15 Reasons To Not Ignore Cot Beds

How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby

If you are expecting a baby, it is important to choose a cot that will ensure safety and security for your baby. Look for a cot that has fixed sides, rather than drop-sides. This will be in line with UK safety standards.

Our top pick is this basic but stylish coffin from John Lewis' Anyday range. It comes with three mattress positions, teething bars, and storage drawers. It's also simple to put together with clear instructions.

Comfort

The best cot beds keep baby's warm and comfortable. Look for a soft, comfortable fabric. Also, make sure that the mattress fits snugly to prevent any gaps which could cause a suffocation risk. There are many types of mattresses available: coils springs, foam and even natural materials for allergy sufferers. Do your research to find the ideal mattress for your child.

Whether you opt for a convertible or standard cot, the primary factor to comfort is a good-quality mattress that is supportive and encourages healthy posture. This is also true for the slats. They should be secured and not sagging or bent. The slats need to be firmly attached to the frame to ensure that your child will not become caught in the movement in their sleep.

Ask your friends and family for recommendations, or read online reviews. Choose mattresses that are breathable, as they will 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 elaborate details and sleek, modern designs. Some are decorated with bright primary colors to make your child feel happy and happy when they wake up.

The majority of cots have a drawer for storage underneath, teething rails that prevent your child 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 big or have health issues that make it hard to bend over.

For added security, opt for a cot that meets the stringent UK safety standards and can easily transform into a toddler bed when the time is appropriate. This information is available in the product description as well as key specifications.

Safety

When selecting a cot, an environment that is safe for sleeping 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 hold the child's arms and head). Verify that the mattress is not too firm and thin. Mattresses that are too thick could increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies sell mattresses in various materials including foam and natural materials that are suitable for those suffering from allergies. Some even have an anti-microbial treatment. If your cot has drop sides, make sure that it is in the up position and locked securely.

Drop sides should only be allowed to go down when an adult is in the room. This can prevent accidental release. If your coffin has a solid edge do not place it against the wall since this will restrict airflow and may contribute to the death of a coffin. Recent research suggests that slatted edges could be safer since they permit more airflow.

If your cot is set to one side, you should choose it. It will be the most secure option for your baby when they begin to crawl and pull themselves upward. Once your child is confidently standing and climbing, it is a sign they're ready to transition into the junior bed.

Some cots come with a feature where the base can be raised to three different heights, so that it will expand with your child - this is very useful and is a safety measure. Some cots have adjustable footplates, which are ideal for toddlers who wish to sit up in their beds.

When placing your child's cot ensure there aren't any obvious dangers. It should be placed away from any heaters or power points. Also be sure to keep it away from windows, curtains and blind cords. They all could create strangulation risks. When purchasing second-hand furniture, or heirlooms, be sure to look for any potential hazards to your child's safety such as labels and transfers. They may peel off and pose a danger.

If you're unsure of how to safely use your cot, ask other parents for advice or attend an local NCT New Baby class. If your cot has a manual, read it carefully before you start using it, and be sure to follow the safety guidelines closely.

Style

With its stunning sleigh design This stunning crib will look stunning in your nursery. Our panel members loved the mix of natural and white pine, as well as its innovative features, like 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 clear instructions and separate sets of screws for each section. It can also be transformed into a toddler desk and bed as your child grows older (see the product description for more information).

The rails for teething are among our top features. They keep your baby from hitting their head against the crib's side or any protruding portion of the crib, like the handle or corner post. They also prevent them from chewing the wood, and prevent them from suffocating. There's also an opening that can be removed to allow you to access your newborn. We appreciate that it is able to be converted into an infant bed, and that it's built to last up to four years. It also meets the strict UK safety standards, which are listed in the key specs beneath 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 bed when they're ready to move on. However, they may be pricier upfront than the standard crib.

If your nursery is very small, a crib may be the best cot Bed option for you as it is smaller and takes up less space. However, if your baby is likely to spend most of the time in their parents' rooms or you want a longer-lasting bed, opt for a crib.

If a cot does not meet the UK safety standards as defined by BS EN 716 or BS 8509 (which covers mattress thicknesses, materials and other key elements in baby mattress cots) it is not safe for babies to sleep. The slats should not be too far apart to stop your child from falling out.

Stores

The amount of baby equipment you need is overwhelming, whether you're a new parent or a seasoned one. This is the reason it's important to consider storage options when choosing the cot bed. There are a variety of cots that have additional storage options, such as under-bed drawers or a top changer (available separately). Some can be transformed to a toddler or a small single bed, increasing their use for a longer time.

Some cots can be converted into day beds, like the one shown on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is an ideal option for those who prefer a less rigid design as the conversion process is simple and requires just the removal of one side panel. This allows parents to save money on a separate bed.

Some cot beds come with hanging rails that can be used to hang muslins, dummies along with other small things. This helps to keep everything organized tidy, neat and tidy and looks fantastic. These items are easily accessible to parents and make it easier for them to feed their baby.

A teething rail is another desired feature that is found in some cots. This can help to keep your baby from chewing on the wood, which can cause irritation. Some cots are designed with a more traditional style and have a huge drawer under the bed that is perfect to store blankets, toys clothes, and other baby essentials.

This is a great option when space is a problem but you'll need to purchase a drawer separately. It is also possible to buy a new mattress and bedding since oval mattresses and sheets aren't typically included in the cot itself.

This sleigh cot from Stokke is a stunning example of the Scandi-style at its finest and has a huge under-bed storage drawer that's perfect to keep all the baby necessities out of sight but easily reachable. The alphabetically labeled components and clear instructions made it simple to put together for our panel. It's suitable for infants from birth and can be converted into a toddler bed once your child is ready. This means it's also a good value.