20 Great Tweets From All Time About 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 secure and safe for your child. Find a cot which has fixed sides, rather than drop-sides. This will be in line with UK safety standards.
Our top choice is this simple but elegant cot from John Lewis' Anyday range. It comes with three mattress positions, teething rails and storage drawer. It is also easy to put together, and comes with clear instructions.
Comfort
The best cot beds keep babies comfy and cosy. Look for a breathable, soft fabric. Make sure that the mattress fits snugly, to eliminate any gaps that could cause a risk of suffocation. There are a variety of mattresses available on the market - foam, coil springs and other natural materials suitable for allergy sufferers. So do your research and select the one that is suitable for your baby's requirements.
If you choose a standard or convertible cot, the key to comfort is a mattress of high-quality that provides proper support and promotes a healthy posture. The same applies to the slats. They should be securely attached and not bent or sagging. The slats should also be secured to the frame, so your child doesn't get stuck in them while they move in their sleep.
If you're not sure which mattress to purchase, talk to your family members or friends or look up online reviews for suggestions. Select mattresses that are breathable, since they can help you regulate your body temperature and are less likely to harbor bacteria.
When it comes to fashion there's a variety of styles of styles, from traditional sleigh designs with ornate detailing to sleek, modern designs. Some are even painted in bright primary colors which is great when you want your little one to wake up feeling fresh and happy!
You'll find most recommended cribs cots have a drawer underneath for storage, teething rails to protect your baby from chewing on the sides of the cot, and adjustable height bases for infant growth. You can even buy drop sides for small babies or those with health issues that make it difficult to bend over.
To ensure your peace of mind, look for a cot that is compliant with the stringent UK safety standards and will easily convert into a toddler bed when the time is appropriate. Find this information in the description or in the specifications.
Safety
When selecting a cot, the safety of your child's sleep should be the top priority. The mattress should fit snugly and there should be no gaps between the mattress and the edges or sides of the cot/cot-bed (large gaps can restrict the child's arms or head). Verify that the mattress is solid and thin - more thick mattresses aren't recommended cribs, since they could increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies offer a choice of mattresses, ranging from basic foam to natural materials suitable for allergy sufferers and some even contain anti-microbial treatments. If your cot has drop-sides, ensure that it is locked and in the up position.
A drop side should be allowed to go down when an adult is present, this will prevent accidental release. If your cot has a solid end do not place it against the wall as this will restrict airflow and may contribute to coffin death. According to the latest research, cots with slatted ends could be safer as they allow for more airflow.
If your cot is set on one side, then you can choose it. It's the most recommended cribs secure option for your child when they begin to crawl and then pull themselves upwards. Once your child is confidently standing and climbing, it is a sign that they're ready to move into a junior bed.
Some cots have an option where the base can be raised to three different levels in order to grow with your child This is extremely convenient and an added safety measure. Some cots also have footplates that can be adjusted, which are great for toddlers who want to sit up in their beds.
Whenever you place your child in their cot, ensure that there is no visible danger. It should be away from heaters or power points, windows and curtains and blind cords (these can be strangulation hazards). When purchasing second-hand furniture, or heirlooms, be sure to check for choking hazards such as stickers and transfers. They may peel off and pose a danger.
If you are unsure what you should do to use your cot, consult other parents for advice or go to a local NCT New Baby class. If your cot has an instruction manual, read it carefully before you start using it, and then follow the safety guidelines closely.
Style
This stunning cot bed with its sleigh design will look stunning in your nursery. Our panel loved the mix of natural and white pine, and its clever features, such as drawers under the bed to store all the baby necessities like bedding, nappies and a dazzling variety of baby outfits. It's also easy to construct with clear instructions and separate screws for each section. It can also be transformed into a bed for toddlers and a desk as your baby gets older (see the product description for details).
The rails for teething are among our top features. They stop your baby from hitting their head against the crib's side or any protruding portion of the crib, such as the handle or corner post. They also stop children from chewing on the wood, and prevent them from getting suffocated. The cot also has a drop-side to allow easier access to your newborn. We appreciate that the cot could be transformed into a toddler bed, and that it's sturdy enough to last up to four years. It also met the strict UK safety standards, which are listed in the specifications that are listed under each product.
Cot beds are generally bigger than cribs and can be transformed into toddler beds when your child is ready and you can avoid purchasing a new bed at an age when they're ready to move on. However, they may be more expensive upfront than a crib that is standard.
If your nursery is very small, a crib may be the best choice for you since it is smaller and takes up less space, but should your baby be expected to spend much of their time in their parents' bedroom or you're looking for a more durable bed, opt for a crib.
If a cot doesn't meet the UK safety standards outlined by BS EN 716 or BS 8509 (which covers mattress thicknesses, materials and other key elements in baby cot mattresses) it is not safe for babies to sleep. The slats should not be too far apart, to ensure that your child doesn't get tossed out.
Storage
The amount of baby stuff you'll need is a mess regardless of whether you're a first-time parent or a seasoned one. It's important to consider storage when you choose a cot. Certain cots offer additional storage options, such as drawers underneath the bed or a coordinating top changer (available separately). Some can even be adapted into a toddler or small single bed, increasing their use for a longer time.
Some cots can be converted into day beds, like the one shown here on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is an excellent option for those who like a more flexible design. The conversion is easy and only requires the removal of one side panel. This also allows parents to save money on a separate bed purchase.
Some cot beds come with a hanging rail that can be used to hang muslins, Dummies along with other small objects. This helps keep everything neat, tidy and organised. It also looks fantastic. These items are easily accessible to parents and make it easier for parents to feed their child.
A teething rail is an additional important feature that's included in some cots. This will help keep your baby from chewing on the wood that can cause irritation. Some cots come with a more traditional design and include a large storage drawer under the bed that is ideal for clothes, toys blankets, and other baby essentials.
While this is a great idea for when you're in a tight space, you must keep in mind that you'll need to buy a separate extra drawer. You may need to buy an additional mattress and bedding, as oval mattresses and sheets do not come with the cot.
This sleigh-style cot is a beautiful illustration of Scandi style at its best cots. It has a spacious under-bed storage space that is perfect to keep baby's essentials out of sight but still easily accessible. The alphabetically labeled components and clear instructions made it simple to put together for our panel. It's suitable for babies as young as birth and can be converted into a toddler's bed when your child is ready.