9 Signs That You're A Cot Beds Expert

How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby

If you're expecting a child, it's important to choose the right cot that is secure and safe for your baby. Choose a cot that has fixed sides (rather than drop-sides) that are in line with strict UK safety standards.

Our top ranked cribs choice is this simple but elegant coffin from John Lewis' Anyday range. It has three mattress height positions, teething rails and storage drawers. It is also simple to put together, and comes with clear instructions.

Comfort

The best cot beds will keep children warm and cozy. Choose a breathable, soft fabric. Make sure that the mattress is fitted snugly to prevent any gaps that could create the risk of suffocation. There are many types of mattresses available - coils springs, foam and natural materials for allergy-sufferers. Do your research to find the ideal mattress for your child.

No matter if you choose a conventional cot or a convertible cot the mattress is vital to your the comfort. It should provide adequate support and encourage an upright posture. The same applies to the slats, which must be securely attached and not sagging or bent. The slats must be securely fixed to the frame so that your little one doesn't get trapped in them while moving in their sleep.

Ask your friends and family for recommendations or look at online reviews. Choose breathable mattresses, as they will aid in regulating your body temperature, and are less likely to hold bacteria.

When it comes to style there's a broad selection of styles, from traditional sleigh designs with ornate details to sleek, contemporary designs. Some are painted in bright primary colours to make your child feel joyful and cheerful when they awake.

The majority of cots have 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 the growth of your baby. You can also purchase a drop-side for babies who aren't big or suffer from health issues that make it difficult for them to bend over.

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

Safety

A secure sleeping space is an essential factor when selecting a bed. Make sure the mattress is snug and has no gap between it and the cot's beds edges or sides (big gaps could trap your child's head or arms). Make sure the mattress is firm and thin. Mattresses that are thick can increase the risk of SIDS. There are many companies that offer a variety of mattresses, ranging from basic foam to natural substances for allergy sufferers. Some even have anti-microbial treatment. If your mattress has a drop side, ensure it is in the upward position and locked securely.

A drop side should only be allowed to fall when an adult is present - this will prevent accidental releases. Do not place your cot against a wall if it has a solid end. This could limit airflow, which could lead to coffin death. According to the latest research, cots with slatted ends may be safer because they allow for greater airflow.

If your cot is set on one side, choose it. It will be the most secure option for your child when they begin to crawl and then pull themselves upwards. When your child is standing and climbing, this is a sign that they're ready to move into a junior bed.

Some cots come with a feature where the base can be raised to three different heights, so that it will expand with your child - this is very practical and a great safety measure. Other cots come with footplates that can be adjusted, which are ideal for toddlers wanting to sit up in their bed.

When placing your child's cot, make sure there are no visible hazards. It should be kept 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 dangers to your child's health such as stickers and transfers that may be removed and create a risk.

If you are unsure about how to use your cot, ask other parents for advice or go to a local NCT New cheap cot beds baby cots for sale - Highly recommended Reading, class. If your cot comes with a guide, make sure you go through it before using it and follow all the instructions.

Style

This stunning cot bed with its sleigh design will look stunning in your nursery. Our panel loved the mix of white and natural pine, as well as its clever features, such as under-bed storage drawers to keep everything necessary for babies, including nappies, bedding and a dazzling variety of baby outfits. It's also easy to assemble, with concise instructions and separate sets of screws for each section. It could also be transformed into a toddler desk or bed when your child gets older (see product description for more details).

One of our favourite features is the teething rails that protect your baby from bumping their head on the side of the cot or any protruding part of the cot beds for sale like a handle or a corner post. They will also stop them from chewing on the wood, preventing them from being suffocated. The cot also has an opening that can be removed to allow you to get access to your baby. We appreciate that it is able to be converted into an infant cot bed bed, and that it is sturdy enough to last for up to four years. It also met the strict UK safety standards, which can be found in the specifications that are listed under each product.

Cot beds are typically larger than cribs and can be converted 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 for the transition. However, they can be more expensive than a crib that is standard.

If your nursery is small, a crib might be the best choice for you as it is smaller and occupies less space. However, if your baby is likely to spend much of their time in their parents' rooms or you'd like a more long-lasting bed, consider a crib.

If a cot doesn't meet the UK safety standards outlined by BS EN 716 or BS 8509 (which refers to mattress thicknesses, materials and other essential elements in baby mattresses for cots) It is unsafe for babies to sleep. The slats should not be too close together, to ensure your baby doesn't get tossed out.

Stores

No matter if you're a first-time parent or a veteran the amount of things the baby will require is immense. It's important to consider storage when you choose a cot. A number of cots have additional storage solutions available such as under-bed drawers or a coordinating cot top changer (available separately). Some can even be adapted into a toddler or small single bed, increasing their usefulness for a longer period of time.

Some cot beds can be transformed into a daybed, as seen here on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is a great option for those who prefer the flexibility of a design. The conversion is simple and only requires the removal of ONE side panel. This lets parents save on the cost of the purchase of a separate bed.

A variety of cot beds come with hanging rails that can be used to store muslins Dummies, and other small items. This allows you to keep everything organised tidy and neat - and it also looks amazing. Being able to access these items will make it much 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 wooden cot, which can cause irritation. Some cots are designed in an older style and have a huge drawer under the bed that is ideal to store blankets, toys, clothes and other baby essentials.

This is a great choice for those who have limited space but you'll need to purchase a drawer separately. You might need to purchase an additional mattress and bedding, as oval sheets and mattresses do not come with the cot.

This sleigh-style cot bed is an exquisite illustration of Scandi style at its finest. It has a spacious under-bed storage area that is ideal to keep baby's essentials away from view but easily accessible. The alphabetically labeled parts and clear instructions made it easy to assemble our panel. It's suitable for babies as young as birth and can be made into a toddler bed when your child is ready, which means it's good value too.