Buzzwords De-Buzzed: 10 Other Ways To Say Cot Beds

How to Choose the best crib Cot Beds for Your Baby

When you are expecting a baby, it is important to select a cot which can provide security and safety for your baby. Find a best cot beds which has fixed sides rather than drop-sides. This will meet UK safety standards.

Our top choice is this simple but stylish coffin from John Lewis' Anyday range. It comes with three mattress positions, teething bars and storage drawers. It's also simple to put together with clear instructions.

Comfort

The best cots cot beds will keep children warm and cozy. Look for a soft and airy fabric, and ensure that the mattress fits snugly to avoid any gaps, which could pose a suffocation risk. There are a range of mattresses available that include coil springs, foam and natural materials for allergy sufferers - so do your research and choose the one that is suitable for your baby's needs.

No matter if you select a standard or convertible cot, the key to comfort is a good-quality mattress that provides proper support and promotes a healthy posture. This is also true for the slats. They should be securely attached and not sagging or bent. The slats should also be firmly fixed to the frame, to ensure that your child will not become caught in the movement in their sleep.

If you're not sure what mattress to buy, consult friends and family or check online reviews for suggestions. Look for ones that are air-conditioned, as they'll help regulate temperature and are less likely to be a home for bacteria.

There are many styles to pick from such as traditional sleighs, with intricate details and modern, sleek designs. Some are decorated with bright primary colors to make your child feel joyful and cheerful when they awake.

Most cheap cots come with drawers underneath to store items, teething rails to protect your child from chewing on the side of the cot, and adjustable height bases for infant growth. You can also purchase a drop-side for babies who aren't tall enough or suffer from health issues that make it difficult for them to bend over.

Choose a cot that is compliant with the strict UK safety standards and is easily transformed into a toddler's cot when it's time. Look for this information in the description or in the specifications.

Safety

A safe and secure sleeping environment is an essential factor when selecting a bed. The mattress should be able to fit snugly and there should be no gaps between the mattress and the sides or ends of the cot/cot-bed (large gaps could trap the child's arms or head). Check that the mattress is firm and thin. Mattresses that are too thick could increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies offer a choice of mattresses, ranging from basic foam to natural substances for allergy sufferers. Some come with anti-microbial treatment. If your cot has drop-sides, ensure that it is locked and in the upward position.

Drop sides should only be allowed to go down when an adult is present in the room. This prevents accidental releases. If your cot has a solid end be sure to avoid placing it against the wall because it can block airflow and could cause the death of a coffin. The latest research suggests that slatted ends may be safer since they permit more airflow.

If your cot is set on one side, choose it. It's the most secure choice for your child when they begin to crawl and pull themselves up. When your child is climbing with confidence and standing, it's time to move to a junior bed.

Some cots come with an option that allows the base to be raised to three levels. This is a fantastic security measure that allows the cot of your child to grow with the child. Other cots come with footplates that can be adjusted, which are ideal for toddlers wanting to sit up in their bed.

When you put your child in their cot, make sure that there is no visible danger - it must be kept away from heaters or power points, windows, curtains and blind cords (these pose a strangulation risk). When purchasing second-hand furniture, or heirlooms, be sure to look for any choking hazards such as stickers and transfers. They can come off and cause danger.

If you are unsure what you should do to use your cot, consult other parents for help or take part in a local NCT New Baby class. If your cot comes with a manual be sure to go through it before using it and follow the instructions.

Style

This gorgeous cot bed, with its sleigh-style design will look stunning in your nursery. Our panel was impressed by the mix of natural and white pine, as well as its innovative features, like under-bed storage drawers that can hold everything necessary for babies, including nappies, bedding and a stunning variety of baby outfits. It's also easy to construct, with clear instructions and separate screws for each section. It can also be converted into a toddler desk or bed as your child grows older (see the product description for more details).

One of our favourite features are the teething rails that protect your little one from smacking their head against the cot's side or any other protruding parts of the cot like a handle or a corner post. They can also stop them from chewing on the wood, which prevents them from becoming trapped. The cot also has a drop-side to allow easier access to your newborn. We love that the cot can be transformed into a toddler bed, and that it's strong enough to last for up to four years. It also met strict UK safety standards. You can find these in the main specifications below each product.

Cot beds are typically larger than cribs and can be transformed into toddler beds once your child is ready and you can avoid purchasing a new bed when they're ready for the transition. However, they can be pricier upfront than a crib that is standard.

If your nursery is small, a crib may be the best rated cribs choice for you as it is smaller and occupies less space, but if your child is likely to spend most of the time in their parents' room or you're looking for a more durable bed, consider a cot.

A cot isn't suitable 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 deals with mattresses' thicknesses, materials, and other essential elements of baby cot mattresses. The slats must not be too close together, to ensure your baby doesn't get tossed out.

Storage

No matter if you're a first-time parent or an experienced one the amount of things a baby needs is staggering. This is why it's essential to consider storage options when selecting the right crib bed. Many cots come with additional storage options, like drawers under the bed or a top changer (available separately). Some are even able to be converted to a toddler or a small single bed, which can extend their usefulness for a longer period of time.

Some cots are able to be converted into day beds, as shown here on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is an ideal option for those who prefer more flexible designs as the conversion process is easy and only requires the removal of one side panel. This also allows parents to save money on a separate bed.

Some cot beds are equipped with hanging rails that can be used to hang muslins, dolls, as well as other small objects. This makes everything neat, tidy and organised. It also looks beautiful. These items are easily accessible to parents and make it easier for them to feed their baby.

A teething rail is an additional important feature that's included in some cots. This will stop your child from chewing on the cot's wooden structure, which could cause irritation. Some cots are designed with an older style and include a large drawer under the bed that is perfect for storing blankets, toys clothes, and other baby essentials.

While this is a great idea for when you're short on space, it's important to be aware that you'll require a separate extra drawer. You may have to purchase an additional mattress and bedding, as oval sheets and mattresses don't come with the cot.

This sleigh cot bed by Stokke is a stunning example of the Scandi-style at its finest and features a huge under-bed storage drawer that's great for keeping all those baby essentials out of sight but easily reachable. The alphabetically labeled pieces and clear instructions made it simple to assemble for our panel. It is suitable for babies as young as birth and can be converted into a toddler's bed once your child is ready.