7 Things About Cot Beds You ll Kick Yourself For Not Knowing
How to Choose the best infant cribs Cot Beds for Your Baby
If you're expecting a child it's crucial to select a cot that's safe and secure for your baby. Look for a cot that has fixed sides rather than drop-sides. This will be in line with UK safety standards.
This minimalist, elegant crib is our top choice from the Anyday range by John Lewis. It comes with three mattress height positions, teething rails, and a storage drawer. It's also easy to set up with clear instructions.
Comfort
The best cot beds (his response) keep babies comfy and cosy. Choose a soft, comfortable fabric. Also, make sure that the mattress fits snugly to prevent any gaps which could pose a suffocation risk. There are many mattresses on the market - foam, coil springs, natural materials for allergy sufferers. So do your research before deciding on the one that is suitable for your baby's needs.
No matter if you select a convertible or standard cot, the key to satisfaction is a high-quality mattress that is supportive and promotes a healthy posture. The same is true for the slats, which must be secured and not bent or sagging. The slats must be securely fixed to the frame so that your child isn't stuck in them while they move during sleep.
If you're unsure of the mattress to buy, consult friends and family or check online reviews for recommendations. Look for ones that are breathable, as they'll help to regulate temperature and are less likely to harbour bacteria.
There are many styles to pick from, including traditional sleighs with intricate details and sleek, modern designs. Some are even painted in bold primary colours, which is ideal when you want your child to wake up bright and cheerful!
The majority of cots have an under-bed storage drawer teething rails to prevent your child from chewing on the sides of the cot and height bases that can be adjusted to accommodate baby's growth. You can also purchase a drop-side for infants 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 standards and is able to be easily converted into a toddler's bed when it is time. Look for this information in the description or in the key specifications.
Safety
When choosing a cot an environment that is safe for sleeping is a must. 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 could trap the child's arms or head). Check that the mattress is not too firm and thin. Mattresses that are thick can increase the risk of SIDS. There are many companies that offer a variety of mattresses, from simple foam to natural materials for allergy sufferers. Some come with anti-microbial treatment. If your cot has drop-sides, make sure it is secured and in the up position.
A drop side should only be allowed to drop when an adult is present, this prevents accidental release. Do not place your cot against the wall if it is a solid end. This could limit airflow, which could result in death of the coffin. Recent research suggests that slatted ends could be safer since they allow for more airflow.
If your cot is set on one side, choose it. It's the most secure option for your baby when they begin to crawl and then pull themselves upwards. If your child is climbing with confidence and standing, it's the time to move to a junior bed.
Some cots come with a feature where the base can be raised to three different heights, so that it will increase with your child's growth which is extremely useful and is a security measure. Some cots have footplates that can be adjusted, which are ideal for toddlers who wish to sit up in their beds.
When putting your child's cot in the crib ensure there aren't any obvious dangers. It should be put away from heaters and power points. Also be sure to keep it away from windows, curtains and blind cords. These can all present a strangulation threat. If you're buying furniture from a secondhand store or an heirloom piece, check for dangers to your child's health such as stickers and transfers that may peel off and present danger.
If you're unsure of how to use your cot in a safe manner consult other parents or visit a local NCT New Baby course for support and advice. If your cot comes with a guide, make sure you go through it prior to using it and follow the instructions.
Style
With its beautiful sleigh design, this gorgeous cot bed will look great in your nursery. Our panel was impressed by the mix of natural and white pine, and its clever features, such as under-bed storage drawers to keep all those baby essentials like nappies, bedding and an enviable array of baby outfits. It is also easy to construct, with clear instructions and separate screws for each section. It can also be transformed into a toddler desk or bed as your child gets older (see product description for more details).
One of our favourite features is the teething rails that protect your baby from bumping their head on the cot's side or any protruding parts of the cot like handles or a corner post, and which also help stop them chewing on the wood, which prevents them from becoming in danger of being suffocated. The cot also has drop-sides to make it easier for you to get access to your baby. We love that the cot can be transformed into a toddler bed, and that it's sturdy enough to last for four years. It also complies with the stringent UK safety standards, which you'll find in the main specifications beneath each product.
Cot beds are usually larger than cribs and can be converted into toddler beds when your child is ready which means you don't have to worry about purchasing a new bed until they're ready for the transition. They can be more expensive than a crib.
If your nursery is small, a crib could be the best choice for you as it is smaller and occupies less space, but if your child is likely to spend much of their time in their parents' room or you're looking for a more durable bed, you should consider a crib.
A cot isn't suitable for babies to sleep in if it doesn't meet the strict UK safety standards outlined in BS EN 716 and BS 8509, which covers mattresses' thicknesses, materials, and other important elements of cot mattresses for baby. The slats should not be too close together to ensure that your child doesn't fall off.
Storage
The amount of baby gear you'll need is overwhelming regardless of whether you're a new mom or an experienced one. It is important to think about storage when selecting a cot. There are a variety of cots 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 converted into a daybed like this one on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is a great choice for those who prefer a more flexible design. The conversion is easy and requires only the removal of ONE side panel. This lets parents save on the cost of a separate bed.
A number of cot beds come with hanging rails that can be used to store muslins, dummies and other small items. This helps keep everything neat, tidy and organised. It also looks beautiful. Having easy access to these items makes it easier for parents to feed their child.
A teething rail is a desirable feature that is included in some cheap cots. This can help to keep your baby from chewing on the wood which could cause irritation. Some cots are designed in a more traditional style and come with a large under-bed storage drawer that is perfect to store blankets, toys clothes, and other baby essentials.
While this is a great option if you're in a tight space, you must keep in mind that you'll have to purchase an additional drawer. You may also need to buy a new mattress and bedding since oval mattresses and sheets aren't typically included in the cot itself.
This sleigh-style cot beds for sale is a beautiful example of Scandi style at its best. It has a large under-bed storage space that is perfect to keep baby's essentials away from view but easily accessible. Our panel was able to find it easy to put together, thanks to alphabetically labelled parts and clear instructions. It is suitable for babies as young as birth, and can be transformed into a toddler's bed once your child is ready.