The Advanced Guide To Cot Beds
How to Choose the best cot beds [scientific-programs.science explained in a blog post] for Your Baby
If you're expecting a baby it is essential to select the right cot that is secure and safe for your little one. Find a cot which has fixed sides instead of drop-sides. This will meet UK safety standards.
Our top pick is this basic but elegant cot from John Lewis' Anyday range. It comes with three mattress height positions, teething rails, and a storage drawer. It is also easy to put together and comes with clear instructions.
Comfort
The best cots cot beds keep babies comfy and cosy. Choose a soft, comfortable fabric. Also, make sure that the mattress fits snugly to prevent any gaps which could cause the risk of suffocation. There are a variety of mattresses on the market including coil springs, foam and other natural materials suitable for allergy sufferers. So do your research and choose the one that is suitable for your baby's requirements.
If you choose a convertible or standard cot, the most important thing to ensure satisfaction is a high-quality mattress that provides proper support and encourages healthy posture. The slats must be securely attached and not sagging. The slats should also be securely attached to the frame so that your child does not be caught when they move in their sleep.
If you're not sure what mattress to buy, consult your family members or friends or look up online reviews for suggestions. Select mattresses that are breathable, since they will help regulate your body temperature and are less likely to harbor bacteria.
When it comes to style there's a broad selection of styles, from traditional sleigh designs with elaborate detailing to sleek, modern designs. Some are even painted in bold primary colours which is great when you want your child to wake up bright and happy!
The majority of cots have a drawer for storage underneath and teething rails that stop your child from chewing on the sides of the cot and height bases that can be adjusted to accommodate baby's growth. You can even purchase drop sides for small babies or those with health issues that make it difficult to bend over.
For added peace of mind, search for a cot that complies with the strict UK safety standards and can easily transform into an infant bed when the time is right. This information is available in the product description as well as the specifications.
Safety
When choosing a cot, an environment that is safe for sleeping should be a priority. The mattress should fit snugly and there should be no gaps between the mattress and the sides or ends of the cot or cot-bed (large gaps could restrict the child's arms or head). Check that the mattress is not too firm and thin. Mattresses that are too thick could increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies offer a range of mattresses, from simple foam to natural materials suitable for allergy sufferers and some even have anti-microbial treatment. If your cot features drop-sides, make sure it is locked and in the up position.
Drop sides should only be allowed to go down only when an adult is present in the room. This can prevent accidental release. If your cot has a solid end do not place it against the wall since it will block airflow and could cause the death of a coffin. The latest research suggests that slatted edges could be safer because they allow for more airflow.
If your cot is fixed on one side, choose it. It's the most secure option for your baby when they begin to crawl and pull themselves upward. If your child is climbing with confidence and standing, it's time to upgrade to a junior bed.
Some cots are equipped with a feature that allows the base to be raised to three levels. This is a great security measure that allows your child's cot to expand with their needs. Some cots have footplates that can be adjusted to suit for toddlers who want to stand up.
If you are putting your child in their cheap cot bed, make sure that there isn't any visible danger - it must be kept away from heaters and power points, windows and blind cords and curtains (these pose a strangulation risk). When buying second-hand furniture or heirlooms to look out for potential hazards to your child's safety such as labels and transfers. These can peel off and pose a danger.
If you're unsure about how to use your cot safely, ask other parents or visit an local NCT New Baby course for support and advice. If your cot comes with a guide, make sure you go through it before using it and adhere to the instructions.
Style
This stunning cot bed with its sleigh design will look stunning in your nursery cots. Our panel was impressed by the combination of natural and white pine, and its smart features, including under-bed storage drawers to keep all those baby essentials like nappies, bedding and a dazzling assortment of baby clothes. It's also a breeze to put together, with concise instructions and separate sets of screws for each section. Additionally, it can be converted into a bed for toddlers and a desk as your baby gets older (see the product description for more details).
The teething rails are among our most loved features. They stop your baby from hitting their head on the crib's side or any protruding part of the crib, like the handle or corner post. They also prevent them from chewing on the wood, and prevent them from getting suffocated. There's also a drop-side to make it easier for you to get access to your baby. We appreciate that the cot could be transformed into a toddler bed, and that it's built to last up to four years. It also complies with strict UK safety standards. You can find these in the main specifications below each product.
Cot beds can be transformed into toddler beds when your child is old enough. This lets you not have to buy an entirely new bed when your child is ready to go up. They may cost more than a crib.
If your nursery is small, you may want to consider the possibility of a crib. It is smaller and occupies less space. However, if you plan on spending a lot of your baby's time in the room, or if you need a bed that lasts longer, you should choose a crib.
A cot isn't safe for babies to sleep in if it does not meet the strict UK safety standards as outlined in BS EN 716 and BS 8509, which covers mattress thicknesses, materials and other essential elements of baby cot mattresses. The slats shouldn't be too far apart, to ensure that your baby won't fall off.
Storage
Whether you're a first-time parent or a veteran the amount of things the baby will require is immense. It's important to consider storage when selecting a cot. There are a variety of cots that have additional storage options, such as drawers in the under-bed or a coordinating top changer (available separately). Certain cots can be transformed into toddler beds or a smaller single bed to increase their use.
Some cot beds can be further converted into a daybed, as seen here on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is an excellent option for those who like an edgier design. The conversion is easy and only requires the removal of a single side panel. This allows parents to save money on an additional bed.
A number of cot beds feature hanging rails that can be used to store muslins dummies and other small items. This helps keep everything tidy, neat and organized. It also looks fantastic. Having easy access to these items makes it easier for parents to feed their child.
A teething rail is another desirable feature that is included in some cots. This will prevent your child from chewing on the wooden cot, which could cause irritation. Some cots feature an older style and come with a large storage drawer beneath the bed. It is perfect for clothes, toys blankets, baby essentials.
This is a great solution if space is an issue but you'll need to purchase a drawer separately. You may need to buy an additional mattress and bedding since oval sheets and mattresses do not come with the cot.
This sleigh-style cot bed an exquisite illustration of Scandi style at its best. It has a large under-bed storage space that is perfect for keeping all baby essentials out of sight but still easily accessible. The alphabetically labeled parts and clear instructions made it simple to assemble our panel. It is suitable for babies from birth and can be converted into a toddler's crib when your child's ready.