Five Killer Quora Answers To Cot Beds

How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby

If you are expecting your first child it is essential to choose a cot that will provide safety and security for your baby. Look for a cot with fixed sides (rather than drop-sides) that meet strict UK safety standards.

Our top pick is this basic but elegant cot from John Lewis' Anyday range. It comes with three mattress positions, teething bars and storage drawers. It's also simple to put together with clear instructions.

Comfort

The best cot bed keeps children comfortable and warm. Look for a breathable soft, soft fabric. Make sure the mattress fits snugly, to avoid any gaps that could create a risk of the mattress becoming suffocated. There are a variety of mattresses available on the market that include coil springs, foam, natural materials for allergy sufferers, so do your research and choose the best one for your baby's needs.

Whatever you decide to use, whether a conventional cot or a convertible, a good mattress is essential to comfort. It should provide proper support and encourage a healthy posture. The slats need to be securely attached and not sagging. The slats must be securely fixed to the frame, so that your little one doesn't get stuck in them while they move during sleep.

Ask your friends and family for recommendations or browse online reviews. Look for ones that are air-conditioned, as they'll help regulate temperature and are less likely to harbor bacteria.

There are a variety of styles to choose from, including traditional sleighs with ornate details and modern, sleek designs. Some are painted in vibrant primary colors to make your child feel happy and happy when they wake up.

The majority of cots have an under-bed storage drawer teething rails to prevent your child from chewing the sides of the cot and height bases that can be adjusted to accommodate baby's growth. You can also purchase a drop side for petite babies or those with health issues that make it difficult for them to bend over.

Look for a cot which is in compliance with the strict UK safety standard and is easily converted into a toddler's bed when it's time. This information can be found in the product description as well as key specifications.

Safety

When selecting a cot, an environment that is safe for sleeping is a must. The mattress should be snugly fitted and there shouldn't be gaps between the mattress and the edges or sides of the cot/cot-bed (large gaps can hold the child's arms and head). Verify that the mattress is not too firm and thin. Mattresses that are thick could increase the risk of SIDS. There are many companies that offer mattresses made of different materials including foam and natural materials that are suitable for allergy sufferers. Some even come with an anti-microbial treatment. If your cot features drop-sides, ensure that it is locked and in the upward position.

A drop side should only be allowed to fall when an adult is present; this will prevent accidental releases. If your coffin has a solid bottom be sure to avoid placing it against the wall because it can block airflow and can cause coffin death. According to the most recent research, slatted end cots are safer since they permit more airflow.

If your cot is set to one side, you should choose it. It will be the most secure option for your baby when they begin to crawl and pull themselves up. When your child is confidently standing and climbing, this is a sign that they are ready to move into the junior bed.

Some cots have features that allow the base can be raised to three different heights to allow it to expand with your child which is extremely useful and is a security measure. Other cots come with adjustable footplates, which are great for toddlers who want to stand up in their bed.

When placing your child's cot sale be sure that there aren't any visible dangers. It should be put away from heaters and power points. Also, keep it away from windows, curtains, and blind cords. These can all pose a strangulation risk. If you're buying furniture from a secondhand store or an heirloom piece, check for dangers to your child's health such as stickers and transfer tapes that could peel off and present the risk of.

If you're not sure how to use your cot in a safe manner, ask parents around or go to an local NCT New Baby course for support and advice. If your crib comes with a manual be sure to go through it prior to using it and follow all the instructions.

Style

This gorgeous cot bed with its sleigh-style design will look amazing in your nursery. Our panel members loved the mix of white and natural pine, and its smart features, including under-bed storage drawers to keep all the baby necessities like nappies, bedding and a stunning variety of baby cots online outfits. It's also easy to put together, with clear instructions and separate screws for each section. It can also be transformed into a toddler desk and bed as your child grows older (see product description for more details).

The rails for teething are among our most loved features. They stop your child from hitting their head on the side of the crib or any protruding part of the crib, like the corner post or handle. They also prevent children from chewing on the wood and preventing them from being suffocated. There's also a drop-side to allow parents to reach their newborn. We love that it can be converted to an infant bed, and it's built to last up to four years. It also met strict UK safety standards. You can find these in the specifications below for each product.

Cot beds can be turned into toddler beds when your child is old enough. This allows you to avoid buying an entirely new bed when your child is ready to move up. They are more expensive than a crib.

If your nursery is small, you may be considering a crib. It is smaller and occupies less space. However should you be planning to spend a lot of your baby's time in your bedroom, or if you need an item that lasts longer, you should consider a cot.

A crib isn't safe 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 the thickness of mattresses, the materials used and other key elements of Baby Cot; linked site, mattresses. The slats should not be too wide apart to prevent your Baby Crib from falling off.

Storage

No matter if you're a first-time parent or a veteran the amount of items the baby will require is immense. This is why it's essential to think about the storage options when you choose the cot bed. Certain cots offer additional storage options, like drawers underneath the bed or a top changer (available separately). Some are even able to be converted into a toddler or small single bed, increasing their use for a longer time.

Some cot beds can be further transformed into a daybed like this one on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is an excellent option for those who like a more flexible design. The conversion is easy and only requires the removal of a single side panel. This lets parents reduce the expense of the purchase of a separate bed.

Some cot beds are equipped with hanging rails that can be used to hang muslins and Dummies, as well as other small objects. This makes it easier to keep everything organised, neat and tidy and looks great. Being able to access these items makes it much easier for parents when feeding their Baby Crib.

Another feature worth looking for is a teething rail which is included in a few cots. This will stop your child from chewing on the cot's wooden structure, which could cause irritation. Some cots are designed with a more traditional style and include a large under-bed storage drawer which is ideal to store blankets, toys clothing, and other baby essentials.

While this is a great option if you're in a tight space, you should keep in mind that you'll require a separate extra drawer. You may also have to purchase a different mattress and bedding, as oval mattresses and sheets aren't typically included in the cot itself.

This sleigh cot bed from Stokke is a lovely example of Scandi-style at its best and has a huge under-bed storage drawer that's ideal to keep all the baby necessities out of sight but still within reach. Our panel was able to find it straightforward to put together, due to the alphabetically-labelled parts and clear instructions. It's suitable for infants as young as birth and can be made into a toddler's bed once your child's ready.