Now That You've Purchased Cot Beds ... Now What

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 with fixed sides (rather than drop-sides) that are in line with strict UK safety standards.

This simple but stylish coffin is our top pick from the Anyday collection by John Lewis. It comes with three mattress positions, teething rails as well as a storage drawers. It is also easy to put together, and comes with clear instructions.

Comfort

The best cot beds will keep children warm and cozy. Look for a soft, airy fabric, and ensure that the mattress is fitted snugly to prevent any gaps which could pose an suffocation threat. There are many types of mattresses available, including coils springs, foam and even natural materials for allergy sufferers. Do your research to determine the best one for your child.

Whatever you decide to use, whether a standard cot or a convertible the mattress is vital to your the comfort. It should provide adequate support and promote an ideal posture. The slats need to be securely attached and not sagging. The slats must be secured to the frame, so your child isn't stuck in them while they move during sleep.

If you're not sure what mattress to purchase, talk to friends and family or check online reviews for suggestions. 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.

When it comes to fashion there's a broad selection, from traditional sleigh styles with ornate details to sleek, contemporary designs. Some are even painted with bold primary colours which is great for those who want their child to wake up feeling bright and happy!

Most cots come with a drawer for storage underneath teething rails to prevent your child from chewing the sides of the cot and height bases that can be adjusted to accommodate baby's growth. You can also buy a drop-side for babies who are small or have health issues that make it hard to bend over.

For extra security, opt for a cot that is compliant with the strict UK safety standards and can easily convert into a toddler bed when the time is appropriate. Find this information in the description or key specs.

Safety

When choosing a cot, a safe sleeping environment should be a priority. Make sure that the mattress fits snugly, with no gap between it and the cot's bed sides or ends (big gaps can trap your child's head or arms). Make sure the mattress is firm and thin. Mattresses that are too thick could increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies offer a choice of mattresses, ranging from basic foam to natural materials for allergy sufferers and some even come with anti-microbial treatment. If your crib has an inclined side, make sure it is in the up position and locked securely.

A drop side should be allowed to go down only when an adult is present - to prevent accidental releases. Avoid placing your cot on walls if it has a solid end. This will limit airflow, which could cause death in the coffin. The latest research suggests that slatted ends may be safer since they allow more airflow.

If your crib has a fixed side, opt for this as it's safer when your baby starts to crawl and pull themselves up. If your child is confidently climbing and standing, it's the time to move to a junior bed.

Some cots have an option that allows the base to be raised to three different levels. This is a wonderful security measure that allows your child's cot to expand with the child. Some cots also have adjustable footplates, which are ideal for toddlers wanting to stand up in their bed.

Whenever cots and tots place your child in their cot, make sure that there is no visible danger - it must be kept away from heaters and power points, windows and blind cords and curtains (these pose a strangulation risk). If you are buying second-hand furniture or heirlooms, make sure to look for any potential hazards to your child's safety such as labels and transfers. They can come off and pose a danger.

If you're unsure of how to use your cot in a safe manner consult other parents or visit a local NCT New Baby course for support and advice. If your cot comes with instructions, read them carefully before using it, and then follow the safe-use instructions closely.

Style

With its beautiful sleigh design This gorgeous cot bed will look amazing in your nursery. The panel was impressed with the combination of natural wood and white, as well as the innovative features like under-bed storage drawers that can hold all baby essentials, like bedding, nappy and a huge selection of baby clothes. It's also simple to build with clear instructions and screws for each section. What's more, it can be converted into a bed for toddlers and a desk when your baby grows older (see the product description for more details).

One of our most loved features are the teething rails, which shield your little one from smacking their head against the cot's side or any protruding parts of the cot, like a handle or a corner post. They also help stop them chewing on the wood, preventing them from being suffocated. The cot also has a drop-side to allow easier access to your newborn. We appreciate that the cot could be converted into a toddler bed, and that it's strong enough to last for four years. It also complies with the stringent UK safety standards, which you'll find in the key specs beneath each product.

Cot beds are generally bigger than cribs and can be transformed into toddler beds once your child is ready which means you don't have to worry about buying another bed until they're ready to transition. They can be more expensive than cribs.

If your nursery is small, you might be considering a crib. It is smaller and requires less space. However, if you plan to spend a significant portion of your baby's time in the room or you need a bed that lasts longer, you should choose a cot.

If a cot does not meet the UK safety standards outlined by BS EN 716 or BS 8509 (which cover mattress thicknesses, materials and other key elements of baby mattress cots) It is unsafe for babies to sleep. The slats should not be too close together to ensure that your baby won't fall out.

Stores

If you're a new parent or a veteran, the amount of stuff the baby will require is immense. This is the reason it's important to think about storage options when choosing the crib bed. A number of cots have additional storage options such as drawers in the under-bed or a top changer (available separately). Some are even able to be converted to a toddler or a small single bed, extending their usefulness for a longer period of time.

Some cots can be transformed into day beds, as seen on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is a great option for those who prefer more flexible designs as the conversion process is simple and requires just the removal of a side panel. This lets parents reduce the expense of a separate bed.

Some cot beds have a hanging rail that can be used to hang muslins and Dummies along with other small items. This helps to keep everything organised tidy, neat and tidy - and it also looks amazing. The ease of access to these items will make it easier for parents to feed their baby.

A teething rail is a desirable feature that is included in some cots. This can help to stop your child from chewing on the wood that can cause irritation. Some cots have a more traditional design and have a huge storage drawer under the bed that is ideal for toys, clothes, blankets and other baby essentials.

This is a great solution for those who have limited space, but you will have to purchase a drawer on your own. You may need to buy bedding and a mattress separately since oval sheets and mattresses don't come with the cot.

This sleigh-style cot bed is a beautiful example of Scandi style at its finest. It features a huge under-bed storage area that is ideal to keep all baby necessities away from view but easily accessible. Our panel of experts found it easy to put together, thanks to the alphabetically labeled parts and clear instructions. It's suitable for babies as young as birth and can be transformed into a toddler bed once your child is ready, which means it's a good investment too.

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Pub: 03 Oct 2024 16:33 UTC
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