If You ve Just Purchased Cot Beds ... Now What
How to Choose the best cots Cot Beds for Your baby cots online
If you're expecting a baby it's crucial to select a cot that's secure and safe for your child. Look for a cot that has fixed sides rather than drop-sides. This will be in line with UK safety standards.
This simple but stylish cot is our top choice from the Anyday collection by John Lewis. It comes with three mattress height positions, teething rails and storage drawer. It is also easy to put together and comes with clear instructions.
Comfort
The best cot mattress keeps babies comfortable and cozy. Look for a soft, airy fabric, and ensure that the mattress is snug to avoid any gaps, which could create a suffocation risk. There are a variety of mattresses available: coils springs, foam and even natural materials for allergy sufferers. Do your research to find the best one for your child.
No matter if you select an ordinary or convertible cot, the primary factor to comfort is a good cribs-quality mattress that is supportive and promotes healthy posture. The slats need to be securely attached and not sliding. The slats must be securely fixed to the frame, so that your child doesn't get stuck in them while they move in their sleep.
Ask your friends and family for recommendations or browse online reviews. Select mattresses that are breathable, since they help regulate your body temperature, and are less likely to be a breeding ground for bacteria.
When it comes to style there's a broad selection from classic sleigh styles with ornate detailing to sleek, modern designs. Some are even painted with bold primary colours which is great for those who want their little one to wake up feeling fresh and cheerful!
You'll find most cots have a drawer underneath for storage, teething rails to protect your baby cot online from chewing on the sides of the cot and adjustable height bases for baby growth. You can also buy an extra drop-side for babies that are small or suffer from health issues that make it difficult for them to bend over.
For extra security, opt for a cot that is compliant with the strict UK safety standards and can easily convert into a toddler bed when the time is appropriate. This information is found in the description of the product and the specifications.
Safety
When selecting a cot, an environment that is safe for sleeping should be a priority. The mattress should be snugly fitted and there shouldn't be gaps between the mattress and the ends or sides of the cot/cot-bed (large gaps can hold the child's arms and head). Verify that the mattress is not too firm and thin. Thick mattresses could increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies offer a choice of mattresses, ranging from basic foam to natural substances for allergy sufferers. Some even have anti-microbial treatment. If your cot has drop-sides, ensure that it is secured and in the up position.
Drop sides should only be permitted down when an adult is in the room. This will prevent accidental release. Avoid placing your cot against a wall if it has an end that is solid. This will hinder airflow and could lead to coffin death. According to the latest research, cots with slatted edges could be safer as they permit more airflow.
If your cot has a fixed side, opt for this as it is the most secure option when your child begins to crawl and then pull themselves up. If your child is climbing with confidence and standing, it's time to upgrade to a junior bed.
Some cheap cots have an option where the base can be raised to three different levels, so that it will grow with your child This is extremely practical and a great safety measure. Some cots feature adjustable footplates that are perfect for toddlers who want to stand up.
If you are putting your child in their cot, check that there is no visible danger - it must be kept away from heaters or windows, power points and curtains and blind cords (these are a strangulation hazard). If you're buying furniture from a secondhand store or an heirloom piece Be sure to check for potential dangers to your child's health such as stickers and transfers that may be removed and pose the risk of.
If you're not sure what you should do to use your cot, consult other parents for help or take part in a local NCT New Baby class. If your cot comes with a manual, make sure you read it before using it and follow all the directions.
Style
With its beautiful sleigh design This stunning crib will look stunning in your nursery. Our panel members loved the combination of natural and white pine, as well as its innovative features, like under-bed storage drawers to keep everything necessary for babies, including nappies, bedding, and an enviable variety of baby outfits. It's also simple to put together, with concise 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 details).
One of our favorite features are the teething rails, which shield your little one from bumping their head on the cot's side or any other protruding parts of the cot, such as handles or a corner post. They will also stop them from chewing on the wood, preventing them from getting suffocated. The cot also has a drop-side for easier access to your infant. We appreciate that it is able to be converted to a toddler bed, and it's sturdy enough to last up to four years. It also met the strict UK safety standards. You can find these in the key specs below each product.
Cot beds are usually larger than cribs and can be transformed into toddler beds when your child is ready which means you don't have to worry about purchasing a bed until they're ready for the transition. They can be more expensive than a crib.
If your nursery is small, you may want to consider a crib. It is smaller and requires less space. However it is recommended cribs to consider a cot if you are planning to spend a lot of your baby's time in your bedroom, or if you need a bed that lasts longer, you should consider a crib.
A cot isn't suitable for babies to sleep in if it doesn't 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 cot mattresses for babies. The slats shouldn't be too far apart to stop your child from falling out.
Storage
The amount of baby equipment you'll need is a mess regardless of whether you're a first-time parent or a seasoned one. This is why it's essential to think about storage options when choosing a cot bed. Some cots have additional storage options, including drawers under the bed or a top changer (available separately). Some can even be adapted to a toddler or a small single bed, extending their use for a longer time.
Some cot beds can be converted into a daybed as shown on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is a great option for those who prefer an unstructured design since the process of conversion is simple and requires just the removal of a side panel. This allows parents to save money on a separate bed.
Some cot beds come with a hanging rail that can be used to hang muslins and Dummies, as well as other small things. This helps to keep everything organised tidy and neat - and it also looks fantastic. These items are easily accessible to parents which makes it easier for them to feed their baby.
Another desirable feature to look for is a teething rail that comes with cots. This can help to prevent your little one chewing on the wood that could cause irritation. Some cots are designed in a more traditional style and include a large under-bed storage drawer that is perfect for storing toys, blankets clothes, and other baby necessities.
While this is a great idea for when you're short on space, you should be aware that you'll require a separate additional drawer. You might need to purchase bedding and a mattress separately since oval mattresses and sheets do not come with the cot.
This sleigh cot from Stokke is a beautiful example of the Scandi-style at its finest and has a huge under-bed storage drawer that's great to keep all the baby essentials out of sight but within easy reach. Our panel was able to find it easy to put together, due to the alphabetically-labelled parts and clear instructions. It's suitable for babies from birth and can be made into a toddler bed once your child is ready, which means it's good value too.