How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby
When you are expecting your first child it is essential to choose a cot that can provide security and safety for your baby. Look for a cot that has fixed sides rather than drop-sides. This will comply with UK safety standards.
Mini Cot Bed but stylish crib is our top pick from the Anyday range of John Lewis. It comes with three mattress positions, teething bars and a storage drawer. It is also easy to assemble, with clear instructions.
Comfort
The most comfortable cot beds keep baby's warm and comfortable. Look for a breathable soft and comfortable fabric. Make sure the mattress fits snugly, to avoid any gaps that could cause the danger of the mattress becoming suffocated. There are a range of mattresses available on the market - foam, coil springs, natural materials for allergy sufferers. So do your research and select the one that is suitable for your baby's requirements.
No matter if you choose a standard cot or a convertible, a good mattress is essential to the comfort. It must provide the right support and promote a healthy posture. The slats should also be firmly attached, and not sliding. The slats must also be firmly connected to the frame so that your child does not become caught in the movement during sleep.
If you're not sure what mattress to buy, ask your family and friends or consult online reviews for suggestions. Look for ones that are ventilated, as they'll aid in to regulate temperature and are less likely to harbor bacteria.
When it comes to fashion there's a broad selection from classic sleigh styles with elaborate detailing to sleek, modern designs. Some are decorated with bright primary colors to make your child feel cheerful and cheerful as they wake up.
You'll find most cots have drawers underneath to store items, teething rails to protect your child from chewing on the sides of the cot and adjustable height bases for baby growth. You can even purchase drop sides for small infants or those with health issues that make it difficult to bend over.
Look for a cot which is compliant with the strict UK safety standards and is easily transformed into a toddler's cot when it's time. Look for this information in the description or in the specifications.
Safety
A safe sleeping environment is a must and a major factor when selecting a cot. The mattress should fit snugly and there shouldn't be gaps between the mattress and the ends or sides of the cot or cot-bed (large gaps can hold the child's arms and head). Verify that the mattress is firm and thin. Mattresses that are too thick can increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies sell mattresses in a variety of materials, from foam to natural materials that are suitable for allergy sufferers. Some even have an anti-microbial treatment. If your cot has drop-sides, make sure it is locked and in the upward position.
Drop sides should only be allowed to go down only when an adult is in the room. This will prevent accidental release. Do not place your cot against a wall if it has a solid end. This will limit airflow, which could result in death of the coffin. According to Mini Cot Bed , slatted end cots could be safer as they permit more airflow.
If your cot is set on one side, then you can choose it. It's the most secure option for your baby when they start to crawl and then pull themselves upwards. If your child is confidently climbing and standing, it's time to move to a junior bed.
Some cots come with a feature where the base can be raised to three different levels in order to increase with your child's growth - this is very convenient and an added security measure. Some cots have footplates that are adjustable, which is great for toddlers who want to sit up in their bed.
When you place your child's cot be sure that there are no visible hazards. It should be placed away from heaters and power points. Also be sure to keep it away from windows, curtains and blind cords. They all could present a strangulation threat. If you are buying second-hand furniture or heirlooms, be sure to look for any dangers to your child's health such as stickers and transfers. These can peel off and create a risk.
If you're unsure of about how to use your cot, consult other parents for help or attend a local NCT New Baby class. If your cot comes with a manual, make sure you read it before using it and follow the instructions.
Style
This gorgeous cot bed, with its sleigh style will look stunning in your nursery. The panel was awed by the mix of natural and white wood, as well as the clever features such as drawers under the bed for everything essential for babies, including bedding, nappies and a wide selection of baby clothes. It is also easy to build, with clear instructions and screws for each section. It could also be transformed into a toddler desk or bed as your child gets older (see product description for more details).
The rails for teething are one of our favorite features. They keep your baby from hitting their head on the crib's side or any other protruding part of the crib, like the handle or corner post. They also stop them from chewing on the wood and preventing them from suffocating. There's also a drop-side for easier access to your newborn. We appreciate that the cot could be transformed into a toddler bed and that it's built to last for four years. It also complies with the stringent UK safety standards, which are listed in the specifications that are listed under each product.
Cot beds can be turned into toddler beds in the event that your child is old enough. This lets you avoid buying an entirely new bed as your child gets ready to go up. They are more expensive than cribs.
If your nursery is very small, a crib might be the best option for you, as it's smaller and takes up less space, but should your baby be expected to spend most of the time in their parents' bedroom or you want a longer-lasting bed, you should consider a crib.
A cot isn't safe for babies to sleep in if it does not meet the strict UK safety standards outlined in BS EN 716 and BS 8509, which deals with the thickness of mattresses, the materials used and other key elements of baby cot mattresses. The slats must not be too wide apart to stop your baby from falling out.
Stores
No matter if you're a first-time parent or a seasoned one the amount of things a baby needs is staggering. This is why it's crucial to think about storage options when choosing the crib bed. Many cots come with additional storage solutions available such as under-bed drawers or a coordinating top changer (available separately). Some cots can be converted into toddler beds or a smaller single beds to expand their usage.
Some cots can be transformed into day beds, as shown here on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is an ideal option for those who prefer a less rigid design as the process of conversion is simple and requires just the removal of one side panel. This will allow parents to reduce the expense of an additional bed.
A number of cot beds have hanging rails that can be used to store muslins, dolls and other small objects. This helps to keep everything organized, neat and tidy and also looks great. These items are easily accessible to parents, making it easier for them to feed their baby.
A teething rail is another important feature that's included in some cots. This can stop your child from chewing on the wood which could cause them irritation. Some cots come with an older style and come with a large storage drawer underneath the bed, which is perfect for clothes, toys, blankets and other baby essentials.
This is a great solution for those who have limited space however, you will need to purchase a drawer on your own. You may also need to purchase a different mattress and bedding since sheets and mattresses that are oval aren't typically included in the cot.
This sleigh cot from Stokke is a stunning example of Scandi-style at its best and features a huge under-bed storage drawer that's great for keeping all those baby's essentials out of view but easily reachable. Our panel was able to find 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. This means it's a good investment too.