Five Killer Quora Answers On Cot Beds
How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby
When you are expecting your first child it is essential to choose a cot that will ensure safety and security for your baby. Find a cot with fixed sides (rather than drop-sides) that meet strict UK safety standards.
This minimalist, stylish crib is our top pick from the Anyday collection by John Lewis. It has three mattress positions, teething bars and an storage drawer. It is also easy to assemble, with clear instructions.
Comfort
The best cot beds keep babies comfy and cosy. Choose a breathable soft, soft fabric. Make sure that the mattress fits snugly, to prevent any gaps that could create the danger of the mattress becoming suffocated. There are many types of mattresses available, including coils springs, foam, and natural materials for allergy sufferers. Do your research to determine the ideal mattress for your child.
No matter if you select a convertible or standard cot, the most important thing to ensure comfort is a mattress of high-quality that provides proper support and encourages healthy posture. The same applies to the slats. They should be securely attached and not sagging or bent. The slats must also be firmly attached to the frame to ensure that your child will not be caught when they move during sleep.
Ask your family and friends for recommendations, or read online reviews. Make sure you choose a mattress that's breathable, as they'll help to regulate temperature and are less likely to be a home for bacteria.
When it comes to style, there's a wide choice, from traditional sleigh styles with ornate detailing to sleek, modern designs. Some are painted in bright primary colours to make your child feel joyful and happy when they wake up.
Most cots come with a drawer for storage underneath, teething rails that prevent your child from chewing the sides of the cot, and height bases that are adjustable to accommodate your child's growth. You can also purchase an extra drop-side for babies that aren't big or have medical conditions that make it difficult to bend over.
Look for a cot which is in compliance with the strict UK safety standard and can easily be transformed into a toddler's cot when it is time. This information can be found in the product description as well as the specifications.
Safety
A safe and secure sleeping environment is an essential aspect to consider when choosing a crib. Make sure that the mattress is snugly fitted, with no gap between it and the cot's bed sides or ends (big gaps could 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 different materials, from foam to natural materials that are good for those suffering from allergies. Some even come with an anti-microbial treatment. If your cot has drop-sides, ensure that it is locked and in the up position.
A drop side should be allowed to fall only if an adult is present; this will prevent accidental releases. Avoid placing your cot on walls if it has a solid end. This will restrict airflow, which can lead to coffin death. The latest research suggests that slatted ends may be safer because they permit more airflow.
If your cot is set on one side, choose it. It will be the most secure option for your child when they start to crawl and pull themselves up. When your child is confidently climbing and standing, it's time to upgrade to a junior bed.
Some cots come with an option that allows the base to be raised to three different levels. This is a great security feature that allows the cot of your child to grow with their needs. Some cots have adjustable footplates that are perfect for toddlers who want to stand up.
When placing your child's cot be sure that there are no visible hazards. It should be kept away from any heaters or power points. Also be sure to keep it away from windows, curtains and blind cords. All of these could present a strangulation threat. If you're buying second-hand or heirloom furniture Be sure to check for potential hazards to choking such as stickers and transfers that may be removed and pose the risk of.
If you're not sure how to safely use your cot, ask other parents for advice or take part in an local NCT New baby cot online class. If your crib comes with a manual, make sure you read it before using it and follow all the instructions.
Style
With its gorgeous sleigh style This stunning cot bed will look great in your nursery. The panel was awed by the combination of white and natural wood and the innovative features like 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 could also be transformed into a toddler desk or bed as your child gets older (see product description for more information).
One of our favorite features are the teething rails which protect your little one from bumping their head on the cot's side or any protruding part of the cot, such as the handle or corner post, and which will also stop them from chewing on the wood, preventing them from becoming trapped. There's also an opening that can be removed to allow you to access your newborn. We love that it can be converted to an infant bed, and that it's built to last for 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 typically larger than Recommended Cribs and can be turned into toddler beds when your child is ready which means you don't have to worry about buying another bed at an age when they're ready to move on. However, they are more expensive upfront than the crib that is standard.
If your nursery is very small, a crib may be the best crib newborn choice for you since it is smaller and occupies less space, but if your child is likely to spend a lot of time in their parents' rooms or you want a longer-lasting bed, opt for a cot.
A crib isn't safe for babies to sleep in if it does not meet the strict UK safety standards set out in BS EN 716 and BS 8509, which deals with mattress thicknesses, materials and other key elements of cot mattresses for babies. The slats should not be too far apart to stop your baby from falling off.
Storage
The amount of baby gear you need is overwhelming, whether you're a new parent or an experienced one. This is the reason it's important to think about storage options when choosing the cot bed. A number of cheap cots have additional storage options, such as drawers in the under-bed or a coordinating top changer (available separately). Some cheap cots can be converted into an infant bed or a small single bed to increase their usage.
Some cot beds can be adapted into a day bed, as seen here on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is a great choice for those who like an edgier design. The conversion is easy and only requires the removal of a single side panel. This lets parents save on the cost of the purchase of 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 keeps everything neat, tidy and organized. It also looks beautiful. Being able to access these items will make it much easier for parents to feed their baby.
Another feature worth looking for is a toothing rail which is included in a few cots. This will prevent your child from chewing on the cot's wooden structure, which can cause irritation. Some cots are designed in more traditional designs and have a huge under-bed storage drawer that is ideal for storing toys, blankets clothes, and other baby necessities.
While this is a great option if you're in a tight space, you should be aware that you'll require a separate extra for the drawer. You may also have to buy a new mattress and bedding, as oval mattresses and sheets aren't typically included in the cot itself.
This sleigh cot bed by Stokke is a lovely example of Scandi-style in its finest and features a huge under-bed storage drawer that's great for keeping all those baby essentials out of sight but within easy 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 once your child is ready, meaning it's a good investment too.