Are You Making The Most From Your Cot Beds
How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby
If you're expecting a baby it is essential to select a cot that will be safe and secure for your child. Find a cot which has fixed sides, instead of drop-sides. This will be in line with UK safety standards.
Our top pick is this simple yet elegant coffin from John Lewis' Anyday range. It has three mattress positions, teething bars and storage drawers. It's also easy to assemble with clear instructions.
Comfort
The best cot beds keep baby's warm and comfortable. Find a comfortable soft, soft fabric. Make sure the mattress is snug to eliminate any gaps that could pose a risk of suffocation. There are a variety of mattresses available - foam, coils springs, and even natural materials for allergy sufferers. Do your research to determine the best one for your child.
No matter if you choose a conventional cot or a convertible cot one, a comfortable mattress is essential to ease of use. It must provide the right support and encourage an ideal posture. The same is true for the slats. They should be secured and not sagging or bent. The slats must also be securely attached to the frame so that your child isn't stuck in them while they move during sleep.
If you're not sure which mattress to buy, ask your family and friends or consult online reviews for recommendations. Choose mattresses that are breathable, as they can help you regulate your body temperature and are less likely to be a breeding ground for bacteria.
In terms of style there's a variety of styles of styles, from traditional sleigh designs with elaborate detailing to sleek, modern designs. Some are even painted with bright primary colors which is perfect when you want your cheap baby cots for sale to wake up bright and content!
The majority of cots have an under-bed storage drawer, teething rails that prevent your child from chewing on the sides of the cot and height bases that can be adjusted to accommodate baby's growth. You can also buy an extra drop-side for babies that are small or suffer from medical conditions that make it hard to bend over.
Look for a cot which meets the strict UK safety standards and is easily transformed into a toddler's bed when it's time. This information is available in the product description as well as key specifications.
Safety
When selecting a cot, an environment that is safe for sleeping is a must. Make sure the mattress is snug and has no gaps between it and the cot/cot bed sides or ends (big gaps could trap your child's head or arms). Check that it's firm and thin. Thicker mattresses aren't recommended, because they can increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies offer a choice of mattresses, ranging from basic foam to natural substances for allergy sufferers. Some contain anti-microbial treatments. If your cot has drop-sides, make sure it is locked and in the up position.
Drop sides should only be allowed to go down only when an adult is present in the room. This prevents accidental releases. Do not place your cot against the wall if it is a solid end. This could restrict airflow, which can lead to coffin death. Recent research suggests that slatted edges could be safer since they permit more airflow.
If your cot is set to one side, you should choose it. It's the most secure 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 move into the junior bed.
Some cots have a feature that allows the base to be raised up to three levels. This is a great safety measure and enables the cot of your child to grow with them. Other cots come with adjustable footplates, which are great for toddlers who want to stand up in their bed.
When placing your child's cot be sure that there aren't any obvious dangers. It should be put away from power and heater points. Also be sure to keep it away from windows, curtains and blind cords. They all could create strangulation risks. When purchasing second-hand furniture, or heirlooms, be sure to look out for choking hazards such as stickers and transfers. These can peel off and create a risk.
If you're unsure of how to use your cot in a safe manner consult parents around or go to an 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 adhere to the directions.
Style
This gorgeous cot bed, with its sleigh-style design will look amazing in your nursery. Our panel was impressed by the combination of natural and white pine, and its innovative features, like under-bed storage drawers to keep all the baby necessities like nappies, bedding, and an enviable array of baby outfits. It is also easy to put together with clear instructions and screws for each section. It can also be converted into a toddler desk or bed as your child gets older (see product description for more information).
One of our favourite features are the teething rails that protect your baby from bumping their head on the side of the cot or any protruding part of the cot, such as a handle or a corner post. They will also stop them from chewing on the wood, preventing them from becoming in danger of being suffocated. The cot also has a drop-side to make it easier for you to access your newborn. We love that it can be converted into a toddler bed, and it's built to last for up to four years. It also meets the strict UK safety standards, which can be found in the main specifications beneath each product.
Cot beds are typically larger than cribs tots and cots can be converted into toddler beds once your child is ready, allowing you to avoid purchasing a bed until they're ready to move on. They can be more expensive than a crib.
If your nursery is small, a crib may be the best option for you as it is smaller and occupies less space, but if your child is likely to spend much of their time in their parents' rooms or you want a longer-lasting bed, opt for a cot.
If the cot you are using does not meet the UK safety standards set by BS EN 716 or BS 8509 (which cover the thickness of mattresses, the materials used, and other important elements in baby mattresses for cots), it is unsafe for babies to sleep. The slats must not be too wide apart to prevent your child from falling out.
Stores
Whether you're a first-time parent or a seasoned one the amount of items the baby will require is immense. This is why it's essential to consider storage options when selecting the right crib bed. Many cots come with additional storage solutions available such as drawers in the under-bed or a top changer (available separately). Some cots can be converted into an infant bed or a small single beds to expand their use.
Some cots are able to be converted into day beds, as seen here on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is a great choice for those who prefer the flexibility of a design. The conversion is easy and requires only the removal of one side panel. This also allows parents to save money on a separate bed.
A number of cot beds feature a hanging rail which can be used to store muslins Dummies, and other small items. This helps keep everything neat, tidy and organized. It also looks fantastic. The ease of access to these items will make it much easier for parents when feeding their baby.
A teething rail is an additional desired feature that is found in some cots. This can help to keep your baby from chewing on the wood which could cause them irritation. Some cots come with more traditional designs and have a huge storage drawer underneath the bed that is ideal for clothes, toys blankets, and other baby essentials.
While this is a great idea for when you're running out of space, it's important to remember that you will have to purchase an additional drawer. You may also have to purchase a different mattress and bedding as oval mattresses and sheets are not typically included with the cot itself.
This sleigh-style cot bed an exquisite illustration of Scandi style at its finest. It has a spacious under-bed storage space that is perfect for keeping all baby essentials out-of-sight but within easy access. Our panel found it very straightforward 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's crib when your child's ready.