Five Killer Quora Answers On Cot Beds

How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby

When you are expecting your first child, it is important to choose a cot that will ensure safety and security for your baby. Find a cot which has fixed sides, instead of drop-sides. This will meet UK safety standards.

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

Comfort

The best cot beds keep babies comfy and cosy. Choose a soft, airy fabric, and ensure that the mattress is snug to prevent any gaps which could cause the risk of suffocation. There are a variety of mattresses available: coils springs, foam and natural materials for allergy sufferers. Do your research to determine the most suitable one for your child.

If you choose an ordinary or convertible cot, the most important thing to ensure satisfaction is a high-quality mattress that provides proper support and encourages healthy posture. This is also true for the slats, which must be secured and not bent or sagging. The slats should also be securely connected to the frame to ensure that your child does not become caught in the movement during sleep.

If you're not sure which mattress to buy, ask your family and friends or consult online reviews for suggestions. Look for ones that are breathable, as they'll help to regulate temperature and are less likely to harbour bacteria.

There are a myriad of styles to pick from, including traditional sleighs with ornate details and modern, sleek designs. Some are even painted with bold primary colours, which is ideal if you want your baby to wake up feeling bright and content!

Most cots come with an under-bed storage drawer, teething rails that prevent your child from chewing on the sides of the cot and height bases that are adjustable to accommodate the growth of your baby. You can also buy a drop-side for babies who aren't tall enough or have medical conditions that make it hard to bend over.

Choose a cot that meets the strict UK safety standards and can easily be transformed into a toddler's bed when it's time. Look for this information in the product description or in the key specifications.

Safety

When selecting a cot, an environment that is safe for sleeping is a must. The mattress should fit snugly and there should be no gaps between the mattress and the edges or sides of the cot or cot-bed (large gaps could restrict the child's arms or head). Make sure it's solid and thin - more thick mattresses aren't recommended as they may increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies offer a range of mattresses, from simple foam to natural materials for allergy sufferers. Some contain anti-microbial treatments. If your crib has an inclined side, make sure that it is in the up position and secured.

A drop side should only be allowed to drop when an adult is present, this will prevent accidental release. Avoid placing your cot on the wall if it is an end that is solid. This could hinder airflow and could result in death of the coffin. According to the latest research, slatted end affordable cots are safer since they allow for more airflow.

If your cot is set on one side, then you can choose it. It's the most secure option for your baby as they begin to crawl and pull themselves upward. When your child is confidently standing and climbing, it is a sign that they are ready to transition into the junior bed.

Some cots have a feature that allows the base to be raised to three levels. This is a wonderful security measure that allows your child's cot to grow with the child. Other cots come with adjustable footplates, which are ideal for toddlers wanting to stand up in their bed.

Whenever you place your child in their cot, ensure whether there is no visible danger - it must be kept away from heaters and power points, windows and curtains and blind cords (these pose a strangulation risk). If you're purchasing second-hand or heirloom furniture, check for hazards to choking such as stickers and transfers that may be removed and create a risk.

If you're unsure about how to use your cot safely consult other parents or visit the local NCT New Baby course for assistance and guidance. If your cot comes with a manual, make sure you read it before using it and follow all the instructions.

Style

This gorgeous cot bed, with its sleigh style will look amazing in your nursery. Our panel was impressed by the mix of white and natural pine, as well as its innovative features, like under-bed storage drawers that can hold all the baby necessities like bedding, nappies and an enviable assortment of baby clothes. It's also easy to assemble, with concise instructions and separate packs of screws for each section. Additionally, it can be transformed into a toddler bed and desk when your child gets older (see the product description for more details).

One of our favorite features are the teething rails, which shield your little one from bumping their head against the side of the cot or any protruding parts of the cot, such as handles or a corner post. They will also stop them from chewing on the wood, which prevents them from becoming in danger of being suffocated. The cot also has an opening that can be removed to make it easier for you to access your newborn. We are thrilled that the cot can be transformed into a toddler bed and that it's built to last for up to four years. It also meets the strict UK safety standards, which are listed in the main specifications beneath each product.

Cot beds are usually larger than cribs and can be transformed into toddler beds once your child is ready and you can avoid buying another bed at an age when they're ready for the transition. However, they are more expensive upfront than a crib that is standard.

If your nursery is very small, a crib might be the best option for you as it is smaller and occupies less space, but should your baby be expected to spend much of their time in their parents' room or you want a longer-lasting bed, you should consider a cot bed sales.

A cot 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 key elements of baby cot mattresses. The slats must not be too far apart, to ensure your baby doesn't fall off.

Storage

If you're a new parent or an experienced one the amount of things that a baby requires is overwhelming. This is the reason it's important to consider the storage options when you choose the right cot bed. There are a variety of cots that have additional storage options 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, which can extend their use for a longer time.

Some cot beds can be further converted into a daybed like this one on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is a great choice for those who prefer more flexible designs as the conversion process is fairly simple and requires just the removal of one side panel. This allows parents to save on the cost of a separate bed.

A number of cot beds come with a hanging rail which can be used to store muslins, Dummies, and other small items. This allows you to keep everything organised tidy, neat and tidy and looks great. These items are easily accessible to parents and make it easier for them to feed their baby.

Another thing to look for is a toothing rail that is available with cots. This will prevent your child from chewing on the cot's wooden structure, which could cause irritation. Some cots come with a more traditional design and come with a large storage drawer under the bed, which is perfect for clothes, toys blankets, baby essentials.

This is a great choice if space is an issue but you'll need to purchase a drawer separately. It is also possible to purchase a different mattress and bedding as sheets and mattresses that are oval are not typically included with the cot.

This sleigh cot bed from Stokke is a stunning example of the Scandi-style at its finest and features a huge under-bed storage drawer that's ideal to keep baby's essentials out of view but easily reachable. Our panel was able to find it easy to put together, thanks to alphabetically labelled parts and clear instructions. It's suitable for babies as young as birth and can be converted into a toddler bed when your child is ready. This means it's good value too.