15 Reasons You Shouldn t Ignore Cot Beds
How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby
When you are expecting a baby, it is important to select a cot which will ensure safety and security for your Baby Crib. Find a cot which has fixed sides instead of drop-sides. This will be in line with UK safety standards.
This minimalist, stylish coffin is our top choice from the Anyday range of John Lewis. It comes with three mattress positions, teething bars, and storage drawers. It's also easy to assemble with clear instructions.
Comfort
The best cot Bed cot beds keep children warm and cozy. Look for a soft and comfortable fabric. Also, make sure that the mattress fits snugly to prevent any gaps which could create a suffocation risk. There are many mattresses on the market - foam, coil springs and natural materials for allergy sufferers, so do your research and select the one that is suitable for your baby's needs.
Whatever you decide to use, whether a standard cot or a convertible cot the mattress is vital to your ease of use. It should provide proper support and encourage a healthy posture. The slats need to be firmly attached, and not sagging. The slats should also be securely connected to the frame so that your child does not get caught when they move during sleep.
If you're not sure which mattress to purchase, talk to friends and family or check online reviews for recommendations. Choose breathable mattresses, as they can help regulate your body temperature and less likely to hold bacteria.
There are a myriad of styles to choose from such as traditional sleighs, with intricate details and modern, sleek designs. Some are painted in bright primary colours to make your child feel happy and cheerful as they awake.
Most cots come with a drawer for storage underneath and teething rails that stop your child from chewing on the sides of the cot, and height bases that can be adjusted to accommodate your child's growth. You can even buy drop sides for small infants or those with health issues that make it difficult for them to bend over.
Find a cot that is compliant with the strict UK safety standard and is easily converted into a toddler's bed when it's time. This information can be found in the product description and key specifications.
Safety
A safe and secure sleeping environment is a must and a major aspect to consider when choosing a crib. Make sure the mattress is snugly fitted, with no gap between it and the cot/cot beds edges or sides (big gaps can keep your child's head from being caught in the arms). Verify that the mattress is firm and thin. Mattresses that are too thick can increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies offer a range of mattresses, from simple foam to natural materials suitable for allergy sufferers. Some have anti-microbial treatment. If your mattress has a drop side, ensure it is in the upward position and secured.
Drop sides should only be permitted down when an adult is in the room. This prevents accidental release. Do not place your cot against the wall if it is an end that is solid. This can restrict airflow, which can lead to coffin death. Recent research suggests that slatted edges could be safer as they allow more airflow.
If your crib has a fixed edge choose this option as it will be safest when your baby starts to crawl and pull themselves up. Once your child is confidently standing and climbing, it is a sign that they're ready to move into the junior bed.
Some cots are equipped with a feature that allows the base to be raised up to three different levels. This is a great security feature that allows your child's cot to grow with their needs. Some cots have adjustable footplates that are perfect for toddlers who love to stand up.
When you place your child's cot, make sure there are no visible hazards. It should be kept away from heaters and power points. Also make sure it is away from windows, curtains and blind cords. They all could create strangulation risks. If you're buying second-hand or heirloom furniture Be sure to check for potential choking hazards like stickers and transfers that may be removed and pose the risk of.
If you're unsure about how to use your cot in a safe manner you can ask other parents or attend an local NCT New Baby course for support and advice. If your cot comes with a guide be sure to read it before using it and adhere to the directions.
Style
With its beautiful sleigh design, this gorgeous cot bed will look great in your nursery. The panel was impressed with the mix of natural and white wood and the innovative features like under-bed storage drawers for everything essential for babies, including bedding, nappies and an impressive array of baby clothes. It's also easy to build with clear instructions and screws for each section. It can also be transformed into a toddler's desk and bed when your child gets older (see the product description for more information).
One of our favorite features are the teething rails, which shield your baby from bumping their head on the side of the cot or any other protruding parts of the cot like the handle or corner post. They also help stop them chewing on the wood, which prevents them from getting trapped. The cot also has a drop-side for easier access to your baby. We love that the cot can be transformed into a toddler bed and that it's sturdy enough to last up to four years. It also met strict UK safety standards. You can find these in the specifications below for each product.
cheap cot bed beds are typically larger than cribs and can be turned into toddler beds when your child is ready and you can avoid buying another bed at an age when they're ready to transition. However, they can be more expensive than the crib that is standard.
If your nursery is small, a crib could be the best rated cribs choice for you, as it's smaller and takes up less space, but if your baby is likely to spend a lot of time in their parents' room or you're looking for a more durable bed, you should consider a cot.
A cot isn't suitable for babies to sleep in if it does not meet the strict UK safety standards outlined in BS EN 716 and BS 8509, which covers the thickness of mattresses, the materials used and other important elements of baby cot mattresses. The slats must not be too far apart, to ensure that your baby won't fall off.
Stores
No matter if you're a first-time parent or an experienced one the amount of items the baby will require is immense. This is why it's crucial to consider storage options when choosing the right crib bed. There are a variety of cots that have additional storage options such as under-bed drawers or a top changer (available separately). Certain cots can be transformed into an infant bed or a small single beds to expand their use.
Some cots and tots can be converted into day beds, as seen here on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is an ideal option for those who prefer a less rigid design as the conversion process is fairly easy and only requires the removal of one side panel. It also lets parents save money on a separate bed.
Some cot beds come with hanging rails that can be used to hang muslins, dummies, as well as other small items. This makes everything neat, tidy and organized. It also looks beautiful. Having easy access to these items will make it much easier for parents when feeding their child.
A teething rail is another desired feature that is found in some cots. This can help to stop your child from chewing on the wood, which can cause irritation. Some cots are designed with a more traditional style and come with a large under-bed storage drawer which is perfect for storing blankets, toys clothing, and other baby necessities.
While this is a great option if you're in a tight space, you must be aware that you'll have to purchase an extra drawer. It is also possible to buy a new mattress and bedding since sheets and mattresses that are oval aren't typically included in the cot itself.
This sleigh-style cot bed is an exquisite illustration of Scandi style at its finest. It features a huge under-bed storage area that is ideal to keep baby's essentials out of sight but still easily accessible. The alphabetically labeled components and clear instructions made it easy to put together for our panel. It is suitable for babies from birth and can be made into a toddler's bed when your child's ready.