Is Technology Making Cot Beds Better Or Worse
How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby
If you're expecting a baby it's crucial to select the right cot that is secure and safe for your little one. Choose a sale cot that has fixed sides (rather than drop-sides) that are in line with strict UK safety standards.
Our top pick is this simple yet stylish coffin from John Lewis' Anyday range. It comes with three mattress height positions, teething rails, and a storage drawer. It is also simple to put together, and comes with clear instructions.
Comfort
The best cot beds keep babies comfy and cosy. Look for a breathable soft, soft fabric. Make sure the mattress is fitted snugly to eliminate any gaps that could cause the risk of suffocation. There are a variety of mattresses on the market including coil springs, foam, natural materials for allergy sufferers. So do your research before deciding on the one that is suitable for your baby's requirements.
If you choose an ordinary or convertible cot, the most recommended cribs important thing to ensure satisfaction is a high-quality mattress that provides proper support and promotes healthy posture. The same applies to the slats, which should be firmly attached and not bent or sagging. The slats must be securely fixed to the frame, so that your child doesn't get stuck in them while they move in their sleep.
Ask your family and friends for recommendations, or read online reviews. Look for ones that are breathable, as they'll help maintain temperature and are less likely to be a home for bacteria.
There are a myriad of styles to pick from that include traditional sleighs with intricate details and sleek, modern designs. Some are decorated with bright primary colors to make your child feel joyful and cheerful as they wake up.
Most cots come with a drawer for storage underneath teething rails to prevent your child from chewing on the sides of the cot and height bases that are adjustable to accommodate the growth of your baby. You can also purchase an extra drop-side for babies that aren't big or suffer from medical conditions that make it hard to bend over.
Find a cot that is compliant with the strict UK safety standards and is easily transformed into a toddler's bed when it is time. This information can be found in the description of the product and the key specifications.
Safety
A safe sleeping environment is a must and a major factor when selecting a cot. Make sure that the mattress is snug and has no gap between it and the cot/cot bed's sides or ends (big gaps could trap your child's head or arms). Make sure the mattress is firm and thin. Thick mattresses could increase the risk of SIDS. There are many companies that offer mattresses made of various materials, from foam to natural materials that are suitable for those suffering from allergies. Some even come with an anti-microbial treatment. If your cot features a drop-side, make sure it is locked and in the upward position.
A drop side should be allowed to drop only when an adult is present, to prevent accidental release. If your coffin has a solid bottom, avoid placing it against the wall because it will block airflow and can cause coffin death. According to the latest research, slatted end cots may be safer because they permit more airflow.
If your cot is fixed on one side, then you can choose it. It's the safest option for your baby when they start to crawl and then pull themselves upwards. When your child is confidently climbing and standing, it's time to upgrade to a junior bed.
Some cots have a feature where the base can be raised to three different levels in order to grow with your child which is extremely convenient and an added security measure. Some cots feature adjustable footplates that are ideal for toddlers who love to stand up.
Whenever you place your child in their cot, check that there isn't any visible danger - it must be kept away from heaters and power points, windows, blind cords and curtains (these are a strangulation hazard). When buying second-hand furniture or heirlooms to check for choking hazards such as stickers and transfers. They can come off and pose a danger.
If you're unsure of how to safely use your cot, ask other parents for advice or go to an local NCT New Baby class. If your cot has instructions, read them carefully before you start using it, and follow the safety-use guidelines carefully.
Style
With its stunning sleigh design, this gorgeous cot bed will look great in your nursery. The panel was awed by the combination of natural and white wood as well as the innovative features like under-bed storage drawers for everything needed by babies, such as bedding, nappies, and an impressive array of baby clothes. It's also simple to put together with clear instructions and separate packs of screws for each section. It can also be transformed into a toddler desk or bed as your child grows older (see product description for more information).
One of our most loved features is the teething rails which protect your little one from smacking their head against the cot's side or any protruding part of the cot, such as the handle or corner post, and which can also stop them from chewing on the wood, preventing them from becoming trapped. It also has an opening that can be dropped to make it easier for access to your infant. We are thrilled that it can be converted to an infant bed, and that it's sturdy enough to last for four years. It also met the strict UK safety standards, which can be found in the specifications that are listed under each product.
Cot beds can be converted into toddler beds when your child is old enough. This lets you avoid purchasing a new bed as your child gets ready to make the leap. They may cost more than a crib.
If your nursery cots is very small, a crib might be the best cot bed option for you since it is smaller and takes up less space. However, if your child is likely to spend most of the time in their parents' room or you want a longer-lasting bed, consider a cot.
A crib isn't safe 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 covers mattresses' thicknesses, materials, and other key elements of cot mattresses for baby. The slats should not be too close together to ensure your baby doesn't fall off.
Storage
The amount of baby stuff you need is overwhelming, regardless of whether you're a new mom or a seasoned one. This is why it's crucial to consider the storage options when you choose a cot bed. Some cots come with additional storage options, such as drawers beneath the bed or a top changer (available separately). Certain cots can be transformed into an infant bed or a small single bed to increase their usage.
Some cots are able to be converted into day beds, as shown on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is an excellent option for those who like the flexibility of a design. The conversion is simple and only requires the removal of a single side panel. It also lets parents save money on a bed purchase.
A number of cot beds feature hanging rails that can be used to store muslins, dummies and other small items. This makes it easier to keep everything organized, neat and tidy and also looks fantastic. These items are easily accessible to parents and make it easier for them to feed their baby.
Another desirable feature to look for is a teething rail which is included in a few cots. This will help keep your baby from chewing on the wood which can cause irritation. Some cots are designed with an older style and come with a large under-bed storage drawer that is perfect for storing toys, blankets clothing, and other baby essentials.
While this is a great crib option if you're running out of space, you should be aware that you'll need to buy a separate extra drawer. You may need to buy an additional mattress and bedding because oval sheets and mattresses don't come with the cot.
This sleigh cot bed from Stokke is a beautiful example of Scandi-style in its finest and comes with a massive under-bed storage drawer that's perfect to keep all the baby necessities out of sight but within easy reach. The alphabetically labeled components and clear instructions made it easy to assemble for our panel. It's suitable for infants from birth and can be made into a toddler bed once your child is ready. This means it's a good investment too.