This Is The Advanced Guide To Cot Beds

How to Choose the best cots Cot Beds for Your Baby

If you are expecting your first child it is essential to select a cot which can provide security and safety for your baby. Choose a cot that has fixed sides instead of drop-sides. This will comply with 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 a storage drawer. It's also simple to put together with clear instructions.

Comfort

The best crib newborn cot beds keep children warm and cozy. Look for a soft and breathable fabric and make sure the mattress fits snugly to prevent any gaps which could cause an suffocation threat. There are many types of mattresses available - coils springs, foam and natural materials for allergy sufferers. Do your research to find the ideal mattress for your child.

Whatever you decide to use, whether a conventional cot or a convertible cot, a good mattress is crucial to ensure your ease of use. It should provide proper support and promote an ideal posture. The same is true for the slats, which should be securely attached and not sagging or bent. The slats must also be securely fixed to the frame, to ensure that your child does not get caught when they move during sleep.

Ask your family and friends for recommendations or look at online reviews. Make sure you choose a mattress that's breathable, as they'll help regulate temperature and are less likely to harbour bacteria.

There are a myriad of styles to choose from such as traditional sleighs, with ornate details and modern, sleek designs. Some are even painted with vibrant primary colours which is perfect if you want your baby to wake up feeling bright and cheerful!

Most cots come with an under-bed drawer for storage, teething rails to protect your baby from chewing on the side of the cot, as well as adjustable height bases for infant 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.

To ensure your security, opt for a cot that is compliant with the stringent UK safety standards and will easily transform into an infant 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 be able to fit snugly and there should be no gaps between the mattress and the sides or ends of the cot/cot-bed (large gaps could trap the child's arms or head). Make sure it's solid and thin - more thick mattresses aren't advised as they may increase the risk of SIDS. There are many companies that offer a variety of mattresses, ranging from basic foam to natural materials suitable for allergy sufferers. Some even contain anti-microbial treatments. If your crib has an inclined side, make sure it is in the upward position and locked securely.

Drop sides should only be permitted down when an adult is in the room. This can prevent accidental release. Avoid placing your cot against walls if it has an end that is solid. This will hinder airflow and could cause death in the coffin. Recent research suggests that slatted ends could be safer because they permit more airflow.

If your cot has a fixed side choose this option as it will be safest when your baby starts to crawl and climb up. When your child is confidently standing and climbing, it is a sign that they're ready to move into a junior bed.

Some cots have a feature that allows the base to be raised up to three different levels. This is a wonderful safety measure and enables your child's cot to grow with the child. Some cots have adjustable footplates that are ideal for toddlers who love to stand up.

When placing your child's cot be sure that there are no visible hazards. It should be put away from any heaters or power points. Also make sure it is away from windows, curtains, and blind cords. They all could present a strangulation threat. If you're purchasing furniture that is second-hand or an heirloom be sure to look for any dangers to your child's health such as stickers and transfers that can be removed and pose the risk of.

If you're unsure of how to use your cot safely you can ask other parents or visit a local NCT New Baby course for support and advice. If your cot comes with a manual ensure that you read it before using it and adhere to the directions.

Style

This stunning cot bed with its sleigh-style design will look amazing in your nursery. Our panel loved the mix of natural and white pine, as well as its smart features, including under-bed storage drawers to keep everything necessary for babies, including bedding, nappies and a dazzling assortment of baby clothes. It's also a breeze to put together with clear instructions and separate sets of screws for each section. It can also be converted into a toddler's desk and bed when your child gets older (see the product description for more details).

One of our favourite features is the teething rails that protect your little one from smacking their head against the side of the cot or any other protruding parts of the cot like a handle or a corner post. They can also stop them from chewing on the wood, preventing them from becoming in danger of being suffocated. It also features an opening that can be removed to allow you to access your newborn. We are thrilled that it can be converted into an infant bed, and it's sturdy enough to last for up to four years. It also complies with the stringent UK safety standards, which are listed in the specifications that are listed under each product.

Cot beds can be converted into toddler beds when your child is old enough. This lets you avoid purchasing a new bed when your child is ready to go up. They are more expensive than a 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 cribs to consider a cot if you are planning to spend a significant portion of your baby's time in your room or if you require a bed that will last longer, you should opt for a cot.

A cot isn't suitable 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 covers mattresses' thicknesses, materials, and other important elements of baby cot mattresses. The slats must not be too far apart to prevent your baby from falling off.

Storage

The amount of baby stuff you need is overwhelming, regardless of whether you're a new mom or a seasoned one. This is why it's essential to consider storage options when selecting a crib bed. Many cots come with additional storage options like drawers under the bed or a top changer (available separately). Some can be transformed into a toddler bed or a single bed, increasing their usefulness for a longer period of time.

Some cots are able to be converted into day beds, like the one shown here on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is a great option for those who prefer an unstructured design since the conversion process is fairly simple and requires just the removal of a side panel. It also lets parents save money on a separate bed purchase.

A few cot beds feature a hanging rail which can be used to store muslins, dummies and other small items. This helps keep everything neat, tidy and organised. It also looks great. Having easy access to these items will make it much easier for parents when feeding their infant.

Another desirable feature to look out for is a teething rail that is available in a few cots. This can prevent your little one chewing on the wood that can cause irritation. Some cots have an older style and include a large storage drawer underneath the bed. It is perfect for toys, clothes blankets, baby necessities.

While this is a great option if you're in a tight space, you should remember that you will require a separate extra for the drawer. You might need to purchase a separate mattress and bedding since oval mattresses and sheets do not come with the cot.

This sleigh cot bed by Stokke is a beautiful example of the Scandi-style at its finest and features a huge under-bed storage drawer that's great for keeping all those baby's essentials out of view but still within reach. The alphabetically labeled pieces and clear instructions made it simple to assemble our panel. It's suitable for infants from birth and can be transformed into a toddler's crib when your child is ready.