10 Misconceptions Your Boss Holds Concerning Cot Beds
How to Choose the best crib cot bed, talking to, Cot Beds for Your Baby
If you are expecting your first child it is essential to choose a cot that will provide safety and security for your baby. Choose a cot that has fixed sides (rather than drop-sides) that are in line with strict UK safety standards.
This minimalist, elegant cot is our top choice from the Anyday range by John Lewis. It has three mattress positions, teething bars, and an storage drawer. It's also easy to assemble with clear instructions.
Comfort
The best baby cots cot beds keep children warm and cozy. Choose a breathable, soft fabric. Make sure that the mattress is fitted snugly to prevent any gaps that could cause a risk of the mattress becoming suffocated. There are a variety of mattresses available - coils springs, foam and natural materials for allergy sufferers. Do your research to find the most suitable one for your child.
If you choose a convertible or standard cot, the key to comfort is a mattress of high-quality that provides proper support and promotes healthy posture. The slats need to be secured and not sagging. The slats must also be firmly connected to the frame so that your child does not get caught when they move in their sleep.
If you're not sure what mattress to buy, ask your family members or friends or look up online reviews for suggestions. Make sure you choose a mattress that's breathable, as they'll help maintain temperature and are less likely to harbor bacteria.
There are a myriad of styles to pick from, including traditional sleighs with elaborate details and sleek, modern designs. Some are even painted in bright primary colors which is perfect for those who want their baby to wake up bright and content!
Most cots come with a drawer underneath for storage, teething rails to protect your child from chewing on the sides of the cot, and adjustable height bases to accommodate baby's growth. You can also purchase drop sides for small babies or those who have health issues that make it difficult for them to bend over.
For extra peace of mind, look for a cot that is compliant with the stringent UK safety standards and can easily convert into an infant bed when the time is right. Look for this information in the product description or in the specifications.
Safety
A safe sleeping environment is an essential aspect to consider when choosing a crib. The mattress should be snugly fitted and there shouldn't be gaps between the mattress and the sides or ends of the cot or cot-bed (large gaps can hold the child's arms and head). Check that it's solid and thin - more thick mattresses aren't recommended, as they may increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies sell mattresses in different materials, from foam to natural materials that are suitable for allergy sufferers. Some even have an anti-microbial treatment. If your cot features drop-sides, ensure that it is locked and in the up position.
A drop side should be allowed to drop when an adult is present, this prevents accidental release. If your coffin has a solid edge be sure to avoid placing it against the wall because this will restrict airflow and may contribute to death in the coffin. Recent research suggests that slatted ends may be safer since they allow for more airflow.
If your cot is fixed on one side, choose it. It will be the most secure option for your child when they begin to crawl and pull themselves up. When your child is standing and climbing, this is a sign that they're ready to transition into a junior bed.
Some cots are equipped with a feature that allows the base to be raised up to three different levels. This is a wonderful safety measure and enables your child's cot to grow with them. Some cots also have footplates that can be adjusted, which are ideal for toddlers wanting to sit up in their bed.
When putting your child's cot in the crib be sure that there aren't any obvious dangers. It should be put away from any heaters or power points. Also, keep it away from windows, curtains, and blind cords. These can all present a strangulation threat. When buying second-hand furniture or heirlooms to check for potential hazards to your child's safety such as labels and transfers. They can come off and cause danger.
If you're unsure of about how to use your cot, ask other parents for help or go to a local NCT New Baby class. If your cot has a manual, read it carefully before using it, and follow the safety-use guidelines carefully.
Style
With its stunning sleigh design This stunning cot bed will look amazing in your nursery. The panel was impressed with the mix of natural wood and white as well as the clever features like drawers under the bed for everything essential for babies, including bedding, nappies, and a wide selection of baby clothes. It's also simple to put together with clear instructions and separate packs of screws for each section. What's more, it can be converted into a bed for toddlers and a desk when your baby grows older (see the product description for details).
The teething rails are among our most loved features. They stop your child from hitting their head against the crib's side or any other protruding part of the crib, like the handle or corner post. They also prevent them from chewing the wood, and prevent them from being suffocated. The cot also has a drop-side to allow you to access your newborn. We love that the cot can be converted into a toddler bed, and that it's sturdy enough to last up to four years. It also complies with strict UK safety standards. You can find these in the specifications below for each product.
Cot beds can be transformed into toddler beds when your child is old enough. This lets you avoid purchasing an entirely new bed when your child's ready to move up. However, they can be more expensive upfront than the crib that is standard.
If your nursery is small, a crib might be the best baby cots choice for you since it is smaller and takes up less space. However, should your baby be expected to spend much of their time in their parents' room or you're looking for a more durable bed, consider a cot.
If the cot you are using does not meet the UK safety standards as defined by BS EN 716 or BS 8509 (which cover mattress thicknesses, materials, 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 fall out.
Stores
Whether you're a first-time parent or an experienced one the amount of items the baby will require is immense. This is why it's crucial to think about storage options when selecting the right crib bed. Some cots have additional storage options, such as drawers underneath the bed or a top changer (available separately). Some cots are able to be converted into an infant bed or a small single bed to increase their usage.
Some cots can be transformed into day beds, like the one shown here on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is a great choice for those who prefer more flexible designs as the conversion process is fairly easy and only requires the removal of one side panel. This allows parents to save money on a bed purchase.
A few cot beds have hanging rails that can be used to store muslins, dolls and other small objects. This allows you to keep everything organized tidy, neat and tidy - and it also looks great. Having easy access to these items will make it easier for parents to feed their baby.
A teething rail is an additional desirable feature that is included in some cots. This will prevent your child from chewing on the cot's wooden structure, which can cause irritation. Some cots are designed in an older style and have a huge under-bed storage drawer that is ideal for storing toys, blankets clothing, and other baby essentials.
While this is a great option if you're running out of space, you must keep in mind that you'll need to buy a separate extra for the drawer. You might need to purchase bedding and a mattress separately because oval mattresses and sheets do not come with the cot.
This sleigh cot bed by Stokke is a stunning example of Scandi-style in its finest and has a huge under-bed storage drawer that's ideal to keep baby necessities out of sight but within easy reach. Our panel found it very straightforward to put together, due to the alphabetically-labelled parts and clear instructions. It's suitable for infants from birth and can be made into a toddler bed when your child is ready, which means it's also a good value.