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 important to choose a cot that will ensure safety and security for your baby. Find a cot which has fixed sides, instead of drop-sides. This will be in line with UK safety standards.

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

Comfort

The best cot beds keep babies comfy and cosy. Look for a soft and breathable fabric and make sure the mattress is snug to avoid any gaps, which could create an suffocation threat. There are a variety of mattresses on the market including coil springs, foam and natural materials for allergy sufferers. So do your research and select the right one for your baby's requirements.

Whether you opt for a standard or convertible cot, the most important thing to ensure satisfaction is a high-quality mattress that is supportive and promotes a healthy posture. The same is true for the slats, which must be securely attached and not bent or sagging. The slats must also be securely attached to the frame to ensure that your child will not be caught when they move in their sleep.

If you're not sure which mattress to buy, consult friends and family or check online cots reviews for recommendations. Choose breathable mattresses, as they help regulate your body temperature, and are less likely to hold bacteria.

There are a variety of styles to choose from such as traditional sleighs, with elaborate details and modern, sleek designs. Some are painted in vibrant primary colors to make your child feel cheerful and cheerful as they awake.

Most cots come with 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 even purchase drop sides for small babies or those who have 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. Look for this information in the product description or key specs.

Safety

When selecting a cot, a safe sleeping environment should be a priority. The mattress should fit snugly and there shouldn't be gaps between the mattress and the edges or sides of the cot or cot-bed (large gaps could hold the child's arms and head). Make sure it's firm and thin - thicker mattresses aren't recommended since they could increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies offer a range of mattresses, ranging from basic foam to natural substances for allergy sufferers. Some even come with anti-microbial treatment. If your cot beds for sale has a drop side, ensure it is in the upward position and locked securely.

Drop sides should only be allowed to go down only when an adult is present in the room. This will prevent accidental releases. If your cot has a solid end do not place it against the wall because it can block airflow and could cause death in the coffin. The latest research suggests that slatted edges could be safer as they allow more airflow.

If your crib has a fixed edge choose this option as it's safer when your baby starts to crawl and pull themselves up. If your child is climbing with confidence and standing, it's time to move to a junior bed.

Some cots come with an option where the base can be raised to three different levels, so that it will increase with your child's growth - this is very useful and is a safety measure. Some cots have footplates that can be adjusted to suit for toddlers who want to stand up.

When placing your child's cot, make sure there are no visible hazards. It should be placed away from power and heater points. Also make sure it is away from windows, curtains and blind cords. All of these could present a strangulation threat. If you are buying second-hand furniture or heirlooms, make sure to check for potential hazards to your child's safety such as labels and transfers. They can come off and pose a danger.

If you're unsure about how to use your cot safely, ask other parents or visit an local NCT New Baby course for support and advice. If your cot has a manual, read it carefully before you start using it, and then follow the safety-use guidelines carefully.

Style

With its gorgeous sleigh style This stunning cot bed will look great in your nursery. Our panel members loved the combination of natural and white pine, and its smart features, including under-bed storage drawers that can hold everything necessary for babies, including nappies, bedding and a dazzling array of baby outfits. It's also simple to build with clear instructions and screws for each section. It could also be transformed into a toddler's desk and bed as your child grows older (see product description for more details).

The teething rails are one of our favorite features. They prevent your child from hitting their head on the side of the crib or any protruding portion of the crib, such as the handle or corner post. They also prevent them from chewing on the wood, and prevent them from suffocating. There's also a drop-side to allow easier access to your baby. We appreciate that it is able to be converted to an infant bed, and that it's sturdy enough to last for four years. It also meets the strict UK safety standards, which are listed in the main specifications beneath each product.

Cot beds are usually larger than cribs and can be transformed into toddler beds once your child is ready which means you don't have to worry about buying another bed when they're ready to move on. However, they may be more expensive than the crib that is standard.

If your nursery is small, you may want to consider a crib. It is smaller and requires less space. However, if you plan on spending a lot of your baby's time in the room or you need a bed that will last longer, you should consider a cot.

If a cot does not meet the UK safety standards as defined by BS EN 716 or BS 8509 (which covers the thickness of mattresses, the materials used, and other key elements in baby mattress cots) it is not safe for babies to sleep. The slats shouldn't be too close together, to ensure that your child doesn't get tossed out.

Stores

Whether you're a first-time parent or a veteran, the amount of stuff that a baby requires is overwhelming. This is why it's crucial to consider storage options when choosing the right crib bed. There are a variety of cots that have additional storage options such as drawers in the under-bed or a top changer (available separately). Some can be transformed into a toddler or small single bed, which can extend their usefulness for a longer period of time.

Some Mini Cot Bed beds can be further adapted into a day bed 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 simple 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 have hanging rails that can be used to store muslins Dummies, and other small items. This makes it easier to keep everything organized tidy, neat and tidy - and it also looks amazing. Being able to access these items makes it much easier for parents when feeding their infant.

A teething rail is another desired feature that is found in some cots. This will help keep your baby from chewing on the wood that could cause irritation. Some cots are designed with an older style and come with a large drawer under the bed that is ideal to store blankets, toys clothing, and other baby necessities.

This is a great solution when space is a problem however, you will need to purchase a drawer separately. 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-style cot bed is a beautiful example of Scandi style at its best. It has a large under-bed storage compartment that's ideal for keeping all baby cots on sale essentials out-of-sight but within easy access. The alphabetically labeled components and clear instructions made it easy to put together for our panel. It's suitable for infants as young as birth, and can be transformed into a toddler's bed when your child is ready.