Five Killer Quora Answers On Cot Beds

How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby

When you are expecting a child, it is important to select a cot which will provide safety and security for your baby. Choose a cot that has fixed sides (rather than drop-sides) that meet strict UK safety standards.

Our top pick is this simple yet elegant coffin from John Lewis' Anyday range. It comes with three mattress positions, teething rails, and a storage drawer. It's also easy to assemble with clear instructions.

Comfort

The best cot beds keep babies comfy and cosy. Choose a breathable soft and comfortable fabric. Make sure that the mattress fits snugly, to prevent any gaps that could pose the risk of being suffocated. There are many mattresses on the market that include coil springs, foam, natural materials for allergy sufferers - so do your research and choose the best one for your baby's needs.

It doesn't matter if you pick a conventional cot or a convertible cot one, a comfortable mattress is crucial to ensure your the comfort. It should provide proper support and promote an ideal posture. The slats need to be secured and not sliding. The slats must also be firmly attached to the frame to ensure that your child does not become caught in the movement during sleep.

Ask your family and friends for recommendations or browse online reviews. Choose mattresses that are breathable, as they can help regulate your body temperature and are less likely to harbor bacteria.

When it comes to style there's a variety of styles, from traditional sleigh styles with elaborate details to sleek, contemporary designs. Some are even painted in bright primary colors, which is ideal when you want your baby to wake up bright and happy!

Most affordable cots come with an under-bed storage drawer teething rails to prevent your child from chewing on the sides of the cot and height bases that can be adjusted to accommodate the growth of your baby. You can also purchase drop sides for small babies or those with medical conditions that make it difficult to bend over.

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

Safety

A secure sleeping space is a must and a major consideration when choosing a cot. The mattress should be snugly fitted and there should be no gaps between the mattress and the sides or ends of the cot or cot-bed (large gaps could trap the child's arms or head). Make sure it's firm and thin - thicker mattresses aren't recommended as they may increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies sell mattresses in different materials from foam to natural materials that are good for those suffering from allergies. Some even have an anti-microbial treatment. If your cot has a drop-side, make sure it is locked and in the upward position.

Drop sides should only be allowed to go down when an adult is in the room. This prevents accidental release. If your coffin has a solid edge be sure to avoid placing it against the wall since this will restrict airflow and can cause death in the coffin. According to the most recent research, slatted end affordable cots are safer since they allow for more airflow.

If your cot is set to one side, you should choose it. It will be the most secure option for your Baby Cot Bed as they start to crawl and then pull themselves upwards. When your child is confidently climbing and standing, it's time to upgrade to a junior bed.

Some cots have a feature that allows the base to be raised up to three different levels. This is a fantastic security measure that allows the cot of your child to grow with their needs. Some cots feature adjustable footplates that are perfect for toddlers who like to stand up.

When placing your child's cot ensure there aren't any visible dangers. It should be placed away from heaters and power points. Also be sure to keep it away from windows, curtains, and blind cords. These can all create strangulation risks. If you're purchasing furniture from a secondhand store or an heirloom piece, check for choking hazards like stickers and transfers that can be removed and pose the risk of.

If you're unsure about how to use your cot in a safe manner consult other parents or attend an local NCT New Baby course for assistance and guidance. If your cot comes with a manual be sure to go through it before using it and follow the instructions.

Style

With its gorgeous sleigh style This stunning Cot Bed (enquiry) will look great in your nursery. Our panel loved the combination of natural and white pine, as well as its clever features, such as under-bed storage drawers that can hold everything necessary for babies, including nappies, bedding and a dazzling variety of baby outfits. It's also simple to put together, with concise instructions and separate packs of screws for each section. It could also be transformed into a toddler's desk and bed as your child grows older (see the product description for more details).

The teething rails are among our most loved features. They keep your baby from hitting their head on the side of the crib or any protruding part of the crib, such as the handle or corner post. They also prevent them from chewing on the wood, and prevent them from being suffocated. The cot also has drop-sides to make it easier for parents to reach their newborn. We appreciate that it is able to be converted into an infant 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 specifications that are listed under each product.

Cot beds are usually larger than cribs and can be turned into toddler beds once your child is ready which means you don't have to worry about purchasing a new bed when they're ready to transition. They may cost more than a crib.

If your nursery is small, you may want to consider the possibility of a crib. It is smaller and occupies less space. However it is recommended to consider a cot if you are planning on spending a lot of your baby's time in your room or you need a bed that will last longer, you should choose a crib.

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 deals with mattresses' thicknesses, materials, and other essential elements of baby cot mattresses. The slats should not be too wide apart to stop your baby from falling off.

Stores

The amount of baby stuff you need is overwhelming, whether you're a new parent or a seasoned one. This is why it's essential to think about storage options when selecting a crib bed. There are a variety of cots that have additional storage solutions available like drawers under the bed or a coordinating cot top changer (available separately). Some cots are able to be converted into a toddler bed or 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 a great option for those who like a more flexible design. The conversion is simple and requires only the removal of a single side panel. This will allow parents to reduce the expense of the purchase of a separate bed.

A number of cot beds feature hanging rails that can be used to store muslins dolls and other small objects. This helps to keep everything organized, neat and tidy - and it also looks fantastic. Being able to access these items will make it easier for parents when feeding their infant.

Another feature worth looking out for is a teething rail which is included in a few cots. This will stop your child from chewing on the cot's wooden structure, which can cause irritation. Some affordable cots come with more traditional designs and include a large storage drawer beneath the bed, which is perfect for toys, clothes blankets, and other baby necessities.

This is a great choice if space is an issue however, you will need to purchase a drawer on your own. You may have to purchase a separate mattress and bedding since oval sheets and mattresses don't come with the cot.

This sleigh cot from Stokke is a stunning example of Scandi-style in its finest and features a huge under-bed storage drawer that's ideal to keep all the baby essentials out of sight but within easy reach. Our panel of experts found it straightforward to put together, thanks to the alphabetically labeled parts and clear instructions. It's suitable for infants from birth and can be made into a toddler bed once your child is ready. This means it's a good investment too.