Five Killer Quora Answers To Cot Beds
How to Choose the best cots Cot Beds for Your Baby
If you're expecting a baby, it's important to choose the right cot that is safe and secure for your child. Choose a cot that has fixed sides (rather than drop-sides) that are in line with strict UK safety standards.
Our top choice is this simple but elegant cot from John Lewis' Anyday range. It has three mattress positions, teething bars, and storage drawers. It is also simple to put together, and comes with clear instructions.
Comfort
The best cot beds keep children warm and cozy. Choose a soft, breathable fabric and make sure the mattress is snug to avoid any gaps, which could pose the risk of suffocation. There are many types of mattresses available, including foam, coils springs, and natural materials for allergy sufferers. Do your research to find the ideal mattress for your child.
No matter if you select a convertible or standard cot, the primary factor to comfort is a good-quality mattress that provides proper support and promotes a healthy posture. This is also true for the slats. They should be secured and not bent or sagging. The slats must also be securely attached to the frame, so your little one doesn't get caught in them when moving in their sleep.
If you're not sure what mattress to buy, ask your family members or friends or look up online reviews for suggestions. 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 broad selection, from traditional sleigh styles with elaborate detailing to sleek, modern designs. Some are even painted with bright primary colors, which is ideal if you want your little one to wake up bright and happy!
You'll find most cots have an under-bed drawer for storage as well as teething rails that protect your baby from chewing on the sides of the cot and adjustable height bases to accommodate baby's growth. You can also purchase a drop side for petite babies or those with health issues that make it difficult for them to bend over.
To ensure your security, opt for a cot that meets the strict UK safety standards and can easily transform into a toddler bed when the time is right. Find this information in the description or in the specifications.
Safety
A safe sleeping environment is an essential factor when selecting a cot. The mattress should be snugly fitted and there should be no gaps between the mattress and the ends or sides of the cot or cot-bed (large gaps could restrict the child's arms or head). Check that the mattress is firm and thin. Thick mattresses can increase the risk of SIDS. There are many companies that offer mattresses made of different 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 an inclined side, make sure that it is in the up position and secured.
A drop side should be allowed to go down only if an adult is present, to prevent accidental releases. If your cot has a solid end do not place it against the wall because it will block airflow and can cause coffin death. The latest research suggests that slatted edges could be safer because they permit more airflow.
If your cot is fixed on one side, choose it. It will be the most secure option for your child when they start to crawl and pull themselves up. When your child is confidently standing and climbing, it is a sign they're ready to transition into the junior bed.
Some cots have a feature where the base can be raised to three different levels, so that it will increase with your child's growth This is extremely useful and is a security measure. Some cots come with footplates that can be adjusted to suit for toddlers who love to stand up.
When you place your child's cot ensure there aren't any visible dangers. It should be placed away from heaters and power points. Also, keep it away from windows, curtains, and blind cords. These can all present a strangulation threat. When purchasing second-hand furniture, or heirlooms, be sure to check for dangers to your child's health such as stickers and transfers. They may peel off and pose a danger.
If you're unsure about how to use your cot safely consult other parents or attend a local NCT New Baby course for assistance and guidance. If your crib comes with a manual ensure that you go through it prior to using it and adhere to the instructions.
Style
With its beautiful sleigh design, this gorgeous Cot Bed (recent post by ingresse.freshworks.com) will look great in your nursery. The panel was awed by the mix of natural and white wood, as well as the clever features such as under-bed storage drawers for everything needed by babies, such as bedding, nappies, and a huge selection of baby clothes. It's also a breeze to put together, with concise instructions and separate packs of screws for each section. Additionally, it can be transformed into a bed for toddlers and a desk as your baby gets older (see the product description for details).
One of our most loved features are the teething rails that protect your baby from bumping their head against the side of the cot 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 getting trapped. The cot also has a drop-side to make it easier for you to access your newborn. We appreciate that it is able to be converted into a toddler bed, and that it is sturdy enough to last for up to four years. It also met strict UK safety standards. These are listed in the specifications below for each product.
Cot beds are usually larger than cribs and can be turned 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 are more expensive than a crib.
If your nursery cots is very small, a crib might be the best option for you, as it's smaller and occupies less space, but if your baby is likely to spend much of their time in their parents' rooms or you're looking for a more durable bed, opt for a cot.
If the cot you are using does not meet the UK safety standards as defined by BS EN 716 or BS 8509 (which cover mattress thicknesses, materials and other important elements in baby cot mattresses) It is unsafe for babies to sleep. The slats shouldn't be too far apart to stop your baby from falling off.
Stores
The amount of baby stuff you'll need is overwhelming whether you're a new parent or a seasoned one. This is why it's essential to consider storage options when selecting the crib bed. Some cots have additional storage options, like drawers under the bed or a top changer (available separately). Some cots can be converted into toddler beds or a smaller single beds to expand their use.
Some cot beds can be further transformed 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 requires only the removal of ONE side panel. This allows parents to save money on a bed purchase.
A few cot beds feature a hanging rail which can be used to store muslins, Dummies, and other small items. This makes it easier to keep everything organized tidy and neat and also looks amazing. These items are easily accessible to parents and make it easier for parents to feed their child.
Another feature worth looking for is a teething rail that comes in a few cots. This can keep your baby from chewing on the wood, which could cause them irritation. Some cots are designed in a more traditional style and come with a large drawer under the bed that is ideal for storing blankets, toys clothing, and other baby essentials.
This is a great solution for those who have limited space but you'll need to purchase a drawer separately. You may have to purchase a separate mattress and bedding because oval mattresses and sheets do not come with the cheap cot bed.
This sleigh cot bed from Stokke is a lovely example of Scandi-style at its best and has a huge under-bed storage drawer that's ideal to keep baby essentials out of sight but still within reach. The alphabetically labeled components and clear instructions made it easy to assemble for our panel. It's suitable for infants from birth and can be made into a toddler bed when your child is ready, which means it's also a good value.