20 Resources To Make You More Efficient With Cot Beds

How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby

If you're expecting a child it is essential to select a cot that's secure and safe for your little one. Look for a cot that has fixed sides, instead of drop-sides. This will comply with UK safety standards.

This simple but elegant crib is our top choice from the Anyday collection by John Lewis. It has three mattress height positions, teething rails as well as a storage drawer. It is also easy to put together, and comes with clear instructions.

Comfort

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

No matter if you choose a standard cot or a convertible cot the mattress is crucial to ensure your the comfort. It should provide proper support and promote an ideal posture. The slats should also be firmly attached, and not sliding. The slats must be secured to the frame so that your child doesn't get stuck in them while they move during sleep.

If you're unsure of the mattress to buy, ask friends and family or check online reviews for suggestions. Choose a mattress that is breathable, as they'll help maintain temperature and are less likely to harbor bacteria.

There are many styles to choose from, including traditional sleighs with intricate details and sleek, modern designs. Some are even painted in bright primary colors which is perfect when you want your baby to wake up feeling fresh and happy!

There are a lot of cots that have a drawer underneath for storage, teething rails to protect your baby from chewing on the side of the cot and adjustable height bases for infant growth. You can also purchase an extra drop-side for babies that are small or suffer from health issues that make it difficult to bend over.

For extra peace of mind, search for a cot that complies with the strict UK safety standards and can easily convert into a toddler bed when the time is appropriate. This information is available in the product description as well as the key specifications.

Safety

A safe sleeping environment is an essential aspect to consider when choosing a cot. Make sure that the mattress is snug and has no gaps between it and the cot/cot beds edges or sides (big gaps could keep your child's head from being caught in the arms). Check that the mattress is not too firm and thin. Mattresses that are thick could increase the risk of SIDS. There are many companies that offer mattresses made of various materials from foam to natural materials that are suitable for allergy sufferers. Some even have an anti-microbial treatment. If your mattress has drop sides, make sure it is in the up position and locked securely.

A drop side should only be allowed to go down only if an adult is present; this will prevent accidental releases. Do not place your cot against the wall if it is an end that is solid. This can restrict airflow, which can result in death of the coffin. According to the most recent research, cots offers with slatted ends are safer since they allow for greater airflow.

If your cot is fixed to one side, you should choose it. It's the most secure choice for your baby when they start to crawl and then pull themselves upwards. When your child is confidently climbing and standing, it's the time to upgrade to a junior bed.

Some cots come with a feature that allows the base to be raised up to three levels. This is a wonderful security measure that allows the cot of your child to grow with their needs. Some cots come with footplates that can be adjusted to suit for toddlers who love to stand up.

When placing your child's cot ensure there aren't any obvious dangers. It should be put away from power and heater points. Also make sure it is away from windows, curtains, and blind cords. These can all create strangulation risks. If you are buying second-hand furniture or heirlooms, make sure to check for choking hazards such as stickers and transfers. They can come off and pose a danger.

If you're unsure of how to use your cot in a safe manner you can ask other parents or visit the local NCT New Baby course for support and advice. If your cot has an instruction manual, read it carefully before using it, and be sure to follow the safe-use instructions closely.

Style

With its stunning sleigh design This stunning cot bed will look great in your nursery. Our panel was impressed by the mix of natural and white pine, as well as its clever features, such as under-bed storage drawers to keep all the baby necessities like bedding, nappies and a dazzling variety of baby outfits. It's also easy to put together, with clear instructions and separate screws for each section. Additionally, it can be transformed into a toddler bed or desk as your baby gets older (see the product's description for more details).

One of our most loved features is the teething rails that protect your baby from bumping their head on the cot's side or any protruding parts of the cot like a handle or a corner post. They can also stop them from chewing on the wood, preventing them from being suffocated. There's also a drop-side to make it easier for parents to reach their newborn. We love that it can be converted to a toddler bed, and that it's built to last for up to four years. It also complies with the stringent UK safety standards, which you'll find in the main specifications beneath each product.

Cot beds are generally bigger than cribs and can be converted into toddler beds once your child is ready and you can avoid purchasing a new bed when they're ready to transition. However, they can be more expensive than a standard crib.

If your nursery is very small, a crib might be the best choice for you, as it's smaller and occupies less space. However, if your child is likely to spend a lot of time in their parents' bedroom or you're looking for a more durable bed, opt for a cot.

A cot 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 deals with mattress thicknesses, materials and other key elements of baby cot mattresses. The slats shouldn't be too far apart to stop your child from falling out.

Storage

Whether you're a first-time parent or a seasoned one, the amount of stuff a baby needs is staggering. It's important to consider storage when you choose a cot. Certain cots offer additional storage options, including drawers beneath the bed or a top changer (available separately). Some can even be adapted to a toddler or a small single bed, increasing their usability for longer.

Some cots are able to be converted into day beds, as seen here on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is an excellent option for those who like a more flexible design. The conversion is simple and only requires the removal of one side panel. It also lets parents save money on a separate bed.

A number of cot beds have hanging rails that can be used to store muslins dummies and other small items. This makes it easier to keep everything organized tidy and neat and also looks fantastic. These items are easily accessible to parents and make it easier for parents to feed their child.

Another desirable feature to look out for is a teething rail which is included with cots. This will prevent your child from chewing on the wooden cot which could cause irritation. Some cots are designed with more traditional designs and come with a large under-bed storage drawer that is ideal to store blankets, toys clothing, and other baby necessities.

While this is a great idea for when you're in a tight space, it's important to be aware that you'll need to buy a separate extra drawer. You may have to purchase an additional mattress and bedding because oval mattresses and sheets do not come with the cot.

This sleigh cot bed from Stokke is a beautiful example of the Scandi-style at its finest and has a huge under-bed storage drawer that's ideal to keep all the baby's essentials out of view but easily reachable. Our panel was able to find it straightforward to put together, due to the alphabetically-labelled parts and clear instructions. It's suitable for infants from birth and can be transformed into a toddler bed when your child is ready, meaning it's a good investment too.