Five Killer Quora Answers To Cot Beds
How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby
If you're expecting a child it's crucial to select a cot that will be safe and secure for your little one. Look for a cot with fixed sides (rather than drop-sides) that meet strict UK safety standards.
Our top pick is this basic but elegant coffin from John Lewis' Anyday range. It comes with three mattress positions, teething bars and storage drawers. It is also easy to assemble, with clear instructions.
Comfort
The Best cot for newborn cot beds keep baby's warm and comfortable. Choose a soft, breathable fabric and make sure the mattress is snug to prevent any gaps which could pose an suffocation threat. There are a variety of mattresses available - coils springs, foam and natural materials for allergy sufferers. Do your research to find the most suitable one for your child.
No matter if you select an ordinary or convertible cot, the primary factor to comfort is a mattress of high-quality that provides proper support and encourages healthy posture. The slats should also be secured and not sagging. The slats must also be securely attached to the frame, so that your child isn't caught in them when moving in their sleep.
Ask your family and friends for recommendations or browse online reviews. Make sure you choose a mattress that's breathable, as they'll help maintain temperature and are less likely to be a home for bacteria.
When it comes to style there's a broad selection, from traditional sleigh styles with elaborate details to sleek, contemporary designs. Some are even painted with bright primary colors which is great for those who want their child to wake up feeling fresh and happy!
Most cots come with a drawer for storage underneath teething rails to prevent your child from chewing the sides of the cot and adjustable height bases to accommodate baby's growth. You can also purchase a drop-side for babies who aren't tall enough or suffer from medical conditions that make it difficult for them to bend over.
Find a cot that is in compliance with the strict UK safety standard and is easily transformed into a toddler's cot for sale when it's time. This information is available in the product description and the key specifications.
Safety
A safe sleeping environment is essential and a big aspect to consider when choosing a crib. The mattress should be snugly fitted and there shouldn't be gaps between the mattress and the sides or ends of the cot/cot-bed (large gaps can trap the child's arms or head). Check that it's solid and thin - more thick mattresses aren't recommended, since they could increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies offer a choice of mattresses, ranging from basic foam to natural substances for allergy sufferers. Some come with anti-microbial treatment. If your mattress has an inclined side, make sure that it is in the up position and secured.
Drop sides should only be allowed to go down only when an adult is present in the room. This can prevent accidental releases. Avoid placing your cot on a wall if it has an end that is solid. This will hinder airflow and could result in death of the coffin. According to the latest research, slatted end cots are safer since they allow for greater airflow.
If your cot has a fixed side you should choose this because it will be safest when your child starts to crawl and climb up. When your child is confidently standing and climbing, this is a sign that they are ready to move into a junior bed.
Some cots come with an option where the base can be raised to three different levels, so that it will grow with your child which is extremely convenient and an added security measure. Some cots feature footplates that can be adjusted to suit for toddlers who love to stand up.
When putting your child's cot in the crib be sure that there aren't any obvious dangers. It should be placed away from heaters and power points. Also make sure it is away from windows, curtains, and blind cords. These can all pose a strangulation risk. If you're buying furniture from a secondhand store or an heirloom piece Be sure to check for potential hazards to choking such as stickers and transfer tapes that could be removed and pose the risk of.
If you're unsure of what you should do to use your cot, consult other parents for help or attend an local NCT New Baby class. If your cot comes with a manual, read it carefully before you begin using it, and be sure to follow the safety guidelines closely.
Style
With its gorgeous sleigh style 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 needed by babies, such as bedding, nappy and a wide selection of baby clothes. It's also simple to construct, with clear instructions and separate screws for each section. Additionally, it can be transformed into a toddler bed or desk when your child gets older (see the product description for details).
One of our favourite features are the teething rails, which shield your baby from bumping their head against the cot's side or any other protruding parts of the cot, like handles or a corner post, and which will also stop them from chewing on the wood, preventing them from becoming trapped. It also has a drop-side for easier access to your infant. We love that the cot can be converted into a toddler bed and that it's sturdy 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 typically larger than cribs and can be converted into toddler beds once your child is ready which means you don't have to worry about purchasing a new bed when they're ready for the transition. They are more expensive than a crib.
If your nursery is small, you might want to consider the possibility of a crib. It is smaller and occupies less space. However should you be planning to spend a lot of your baby's time in the room, or if you need a bed that lasts longer, you should consider a cot.
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 key elements of cot mattresses for baby. The slats should not be too wide apart to prevent your baby from falling off.
Storage
The amount of baby stuff you'll need is overwhelming whether you're a new parent or an experienced one. It is important to think about storage when choosing a cot-bed. Certain cots offer additional storage options, like drawers under the bed or a coordinating top changer (available separately). Some cots are able to be converted into an infant bed or a small single beds to expand their use.
Some cot beds can be transformed into a daybed like this one on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is a great choice for those who prefer an edgier design. The conversion is easy and only requires the removal of ONE side panel. This also allows parents to save money on a separate bed purchase.
A few cot beds come with hanging rails that can be used to store muslins, Dummies, and other small items. This allows you to keep everything organised tidy, neat and tidy - and it also looks fantastic. These items are easily accessible to parents which makes it easier for parents to feed their child.
A teething rail is another desirable feature that is included in some cots. This can help to prevent your little one chewing on the wood that could cause them irritation. Some cots feature a more traditional design and have a huge storage drawer underneath the bed. It is perfect for clothes, toys, blankets and other baby necessities.
While this is a great idea if you're in a tight space, it's important to remember that you will have to purchase an additional drawer. You may have to purchase an additional mattress and bedding because oval sheets and mattresses don't come with the cot.
This sleigh-style cot bed a beautiful example of Scandi style at its finest. It has a spacious under-bed storage space that is perfect to keep all baby necessities away from view but easily accessible. The alphabetically labeled components and clear instructions made it easy to assemble for our panel. It's suitable for babies as young as birth and can be transformed into a toddler bed once your child is ready. This means it's also a good value.