Five Killer Quora Answers On Cot Beds

How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby

If you're expecting a baby cots online, it's important to choose a cot that's safe and secure 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 cot from John Lewis' Anyday range. It comes with three mattress positions, teething bars and storage drawers. It's also easy to set up with clear instructions.

Comfort

The best cot beds keep babies comfy and cosy. Find a comfortable, soft fabric. Make sure that the mattress fits snugly, to eliminate any gaps that could pose 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 one for your child.

Whatever you decide to use, whether a standard cot or a convertible one, a comfortable mattress is vital to your the comfort. It should provide adequate support and promote an upright posture. The same applies to the slats, which must be secured and not bent or sagging. The slats must also be securely fixed to the frame, so that your child doesn't get stuck in them while they move during sleep.

Ask your family and friends for recommendations or look at online reviews. Look for ones that are ventilated, as they'll aid in regulate temperature and are less likely to be a home for bacteria.

There are a variety of styles to pick from that include traditional sleighs with elaborate details and sleek, modern designs. Some are painted in vibrant primary colors to make your child feel joyful and cheerful as they wake up.

Most cots come with a drawer underneath for storage, teething rails to protect your baby from chewing on the sides of the cot, as well as adjustable height bases for infant cot bed growth. You can even buy drop sides for small babies or those who have medical conditions that make it difficult to bend over.

Choose a cot that is in compliance with the strict UK safety standard and is able to be easily converted into a toddler's bed when it's time. This information is found in the description of the product and the specifications.

Safety

A secure sleeping space is a must and a major aspect to consider when choosing a cot. The mattress should fit snugly and there shouldn't be gaps between the mattress and the sides or ends of the cot or cot-bed (large gaps could trap the child's arms or head). Check that the mattress is not too firm and thin. Mattresses that are too thick could increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies sell mattresses in different materials from foam to natural materials that are suitable for allergy sufferers. Some even come with an anti-microbial treatment. If your mattress has drop sides, make sure it is in the up position and locked securely.

A drop side should only be allowed to drop only if an adult is present; this prevents accidental release. If your cot has a solid end, avoid placing it against the wall as it will block airflow and can cause coffin death. The latest research suggests that slatted ends could be safer as they allow for more airflow.

If your cot has a fixed side choose this option as it's safer when your child starts to crawl and pull themselves up. Once your child is standing and climbing, this is a sign they're ready to transition into a junior bed.

Some cots feature an option 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 safety measure. Some cots come with footplates that can be adjusted to suit for toddlers who want to stand up.

If you are putting your child in their cot, make sure that there isn't any visible danger - it must be kept away from heaters, power points, windows, curtains and blind cords (these pose a strangulation risk). If you're buying furniture that is second-hand or an heirloom be sure to look for any dangers to your child's health such as stickers and transfer tapes that could be removed and pose a risk.

If you are unsure how to safely use your cot, ask other parents for advice or go to a local NCT New Baby class. If your cot comes with instructions, read them carefully before using it, and then follow the safety-use guidelines carefully.

Style

With its gorgeous sleigh style This gorgeous cot bed will look amazing in your nursery. The panel was impressed by the mix of natural and white wood as well as the innovative features like under-bed storage drawers that can hold everything needed by babies, such as bedding, nappy and an impressive array of Baby beds clothes. It's also easy to put together with clear instructions and separate screws for each section. Additionally, it can be transformed into a toddler bed and desk when your child gets older (see the product's description for more details).

One of our favourite features are the teething rails, which shield your baby from bumping their head on the side of the cot or any other protruding parts of the cot, such as a handle or a corner post, and which can also stop them from chewing on the wood, preventing them from being in danger of being suffocated. There's also a drop-side to allow easier access to your newborn. We are thrilled that it can be converted into a toddler bed, and it's built to last up to four years. It also meets the strict UK safety standards, which are listed in the key specs beneath each product.

Cot beds are generally bigger than cribs and can be converted into toddler beds when your child is ready which means you don't have to worry about purchasing a bed at an age when they're ready to move on. However, they are more expensive than a standard crib.

If your nursery isn't big enough, you might think about a crib. It is smaller and requires less space. However, if you plan to spend a lot of your baby's time in your bedroom, or if you need a bed that lasts longer, you should opt for a cot.

If a cot does not meet the UK safety standards outlined by BS EN 716 or BS 8509 (which refers to mattress thicknesses, materials and other important elements of baby cot mattresses) it is not safe for babies to sleep. The slats must not be too far apart, to ensure that your child doesn't get tossed out.

Storage

The amount of baby gear you need is overwhelming, regardless of whether you're a first-time parent or a seasoned one. This is the reason it's important to think about storage options when selecting the right cot bed. Many cots come with additional storage options like drawers under the bed or a top changer (available separately). Some can be transformed to a toddler or a small single bed, increasing 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 fairly simple and involves the removal of one side panel. This also allows parents to save money on a separate bed.

A number of cot beds come with a hanging rail which can be used to store muslins, dolls and other small objects. This makes it easier to keep everything organised tidy and neat and also looks amazing. These items are easily accessible to parents and make it easier for them to feed their baby.

Another desirable feature to look out for is a teething rail that is available with cots. This can help to stop your child from chewing on the wood that could cause irritation. Some cots feature more traditional designs and include a large storage drawer under the bed. It is perfect for toys, clothes blankets, and other baby necessities.

This is a great solution when space is a problem, but you will have to purchase a drawer on your own. You may have to purchase a separate mattress and bedding, as oval sheets and mattresses don't come with the cot.

This sleigh-style cot bed is a beautiful example of Scandi style at its best crib. It has a large under-bed storage compartment that's ideal to keep all baby necessities away from view but easily accessible. Our panel found it very easy to put together, due to the alphabetically-labelled parts and clear instructions. It's suitable for babies from birth and can be converted into a toddler bed when your child is ready, meaning it's also a good value.