Five Killer Quora Answers On Cot Beds

How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby

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

This slick and stylish coffin is our top choice from the Anyday range by John Lewis. It has three mattress height positions, teething rails, and a storage drawer. It is also simple to put together and comes with clear instructions.

Comfort

The best cot beds keep children warm and cozy. Look for a soft, breathable fabric and make sure the mattress fits snugly to prevent any gaps which could cause the risk of suffocation. There are a variety of mattresses on the market that include coil springs, foam and other natural materials suitable for allergy sufferers, so do your research and choose the one that is suitable for your baby's requirements.

It doesn't matter if you pick a conventional cot or a convertible, a good mattress is essential to comfort. It must provide the right support and promote an ideal posture. This is also true for the slats, which should be firmly attached and not sagging or bent. The slats need to be securely attached to the frame to ensure that your child does not be caught when they move in their sleep.

Ask your friends and family for recommendations or browse online reviews. Choose a mattress that is breathable, as they'll help maintain temperature and are less likely to harbour bacteria.

In terms of style, there's a wide choice of styles, from traditional sleigh designs with intricate details to sleek, contemporary designs. Some are even painted with bold primary colours which is great for those who want their little one to wake up feeling fresh and cheerful!

You'll find most cots have a drawer underneath for storage, teething rails to protect your child from chewing on the side of the cot, as well as adjustable height bases for infant growth. You can also purchase an extra drop-side for babies that aren't big or have health issues that make it hard to bend over.

For added peace of mind, look for a cot that meets the stringent UK safety standards and can easily convert into an infant bed when the time is right. Find this information in the description or in the specifications.

Safety

A safe sleeping environment is essential and a big aspect to consider when choosing a bed. The mattress should be snugly fitted and there shouldn't be gaps between the mattress and the ends or sides of the cot/cot-bed (large gaps can hold the child's arms and head). Verify that the mattress is firm and thin - thicker mattresses aren't recommended, since they could increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies offer mattresses in different materials from foam to natural materials that are suitable for those suffering from allergies. Some have anti-microbial treatment. If your crib has drop sides, make sure it is in the upward position and locked securely.

Drop sides should only be permitted to fall when an adult is in the room. This will prevent accidental releases. If your cot has a solid end do not place it against the wall as it will block airflow and could cause the death of a coffin. The latest research suggests that slatted ends could be safer since they allow for more airflow.

If your cot has a fixed side choose this option as it's safer when your child begins to crawl and pull themselves up. When your child is climbing with confidence and standing, it's the time to upgrade to a junior bed.

Some cots come with an option where the base can be raised to three different heights in order to increase with your child's growth which is extremely practical and a great safety measure. Some cots have footplates that are adjustable, which is ideal for toddlers wanting to stand up in their bed.

Whenever you place your child in their cot, make sure whether there is no visible danger. It should be away from heaters and power points, windows and blind cords and curtains (these can be strangulation hazards). When purchasing second-hand furniture, or heirlooms, make sure to look for any potential hazards to your child's safety such as labels and transfers. They may peel off and cause danger.

If you're unsure of about how to use your cot, ask other parents for help or attend a local NCT New Baby class. If your cot comes with a guide ensure that you go through it before using it and follow all the directions.

Style

With its gorgeous sleigh style This gorgeous cot bed will look great in your nursery. The panel was awed by the mix of white and natural wood and the clever features like under-bed storage drawers for everything needed by babies, such as bedding, nappies, and a wide selection of baby clothes. It's also easy to construct with clear instructions and separate screws for each section. What's more, it can be transformed into a toddler bed and desk when your baby grows older (see the product description for more details).

The rails for teething are among our most loved features. They prevent your child from hitting their head against the side of the crib or any other protruding part of the crib, such as the handle or corner post. They also prevent children from chewing on the wood and preventing them from suffocating. It also features a drop-side to allow you to get access to your cheap baby cots for sale. We love that it can be converted into an infant bed, and that it is sturdy enough to last for four years. It also complies with the stringent UK safety standards, which are listed in the key specs beneath each product.

Cot beds are typically larger than cribs and can be turned into toddler beds once your child is ready, allowing you to avoid purchasing a bed until they're ready to move on. However, they are more expensive than the crib that is standard.

If your nursery is very small, a crib may be the best cot newborn choice for you as it is smaller and takes up less space, but should your baby be expected to spend much of their time in their parents' rooms or you're looking for a more durable bed, opt for a cot.

A cot isn't suitable for babies to sleep in if it doesn't meet the strict UK safety standards outlined in BS EN 716 and BS 8509, which covers mattress thicknesses, materials and other essential elements of baby cot mattresses. The slats should not be too close together to ensure your baby doesn't fall out.

Storage

The amount of baby gear you'll need is overwhelming regardless of whether you're a first-time parent or an experienced one. This is why it's essential to consider the storage options when you choose the right crib bed. A number of affordable cots have additional storage solutions available like drawers under the bed or a coordinating top changer (available separately). Certain cots can be transformed into toddler beds or a smaller single bed to extend their usage.

Some cot beds can be transformed into a daybed as shown on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is an ideal option for those who prefer an unstructured design since the conversion process is easy and only requires the removal of one side panel. This allows parents to save money on a separate bed purchase.

A number of cot beds feature a hanging rail which can be used to store muslins Dummies, and other small items. This helps to keep everything organised tidy, neat and tidy - and it also looks great. Being able to access these items will make it easier for parents when feeding their baby.

Another desirable feature to look out for is a teething rail that is available with cots. This can keep your baby from chewing on the wood which could cause irritation. Some cots come with more traditional designs and include a large storage drawer underneath the bed that is ideal for clothes, toys blankets, baby essentials.

While this is a great option if you're short on space, you must remember that you will need to buy a separate extra drawer. It is also possible to purchase a different mattress and bedding as oval mattresses and sheets aren't typically included in the cot itself.

This sleigh cot from Stokke is a stunning example of Scandi-style at its best and comes with a massive under-bed storage drawer that's ideal to keep all the baby necessities out of sight but easily reachable. The alphabetically labeled parts and clear instructions made it easy to assemble our panel. It's suitable for babies from birth and can be made into a toddler bed when your child is ready, meaning it's also a good value.