Five Killer Quora Answers On Cot Beds

How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby

When you are expecting your first child it is crucial to select a cot which can provide security and safety for your baby. Look for a cot that has fixed sides rather than drop-sides. This will be in line with UK safety standards.

This simple but elegant cot is our top pick from the Anyday range by John Lewis. It has three mattress positions, teething bars and a storage drawer. It is also easy to put together, and comes with clear instructions.

Comfort

The best cot beds keep children warm and cozy. Find a comfortable soft, soft fabric. Make sure the mattress is snug to avoid any gaps that could create the risk of suffocation. There are many mattresses available on the market that include coil springs, foam and other natural materials suitable for allergy sufferers, so do your research before deciding on the best one for your baby's requirements.

No matter if you choose a standard cot or a convertible, a good mattress is essential to the comfort. It should provide proper support and promote an upright posture. The slats need to be firmly attached, and not sliding. The slats need to be firmly attached to the frame to ensure that your child will not get caught when they move in their sleep.

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

There are a myriad of styles to choose from, including traditional sleighs with ornate details and sleek, modern designs. Some are even painted in bold primary colours, which is ideal if you want your child to wake up feeling bright and cheerful!

The majority of cots have an under-bed storage drawer and teething rails that stop your child from chewing on the sides of the cot, and adjustable height bases to accommodate the growth of your baby. You can also buy a drop-side for babies who aren't big or have medical conditions that make it difficult to bend over.

Look for a cot which is compliant with the strict UK safety standards and is able to be easily transformed into a toddler's cot sets when it is time. Look for this information in the description or in the key specifications.

Safety

When choosing a cot, a safe sleeping environment should be a priority. The mattress should fit snugly and there should be no gaps between the mattress and the sides or ends of the cot/cot-bed (large gaps could restrict the child's arms or head). Check that it's solid and thin - more thick mattresses aren't recommended, because they can increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies offer mattresses in a variety of materials from foam to natural materials that are suitable for those suffering from allergies. Some even come with an anti-microbial treatment. If your crib has a drop side, ensure it is in the upward position and locked securely.

Drop sides should only be permitted down only when an adult is present in the room. This prevents accidental release. If your coffin has a solid bottom do not place it against the wall because it can block airflow and may contribute to coffin death. According to the latest research, slatted end cots may be safer because they allow for greater airflow.

If your crib has a fixed side you should choose this because it will be safest when your child starts to crawl and then pull themselves up. Once your child is standing and climbing, this is a sign that they are ready to transition into a junior bed.

Some cots are equipped with a feature that allows the base to be raised to three levels. This is a fantastic security measure that allows your child's cot to expand with them. Some cots have adjustable footplates that are ideal for toddlers who want to stand up.

When placing your child's cot, make sure there aren't any visible dangers. It should be put away from power and heater points. Also be sure to keep it away from windows, curtains, and blind cords. These can all create strangulation risks. If you're purchasing furniture from a secondhand store or an heirloom piece 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're not sure what you should do to use your cot, consult other parents for advice or attend an local NCT New Baby class. If your cot comes with a manual be sure to go through it prior to using it and follow the instructions.

Style

This gorgeous cot bed with its sleigh-style design will look fantastic in your nursery. Our panel loved the mix of white and natural pine, as well as its innovative features, like under-bed storage drawers that can hold all those baby essentials like nappies, bedding, and a dazzling variety of baby cot online outfits. It's also easy to construct with clear instructions and screws for each section. Additionally, it can be transformed into a toddler bed and desk when your child gets older (see the product description for details).

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 a handle or a corner post. They can also stop them from chewing on the wood, which prevents them from getting trapped. The cot also has drop-sides to make it easier for parents to reach their newborn. We love that the cot can be transformed into a toddler bed, and that it's built to last for four years. It also met strict UK safety standards. You can find these in the specifications below for each product.

Cot beds are generally bigger than cribs and can be converted into toddler beds once your child is ready and you can avoid purchasing a new bed at an age when they're ready to transition. However, they are more expensive than the standard crib.

If your nursery is small, you might want to consider a crib. It is smaller and takes less space. However it is recommended to consider a cot if you are planning on spending a lot of your baby's time in your bedroom or if you require a bed that lasts longer, you should consider a crib.

If the cot you are using does not meet the UK safety standards outlined by BS EN 716 or BS 8509 (which refers to mattress thicknesses, materials, and other key elements in baby mattresses for cots) It is unsafe for babies to sleep. The slats must not be too close together to ensure your baby doesn't fall out.

Stores

The amount of baby stuff you'll need is overwhelming regardless of whether you're a first-time parent or a seasoned one. This is the reason it's important to consider the storage options when you choose the right crib bed. A number of cots have additional storage options like drawers under the bed or a coordinating top changer (available separately). Some cots are able to be converted into an infant bed or a small single bed to increase their use.

Some cot beds can be transformed into a daybed like this one 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 a single side panel. This also allows parents to save money on a separate bed.

A variety of cot beds feature a hanging rail which can be used to store muslins, Dummies, and other small items. This allows you to keep everything organized, neat and tidy - and it also looks fantastic. These items are easily accessible to parents which makes it easier for them to feed their baby.

Another feature worth looking out for is a teething rail that comes with cots. This will stop your child from chewing on the wooden cot which can cause irritation. Some cots are designed in a more traditional style and have a huge under-bed storage drawer which is ideal to store blankets, toys clothes, and other baby necessities.

This is a great choice if space is an issue, but you will have to purchase a drawer separately. You may need to buy a separate mattress and bedding because oval mattresses and sheets do not come with the cot.

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