11 Ways To Completely Redesign Your Cot Beds
How to Choose the best cot bed Cot Beds for Your Baby
If you are expecting a baby, it is important to choose a cot that will provide safety and security for your baby. Choose a cot that has fixed sides (rather than drop-sides) that are in line with strict UK safety standards.
Our top pick is this simple yet stylish cot from John Lewis' Anyday range. It comes with three mattress positions, teething bars and a storage drawer. It is also easy to put together, and comes with clear instructions.
Comfort
The best cot mattress keeps infants comfortable and warm. Find a comfortable soft, soft fabric. Make sure the mattress is fitted snugly to avoid any gaps that could cause the risk of being suffocated. There are a variety of mattresses available including coil springs, foam and natural materials for allergy sufferers - so do your research before deciding on the one that is suitable for your baby's requirements.
It doesn't matter if you pick a conventional cot or a convertible the mattress is crucial to ensure your comfort. It should provide proper support and encourage an upright posture. The slats should also be firmly attached, and not sagging. The slats should also be firmly connected to the frame to ensure that your child will not get caught when they move during sleep.
Ask your friends and family for recommendations, or read online reviews. Look for ones that are air-conditioned, as they'll help to regulate temperature and are less likely to be a home for bacteria.
There are many styles to choose from, including traditional sleighs with intricate details and sleek, modern designs. Some are painted in bright primary colours to make your child feel cheerful and cheerful as they wake up.
Most cots come with a drawer underneath for storage and teething rails to guard your child from chewing on the side of the cot, and adjustable height bases for baby growth. You can also buy a drop-side for babies who aren't tall enough or suffer from health issues that make it difficult to bend over.
To ensure your peace of mind, search for a cot that complies with the strict UK safety standards and will easily transform into an infant bed when the time is right. This information is available in the description of the product and key specifications.
Safety
When selecting a cot, an environment that is safe for sleeping should be the top priority. The mattress should be able to fit snugly and there shouldn't be gaps between the mattress and the sides or ends of the cot or cot-bed (large gaps can trap the child's arms or head). Verify that the mattress is firm and thin. Mattresses that are thick could increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies offer a choice of mattresses, from simple foam to natural substances for allergy sufferers. Some have anti-microbial treatment. If your cot features a drop-side, make sure it is locked and in the up position.
A drop side should only be allowed to drop only if an adult is present; this prevents accidental releases. Do not place your cot against the wall if it is a solid end. This could restrict airflow, which can lead to coffin death. The latest research suggests that slatted ends could be safer as they permit more airflow.
If your cot is set to one side, you should choose it. It's the most secure choice for your baby when they start to crawl and pull themselves up. When your child is climbing with confidence and standing, it's the time to move to a junior bed.
Some cots are equipped with an option that allows the base to be raised to three different levels. This is a fantastic safety measure and enables the cot of your child to grow with them. Some cots also have footplates that are adjustable, which is ideal for toddlers wanting to sit up in their beds.
When you put your child in their cot, check whether there is no visible danger. It must be away from heat sources, power points, windows, curtains and blind cords (these are a strangulation hazard). When buying second-hand furniture or heirlooms to look for any potential hazards to your child's safety such as labels and transfers. They may peel off and pose a danger.
If you're not sure about how to use your cot, ask other parents for help or take part in a local NCT New Baby class. If your cot comes with a guide, make sure you read it before using it and follow all the instructions.
Style
This stunning cot bed with its sleigh design will look stunning in your nursery. The panel was impressed by the combination of white and natural 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 simple to put together, with clear instructions and screws for each section. What's more, it can be transformed into a toddler bed or desk when your child gets older (see the product description for details).
The teething rails are one of our favorite features. They keep your child from hitting their head against the crib's side or any protruding portion of the crib, such as the corner post or handle. They also stop children from chewing on the wood, and prevent them from being suffocated. The cot also has drop-sides to make it easier for parents to reach their newborn. We are thrilled that the cot can be transformed into a toddler bed, and that it's built to last up to four years. It also met the strict UK safety standards. You can find these in the specifications below for each product.
Cot beds are generally bigger than cribs and can be converted into toddler beds once your child is ready and you can avoid purchasing a bed at an age when they're ready to move on. They may cost more than cribs.
If your nursery is small, a crib may be the best option for you since it is smaller and takes up less space. However, should your baby be expected to spend most of the time in their parents' bedroom or you'd like a more long-lasting bed, opt for a crib.
If a cot doesn't meet the UK safety standards as defined by BS EN 716 or BS 8509 (which refers to mattress thicknesses, materials and other key elements of baby mattresses for cots) It is unsafe for babies to sleep. The slats shouldn't be too close together, to ensure your baby doesn't fall out.
Stores
If you're a new parent or an experienced one the amount of things that a baby requires is overwhelming. This is why it's essential to think about storage options when choosing the right cot bed. Some cots come with additional storage options, like drawers underneath the bed or a coordinating top changer (available separately). Some can be transformed into a toddler or small single bed, which can extend their usefulness for a longer period of time.
Some cot beds can be adapted into a day bed like this one on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is an excellent option for those who like an edgier design. The conversion is simple and requires only the removal of a single side panel. This allows parents to save money on a bed purchase.
A number of cot beds come with a hanging rail which can be used to store muslins, dummies and other small items. This makes everything tidy, neat and organized. It also looks fantastic. These items are easily accessible to parents, making it easier for them to feed their baby.
A teething rail is another important feature that's included in some cots. This will prevent your child from chewing on the wooden cot, which could cause irritation. Some cots feature more traditional designs and have a huge storage drawer underneath the bed that is ideal for toys, clothes blankets, and other baby essentials.
While this is a great option if you're running out of space, you must be aware that you'll require a separate extra for the drawer. You may have to purchase bedding and a mattress separately, as oval sheets and mattresses do not come with the cot.
This sleigh-style cot is stunning example of Scandi style at its best. 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 found it very straightforward to put together, thanks to the alphabetically labeled parts and clear instructions. It's suitable for babies as young as birth and can be transformed into a toddler bed when your child is ready, which means it's good value too.