5 Killer Quora Answers On Cot Beds

How to Choose the Best cot beds (official statement) for Your Baby

When you are expecting your first child it is crucial to choose a cot that will ensure safety and security for your baby. Choose a cot that has fixed sides, rather than drop-sides. This will comply with UK safety standards.

Our top rated cots choice is this simple but elegant cot from John Lewis' Anyday range. It comes with three mattress positions, teething bars and an storage drawer. It's also easy to set up with clear instructions.

Comfort

The best cot beds keep babies comfy and cosy. Look for a breathable soft, soft fabric. Make sure that the mattress fits snugly, to eliminate any gaps that could create the danger of the mattress becoming suffocated. There are a variety of mattresses on the market that include coil springs, foam and natural materials for allergy sufferers - so do your research before deciding on the best one for your baby's needs.

Whatever you decide to use, whether a standard cot or a convertible cot one, a comfortable mattress is crucial to ensure your ease of use. It should provide adequate support and promote a healthy posture. The same is true for the slats. They should be securely attached and not bent or sagging. The slats need to be securely connected to the frame so that your child does not be caught when they move in their sleep.

If you're unsure of the mattress to buy, ask your family members or friends or look up online reviews for recommendations. Choose mattresses that are breathable, as they help you regulate your body temperature and less likely to harbor bacteria.

There are a variety of styles to pick from, including traditional sleighs with intricate details and modern, sleek designs. Some are even painted in bright primary colors which is great when you want your little one to wake up feeling fresh and cheerful!

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

To ensure your security, opt for a cot that is compliant with the stringent UK safety standards and will easily convert into an infant bed when the time is appropriate. Look for this information in the description or in the specifications.

Safety

A safe sleeping environment is an essential factor when selecting a crib. Make sure that the mattress fits snugly, with no gaps between it and the cot/cot bed's sides or ends (big gaps could trap your child's head or arms). Make sure the mattress is firm and thin. Thick mattresses could increase the risk of SIDS. There are many companies that offer a variety of mattresses, ranging from basic foam to natural materials suitable for allergy sufferers. Some even contain anti-microbial treatments. If your crib sets has a drop side, ensure that it is in the up position and secured.

Drop sides should only be permitted to fall when an adult is present in the room. This prevents accidental releases. If your cot has a solid end, avoid placing it against the wall as it can block airflow and can cause death in the coffin. According to the latest research, slatted end cots may be safer because they allow for greater airflow.

If your crib has a fixed edge, opt for this as it's safer when your child begins to crawl and then pull themselves up. When your child is climbing with confidence and standing, it's the time to move to a junior bed.

Some cots feature a feature where the base can be raised to three different heights, so that it will increase with your child's growth which is extremely convenient and an added security measure. Some cots have adjustable footplates that are perfect for toddlers who like to stand up.

If you are putting your child in their cot, make sure that there is no obvious danger - it should be away from heaters and power points, windows, curtains and blind cords (these pose a strangulation risk). 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 are unsure about how to use your cot, consult other parents for advice or attend a local NCT New Baby class. If your cot comes with an instruction manual, read it carefully before you begin using it, and be sure to follow the safe-use instructions closely.

Style

This stunning cot bed with its sleigh-style design will look amazing in your nursery. The panel was impressed with the combination of natural wood and white and the innovative features like under-bed storage drawers that can hold everything needed by babies, such as bedding, nappies, and a huge selection of cheap baby cots for sale clothes. It's also simple to build with clear instructions and screws for each section. What's more, it can be transformed into a toddler bed and desk as your baby gets older (see the product description for details).

The rails for teething are one of our favorite features. They prevent your child from hitting their head on the crib's side or any protruding part of the crib, such as the corner post or handle. They also stop them from chewing on the wood and also preventing them from being suffocated. The cot also has a drop-side for easier access to your baby. We appreciate that it is able to be converted into a toddler bed, and it's built to last for four years. It also complies with the stringent UK safety standards, which you'll find in the main specifications beneath each product.

Cot beds are generally bigger than recommended 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 until they're ready to transition. However, they may be pricier upfront than the crib that is standard.

If your nursery is small, a crib could be the best option for you, as it's smaller and occupies less space, but if your child is likely to spend a lot of time in their parents' rooms or you'd like a more long-lasting bed, you should consider a crib.

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

Storage

If you're a new parent or a veteran, the amount of stuff a baby needs is staggering. It's crucial to think about storage when selecting a cot. Certain cots offer additional storage options, such as drawers beneath the bed or a top ranked cribs changer (available separately). Some cots are able to be converted into a toddler bed or small single bed to extend their usage.

Some cot beds can be further transformed into a daybed, as seen here on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is a great option for those who prefer a more flexible design. The conversion is easy and only requires the removal of one side panel. It also lets parents save money on a bed purchase.

A few cot beds come with a hanging rail which can be used to store muslins, Dummies, and other small items. This helps keep everything neat, tidy and organised. It also looks beautiful. These items are easily accessible to parents and make it easier for parents to feed their child.

A teething rail is another desirable feature that is included in some cots. This can keep your baby from chewing on the wood which could cause them irritation. Some cots feature a more traditional design and include a large storage drawer underneath the bed, which is perfect for clothes, toys blankets, baby essentials.

This is a great option for those who have limited space but you'll need to purchase a drawer separately. You may also need to purchase a different mattress and bedding since sheets and mattresses that are oval aren't typically included in the cot.

This sleigh cot bed by Stokke is a beautiful example of Scandi-style at its best and has a huge under-bed storage drawer that's perfect to keep baby essentials out of sight but easily reachable. Our panel found it very easy 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 bed once your child is ready. This means it's also a good value.