What Freud Can Teach Us About Cot Beds
How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby
When you are expecting a baby it is crucial to choose a cot that will provide safety and security for your baby. Find a cot with fixed sides (rather than drop-sides) that meet strict UK safety standards.
Our top choice is this simple but stylish coffin from John Lewis' Anyday range. 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 rated cribs cot beds will keep baby cots online's warm and comfortable. Choose a breathable, soft fabric. Make sure that the mattress is snug to eliminate any gaps that could create a risk of suffocation. There are many mattresses on the market - foam, coil springs and other natural materials suitable for allergy sufferers, so do your research and select the best one for your baby's requirements.
It doesn't matter if you pick a standard cot or a convertible the mattress is vital to your the comfort. It should provide adequate support and promote a healthy posture. The same is true for the slats. They should be firmly attached and not bent or sagging. The slats need to be firmly attached to the frame to ensure that your child will not be caught when they move in their sleep.
If you're not sure what mattress to buy, consult your family members or friends or look up online reviews for suggestions. Choose mattresses that are breathable, as they aid in regulating your body temperature and are less likely to hold bacteria.
There are a myriad of styles to pick from, including traditional sleighs with elaborate details and sleek, modern designs. Some are painted in bright primary colours to make your child feel cheerful and cheerful when they awake.
Most cots come with an under-bed drawer for storage and teething rails to guard your baby from chewing on the sides of the cot, as well as adjustable height bases to accommodate baby's growth. You can even buy drop sides for small babies or those who have medical conditions that make it difficult to bend over.
Choose a cot that meets the strict UK safety standards and is able to be easily transformed into a toddler's cot when it is time. Look for this information in the description or in the key specifications.
Safety
A secure sleeping space is essential and a big aspect to consider when choosing a cot. Make sure that the mattress fits snugly, with no gap between it and the cot/cot beds edges or sides (big gaps could restrict your child's head or arms). Make sure the mattress is not too firm and thin. Mattresses that are too thick could increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies offer mattresses in different materials, from foam to natural materials that are suitable for allergy sufferers. Some even come with an anti-microbial treatment. If your cot has a drop side, ensure it is in the up position and locked securely.
Drop sides should only be allowed down when an adult is in the room. This will prevent accidental release. If your coffin has a solid edge be sure to avoid placing it against the wall as it will block airflow and could cause coffin death. The latest research suggests that slatted ends could be safer because they allow for more airflow.
If your cot has a fixed side you should choose this because it's safer when your child starts to crawl and then pull themselves up. When your child is standing and climbing, it is a sign they're ready to move into a junior bed.
Some cots and tots have a feature where the base can be raised to three different heights to allow it to grow with your child which is extremely useful and is a safety measure. Some cots have adjustable footplates that are perfect for toddlers who want to stand up.
When placing your child's cot be sure that there are no visible hazards. It should be put away from heaters and power points. Also be sure to keep it away from windows, curtains, and blind cords. These can all pose a strangulation risk. If you are buying second-hand furniture or heirlooms, be sure to check for potential hazards to your child's safety such as labels 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 visit a local NCT New Baby course for assistance and guidance. If your crib comes with a manual, make sure you go through it prior to using it and follow the directions.
Style
With its beautiful sleigh design This gorgeous crib will look stunning in your nursery. The panel was impressed with the combination of natural wood and white as well as the innovative features like drawers under the bed for everything essential for babies, including bedding, nappies and an impressive array 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 converted into a toddler bed or desk as your baby cots on sale gets older (see the product description for details).
One of our favourite features are the teething rails that protect your little one from smacking their head against the cot's side or any other protruding parts of the cot, like handles or a corner post, and which will also stop them from chewing on the wood, which prevents them from becoming in danger of being suffocated. The cot also has an opening that can be dropped to make it easier for access to your newborn. We are thrilled that it can be converted into a toddler bed, and it is sturdy enough to last for up to four years. It also met the strict UK safety standards, which are listed in the specifications that are listed under each product.
Cot beds are generally bigger than cribs and can be turned into toddler beds when your child is ready, allowing you to avoid purchasing a bed until they're ready to transition. However, they are pricier upfront than a standard crib.
If your nursery is small, you might think about a crib. It is smaller and takes less space. However it is recommended to consider a cot if you are planning to spend a significant portion of your baby's time in your room or you need a bed that will last longer, you should consider 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 in baby mattress cots) it is not safe for babies to sleep. The slats shouldn't be too wide apart to prevent your baby from falling out.
Storage
Whether you're a first-time parent or an experienced one the amount of items the baby will require is immense. It is important to think about storage when selecting a cot. A number of cots have additional storage options like drawers under the bed or a top ranked cribs changer (available separately). Some can be transformed into a toddler or small single bed, increasing their usefulness for a longer period of time.
Some cot beds can be further transformed into a daybed, as seen here on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is a great choice for those who prefer an edgier design. The conversion is easy and only requires the removal of one side panel. This allows parents to save on the cost of a separate bed.
Some cot beds have a hanging rail that can be used to hang muslins, dolls, as well as other small objects. This makes it easier to keep everything organized, neat and tidy and also looks great. The ease of access to these items makes it easier for parents to feed their infant.
A teething rail is a desired feature that is found in some cots. This will prevent your child from chewing on the wooden cot which could cause irritation. Some cots are designed with more traditional designs and have a huge under-bed storage drawer which is ideal to store blankets, toys clothing, and other baby essentials.
While this is a great idea for when you're running out of space, it's important to be aware that you'll have to purchase an extra for the drawer. You may also need to buy a new mattress and bedding as sheets and mattresses that are oval aren't typically included in the cot itself.
This sleigh cot from Stokke is a beautiful example of the Scandi-style at its finest and has a huge under-bed storage drawer that's great to keep all the baby necessities out of sight but within easy reach. The alphabetically labeled pieces and clear instructions made it easy to assemble for our panel. It's suitable for babies as young as birth and can be made into a toddler bed once your child is ready, which means it's also a good value.