What Freud Can Teach Us About Cot Beds

How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby

When you are expecting a child it is essential to choose a cot that will ensure safety and security for your baby. Find a cot which has fixed sides instead of drop-sides. This will comply with UK safety standards.

This slick and stylish coffin is our top choice from the Anyday range of John Lewis. It comes with three mattress positions, teething bars and storage drawers. It is also easy to put together and comes with clear instructions.

Comfort

The best cot beds keep children warm and cozy. Choose a breathable, soft fabric. Make sure that the mattress is fitted snugly to eliminate any gaps that could cause the risk of suffocation. There are a range of mattresses available - foam, coil springs, natural materials for allergy sufferers. So do your research and choose the one that is suitable for your baby's requirements.

No matter if you choose a conventional cot or a convertible one, a comfortable mattress is essential to comfort. It must provide the right support and promote a healthy posture. This is also true for the slats, which must be firmly attached and not bent or sagging. The slats must also be securely fixed to the frame, so that your child does not become caught in the movement during sleep.

Ask your family and friends for recommendations or browse online reviews. Make sure you choose a mattress that's air-conditioned, as they'll help to regulate temperature and are less likely to harbor bacteria.

There are a myriad of styles to pick from that include traditional sleighs with ornate details and modern, sleek designs. Some are even painted in vibrant primary colours which is perfect when you want your child to wake up bright and cheerful!

The majority of cots have an under-bed storage drawer teething rails to prevent your child from chewing the sides of the cot, and adjustable height bases to accommodate the growth of your baby. You can also buy a drop-side for babies who aren't tall enough or have medical conditions that make it hard to bend over.

Find a cot that is compliant with the strict UK safety standards and can easily be converted into a toddler's bed when it's time. Find this information in the description or in the key specifications.

Safety

When selecting a cot, an environment that is safe for sleeping is a must. 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 hold the child's arms and head). Check that the mattress is firm and thin. Mattresses that are too thick could 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 cot features drop-sides, make sure it is locked and in the upward position.

A drop side should only be allowed to go down only if an adult is present - this prevents accidental releases. If your coffin has a solid edge, avoid placing it against the wall because this will restrict airflow and could cause coffin death. Recent research suggests that slatted ends may be safer because they allow more airflow.

If your cot has a fixed side, opt for this as it will be safest when your baby starts to crawl and pull themselves up. When your child is confidently standing and climbing, it is a sign that they are ready to transition into the junior bed.

Some cots come with a feature that allows the base to be raised to three levels. This is a great safety measure and enables your child's cot to grow with the child. Other cots to tots come with footplates that can be adjusted, which are great for toddlers who want to sit up in their bed.

When you place your child's cot ensure there aren't any visible dangers. It should be put away from power and heater points. Also, keep it away from windows, curtains and blind cords. These can all create strangulation risks. If you are buying second-hand furniture or heirlooms, be sure to check for dangers to your child's health such as stickers and transfers. They can come off and create a risk.

If you're not sure what you should do to use your cot, consult other parents for advice or go to an local NCT New Baby class. If your crib comes with a manual ensure that you read it before using it and follow the directions.

Style

This gorgeous cot bed with its sleigh-style design will look amazing in your nursery. The panel was impressed with the mix of white and natural 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. It could also be transformed into a toddler desk or bed when your child gets older (see product description for more details).

One of our most loved features are the teething rails that protect your baby from bumping their head on the side of the cot or any protruding part of the cot, such as handles or a corner post. They also help stop them chewing on the wood, which prevents them from becoming suffocated. There's also drop-sides to allow you to get access to your baby. We appreciate that it is able to be converted to an infant bed, and it is sturdy enough to last for four years. It also met strict UK safety standards. You can find these in the specifications below for each product.

Cot beds are usually larger than cribs and can be converted into toddler beds when your child is ready and you can avoid purchasing a new bed at an age when they're ready to move on. They may cost more than a crib.

If your nursery is small, a crib could be the Best cot for newborn option for you since it is smaller and takes up less space. However, if your child is likely to spend most of the time in their parents' bedroom or you'd like a more long-lasting bed, opt for a cot.

A crib isn't safe for babies to sleep in if it doesn't meet the strict UK safety standards as outlined in BS EN 716 and BS 8509, which deals with mattress thicknesses, materials and other important elements of baby cot mattresses. The slats must not be too wide apart to stop your child from falling out.

Stores

Whether you're a first-time parent or a seasoned one, the amount of stuff the baby will require is immense. This is the reason it's important to consider the storage options when you choose a cot sets bed. Many cots come with additional storage options such as under-bed drawers or a top changer (available separately). Some can even be adapted into a toddler bed or a single bed, which can extend their use for a longer time.

Some cots can be converted into day beds, as 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 lets parents save on the cost of the purchase of a separate bed.

Some cot beds come with hanging rails that can be used to hang muslins, dummies, as well as other small things. This makes it easier to keep everything organised tidy, neat and tidy and also looks great. Being able to access these items makes it easier for parents to feed their child.

Another desirable feature to look for is a teething rail which is included with some cots. This can keep your baby from chewing on the wood which could cause irritation. Some cots are designed in an older style and include a large under-bed storage drawer that is ideal for storing blankets, toys clothes, and other baby essentials.

This is a great solution if space is an issue but you'll need to purchase a drawer on your own. You may also need to buy a new mattress and bedding, as oval mattresses and sheets aren't usually included in the cot itself.

This sleigh-style cot bed stunning illustration of Scandi style at its best. It has a large under-bed storage space that is perfect to keep baby's essentials out of sight but still easily accessible. The alphabetically labeled pieces and clear instructions made it simple to put together for our panel. It's suitable for babies as young as birth, and can be made into a toddler's bed when your child is ready.