10 Things People Hate About Cot Beds

How to Choose the Best cot for newborn Cot Beds for Your Baby

When you are expecting a baby it is crucial to select a cot which will provide safety and security for your baby. Choose a cot that has fixed sides instead of drop-sides. This will comply with UK safety standards.

This minimalist, stylish coffin is our top choice from the Anyday collection by John Lewis. It has three mattress height positions, teething rails and storage drawers. It's also easy to set up with clear instructions.

Comfort

The best cot beds will keep baby's warm and comfortable. Look for a soft and breathable fabric and make sure the mattress fits snugly to avoid any gaps, which could pose a suffocation risk. There are many types of mattresses available: coils springs, foam and natural materials for allergy sufferers. Do your research to determine the best one for your child.

Whether you opt for a standard or convertible cot, the primary factor to comfort is a mattress of high-quality that is supportive and promotes a healthy posture. The slats need to be secured and not sagging. The slats should also be securely fixed to the frame, to ensure that your child will not become caught in the movement in their sleep.

Ask your family and friends for recommendations, or read online reviews. Select mattresses that are breathable, since they will help regulate your body temperature and are less likely to hold bacteria.

When it comes to fashion there's a variety of styles of styles, from traditional sleigh designs with ornate details to sleek, contemporary designs. Some are even painted in bold primary colours which is great when you want your baby to wake up feeling fresh and happy!

The majority of cots have a drawer for storage underneath and teething rails that stop your child from chewing the sides of the cot and height bases that can be adjusted to accommodate the growth of your baby. You can also purchase a drop-side for infants who are small or have health issues that make it difficult for them to bend over.

For added peace of mind, search for a cot that meets the strict UK safety standards and can easily transform into a toddler bed when the time is appropriate. Find this information in the product description or key specs.

Safety

When choosing a cot, an environment that is safe for sleeping is a must. Make sure the mattress is snug and has no gap between it and the cot's beds edges or sides (big gaps can trap your child's head or arms). Check that the mattress is not too firm and thin. Mattresses that are too thick can increase the risk of SIDS. There are many companies that offer a variety of mattresses, from simple foam to natural substances for allergy sufferers. Some even have anti-microbial treatment. If your crib has a drop side, ensure it is in the up position and locked securely.

A drop side should be allowed to go down only when an adult is present - this will prevent accidental release. Avoid placing your cot on a wall if it has a solid end. This will limit airflow, which could result in death of the coffin. According to the latest research, slatted end cots could be safer as they allow for more airflow.

If your cot is set on one side, choose it. It will be the most secure option for your baby when they begin to crawl and pull themselves up. If your child is confidently climbing and standing, it's the time to upgrade to a junior bed.

Some cots 4 tots have a feature that allows the base to be raised to three levels. This is a great security feature that allows your child's cot to expand with the child. Some cots have footplates that can be adjusted, which are ideal for toddlers wanting to sit up in their bed.

When you place your child's cot be sure that there aren't any obvious dangers. It should be put away from heaters and power points. Also, keep it away from windows, curtains and blind cords. All of these could present a strangulation threat. When buying second-hand furniture or heirlooms, be sure to check for potential hazards to your child's safety such as labels and transfers. They may peel off and pose a danger.

If you're not sure how to use your cot safely consult other parents or attend the local NCT New Baby course for assistance and guidance. If your cot comes with a manual be sure to go through it prior to using it and follow the instructions.

Style

With its stunning sleigh design, this gorgeous cot bed will look amazing in your nursery. The panel was impressed with the mix of natural wood and white, as well as the clever features like under-bed storage drawers that can hold all baby essentials, like bedding, nappies, and a huge selection of baby clothes. It's also easy to assemble with clear instructions and separate packs of screws for each section. It can also be transformed into a toddler desk or bed as your child grows older (see product description for more information).

The rails for teething are one of our favorite features. They stop your child from hitting their head on the side of the crib or any other protruding part of the crib, such as the handle or corner post. They also stop them from chewing on the wood, and prevent them from being suffocated. It also has an opening that can be dropped to make it easier for access to your newborn. We appreciate that the cot could be converted into a toddler bed, and that it's sturdy enough to last for up to four years. It also complies with the stringent UK safety standards, which are listed in the key specs beneath each product.

Cot beds are usually larger than cribs and can be transformed into toddler beds once your child is ready, allowing you to avoid purchasing a new bed until they're ready to transition. They may cost more than a crib sets.

If your nursery isn't big enough, you might be considering a crib. It is smaller and requires less space. However it is recommended to consider a cot if you are planning to spend a lot of your baby's time in your room or you need a bed that lasts longer, you should choose a crib.

A crib isn't safe for babies to sleep in if it doesn't meet the strict UK safety standards outlined in BS EN 716 and BS 8509, which covers the thickness of mattresses, the materials used and other key elements of Baby Cot [site] mattresses. The slats must not be too close together, to ensure your baby doesn't fall off.

Stores

No matter if you're a first-time parent or an experienced one, the amount of stuff a baby needs is staggering. This is why it's essential to think about the storage options when you choose the right cot bed. Some cots have additional storage options, such as drawers under the bed or a top changer (available separately). Some cots are able to be converted into an infant bed or a small single bed to extend their usage.

Some cot beds can be further transformed into a daybed, as seen here on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is an ideal option for those who prefer more flexible designs as the conversion process is easy and only requires the removal of a side panel. This allows parents to save on the cost of 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 to keep everything organised tidy and neat and looks great. These items are easily accessible to parents which makes it easier for parents to feed their child.

A teething rail is a desired feature that is found in some cots. This will stop your child from chewing on the cot's wooden structure, which could cause irritation. Some cots are designed in more traditional designs and have a huge under-bed storage drawer that is perfect to store blankets, toys, clothes and other baby essentials.

While this is a great idea if you're in a tight space, it's important to keep in mind that you'll need to buy a separate extra for the drawer. You might need to purchase bedding and a mattress separately since oval sheets and mattresses don't come with the cot.

This sleigh-style cot bed is stunning example of Scandi style at its finest. It features a huge under-bed storage area that is ideal 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 babies from birth and can be transformed into a toddler bed once your child is ready, meaning it's good value too.