and separate screws for each section. Additionally, it can be transformed into a toddler bed or desk when your baby grows older (see the product description for more details).
One of our most loved features is the teething rails that protect your baby from bumping their head on the cot's side or any other 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 becoming suffocated. The cot also has a drop-side for easier access to your newborn. We love that it can be converted to an best infant cribs bed, and that it's sturdy enough to last for four years. It also met strict UK safety standards. These are listed in the specifications below for each product.
Cot beds are generally bigger than cribs and can be transformed into toddler beds once your child is ready and you can avoid purchasing a bed until they're ready for the transition. They are more expensive than cribs.
If your nursery is small, you might think about the possibility of a crib. It is smaller and requires less space. However, if you plan to spend a significant portion of your baby's time in your room, or if you need an item that lasts longer, you should consider a crib.
If a cot does not meet the UK safety standards set by BS EN 716 or BS 8509 (which cover the thickness of mattresses, the materials used, and other essential elements of baby mattresses for cots) it is not safe for babies to sleep. The slats shouldn't be too close together, to ensure your baby doesn't get tossed out.
Stores
The amount of baby gear you 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 storage options when selecting the cot bed. There are a variety of cots that have additional storage solutions available like drawers under the bed or a coordinating cot top changer (available separately). Some can even be adapted to a toddler or a small single bed, which can extend their use for a longer time.
Some cot beds can be further transformed into a daybed like this one on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is a great option for those who prefer more flexible designs as the conversion process is fairly simple and requires just the removal of a side panel. This lets parents reduce the expense of a separate bed.
A variety of cot beds come with hanging rails that can be used to store muslins, dummies and other small items. This makes everything neat, tidy and organized. It also looks beautiful. These items are easily accessible to parents and make it easier for parents to feed their child.
A teething rail is a desired feature that is found in some cots. This can help to prevent your little one chewing on the wood that could cause them irritation. Some cots are designed with an older style and come with a large under-bed storage drawer which is ideal for storing toys, blankets clothes, and other baby essentials.
This is a great solution when space is a problem however, you will need to purchase a drawer separately. You may also have to purchase a different mattress and bedding as sheets and mattresses that are oval aren't typically included in the cot itself.
This sleigh cot bed by Stokke is a lovely example of Scandi-style at its best crib newborn and features a huge under-bed storage drawer that's ideal for keeping all those baby essentials out of sight but still within reach. Our panel was able to find it easy to put together thanks to the alphabetically labeled parts and clear instructions. It's suitable for babies from birth and can be made into a toddler bed when your child is ready. This means it's a good investment too.