14 Questions You Shouldn't Be Afraid To Ask About Cot Beds

How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby

When you are expecting your first child it is crucial to choose a cot that will ensure safety and security for your baby. Find a cot with fixed sides (rather than drop-sides) that are in line with strict UK safety standards.

This slick and elegant coffin is our top choice from the Anyday range by John Lewis. It comes with three mattress positions, teething bars, and an storage drawer. It's also easy to set up with clear instructions.

Comfort

The best cot beds will keep baby's warm and comfortable. Choose a soft, comfortable fabric. Also, make sure that the mattress is fitted snugly to prevent any gaps which could cause an suffocation threat. There are a range of mattresses available - foam, coil springs and other natural materials suitable for allergy sufferers - so do your research and select the best one for your baby's needs.

Whatever you decide to use, whether a conventional cot or a convertible one, a comfortable mattress is vital to your comfort. It must provide the right support and promote an upright posture. The slats must be secured and not sliding. The slats should also be securely connected to the frame so that your child does not be caught when they move in their sleep.

If you're not sure what mattress to buy, ask your family members or friends or look up online reviews for recommendations. Choose breathable mattresses, as they can help you regulate your body temperature and less likely to be a breeding ground for bacteria.

In terms of style, there's a wide choice from classic sleigh styles with elaborate details to sleek, contemporary designs. Some are even painted with bold primary colours, which is ideal for those who want their child to wake up feeling fresh and cheerful!

The majority of cots have an under-bed storage drawer teething rails to prevent your child from chewing on the sides of the cot, and adjustable height bases to accommodate the growth of your baby. You can even buy a drop side for smaller babies or those who have health issues that make it difficult for them to bend over.

For extra security, opt for a cot that complies with the stringent UK safety standards and will easily transform into a toddler bed when the time is appropriate. This information is found in the description of the product and key specifications.

Safety

When choosing a cot, a safe sleeping environment is a must. The mattress should be able to fit snugly and there shouldn't be gaps between the mattress and the sides or ends of the cot or cot-bed (large gaps can hold the child's arms and head). Make sure it's solid and thin - more thick mattresses aren't recommended, as they may increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies offer mattresses in various materials, from foam to natural materials that are good for those suffering from allergies. Some have anti-microbial treatment. If your crib has a drop side, ensure that it is in the up position and secured.

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

If your cot is fixed to one side, you should choose it. It will be the safest option for your baby when they start to crawl and pull themselves upward. Once your child is confidently standing and climbing, this is a sign that they are ready to transition into a junior bed.

Some cots have a feature that allows the base to be raised to three different levels. This is a wonderful security feature that allows your child's cot to grow with them. Some cots also have footplates that can be adjusted, which are ideal for toddlers who wish to sit up in their bed.

If you are putting your child in their cot, check that there is no visible danger. It must be kept away from heaters, windows, power points and curtains and blind cords (these are a strangulation hazard). When buying second-hand furniture or heirlooms, make sure to look for any choking hazards such as stickers and transfers. These can peel off and pose a danger.

If you're unsure of about how to use your cot, ask other parents for help or attend a local NCT New Baby class. If your cot comes with instructions, read them carefully before using it, and follow the safety-use guidelines carefully.

Style

With its beautiful sleigh design This gorgeous crib will look stunning in your nursery. Our panel was impressed by the mix of natural and white pine, and its smart features, including drawers under the bed to store all the baby necessities like bedding, nappies and a stunning assortment of baby clothes. It's also easy to build with clear instructions and separate screws for each section. What's more, cot sets can be converted into a toddler bed and desk as your baby gets older (see the product description for details).

One of our favorite features is the teething rails that protect your little one from bumping their head on the cot's side or any other protruding parts of the cot, like handles or a corner post, and which can also stop them from chewing on the wood, preventing them from becoming trapped. The cot also has an opening that can be removed to allow you to get access to your baby. 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 met strict UK safety standards. These are listed in the main specifications below each product.

Cot beds are usually larger than cribs and can be converted into toddler beds once your child is ready which means you don't have to worry about buying another bed until they're ready for the transition. They can be more expensive than a crib.

If your nursery is small, you may be considering the possibility of a crib. It is smaller and requires less space. However it is recommended to consider a cot if you are planning to spend a significant portion of your baby's time in your bedroom or you need a bed that lasts longer, you should choose 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 must not be too close together, to ensure that your baby won't get tossed out.

Storage

If you're a new parent or a seasoned one, the amount of stuff the baby will require is immense. This is why it's essential to consider the storage options when you choose the cot bed. There are a variety of cots that have additional storage options such as under-bed drawers or a top changer (available separately). Some can be transformed to a toddler or a small single bed, increasing their usability for longer.

Some cot beds can be adapted into a day bed as shown on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is a great choice for those who prefer the flexibility of a design. The conversion is simple and only requires the removal of ONE side panel. This allows parents to save on the cost of an additional bed.

Some cot beds are equipped with hanging rails that can be used to hang muslins and Dummies and other small things. This helps keep everything neat, tidy and organised. It also looks fantastic. Having easy access to these items will make it easier for parents when feeding their child.

Another thing to look for is a toothing rail which is included in a few cots. This will stop your child from chewing on the cot's wooden structure, which could cause irritation. Some cots come with a more traditional design and come with a large storage drawer underneath the bed. It is perfect for clothes, toys, blankets and other baby necessities.

While this is a great idea for when you're short on space, you should keep in mind that you'll have to purchase an extra drawer. You may have to purchase an additional mattress and bedding since oval sheets and mattresses don't come with the cot.

cot sets -style cot bed stunning example of Scandi style at its finest. It has a spacious under-bed storage compartment that's ideal to keep baby's essentials out of sight but still easily accessible. 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 converted into a toddler bed when your child is ready, which means it's also a good value.

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Pub: 07 Oct 2024 01:37 UTC
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