Are The Advances In Technology Making Cot Beds Better Or Worse
How to Choose the best Baby cots Cot Beds for Your Baby
When you are expecting a child it is crucial to select a cot which can provide security and safety for your baby. Find a cot with fixed sides (rather than drop-sides), which comply with strict UK safety standards.
Our top choice is this simple but stylish cot from John Lewis' Anyday range. It comes with three mattress height positions, teething rails, and a storage drawers. It's also simple to put together with clear instructions.
Comfort
The most comfortable cot beds keep babies comfy and cosy. Look for a breathable soft, soft fabric. Make sure the mattress is snug to avoid any gaps that could pose a risk of suffocation. There are a variety of mattresses available: foam, coils springs, and natural materials for allergy sufferers. Do your research to find the ideal mattress for your child.
It doesn't matter if you pick a standard cot or a convertible cot one, a comfortable mattress is essential to ease of use. It should provide adequate support and promote an ideal posture. The slats must be firmly attached, and not sliding. The slats must be securely fixed to the frame, so that your little one doesn't get caught in them when moving in their sleep.
If you're not sure what mattress to buy, consult your family and friends or consult online reviews for recommendations. Look for ones that are breathable, as they'll help maintain temperature and are less likely to harbor bacteria.
When it comes to fashion, there's a wide choice of styles, from traditional sleigh designs with elaborate details to sleek, contemporary designs. Some are even painted with vibrant primary colours, which is ideal if you want your baby to wake up feeling fresh and cheerful!
There are a lot of cots that have an under-bed drawer for storage as well as teething rails that protect your child from chewing on the sides of the cot, and adjustable height bases to accommodate baby's growth. You can even buy drop sides for small babies or those with medical conditions that make it difficult to bend over.
To ensure your peace of mind, search for a cot that complies with the stringent UK safety standards and can easily transform into a toddler bed when the time is appropriate. This information is available in the description of the product and key specifications.
Safety
When choosing a cot, an environment that is safe for sleeping should be a priority. Make sure that the mattress fits snugly, with no gap between it and the cot/cot bed sides or ends (big gaps can restrict your child's head or arms). Make sure it's solid and thin - more thick mattresses aren't recommended because they can increase the risk of SIDS. There are many companies that offer mattresses made of different materials, from foam to natural materials that are great for allergy sufferers. Some have anti-microbial treatment. If your crib has drop sides, make sure it is in the up position and secured.
Drop sides should only be allowed down only when an adult is present in the room. This can prevent accidental release. Avoid placing your cot on the wall if it is an end that is solid. This could restrict airflow, which can lead to coffin death. According to the most recent research, cots with slatted ends could be safer as 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 start to crawl and pull themselves upward. When your child is standing and climbing, this is a sign that they're ready to transition into the junior bed.
Some cots come with an option where the base can be raised to three different levels to allow it to grow with your child - this is very practical and a great safety measure. Some cots feature footplates that can be adjusted to suit for toddlers who like to stand up.
When placing your child's cot ensure there are no visible hazards. It should be placed away from power and heater points. Also, keep it away from windows, curtains and blind cords. They all could pose a strangulation risk. When buying second-hand furniture or heirlooms, make sure to check for dangers to your child's health such as stickers and transfers. These can peel off and cause danger.
If you're unsure of how to use your cot in a safe manner, ask other parents or visit the local NCT New Baby course for assistance and guidance. If your cot comes with a guide, make sure you read it before using it and follow the directions.
Style
With its stunning sleigh design, this gorgeous cot bed will look amazing in your nursery. The panel was awed by the combination of natural and white wood, as well as the clever features such as under-bed storage drawers for everything needed by babies, such as bedding, nappy and a huge selection of baby clothes. It's also a breeze to put together with clear instructions and separate packs of screws for each section. What's more, it can be transformed into a toddler bed or desk when your baby cots on sale grows older (see the product description for more details).
The teething rails are among our most loved features. They prevent your baby from hitting their head on the side of the crib or any other protruding part of the crib, like the handle or corner post. They also prevent children from chewing on the wood, and prevent them from getting suffocated. There's also a drop-side for easier access to your infant. We appreciate that it is able to be converted into a toddler bed, and it's built to last up to four years. It also meets the strict UK safety standards, which are listed in the key specs beneath each product.
Cot beds are usually larger than cribs and can be turned into toddler beds once your child is ready and you can avoid purchasing a bed when they're ready for the transition. They are more expensive than cribs.
If your nursery is very small, a crib could be the best choice for you since it is smaller and occupies less space, but if your baby is likely to spend much of their time in their parents' rooms or you're looking for a more durable bed, consider a crib.
If a cot doesn't meet the UK safety standards set by BS EN 716 or BS 8509 (which covers mattress thicknesses, materials, and other key elements in baby mattress cots and tots) it is not safe for babies to sleep. The slats must not be too close together to ensure your baby doesn't get tossed out.
Storage
The amount of baby gear you'll need is overwhelming regardless of whether you're a first-time parent or an experienced one. It's crucial to think about storage when you choose a cot. There are a variety of cots that have additional storage options like drawers under the bed or a coordinating top changer (available separately). Some can even be adapted to a toddler or a small single bed, which can extend their use for a longer time.
Some cot beds can be further converted into a daybed like this one on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is an excellent option for those who like an edgier design. The conversion is simple and only requires the removal of a single side panel. This will allow parents to reduce the expense of an additional bed.
Some cot beds are equipped with hanging rails that can be used to hang muslins and dummies and other small items. This allows you to keep everything organised tidy and neat and also looks fantastic. The ease of access to these items will make it easier for parents when feeding their infant.
Another thing to look for is a teething rail that comes with some cots. This will prevent your child from chewing on the wooden cot which could cause irritation. Some cots are designed in an older style and include a large under-bed storage drawer that is ideal for storing toys, blankets clothing, and other baby necessities.
While this is a great idea if you're in a tight space, you must be aware that you'll require a separate additional drawer. You may also have to purchase a different mattress and bedding as 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 in its finest and features a huge under-bed storage drawer that's perfect for keeping all those baby's essentials out of view but easily reachable. Our panel was able to find it easy to put together thanks to alphabetically labelled parts and clear instructions. It's suitable for infants from birth and can be converted into a toddler bed when your child is ready, meaning it's a good investment too.