10 Misconceptions Your Boss Holds Regarding Cot Beds

How to Choose the best crib for newborn Cot Beds for Your Baby

If you're expecting a child, it's important to choose a cot that's secure and safe for your baby. Look for a cot with fixed sides (rather than drop-sides) that are in line with strict UK safety standards.

This slick and elegant crib is our top pick from the Anyday range of John Lewis. It has three mattress positions, teething bars, and a storage drawer. It is also easy to assemble, with clear instructions.

Comfort

The best cot beds (learn this here now) keep children warm and cozy. Find a comfortable soft and comfortable fabric. Make sure that the mattress is fitted snugly to eliminate any gaps that could create the danger of being suffocated. There are a variety of mattresses available - foam, coil springs and other natural materials suitable for allergy sufferers. So do your research and select the right one for your baby's needs.

Whatever you decide to use, whether a standard cot or a convertible, a good mattress is essential to the comfort. It must provide the right support and encourage an ideal posture. The slats must be securely attached and not sliding. The slats should also be firmly connected to the frame to ensure that your child will not get caught when they move in their sleep.

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

When it comes to fashion, there's a wide choice from classic sleigh styles with intricate detailing to sleek, modern designs. Some are painted in bright primary colours to make your child feel happy and cheerful when they awake.

The majority of cots have a drawer for storage underneath teething rails to prevent your child from chewing the sides of the cot and adjustable height bases to accommodate baby's growth. You can even purchase a drop side for petite babies or those with medical conditions that make it difficult for them to bend over.

Find a cot that meets the strict UK safety standard and is easily transformed into a toddler's cot when it's time. Find this information in the description or in the key specifications.

Safety

When choosing a cot, a safe sleeping environment should be the top priority. Make sure that the mattress is snugly fitted, with no gaps between it and the cot/cot beds edges or sides (big gaps can restrict your child's head or arms). Make sure the mattress is firm and thin. Thick mattresses can increase the risk of SIDS. There are many companies that offer mattresses made of a variety of materials from foam to natural materials that are great for allergy sufferers. Some have anti-microbial treatment. If your cot features drop-sides, ensure that it is secured and in the up position.

A drop side should only be allowed to fall when an adult is present, this will prevent accidental releases. If your cot has a solid end be sure to avoid placing it against the wall because it can block airflow and can cause coffin death. The latest research suggests that slatted edges could be safer since they allow for more airflow.

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

Some cots offers have features that allow the base can be raised to three different heights, so that it will grow with your child - this is very convenient and an added safety measure. Some cots come with footplates that can be adjusted to suit for toddlers who like to stand up.

When placing your child's cot, make sure there are no visible hazards. It should be put away from power and heater points. Also, keep it away from windows, curtains, and blind cords. These can all present a strangulation threat. If you're purchasing furniture that is second-hand or an heirloom, check for hazards to choking such as stickers and transfer tapes that could be removed and pose danger.

If you're unsure of how to use your cot in a safe manner you can ask parents around or go to a local NCT New Baby course for support and advice. If your cot comes with a manual, make sure you go through it prior to using it and follow the instructions.

Style

With its stunning sleigh design This stunning cot bed will look great in your nursery. Our panel loved the combination of natural and white pine, as well as its smart features, including under-bed storage drawers that can hold all those baby essentials like bedding, nappies and a dazzling variety of baby outfits. It's also easy to put together with clear instructions and screws for each section. It can also be transformed into a toddler bed and desk when your baby grows older (see the product description for details).

One of our most loved features are the teething rails, which shield your baby from smacking their head against the cot's side or any protruding part of the cot like the handle or corner post, and which will also stop them from chewing on the wood, which prevents them from becoming suffocated. There's also a drop-side for easier access to your baby. We appreciate that the cot could be transformed into a toddler bed and that it's built to last for 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 converted into toddler beds in the event that your child is old enough. This allows you to not have to buy an entirely new bed when your child's ready to make the leap. However, they are more expensive than the standard crib.

If your nursery is very small, a crib might be the best choice for you, as it's smaller and takes up less space, but should your baby be expected to spend much of their time in their parents' room or you're looking for a more durable bed, opt for a crib.

If the cot you are using does not meet the UK safety standards outlined by BS EN 716 or BS 8509 (which covers mattress thicknesses, materials and other key elements of baby cot mattresses) It is unsafe for babies to sleep. The slats shouldn't be too wide apart to stop your baby from falling out.

Stores

The amount of baby equipment you need is overwhelming, whether you're a new parent or a seasoned one. This is why it's essential to consider storage options when choosing the right crib bed. Many cots come with additional storage options like drawers under the bed or a top changer (available separately). Some cots can be converted into an infant cot bed bed or a small single bed to extend their usage.

Some cot cribs beds can be further converted into a daybed, as seen here on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is a great choice for those who prefer a less rigid design as the conversion process is easy and only requires the removal of a side panel. This allows parents to save money on the purchase of a separate bed.

Some cot beds are equipped with a hanging rail that can be used to hang muslins and Dummies and other small items. This makes everything neat, tidy and organized. It also looks beautiful. These items are easily accessible to parents, making it easier for parents to feed their child.

A teething rail is another desirable feature that is included in some cots. This will help stop your child from chewing on the wood which could cause them irritation. Some cots have more traditional designs and have a huge storage drawer beneath the bed, which is perfect for toys, clothes, blankets and other baby necessities.

While this is a great idea if you're short on space, you must remember that you will need to buy a separate extra drawer. You may also need to buy a new mattress and bedding since sheets and mattresses that are oval are not typically included with the cot.

This sleigh cot bed by Stokke is a beautiful example of Scandi-style at its best and features a huge under-bed storage drawer that's perfect to keep all the baby essentials out of sight but within easy reach. Our panel of experts found it straightforward to put together, due to the alphabetically-labelled parts and clear instructions. It's suitable for infants as young as birth, and can be converted into a toddler's crib when your child is ready.