5 Killer Quora Answers To Cot Beds
How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby
If you are expecting your first child, it is important to choose a cot that will provide safety and security for your baby. Look for a cot that has fixed sides, rather than drop-sides. This will meet UK safety standards.
Our top pick is this basic but stylish cot from John Lewis' Anyday range. It has three mattress positions, teething bars, and a storage drawer. It is also easy to put together, and comes with clear instructions.
Comfort
The best cot beds keep babies comfy and cosy. Look for a breathable soft and comfortable fabric. Make sure that the mattress is fitted snugly to avoid any gaps that could pose a risk of being suffocated. There are a range of mattresses available that include coil springs, foam and natural materials for allergy sufferers. So do your research and choose the right one for your baby's needs.
If you choose a convertible or standard cot sales, the primary factor to satisfaction is a high-quality mattress that is supportive and promotes healthy posture. This is also true for the slats, which should be secured and not bent or sagging. The slats should also be securely fixed to the frame, to ensure that your child does not get caught when they move in their sleep.
If you're unsure of the mattress to buy, ask your family and friends or consult online reviews for suggestions. Choose mattresses that are breathable, as they help you regulate your body temperature, and are less likely to hold bacteria.
There are many styles to pick from that include traditional sleighs with ornate details and sleek, modern designs. Some are even painted with vibrant primary colours which is perfect if you want your little one to wake up bright and content!
You'll find most cots have a drawer underneath 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 buy a drop-side for infants who aren't tall enough or suffer from medical conditions that make it difficult to bend over.
For added security, opt for a cot that meets the strict UK safety standards and will easily convert into an infant bed when the time is right. This information is found in the product description as well as key specifications.
Safety
A secure sleeping space is a must and a major consideration when choosing a crib. Make sure that the mattress is snugly fitted, with no gap between it and the cot's beds edges or sides (big gaps can restrict your child's head or arms). Check that it's solid and thin - more thick mattresses aren't advised since they could increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies sell mattresses in a variety of materials, from foam to natural materials that are good for those suffering from allergies. Some even have an anti-microbial treatment. If your cheap cot bed features drop-sides, make sure it is secured and in the upward position.
Drop sides should only be permitted to fall when an adult is in the room. This will prevent accidental releases. If your coffin has a solid edge be sure to avoid placing it against the wall because it will block airflow and may contribute to death in the coffin. The latest research suggests that slatted ends may be safer because they allow for more airflow.
If your cot is fixed on one side, then you can choose it. It's the safest option for your baby as they begin to crawl and then pull themselves upwards. When your child is confidently standing and climbing, it is a sign that they're ready to transition into the junior bed.
Some cots feature features that allow the base can be raised to three different levels in order to grow with your child This is extremely convenient and an added security measure. Some cots also have footplates that can be adjusted, which are great for toddlers who want to sit 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 be sure to keep it away from windows, curtains and blind cords. They all could create strangulation risks. If you're buying furniture from a secondhand store or an heirloom piece be sure to look for any hazards to choking such as stickers and transfers that can be removed and create a risk.
If you're unsure of how to safely use your cot, ask other parents for help or take part in a local NCT New Baby class. If your cot comes with a manual, make sure you go through it before using it and adhere to the instructions.
Style
With its beautiful sleigh design This stunning cot bed will look great in your nursery. The panel was impressed by the mix of natural wood and white as well as the clever features such as drawers under the bed for everything needed by babies, such as bedding, nappies and a wide selection of baby clothes. It's also a breeze to put together with clear instructions and separate packs of screws for each section. It could also be transformed into a toddler desk or bed as your child grows older (see the product description for more details).
The teething rails are among our top features. They prevent your baby from hitting their head against the side of the crib or any other protruding part of the crib, like the handle or corner post. They also prevent children from chewing on the wood and preventing them from being suffocated. There's also an opening that can be dropped to make it easier for access to your newborn. We are thrilled that it can be converted to a toddler bed, and that it's sturdy enough to last up to four years. It also met the strict UK safety standards, which can be found in the key specs beneath each product.
Cot beds are generally bigger 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 to move on. However, they can be more expensive upfront than the crib that is standard.
If your nursery is small, a crib may be the best choice for you, as it's smaller and takes up less space. However, if your baby is likely to spend much of their time in their parents' bedroom or you'd like a more long-lasting bed, consider a crib.
If the cot you are using does not meet the UK safety standards as defined by BS EN 716 or BS 8509 (which cover the thickness of mattresses, the materials used, and other essential elements of baby cot mattresses), it is unsafe for babies to sleep. The slats shouldn't be too far apart, to ensure that your child doesn't fall out.
Stores
The amount of baby stuff you need is overwhelming, regardless of whether you're a first-time parent or a seasoned one. This is why it's crucial to consider storage options when selecting the right crib 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 are even able to be converted into a toddler or small single bed, which can extend their usability for longer.
Some cot beds can be transformed into a daybed like this one on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is an ideal option for those who prefer an unstructured design since the conversion process is simple and involves the removal of a side panel. This lets parents save on the cost of the purchase of a separate bed.
A few cot beds feature hanging rails that can be used to store muslins, Dummies, and other small items. This allows you to keep everything organised tidy, neat and tidy and looks fantastic. These items are easily accessible to parents which makes it easier for parents to feed their child.
A teething rail is another desired feature that is found in some cots. This will stop your child from chewing on the wooden cot which can cause irritation. Some cots come with a more traditional design and include a large storage drawer beneath the bed. It is perfect for clothes, toys blankets, and other baby necessities.
This is a great solution if space is an issue however, you will need to purchase a drawer on your own. You might need to purchase a separate mattress and bedding, as oval sheets and mattresses do not come with the cot.
This sleigh cot bed from Stokke is a lovely example of the Scandi-style at its finest and has a huge under-bed storage drawer that's ideal to keep baby's essentials out of view but easily reachable. The alphabetically labeled pieces and clear instructions made it easy to put together for our panel. It's suitable for babies from birth and can be made into a toddler's bed once your child is ready.
