Five Killer Quora Answers To Cot Beds
How to Choose the best cot beds (Keep Reading) for Your Baby
When you are expecting a child, it is important to choose a cot that can provide security and safety for your baby cots on sale. Choose a cot that has fixed sides, rather than drop-sides. This will comply with UK safety standards.
Our top pick is this simple yet stylish cot from John Lewis' Anyday range. It comes with three mattress height positions, teething rails as well as a storage drawers. It is also simple to assemble, with clear instructions.
Comfort
The best cot beds keep children warm and cozy. Choose a soft, breathable fabric and make sure the mattress is fitted snugly to prevent any gaps which could pose a suffocation risk. There are a variety of mattresses available - coils springs, foam, and natural materials for allergy-sufferers. Do your research to determine the best one for your child.
If you choose an ordinary or convertible cot, the most important thing to ensure comfort is a mattress of high-quality that provides proper support and promotes healthy posture. The slats must be secured and not sagging. The slats must also be securely fixed to the frame, to ensure that your child does not be caught when they move during sleep.
If you're not sure which mattress to buy, ask friends and family or check online reviews for recommendations. Select mattresses that are breathable, since they will help regulate your body temperature and are less likely to be a breeding ground for bacteria.
There are a variety of styles to choose from such as traditional sleighs, with elaborate details and sleek, modern designs. Some are decorated with bright primary colors to make your child feel cheerful and cheerful as they wake up.
The majority of cots have a drawer for storage underneath and teething rails that stop your child from chewing the sides of the cot, and adjustable height bases to accommodate the growth of your baby. You can also purchase a drop side for petite babies or those with medical conditions that make it difficult for them to bend over.
For extra security, opt for a cot that meets the stringent UK safety standards and will easily transform into an infant bed when the time is right. Find this information in the product description or in the specifications.
Safety
When choosing a cot a safe sleeping environment is a must. The mattress should be able to fit snugly and there should be no gaps between the mattress and the edges or sides of the cot or cot-bed (large gaps could trap the child's arms or head). Check that it's firm and thin. Thicker mattresses aren't recommended since they could increase the risk of SIDS. There are many companies that offer a variety of mattresses, from simple foam to natural materials suitable for allergy sufferers. Some contain anti-microbial treatments. If your Mini Cot Bed has drop-sides, make sure it is locked and in the upward position.
A drop side should only be allowed to drop only when an adult is present; this prevents accidental release. If your cot has a solid end, avoid placing it against the wall as this will restrict airflow and could cause coffin death. The latest research suggests that slatted edges could be safer because they permit more airflow.
If your crib has a fixed side, opt for this as it is the most secure option when your baby starts to crawl and then pull themselves up. If your child is confidently climbing and standing, it's time to move to a junior bed.
Some cots feature a feature where the base can be raised to three different heights to allow it to expand with your child This is extremely practical and a great safety measure. Other cots come with footplates that can be adjusted, which are ideal for toddlers who wish to stand up in their bed.
When placing your child's cot be sure that there aren't any obvious dangers. It should be placed away from power and heater points. Also, keep it away from windows, curtains, and blind cords. They all could create strangulation risks. When buying second-hand furniture or heirlooms to check for dangers to your child's health such as stickers and transfers. They can come off and pose a danger.
If you're unsure of how to safely use your cot, consult other parents for help or attend an local NCT New Baby class. If your crib comes with a manual, make sure you read it before using it and adhere to the instructions.
Style
With its stunning sleigh design This gorgeous cot bed will look great in your nursery. The panel was impressed by the combination of natural and white wood, as well as the clever features like under-bed storage drawers for everything needed by babies, such as bedding, nappy and an impressive array of baby clothes. It's also a breeze to put together with clear instructions and separate sets of screws for each section. It can also be converted into a toddler's desk and bed as your child gets older (see product description for more information).
The rails for teething are among our most loved features. They stop your baby from hitting their head against the side of the crib or any protruding part of the crib, like the handle or corner post. They also prevent children from chewing on the wood and also preventing them from being suffocated. The cot also has an opening that can be dropped to make it easier for access to your newborn. We are thrilled that the cot can be converted into a toddler bed, and that it's built to last for four years. It also complies with the stringent UK safety standards, which you'll find in the specifications that are listed under each product.
Cot beds are typically larger than cribs and can be turned into toddler beds when your child is ready, allowing you to avoid purchasing a new bed at an age when they're ready for the transition. They are more expensive than a crib.
If your nursery is small, a crib might be the best option for you, as it's smaller and takes up less space, but if your baby is likely to spend a lot of time in their parents' room or you want a longer-lasting bed, consider a crib.
A cot isn't suitable 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 deals with mattresses' thicknesses, materials, and other important elements of baby cot mattresses. The slats should not be too far apart to stop your baby from falling out.
Stores
The amount of baby equipment you need is overwhelming, whether you're a new parent or an experienced one. It's crucial to think about storage when you choose a cot. Some cots have additional storage options, including drawers under the bed or a top changer (available separately). Some are even able to be converted to a toddler or a small single bed, increasing their use for a longer time.
Some cots can be transformed into day beds, like the one shown on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is a great choice for those who like the flexibility of a design. The conversion is easy and only requires the removal of one side panel. This will allow parents to save on the cost of a separate bed.
Some cot beds come with a hanging rail that can be used to hang muslins and dummies, as well as other small things. This makes everything tidy, neat and organized. It also looks beautiful. Having easy access to these items makes it much easier for parents to feed their baby.
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 can cause irritation. Some cots come with an older style and have a huge storage drawer underneath the bed, which is perfect for clothes, toys blankets, baby essentials.
This is a great solution for those who have limited space however, you will need to purchase a drawer separately. You may also need to buy a new mattress and bedding, as sheets and mattresses that are oval are not typically included with the cot itself.
This sleigh cot bed from Stokke is a stunning example of Scandi-style at its best infant cribs and has a huge under-bed storage drawer that's great to keep all the baby essentials out of sight but still within reach. Our panel of experts found it easy to put together, due to the alphabetically-labelled parts and clear instructions. It's suitable for babies as young as birth and can be transformed into a toddler's crib when your child is ready.