Five Killer Quora Answers On Cot Beds

How to Choose the best rated cribs Cot Beds for Your Baby

If you're expecting a child, it's important to choose a cot that's safe and secure for your little one. Find a cheap cot beds which has fixed sides rather than drop-sides. This will meet UK safety standards.

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

Comfort

The best cot beds keep babies comfy and cosy. Choose a soft, breathable fabric and make sure the mattress is snug to avoid any gaps, which could pose the risk of suffocation. There are a variety of mattresses available - foam, coil springs and natural materials for allergy sufferers, so do your research and select the right one for your baby's requirements.

No matter if you select a standard or convertible cot, the primary factor to comfort is a good-quality mattress that provides proper support and promotes a healthy posture. The slats must be firmly attached, and not sliding. The slats should also be firmly connected to the frame to ensure that your child will not be caught when they move during sleep.

If you're unsure of the mattress to purchase, talk to friends and family or check online reviews for suggestions. Choose breathable mattresses, as they will help you regulate your body temperature and less likely to hold bacteria.

When it comes to fashion there's a broad selection of styles, from traditional sleigh designs with elaborate detailing to sleek, modern designs. Some are even painted with bold primary colours which is perfect when you want your child to wake up bright and happy!

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 are adjustable to accommodate your child's growth. You can also buy a drop-side for babies who aren't tall enough or have health issues that make it hard to bend over.

Find a cot that is compliant with the strict UK safety standards and is easily transformed into a toddler's cot when it is time. Find this information in the description or key specs.

Safety

A secure sleeping space is an essential consideration when choosing a cot. The mattress should fit snugly and there shouldn't be gaps between the mattress and the ends or sides of the cot/cot-bed (large gaps can restrict the child's arms or head). Make sure the mattress is firm and thin. Mattresses that are too thick could increase the risk of SIDS. There are many companies that offer mattresses made of different materials including foam and natural materials that are good for those suffering from allergies. Some even come with an anti-microbial treatment. If your mattress has a drop side, ensure it is in the upward position and locked securely.

Drop sides should only be permitted to fall when an adult is present in the room. This will prevent accidental release. Avoid placing your cot against walls if it has a solid end. This will hinder airflow and could result in death of the coffin. According to the latest research, cots with slatted edges could be safer as they permit more airflow.

If your cot is set on one side, choose it. It will be the most secure choice for your baby as they begin to crawl and pull themselves upward. When your child is confidently climbing and standing, it's the time to move to a junior bed.

Some cots have a feature where the base can be raised to three different levels in order to expand with your child This is extremely practical and a great crib security measure. Some cots have footplates that can be adjusted, which are ideal for toddlers who wish to stand up in their bed.

When placing your child's cot ensure there aren't any obvious dangers. It should be kept away from heaters and power points. Also make sure it is away from windows, curtains and blind cords. All of these could pose a strangulation risk. If you're buying furniture from a secondhand store or an heirloom piece, check for hazards to choking such as stickers and transfers that can be removed and pose a risk.

If you're unsure about how to use your cot in a safe manner consult other parents or attend the local NCT New Baby course for support and advice. If your cot comes with a manual, make sure you read it before using it and follow the instructions.

Style

With its gorgeous sleigh style This gorgeous cot bed will look amazing in your nursery. Our panel loved the mix of natural and white pine, as well as its smart features, including under-bed storage drawers that can hold all those baby essentials like nappies, bedding, and a stunning array of baby outfits. It's also a breeze to put together, with concise instructions and separate packs of screws for each section. What's more, it can be transformed into a toddler bed or desk as your baby gets older (see the product description for more details).

One of our favourite features is the teething rails, which shield your baby from bumping their head against the side of the cot or any protruding parts of the cot, like a handle or a corner post, and which also help stop them chewing on the wood, preventing them from being suffocated. The cot also has a drop-side for easier access to your newborn. We appreciate that the cot could be converted into a toddler bed and that it's strong enough to last up to four years. It also met strict UK safety standards. These are listed in the main specifications below each product.

Cot beds are generally bigger than cribs and can be transformed into toddler beds once your child is ready and you can avoid purchasing a new bed at an age when they're ready to move on. They may cost more than a crib.

If your nursery is small, you might think about a crib. It is smaller and requires less space. However it is recommended to consider a cot if you are planning to spend a significant portion of your baby's time in the room, or if you need a bed that lasts longer, you should opt for a cot.

A cot isn't suitable for babies to sleep in if it doesn't meet the strict UK safety standards set out in BS EN 716 and BS 8509, which deals with mattress thicknesses, materials and other key elements of cot mattresses for baby. The slats should not be too wide apart to prevent your baby from falling off.

Storage

If you're a new parent or an experienced one the amount of things a baby needs is staggering. This is the reason it's important to think about storage options when choosing the right crib bed. There are a variety of cots 4 tots that have additional storage options such as under-bed drawers or a coordinating cot top changer (available separately). Certain cots can be transformed into toddler beds or a smaller single bed to increase their usage.

Some cot beds can be further adapted into a day bed as shown on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is a great option for those who prefer a more flexible design. The conversion is easy and requires only the removal of a single side panel. It also lets parents save money on a separate bed purchase.

A few cot beds feature a hanging rail which can be used to store muslins, dummies and other small items. This helps to keep everything organised, neat and tidy and also looks amazing. These items are easily accessible to parents, making it easier for parents to feed their child.

Another feature worth looking out for is a teething rail that is available with some cots. This will stop your child from chewing on the wooden cot which can cause irritation. Some cots have a more traditional design and come with a large storage drawer beneath the bed, which is perfect for toys, clothes blankets, and other baby necessities.

While this is a great idea for when you're in a tight space, you should keep in mind that you'll have to purchase an additional drawer. It is also possible to purchase a different mattress and bedding since oval mattresses and sheets are not typically included with the cot itself.

This sleigh-style cot bed stunning illustration of Scandi style at its finest. It has a large under-bed storage compartment that's ideal to keep all baby necessities out of sight but still easily accessible. Our panel of experts found it easy to put together, due to the alphabetically-labelled parts and clear instructions. It's suitable for infants as young as birth, and can be transformed into a toddler's crib when your child's ready.