Five Killer Quora Answers On Cot Beds

How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby

When you are expecting a child it is essential to choose a cot that will ensure safety and security for your baby. Find a cot which has fixed sides, rather than drop-sides. This will be in line with UK safety standards.

Our top pick is this simple yet elegant coffin from John Lewis' Anyday range. It has three mattress height positions, teething rails as well as a storage drawer. It is also simple to put together, and comes with clear instructions.

Comfort

The best cot beds keep babies comfy and cosy. Find a comfortable soft and comfortable fabric. Make sure that the mattress is fitted snugly to prevent any gaps that could cause the risk of suffocation. There are a variety of mattresses available on the market - foam, coil springs, natural materials for allergy sufferers - so do your research before deciding on the best one for your baby's needs.

If you choose a convertible or standard cot, the primary factor to satisfaction is a high-quality mattress that provides proper support and encourages healthy posture. The same applies to the slats, which must be securely attached and not sagging or bent. The slats should also be firmly attached to the frame to ensure that your child will not become caught in the movement during sleep.

Ask your friends and family for recommendations or look at online reviews. Choose a mattress that is air-conditioned, as they'll help to regulate temperature and are less likely to be a home for bacteria.

When it comes to style there's a variety of styles, from traditional sleigh styles with intricate details to sleek, contemporary designs. Some are painted in bright primary colours to make your child feel cheerful and happy when they wake up.

The majority of cots have an under-bed storage drawer and teething rails that stop your child from chewing the sides of the cot bed sales and height bases that can be adjusted to accommodate the growth of your baby. You can also purchase an extra drop-side for babies that aren't big or have medical conditions that make it hard to bend over.

For extra peace of mind, look for a cot that meets the strict UK safety standards and will easily convert into a toddler bed when the time is right. Look for this information in the product description or in the specifications.

Safety

When selecting a cot, the safety of your child's sleep is a must. The mattress should fit snugly 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 too thick can increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies offer a range of mattresses, ranging from basic foam to natural substances for allergy sufferers. Some contain anti-microbial treatments. If your cot features drop-sides, make sure it is secured and in the up position.

A drop side should be allowed to fall when an adult is present - to prevent accidental release. Avoid placing your cot against walls if it has a solid end. This will limit airflow, which could lead to coffin death. According to the most recent research, cots with slatted ends may be safer because they permit more airflow.

If your crib has a fixed side, opt for this as it's safer when your child begins to crawl and climb up. Once your child is standing and climbing, it is a sign that they're ready to transition into the junior bed.

Some cots feature an option where the base can be raised to three different heights in order to grow with your child which is extremely convenient and an added safety measure. Some cots feature adjustable footplates that are perfect for toddlers who like to stand up.

When you place your child's cot be sure that there are no visible hazards. It should be put away from heaters and power points. Also make sure it is away from windows, curtains and blind cords. These can all create strangulation risks. If you're purchasing second-hand or heirloom furniture, check for hazards to choking such as stickers and transfers that may be removed and pose danger.

If you're unsure about how to use your cot in a safe manner consult other parents or visit an local NCT New Baby course for support and advice. If your cot comes with a guide ensure that you go through it prior to using it and follow all the directions.

Style

With its gorgeous sleigh style This gorgeous Cot Bed - look here, will look great in your nursery. Our panel loved the combination of natural and white pine, and its innovative features, like under-bed storage drawers that can hold all the baby necessities like nappies, bedding and a stunning variety of baby cot online outfits. It's also easy to construct, with clear instructions and screws for each section. It can also be transformed into a toddler desk or bed as your child grows older (see product description for more information).

One of our favorite features are the teething rails which protect your little one from smacking their head against the side of the cot or any protruding parts of the cot, such as handles or a corner post. They can also stop them from chewing on the wood, preventing them from becoming in danger of being suffocated. There's also drop-sides to make it easier for you to access your newborn. We love that it can be converted to an infant bed, and that it is sturdy enough to last for four years. It also met the strict UK safety standards. You can find these in the key specs below each product.

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

If your nursery is small, a crib could be the best cots choice for you since it is smaller and takes up less space, but should your baby be expected to spend a lot of time in their parents' bedroom or you want a longer-lasting bed, consider a crib.

A cot isn't suitable for babies to sleep in if it doesn't meet the strict UK safety standards set out in BS EN 716 and BS 8509, which deals with mattresses' thicknesses, materials, and other important elements of baby cot mattresses. The slats must not be too wide apart to prevent your child from falling out.

Stores

The amount of baby equipment you need is overwhelming, regardless of whether you're a first-time parent or an experienced one. It is important to think about storage when selecting a cot. A number of cots have additional storage options, such as under-bed drawers or a coordinating cot top changer (available separately). Some cots can be converted into toddler beds or a smaller single bed to increase their usage.

Some cot beds can be adapted into a day bed as shown on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is an excellent option for those who prefer a more flexible design. The conversion is easy and requires only the removal of one side panel. This allows parents to save money on a separate bed purchase.

A number of cot beds feature hanging rails that can be used to store muslins, dolls and other small cot beds objects. This keeps everything neat, tidy and organised. It also looks fantastic. These items are easily accessible to parents which makes it easier for parents to feed their child.

A teething rail is a important feature that's included in some cots. This will stop your child from chewing on the cot's wooden structure, which can cause irritation. Some cots feature more traditional designs and have a huge storage drawer beneath the bed that is ideal for toys, clothes blankets, baby necessities.

While this is a great option if you're running out of space, you should remember that you will require a separate extra drawer. You may need to buy a separate mattress and bedding, as oval mattresses and sheets do not come with the cot.

This sleigh cot bed by Stokke is a lovely example of the Scandi-style at its finest and has a huge under-bed storage drawer that's perfect for keeping all those baby essentials out of sight but within easy reach. Our panel of experts found it straightforward to put together, due to the alphabetically-labelled parts and clear instructions. It is suitable for babies as young as birth and can be made into a toddler's crib when your child is ready.