How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby
If you're expecting a baby it is essential to select a
cheap cot bed that's secure and safe for your baby. Choose a cot that has fixed sides, instead of drop-sides. This will comply with UK safety standards.
Our top choice is this simple but elegant cot from John Lewis' Anyday range. It comes with three mattress height positions, teething rails, and a storage drawers. It is also simple to put together and comes with clear instructions.
Comfort
The best cot beds keep babies comfy and cosy. Look for a breathable soft and comfortable fabric. Make sure that the mattress is snug to avoid any gaps that could pose a risk of the mattress becoming suffocated. There are a range of mattresses available including coil springs, foam and natural materials for allergy sufferers - so do your research before deciding on the one that is suitable for your baby's needs.
It doesn't matter if you pick a standard cot or a convertible one, a comfortable mattress is crucial to ensure your comfort. It should provide adequate support and encourage an ideal posture. The slats must be secured and not sagging. The slats must also be firmly connected to the frame to ensure that your child does not get caught when they move during sleep.
Ask your friends and family for recommendations or browse online reviews. Look for ones that are breathable, as they'll help regulate temperature and are less likely to harbour bacteria.
When it comes to fashion there's a variety of styles of styles, from traditional sleigh designs with ornate details to sleek, contemporary designs. Some are even painted with vibrant primary colours which is perfect for those who want their little one to wake up bright and happy!
The majority of cots have an under-bed storage drawer teething rails to prevent your child from chewing on the sides of the cot and height bases that are adjustable to accommodate baby's growth. You can also buy a drop-side for babies who aren't big or have medical conditions that make it difficult to bend over.
For added peace of mind, search for a cot that meets the strict UK safety standards and will easily convert into a toddler bed when the time is right. This information is found in the product description and the specifications.
Safety
A safe and secure sleeping environment is essential and a big aspect to consider when choosing a bed. The mattress should fit snugly and there should be no gaps between the mattress and the ends or sides of the cot or cot-bed (large gaps can restrict the child's arms or head). Check that it's solid and thin - more thick mattresses aren't recommended as they may increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies offer mattresses in various materials including foam and natural materials that are suitable for allergy sufferers. Some have anti-microbial treatment. If your mattress has an inclined side, make sure it is in the upward position and locked securely.
Drop sides should only be allowed to go down when an adult is in the room. This prevents accidental releases. Avoid placing your cot against walls if it has a solid end. This will restrict airflow, which can result in death of the coffin. According to the latest research,
cots to tots with slatted edges may be safer because they permit more airflow.
If your cot is set on one side, choose it. It's the safest option for your baby as they begin to crawl and pull themselves upward. Once your child is confidently standing and climbing, it is a sign that they are ready to transition into a junior bed.
Some cots come with a feature that allows the base to be raised to three levels. This is a wonderful safety measure and enables the cot of your child to grow with their needs. Some cots have adjustable footplates that are ideal for toddlers who like to stand up.
Whenever you place your child in their cot, make sure that there is no visible danger. It must be kept away from heaters, power points, windows, blind cords and curtains (these can be strangulation hazards). When buying second-hand furniture or heirlooms, be sure to look for any choking hazards such as stickers and transfers. They may peel off and cause danger.
If you are unsure about how 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 be sure to read it before using it and follow all the instructions.
Style
With its gorgeous sleigh style, this gorgeous
Cot Bed (
simply click the up coming website page) will look great in your nursery. The panel was impressed with the mix of white and natural wood and the clever features like under-bed storage drawers for everything needed by babies, such as bedding, nappies and a wide selection of baby clothes. It's also a breeze to put together with clear instructions and separate packs of 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 favorite features is the teething rails which protect your little one from bumping their head on the cot's side or any protruding parts of the cot, like handles or a corner post, and which also help stop them chewing on the wood, which prevents them from getting trapped. There's also a drop-side to allow easier access to your infant. We appreciate that it is able to be converted to a toddler bed, and that it's built to last for four years. It also met the strict UK safety standards, which can be found in the key specs beneath each product.
Cot beds are typically larger than
good cribs and can be turned into toddler beds once your child is ready and you can avoid purchasing a bed until they're ready to move on. However, they are more expensive than a standard crib.
If your nursery is small, you might think about a crib. It is smaller and occupies less space. However, if you plan on spending a lot of your baby's time in your bedroom or you need a bed that lasts longer, you should consider a crib.
If a cot does not meet the UK safety standards as defined by BS EN 716 or BS 8509 (which covers mattress thicknesses, materials, and other key elements of baby mattresses for cots) it is not safe for babies to sleep. The slats should not be too far apart to prevent your baby from falling off.
Stores
If you're a new parent or an experienced one the amount of things the baby will require is immense. It is important to think about storage when choosing a cot-bed. A number of cots have additional storage options like drawers under the bed or a coordinating top changer (available separately). Some can be transformed into a toddler or small single bed, extending their usefulness for a longer period of time.
Some cot beds can be further converted into a daybed, as seen here on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is a great choice for those who prefer an unstructured design since the conversion process is simple and requires just the removal of one side panel. This allows parents to reduce the expense of a separate bed.
A few cot beds have a hanging rail which can be used to store muslins dummies and other small items. This allows you to keep everything organised, neat and tidy - and it also looks fantastic. These items are easily accessible to parents which makes it easier for parents to feed their child.
Another thing to look for is a teething rail that is available with some cots. This can help to keep your baby from chewing on the wood, which can cause irritation. Some cots have an older style and include a large storage drawer underneath the bed, which is perfect for toys, clothes blankets, baby essentials.
While this is a great idea for when you're short on space, it's important to keep in mind that you'll have to purchase an extra for the drawer.
