How to Choose the
best cot beds cot bed (
sneak a peek here) Cot Beds for Your Baby
If you are expecting your first child it is essential to choose a cot that can provide security and safety for your baby. Look for a cot that has fixed sides instead of drop-sides. This will comply with UK safety standards.
Our top pick is this simple yet stylish coffin from John Lewis' Anyday range. It comes with three mattress positions, teething bars and storage drawers. It is also easy to put together and comes with clear instructions.
Comfort
The
best rated cribs cot beds keep children warm and cozy. Choose a breathable, soft fabric. Make sure that the mattress is fitted snugly to avoid any gaps that could pose the risk of being suffocated. There are a variety of mattresses available - foam, coils springs, and natural materials for allergy sufferers. Do your research to find the most suitable one for your child.
If you choose a standard or convertible cot, the key to comfort is a mattress of high-quality that provides proper support and promotes healthy posture. The slats must be secured and not sliding. The slats must also be firmly fixed to the frame, to ensure that your child does not get caught when they move in their sleep.
If you're not sure which mattress to buy, consult friends and family or check online reviews for recommendations. Select mattresses that are breathable, since they will help regulate your body temperature, and are 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 intricate details to sleek, contemporary designs. Some are even painted in vibrant primary colours which is great for those who want their baby to wake up feeling fresh and cheerful!
Most cots come with an under-bed drawer for storage and teething rails to guard your child from chewing on the side of the cot and adjustable height bases for infant growth. You can also purchase drop sides for small babies or those with health issues that make it difficult to bend over.
Look for a cot which is compliant with the strict UK safety standard and is easily converted into a toddler's bed when it is time. Find this information in the product description or in the key specifications.
Safety
When selecting a cot, an environment that is safe for sleeping is a must. Make sure the mattress is snugly fitted, with no gap between it and the cot/cot bed sides or ends (big gaps could trap your child's head or arms). Verify that the mattress is firm and thin - thicker mattresses aren't advised because they can increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies sell mattresses in a variety of materials, from foam to natural materials that are good for those suffering from allergies. Some even have an anti-microbial treatment. If your crib has drop sides, make sure it is in the up position and secured.
Drop sides should only be permitted down only when an adult is in the room. This can prevent accidental release. If your coffin has a solid edge do not place it against the wall since it can block airflow and could cause the death of a coffin. The latest research suggests that slatted ends may be safer as they permit more airflow.
If your crib has a fixed edge, opt for this as it is the most secure option when your baby starts to crawl and pull themselves up. If your child is confidently climbing and standing, it's the time to move to a junior bed.
Some cots feature a feature where the base can be raised to three different heights to allow it to expand with your child which is extremely practical and a great safety measure. Some cots have adjustable footplates, which are ideal for toddlers who wish to sit up in their bed.
When you put your child in their cot, ensure that there is no obvious danger - it should be away from heaters or windows, power points and blind cords and curtains (these can be strangulation hazards). If you're buying second-hand or heirloom furniture Be sure to check for potential hazards to choking such as stickers and transfer tapes that could be removed and create the risk of.
If you're unsure about 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 a guide be sure to go through it prior to using it and adhere to the directions.
Style
This stunning cot bed with its sleigh style will look stunning in your nursery. Our panel was impressed by the combination of natural and white pine, as well as its clever features, such as under-bed storage drawers to keep all the baby necessities like bedding, nappies and a dazzling assortment 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 transformed into a toddler's desk and bed when your child gets older (see the product description for more details).
One of our most loved features are the teething rails, which shield your little one from bumping their head against the side of the cot or any protruding part of the cot, like handles or a corner post. They can also stop them from chewing on the wood, which prevents them from being trapped. It also features an opening that can be removed to make it easier for parents to reach their newborn. We appreciate that it is able to be converted to a toddler bed, and it is sturdy enough to last up to four years. It also met strict UK safety standards. These are listed in the main specifications below each product.
Cot beds can be turned into toddler
cribs beds in the event that your child is old enough. This allows you to avoid purchasing a new crib when your child's ready to make the leap. However, they are more expensive upfront than a crib that is standard.
If your nursery is small, you might be considering 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 the room, or if you need an item that lasts longer, you should consider a crib.
A crib isn't safe for babies to sleep in if it doesn't meet the strict UK safety standards as outlined in BS EN 716 and BS 8509, which covers mattress thicknesses, materials and other important elements of baby cot mattresses. The slats should not be too wide apart to stop your child from falling out.
Storage
The amount of baby equipment you'll need is overwhelming regardless of whether you're a new mom or an experienced one. It's important to consider storage when choosing a cot-bed. Many cots come with additional storage options, such as drawers in the under-bed or a coordinating cot top changer (available separately). Some are even able to be converted to a toddler or a small single bed, which can extend their usability for longer.
Some cot beds can be transformed into a daybed like this one on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is an ideal option for those who prefer an unstructured design since the process of conversion is simple and involves the removal of a side panel. This also allows parents to save money on a separate bed purchase.
Some cot beds have a hanging rail that can be used to hang muslins, dolls and other small items. This helps to keep everything organized, neat and tidy - and it also looks amazing. These items are easily accessible to parents, making it easier for them to feed their baby.
A teething rail is an additional important feature that's included in some cots. This will prevent your child from chewing on the cot's wooden structure, which could cause irritation. Some cots have a more traditional design and have a huge storage drawer beneath the bed, which is perfect for clothes, toys blankets, baby essentials.
While this is a great option if you're in a tight space, you must be aware that you'll require a separate extra for the drawer.