15 Reasons Not To Overlook Cot Beds
How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby
If you're expecting a child it is essential to select a cot that will be safe and secure for your child. Look for a cot with fixed sides (rather than drop-sides) that are in line with strict UK safety standards.
This minimalist, stylish crib is our top choice from the Anyday range of John Lewis. It comes with three mattress positions, teething bars, and storage drawers. It's also easy to assemble with clear instructions.
Comfort
The best cot bed keeps children comfortable and warm. Find a comfortable, soft fabric. Make sure the mattress fits snugly, to eliminate any gaps that could cause a risk of the mattress becoming suffocated. There are a variety of mattresses available, including coils springs, foam and natural materials for allergy sufferers. Do your research to find the best crib for newborn one for your child.
Whatever you decide to use, whether a standard cot or a convertible cot one, a comfortable mattress is crucial to ensure your the comfort. It should provide proper support and promote an upright posture. The slats need to be securely attached and not sliding. The slats must also be firmly connected to the frame to ensure that your child will not become caught in the movement during sleep.
If you're not sure what mattress to purchase, talk to your family members or friends or look up online reviews for recommendations. Choose a mattress that is ventilated, as they'll aid in to regulate temperature and are less likely to harbor bacteria.
There are a myriad of styles to pick from, including traditional sleighs with intricate details and modern, sleek designs. Some are even painted in vibrant primary colours which is perfect for those who want their baby to wake up feeling fresh and content!
There are a lot of cots that have an under-bed drawer for storage, teething rails to protect your child from chewing on the sides of the cot, and adjustable height bases for baby growth. You can also buy a drop-side for babies who aren't big or suffer from health issues that make it hard to bend over.
Look for a cot which is in compliance with the strict UK safety standard and is able to be easily converted into a toddler's bed when it is time. This information is found in the description of the product and the key specifications.
Safety
A safe sleeping environment is a must and a major factor when selecting a cot. Make sure the mattress is snugly fitted, with no gap between it and the cot/cot bed sides or ends (big gaps could restrict your child's head or arms). Verify that the mattress is solid and thin - more thick mattresses aren't recommended, because they can increase the risk of SIDS. There are many companies that offer a variety of mattresses, from simple foam to natural materials suitable for allergy sufferers. Some even come with anti-microbial treatment. If your mattress has drop sides, make sure it is in the upward position and secured.
A drop side should be allowed to go down only when an adult is present; this prevents accidental releases. If your cot has a solid end, avoid placing it against the wall because this will restrict airflow and may contribute to death in the coffin. According to the latest research, cots with slatted ends could be safer as they allow for more airflow.
If your crib has a fixed side you should choose this because it is the most secure option when your child starts to crawl and pull themselves up. Once your child is standing and climbing, it is a sign that they are ready to transition into a junior bed.
Some cots have a feature where the base can be raised to three different levels, so that it will grow with your child This is extremely practical and a great security measure. Other cots come with footplates that are adjustable, which is ideal for toddlers who wish to sit up in their beds.
When placing your child's cot, make sure there aren't any visible dangers. It should be placed away from any heaters or power points. Also, keep it away from windows, curtains and blind cords. They all could pose a strangulation risk. If you're purchasing furniture from a secondhand store or an heirloom piece Be sure to check for potential choking hazards like stickers and transfer tapes that could peel off and present danger.
If you're not sure what you should do to use your cot, consult other parents for advice or attend a local NCT New Baby class. If your cot has a manual, read it carefully before using it, and follow the safety guidelines closely.
Style
With its stunning sleigh design, this gorgeous crib will look stunning in your nursery. The panel was impressed by the combination of natural wood and white and the clever features like drawers under the bed for everything essential for babies, including bedding, nappies and an impressive array of baby clothes. It's also simple to construct with clear instructions and screws for each section. What's more, it can be transformed into a toddler bed or desk when your baby grows older (see the product's description for more details).
The rails for teething are among our top features. They prevent your baby from hitting their head against the side of the crib or any other protruding part of the crib, such as the corner post or handle. They also stop children from chewing on the wood and also preventing them from being suffocated. It also features a drop-side to allow parents to reach their newborn. We appreciate that the cot could be transformed into a toddler bed, and that it's strong enough to last for four years. It also complies with 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 which means you don't have to worry about purchasing a new bed until they're ready for the transition. They can be more expensive than cribs.
If your nursery is small, a crib might be the best cots for newborns option for you, as it's smaller and takes up less space. However, should your baby be expected to spend most of the time in their parents' rooms or you're looking for a more durable bed, opt for a cot.
A cot isn't safe for babies to sleep in if it doesn't meet the strict UK safety standards outlined in BS EN 716 and BS 8509, which deals with the thickness of mattresses, the materials used and other key elements of baby cot mattresses. The slats should not be too close together, to ensure your Baby beds doesn't fall off.
Stores
The amount of baby equipment 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. Some cots come with additional storage options, such as drawers under the bed or a top changer (available separately). Some cots are able to be converted into an infant bed or a small single bed to increase their use.
Some cots can be transformed into day beds, as seen on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is a great choice for those who prefer a less rigid design as the conversion process is fairly simple and requires just the removal of a side panel. This lets parents save on the cost of the purchase of a separate bed.
A number 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 great. These items are easily accessible to parents and make it easier for parents to feed their child.
A teething rail is another desired feature that is found in some cots. This will help prevent your little one chewing on the wood which could cause irritation. Some cots are designed with an older style and come with a large under-bed storage drawer which is ideal to store blankets, toys, clothes and other baby necessities.
This is a great option when space is a problem however, you will need to purchase a drawer separately. It is also possible to purchase a different mattress and bedding as oval mattresses and sheets aren't typically included in the cot.
This sleigh-style cot is an exquisite illustration of Scandi style at its finest. It has a spacious under-bed storage space that is perfect to keep all baby necessities out-of-sight but within easy access. Our panel was able to find it straightforward to put together, due to the alphabetically-labelled parts and clear instructions. It's suitable for babies as young as birth and can be transformed into a toddler bed once your child is ready, meaning it's good value too.