14 Questions You Might Be Afraid To Ask About Cot Beds

How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby

If you are expecting a baby, it is important to select a cot which can provide security and safety for your baby. Find a cot with fixed sides (rather than drop-sides) that are in line with strict 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 is also simple to put together and comes with clear instructions.

Comfort

The best cot beds will keep children warm and cozy. Choose a soft, breathable fabric and make sure the mattress is fitted snugly to avoid any gaps, which could create an suffocation threat. There are a variety of mattresses on the market that include coil springs, foam and natural materials for allergy sufferers, so do your research and select the best rated cribs one for your baby's requirements.

No matter if you choose a conventional cot or a convertible, a good mattress is vital to your ease of use. It should provide adequate support and promote an ideal posture. The slats should also be firmly attached, and not sliding. The slats should also be securely fixed to the frame, so that your child isn't stuck in them while they move in their sleep.

Ask your family and friends for recommendations, or read online reviews. Choose breathable mattresses, as they can help you regulate your body temperature and less likely to harbor bacteria.

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

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

To ensure your security, opt for a cot that is compliant with the stringent UK safety standards and can easily transform into an infant bed when the time is right. Find this information in the description or key specs.

Safety

When choosing a cot, the safety of your child's sleep should be the top priority. Make sure the mattress is snugly fitted, with no gaps between it and the cot/cot bed's sides or ends (big gaps could keep your child's head from being caught in the arms). Make sure the mattress is not too firm and thin. Mattresses that are too thick could increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies sell mattresses in various materials from foam to natural materials that are suitable for allergy sufferers. Some have anti-microbial treatment. If your mattress has an inclined side, make sure it is in the up position and locked securely.

Drop sides should only be allowed to fall when an adult is present in the room. This will prevent accidental releases. Avoid placing your cot against the wall if it is a solid end. This can restrict airflow, which can result in death of the coffin. The latest research suggests that slatted ends could be safer since they allow for more airflow.

If your cot is fixed on one side, choose it. It's the safest option for your child when they begin to crawl and pull themselves upward. When your child is confidently standing and climbing, it is a sign that they're ready to transition into the junior bed.

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

Whenever you place your child in their cot, ensure that there isn't any visible danger - it must be kept away from heaters or power points, windows and blind cords and curtains (these pose a strangulation risk). If you're purchasing furniture from a secondhand store or an heirloom piece be sure to look for any choking hazards like stickers and transfer tapes that could be removed and pose a risk.

If you're not sure how to use your cot safely you can ask other parents or visit a local NCT New Baby course for support and advice. If your cot comes with a guide ensure that you go through it prior to using it and follow all the instructions.

Style

This gorgeous cot bed, with its sleigh-style design will look amazing in your nursery. The panel was awed by the combination of natural wood and white as well as the clever features like under-bed storage drawers for everything essential for babies, including bedding, nappy and an impressive array of baby clothes. It's also a breeze to put together, with concise instructions and separate packs of screws for each section. It can also be converted into a toddler's desk and bed as your child grows older (see the product description for more information).

One of our favourite features are the teething rails which protect your little one from bumping their head on the cot's side or any protruding parts of the cot, like handles or a corner post, and which also help stop them chewing on the wood, which prevents them from being suffocated. There's also an opening that can be dropped to make it easier for access to your newborn. We appreciate that the cot could be transformed into a toddler bed and that it's strong enough to last for up to four years. It also meets the strict UK safety standards, which are listed in the specifications that are listed under each product.

Cot beds can be converted into toddler beds in the event that your child is old enough. This allows you to avoid purchasing a new bed when your child's ready to go up. They may cost more than a crib.

If your nursery is small, you may think about a crib. It is smaller and takes less space. However it is recommended to consider a cot if you are planning on spending a lot of your baby's time in the room or you need an item that lasts longer, you should opt for a crib.

A cot isn't suitable for babies to sleep in if it doesn't meet the strict UK safety standards set out in BS EN 716 and BS 8509, which covers the thickness of mattresses, the materials used and other key elements of Baby Cot - bookmarkspot.win's website - mattresses. The slats must not be too wide apart to prevent your child from falling out.

Stores

No matter if you're a first-time parent or a veteran the amount of things the baby will require is immense. It's crucial to think about storage when choosing a cheap cot beds-bed. Many cots come with additional storage solutions available such as drawers in the under-bed or a coordinating cot top changer (available separately). Some can be transformed into a toddler bed or a single bed, which can extend their use for a longer time.

Some cot beds can be further converted into a daybed as shown on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is a great choice for those who like an edgier design. The conversion is simple 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 hanging rails that can be used to store muslins dummies and other small items. This helps to keep everything organized, neat and tidy and also looks amazing. These items are easily accessible to parents and make it easier for parents to feed their child.

Another thing to look for is a toothing rail that comes in a few cots. This will stop your child from chewing on the wooden cot, which can cause irritation. Some cots feature a more traditional design and have a huge storage drawer underneath the bed. It is perfect for clothes, toys blankets, baby necessities.

While this is a great idea if you're in a tight space, you should remember that you will need to buy a separate additional drawer. You may also need to purchase a different mattress and bedding since oval mattresses and sheets aren't typically included in the cot itself.

This sleigh cot bed from Stokke is a stunning example of Scandi-style at its best crib newborn and features a huge under-bed storage drawer that's ideal to keep all the baby's essentials out of view but still within reach. Our panel was able to find it easy to put together, thanks to the alphabetically labeled parts and clear instructions. It's suitable for babies as young as birth, and can be transformed into a toddler's crib when your child's ready.