5 Killer Quora Answers To Cot Beds

How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby

If you're expecting a child it's crucial to select the right cot that is safe and secure for your child. Choose a cot that has fixed sides, instead of drop-sides. This will be in line with UK safety standards.

This minimalist, stylish crib is our top pick from the Anyday range by John Lewis. It comes with three mattress positions, teething rails and storage drawers. It is also simple to put together and comes with clear instructions.

Comfort

The best cot beds keep babies comfy and cosy. Look for a soft, breathable fabric and make sure the mattress fits snugly to prevent any gaps which could create the risk of suffocation. There are a variety of mattresses available - foam, coil springs and other natural materials suitable for allergy sufferers, so do your research and select the best crib for newborn one for your baby's requirements.

No matter if you choose a conventional Mini Cot Bed or a convertible one, a comfortable mattress is crucial to ensure your comfort. It must provide the right support and encourage an ideal posture. The same is true for the slats, which must be firmly attached and not sagging or bent. The slats should also be securely attached to the frame to ensure that your child does not get caught when they move in their sleep.

If you're not sure what mattress to buy, ask friends and family or check online reviews for suggestions. Choose breathable mattresses, as they will help you regulate your body temperature, and are less likely to be a breeding ground for bacteria.

There are a variety of styles to choose from, including traditional sleighs with ornate details and modern, sleek designs. Some are painted in vibrant primary colors to make your child feel joyful and cheerful when they wake up.

Most cots come with an under-bed storage drawer teething rails to prevent your child from chewing on the sides of the cot and height bases that are adjustable to accommodate the growth of your baby. You can also purchase drop sides for small babies or those with health issues that make it difficult for them to bend over.

For added peace of mind, search for a cot that meets the stringent UK safety standards and can easily convert into an infant bed when the time is right. Find this information in the product description or key specs.

Safety

When selecting a cot, the safety of your child's sleep should be a priority. The mattress should 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). Verify that the mattress is firm and thin. Thick mattresses 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 crib has drop sides, make sure it is in the upward position and locked securely.

Drop sides should only be allowed to go down when an adult is present in the room. This can prevent accidental releases. Avoid placing your cot against a wall if it has an end that is solid. This could restrict airflow, which can cause death in the coffin. According to the latest research, slatted end cots are safer since they allow for more airflow.

If your cot has a fixed side, opt for this as it's safer when your baby starts to crawl and pull themselves up. If your child is confidently climbing and standing, it's time to move to a junior bed.

Some cots have a feature that allows the base to be raised to three levels. This is a fantastic security feature that allows your child's cot to grow with their needs. Some cots have adjustable footplates, which are ideal for toddlers who wish to stand up in their bed.

When you put your child in their cot, check whether there is no obvious danger - it should be away from heaters, power points, windows, blind cords and curtains (these are a strangulation hazard). If you're buying furniture that is second-hand or an heirloom, check for dangers to your child's health such as stickers and transfer tapes that could be removed and create danger.

If you're unsure of how to use your cot safely, ask parents around or go to a local NCT New Baby course for support and advice. 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 stunning sleigh design This gorgeous crib will look stunning in your nursery. Our panel loved the combination of natural and white pine, as well as its clever features, such as drawers under the bed to store all the baby necessities like nappies, bedding, and a stunning array of baby outfits. It's also a breeze to put together, with concise instructions and separate sets of screws for each section. It can also be converted into a toddler desk or bed when your child gets older (see the product description for more details).

The teething rails are among our most loved features. They keep your child from hitting their head on the crib's side or any protruding portion of the crib, such as the corner post or handle. They also stop children from chewing on the wood and preventing them from getting suffocated. It also has an opening that can be dropped to make it easier for access to your infant. We love that the cot can be converted into a toddler bed and that it's strong enough to last up to four years. It also met the strict UK safety standards, which you'll find in the main specifications beneath each product.

Cot beds are typically larger than cribs and can be turned into toddler beds once your child is ready, allowing you to avoid purchasing a new bed until they're ready to transition. They may cost more than cribs.

If your nursery is small, a crib may be the best option for you, as it's smaller and occupies less space. However, should your baby be expected to spend most of the time in their parents' room 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 the thickness of mattresses, the materials used, and other key elements of baby mattresses for cots) it is not safe for babies to sleep. The slats should not be too far apart, to ensure that your baby won't fall off.

Stores

No matter if you're a first-time parent or a seasoned one the amount of things a baby needs is staggering. It is important to think about storage when you choose a cot. Certain cots offer additional storage options, including drawers underneath the bed or a coordinating top changer (available separately). Some can even be adapted to a toddler or a small single bed, which can extend their usability for longer.

Some cot beds can be further transformed into a daybed as shown on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is a great option for those who prefer an edgier design. The conversion is simple and requires only the removal of one side panel. It also lets parents save money on a bed purchase.

A number of cot beds come with a hanging rail which can be used to store muslins, dolls and other small objects. This helps keep everything neat, tidy and organised. It also looks fantastic. These items are easily accessible to parents and make it easier for them to feed their baby.

Another feature worth looking for is a teething rail that comes with cots. This can help to stop your child from chewing on the wood that could cause them irritation. Some cots are designed in an older style and have a huge under-bed storage drawer that is ideal for storing blankets, toys, clothes and other baby essentials.

While this is a great idea if you're short on space, you should be aware that you'll need to buy a separate extra drawer. You might need to purchase bedding and a mattress separately, as oval sheets and mattresses don't come with the cot.

This sleigh cot bed from Stokke is a stunning example of Scandi-style at its best cot bed and features a huge under-bed storage drawer that's perfect to keep baby's essentials out of view but within easy reach. The alphabetically labeled pieces and clear instructions made it simple to assemble our panel. It's suitable for babies from birth and can be converted into a toddler's bed when your child is ready.