Five Killer Quora Answers To Cot Beds

How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby

When you are expecting your first child it is essential to choose a cot that will ensure safety and security for your baby. Choose a cot that has fixed sides, rather than drop-sides. This will comply with UK safety standards.

Our top pick is this simple yet stylish coffin from John Lewis' Anyday range. It comes with three mattress height positions, teething rails and storage drawers. It is also easy to assemble, with clear instructions.

Comfort

The best crib cot beds keep Baby Cot's warm and comfortable. Choose a soft, airy fabric, and ensure that the mattress is fitted snugly to avoid any gaps, which could pose a suffocation risk. There are many types of mattresses available: coils springs, foam and even natural materials for allergy sufferers. Do your research to determine the most suitable one for your child.

No matter if you select an ordinary or convertible cot, the primary factor to satisfaction is a high-quality mattress that provides proper support and promotes healthy posture. The same is true for the slats, which must be firmly attached and not bent or sagging. The slats should also be securely fixed to the frame, to ensure that your child does not get caught when they move during sleep.

Ask your friends and family for recommendations or browse online reviews. Choose mattresses that are breathable, as they aid in regulating your body temperature and are less likely to be a breeding ground for bacteria.

There are many styles to choose from that include traditional sleighs with intricate details and modern, sleek designs. Some are decorated with bright primary colors to make your child feel joyful and cheerful when they wake up.

most recommended cribs cots come with an under-bed drawer for storage as well as teething rails that protect your child from chewing on the side of the cot and adjustable height bases for infant growth. You can also purchase a drop side for smaller infants or those with health issues that make it difficult to bend over.

To ensure your peace of mind, search for a cot that complies with the stringent UK safety standards and will easily transform into an infant bed when the time is right. Find this information in the product description or in the key specifications.

Safety

A safe and secure sleeping environment is essential and a big factor when selecting a crib. 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 trap the child's arms or head). Make sure the mattress is firm and thin. Thick mattresses could increase the risk of SIDS. There are many companies that offer mattresses made of various materials including foam and natural materials that are suitable for those suffering from allergies. Some even have an anti-microbial treatment. If your cot has an inclined side, make sure that it is in the up position and locked securely.

Drop sides should only be allowed to go down when an adult is present in the room. This prevents accidental release. If your cot has a solid end be sure to avoid placing it against the wall because this will restrict airflow and may contribute to death in the coffin. Recent research suggests that slatted ends could be safer because they allow for more airflow.

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

Some cots feature features that allow the base can be raised to three different heights to allow it to increase with your child's growth - this is very useful and is a safety measure. Some cots have footplates that are adjustable, which is ideal for toddlers wanting to stand up in their bed.

When putting your child's cot in the crib ensure there aren't any obvious dangers. It should be placed away from heaters and power points. Also, keep it away from windows, curtains and blind cords. They all could pose a strangulation risk. When purchasing second-hand furniture, or heirlooms to check for choking hazards such as stickers and transfers. They may peel off and pose a danger.

If you are unsure about how to use your cot, ask other parents for advice or go to a local NCT New Baby class. If your crib comes with a manual be sure to go through it before using it and follow all the instructions.

Style

With its stunning sleigh design, this gorgeous cot bed will look great in your nursery. The panel was impressed by the combination of natural and white wood and the clever features like under-bed storage drawers for all baby essentials, like bedding, nappy and a huge selection of baby clothes. It's also a breeze to put together, with concise instructions and separate packs of screws for each section. It can also be converted into a bed for toddlers and a desk when your baby grows older (see the product description for details).

One of our favourite features is the teething rails that protect your little one from smacking their head against the cot's side or any other protruding parts of the cot like handles or a corner post. They will also stop them from chewing on the wood, which prevents them from being in danger of being suffocated. The cot also has a drop-side to make it easier for you to access your newborn. We are thrilled that the cot can be converted into a toddler bed, and that it's built to last up to four years. It also complies with the stringent UK safety standards, which can be found in the main specifications beneath each product.

Cot beds are typically larger than cribs and can be transformed into toddler beds when your child is ready which means you don't have to worry about buying another bed at an age when they're ready to move on. However, they can be more expensive upfront than the crib that is standard.

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

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 the thickness of mattresses, the materials used and other essential elements of cot mattresses for baby. The slats must not be too far apart to prevent your child from falling out.

Stores

If you're a new parent or a seasoned one, the amount of stuff the baby will require is immense. This is the reason it's important to consider storage options when choosing a crib bed. A number of cots have additional storage options such as under-bed drawers or a coordinating sale cot top changer (available separately). Some can be transformed into a toddler bed or a single bed, extending their usefulness for a longer period of time.

Some cot beds can be further transformed into a daybed, as seen here on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is a great choice for those who prefer a less rigid design as the conversion process is simple and involves the removal of a side panel. This also allows parents to save money on a bed purchase.

A variety of cot beds feature a hanging rail which can be used to store muslins, Dummies, and other small items. This makes everything neat, tidy and organised. It also looks fantastic. Having easy access to these items will make it much easier for parents when feeding their child.

A teething rail is a desired feature that is found in some cots. This will stop your child from chewing on the cot's wooden structure, which can cause irritation. Some cots are designed with more traditional designs and have a huge under-bed storage drawer which is ideal for storing blankets, toys clothes, and other baby necessities.

This is a great option if space is an issue however, you will need to purchase a drawer on your own. You may also have to purchase a different mattress and bedding, as sheets and mattresses that are oval are not typically included with the cot itself.

This sleigh-style cot bed is a beautiful example of Scandi style at its finest. It features a huge under-bed storage space that is perfect to keep all baby necessities out-of-sight but within easy access. Our panel found it very easy to put together thanks to alphabetically labelled parts and clear instructions. It's suitable for infants as young as birth and can be made into a toddler's crib sets when your child's ready.