The Ultimate Guide To Cot Beds
How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby
If you are expecting your first child it is crucial to choose a cot that can provide security and safety for your baby. Look for a cot that has fixed sides rather than drop-sides. This will meet UK safety standards.
This slick and stylish coffin is our top choice from the Anyday range by John Lewis. It comes with three mattress positions, teething bars, and storage drawers. It is also simple to put together and comes with clear instructions.
Comfort
The best cot mattress keeps children comfortable and warm. Look for a soft, airy fabric, and ensure that the mattress is fitted snugly to prevent any gaps which could pose a suffocation risk. There are a range of mattresses available on the market including coil springs, foam, natural materials for allergy sufferers, so do your research before deciding on the one that is suitable for your baby cots on sale's needs.
Whether you opt for a convertible or standard cot, the key to comfort is a good-quality mattress that provides proper support and promotes a healthy posture. The slats should also be securely attached and not sliding. The slats should also be securely attached to the frame, so your child isn't caught in them when moving during sleep.
Ask your friends and family for recommendations or browse online reviews. Choose mattresses that are breathable, as they will help regulate your body temperature and are less likely to hold bacteria.
When it comes to style there's a variety of styles from classic sleigh styles with intricate detailing to sleek, modern designs. Some are painted in vibrant primary colors to make your child feel cheerful and happy when they awake.
You'll find most cots have an under-bed drawer for storage as well as teething rails that protect your baby from chewing on the side of the cot, and adjustable height bases for baby growth. You can also purchase a drop-side for babies who aren't big or have health issues that make it hard to bend over.
Look for a cot which meets the strict UK safety standards and can easily be transformed into a toddler's cot when it's time. Find this information in the product description or in the key specifications.
Safety
A secure sleeping space is essential and a big aspect to consider when choosing a crib. Make sure that the mattress fits snugly, with no gap between it and the cot's bed's sides or ends (big gaps could restrict your child's head or arms). Check that it's firm and thin. Thicker mattresses aren't recommended, because they can increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies offer a range of mattresses, ranging from basic foam to natural materials for allergy sufferers. Some come with anti-microbial treatment. If your cot features drop-sides, ensure that it is secured and in the up position.
Drop sides should only be permitted to fall when an adult is in the room. This will prevent accidental release. Avoid placing your sale cot on the wall if it is a solid end. This could limit airflow, which could cause death in the coffin. The latest research suggests that slatted ends may be safer since they allow more airflow.
If your crib has a fixed edge you should choose this because it's safer when your child starts to crawl and then pull themselves up. If your child is climbing with confidence and standing, it's time to upgrade to a junior bed.
Some cots come with features that allow the base can be raised to three different levels to allow it to increase with your child's growth This is extremely convenient and an added safety measure. Some cots feature adjustable footplates that are ideal for toddlers who like to stand up.
When you put your child in their cot, ensure that there is no visible danger - it must be away from heat sources and power points, windows and blind cords and curtains (these pose a strangulation risk). If you're buying furniture from a secondhand store or an heirloom piece, check for choking hazards like stickers and transfers that may be removed and pose the risk of.
If you're not sure how to use your cot in a safe manner consult other parents or attend an local NCT New Baby course for assistance and guidance. If your crib comes with a manual be sure to go through it before using it and follow the instructions.
Style
This gorgeous cot bed, with its sleigh design will look stunning in your nursery. The panel was impressed by the combination of white and natural wood as well as the innovative features like under-bed storage drawers for everything essential for babies, including bedding, nappies, and an impressive array 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 bed for toddlers and a desk as your baby gets older (see the product description for more details).
One of our favorite features are the teething rails that protect your little one from bumping their head on the cot's side or any protruding parts of the cot like a handle or a corner post. They will also stop them from chewing on the wood, preventing them from getting suffocated. It also has a drop-side to allow easier access to your newborn. We love that it can be converted to an infant cot bed bed, and it's sturdy enough to last for up to four years. It also meets the strict UK safety standards, which you'll find in the key specs beneath each product.
Cot beds can be converted into toddler beds if your child is old enough. This lets you avoid purchasing a new crib as your child gets ready to make the leap. However, they may be pricier upfront than a standard crib.
If your nursery is small, you might want to consider the possibility of a crib. It is smaller and occupies less space. However it is recommended to consider a cot if you are planning to spend a lot of your baby's time in the room or if you require an item that lasts longer, you should opt for a crib.
A crib isn't safe for babies to sleep in if it does not meet the strict UK safety standards outlined in BS EN 716 and BS 8509, which covers mattress thicknesses, materials and other key elements of baby cot mattresses. The slats should not be too close together, to ensure your baby doesn't fall off.
Storage
The amount of baby stuff you'll need is overwhelming regardless of whether you're a new mom or an experienced one. This is why it's crucial to consider the storage options when you choose the crib bed. A number of cots have additional storage options, like drawers under the bed or a coordinating cot top changer (available separately). Certain cots can be transformed into toddler beds or a smaller single bed to increase their use.
Some cot beds can be adapted into a day bed as shown on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is a great option for those who like the flexibility of a design. The conversion is simple and only requires the removal of a single side panel. This lets parents save money on a separate bed.
Some cot beds have a hanging rail that can be used to hang muslins, dolls and other small items. This makes it easier to keep everything organized, neat and tidy and also looks fantastic. Having easy access to these items will make it easier for parents to feed their baby.
Another desirable feature to look out for is a teething rail which is included with some cots. This can help to keep your baby from chewing on the wood that can cause irritation. Some cots are designed with an older style and come with a large under-bed storage drawer which is perfect for storing toys, blankets, clothes and other baby essentials.
This is a great choice if space is an issue however, you will need to purchase a drawer on your own. You may also need to purchase a different mattress and bedding as sheets and mattresses that are oval aren't typically included in the cot.
This sleigh cot bed from Stokke is a stunning example of the Scandi-style at its finest and comes with a massive under-bed storage drawer that's perfect for keeping all those baby essentials out of sight but easily reachable. The alphabetically labeled components and clear instructions made it simple to assemble for our panel. It's suitable for babies from birth and can be transformed into a toddler bed when your child is ready, meaning it's also a good value.