5 Killer Quora Answers On Cot Beds
How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby
If you're expecting a baby, it's important to choose a cot that's safe and secure for your baby. Find a cot with fixed sides (rather than drop-sides), which comply with strict UK safety standards.
Our top choice is this simple but stylish cot from John Lewis' Anyday range. It has three mattress height positions, teething rails and storage drawer. It is also easy to put together, and comes with clear instructions.
Comfort
The best cot beds keep baby's warm and comfortable. Look for a soft and comfortable fabric. Also, make sure that the mattress is fitted snugly to prevent any gaps which could create a suffocation risk. There are a variety of mattresses available - coils springs, foam, and natural materials for allergy sufferers. Do your research to find the best one for your child.
Whatever you decide to use, whether a conventional cot or a convertible cot one, a comfortable mattress is crucial to ensure your comfort. It must provide the right support and encourage an ideal posture. This is also true for the slats, which must be firmly attached and not sagging or bent. The slats must be securely fixed to the frame so that your child isn't stuck in them while they move during sleep.
Ask your family and friends for recommendations or browse online reviews. Make sure you choose a mattress that's air-conditioned, as they'll help to regulate temperature and are less likely to harbor bacteria.
In terms of style, there's a wide choice from classic sleigh styles with elaborate details to sleek, contemporary designs. Some are even painted in vibrant primary colours which is great if you want your baby to wake up bright and cheerful!
Most cots come with a drawer underneath for storage and cot bed teething rails to guard your baby from chewing on the side of the cot, and adjustable height bases for infant growth. You can also purchase a drop-side for babies who aren't big or suffer from health issues that make it difficult to bend over.
Find a cot that is compliant with the strict UK safety standard and is able to be easily transformed into a toddler's bed when it's time. This information is available in the product description and the key specifications.
Safety
When choosing a cot a safe sleeping environment is a must. Make sure the mattress is snug and has no gap between it and the cot's bed's sides or ends (big gaps could trap your child's head or arms). Verify that the mattress is firm and thin. Thick mattresses could increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies sell mattresses in various materials including foam and natural materials that are suitable for those suffering from allergies. Some even come with an anti-microbial treatment. If your crib has drop sides, make sure it is in the up position and secured.
A drop side should only be allowed to go down only if an adult is present - to prevent accidental releases. Do not place your cot against the wall if it is an end that is solid. This will restrict airflow, which can lead to coffin death. Recent research suggests that slatted edges could be safer as they allow for more airflow.
If your cot is fixed on one side, choose it. It will be the most secure option for your baby as they start to crawl and then pull themselves upwards. When your child is standing and climbing, it is a sign that they are ready to transition into a junior bed.
Some cots are equipped with a feature that allows the base to be raised to three different levels. This is a fantastic safety measure and enables your child's cot to expand with the child. Other cots come with adjustable footplates, which are great for toddlers who want to sit up in their beds.
If you are putting your child in their cot, ensure whether there is no obvious danger - it must be kept away from heaters or power points, windows and blind cords and curtains (these are a strangulation hazard). If you are buying second-hand furniture or heirlooms to check for potential hazards to your child's safety such as labels and transfers. They can come off and create a risk.
If you're unsure of how to use your cot in a safe manner you can ask parents around or go to a local NCT New Baby course for support and advice. If your cot comes with a manual, read it carefully before you start using it, and then follow the safety-use guidelines carefully.
Style
With its stunning sleigh design This stunning cot bed will look great in your nursery. The panel was awed by the mix of natural wood and white, as well as the clever features like under-bed storage drawers for everything needed by babies, such as bedding, nappy and a huge selection of baby cots online clothes. It's also easy to construct, with clear instructions and screws for each section. It can also be transformed into a toddler's desk and bed as your child gets older (see product description for more information).
One of our favourite features is the teething rails, which shield your little one from smacking their head against the side of the cot or any protruding parts of the cot, like the handle or corner post, and which can also stop them from chewing on the wood, preventing them from getting trapped. The cot also has an opening that can be dropped to make it easier for access to your cheap baby cots. We are thrilled 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 the strict UK safety standards, which are listed in the specifications that are listed under each product.
Cot beds are typically larger than cribs and can be converted into toddler beds when your child is ready, allowing you to avoid purchasing a bed when they're ready to move on. They can be more expensive than a crib.
If your nursery isn't big enough, you might think about a crib. It is smaller and takes less space. However it is recommended to consider a cot if you are planning to spend a lot of your baby's time in your bedroom, or if you need a bed that lasts longer, you should consider a crib.
If a cot does not meet the UK safety standards outlined by BS EN 716 or BS 8509 (which covers the thickness of mattresses, the materials used, and other essential elements in baby mattress cots), it is unsafe for babies to sleep. The slats must not be too far apart, to ensure that your child doesn't fall out.
Stores
The amount of baby gear you'll need is a mess regardless of whether you're a first-time parent or a seasoned one. It's crucial to think about storage when choosing a cot-bed. There are a variety of cots that have additional storage solutions available such as drawers in the under-bed or a coordinating top changer (available separately). Some cots can be converted into a toddler bed or small single beds to expand their use.
Some cot beds can be adapted into a day bed, as seen here on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Mini Cot Bed. This is a great choice for those who prefer a less rigid design as the process of conversion is easy and only requires the removal of a side panel. It also lets parents save money on a separate bed.
A few cot beds have a hanging rail which can be used to store muslins, dolls and other small objects. This makes everything neat, tidy and organised. It also looks great. The ease of access to these items will make it easier for parents to feed their child.
A teething rail is an additional important feature that's included in some cots. This can prevent your little one chewing on the wood that can cause irritation. Some cots feature an older style and include a large storage drawer underneath the bed that is ideal for clothes, toys blankets, baby essentials.
This is a great solution when space is a problem however, you will need to purchase a drawer on your own. You may have to purchase an additional mattress and bedding since oval sheets and mattresses don't come with the cot.
This sleigh-style cot bed is stunning example of Scandi style at its finest. It has a large under-bed storage space that is perfect to keep all baby necessities away from view but easily accessible. Our panel was able to find it easy to put together due to the alphabetically-labelled parts and clear instructions. It is suitable for babies as young as birth, and can be made into a toddler's crib when your child's ready.