14 Questions You Shouldn t Be Refused To Ask Cot Beds
How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby
If you are expecting a baby it is essential to choose a cot that will ensure safety and security for your baby. Choose a cot that has fixed sides instead of drop-sides. This will meet UK safety standards.
This slick and stylish crib is our top pick from the Anyday range of John Lewis. It comes with three mattress height positions, teething rails, and a storage drawer. It is also easy to assemble, with clear instructions.
Comfort
The best cot beds keep children warm and cozy. Look for a soft and comfortable fabric. Also, make sure that the mattress fits snugly to prevent any gaps which could cause an suffocation threat. There are many types of mattresses available - coils springs, foam, and natural materials for allergy-sufferers. Do your research to determine the best one for your child.
It doesn't matter if you pick a conventional cot or a convertible one, a comfortable mattress is essential to comfort. It should provide adequate support and promote an upright posture. The slats must be secured and not sliding. The slats must be securely attached to the frame, so that your little one doesn't get stuck in them while they move during sleep.
Ask your friends and family for recommendations or look at online reviews. Choose a mattress that is breathable, as they'll help regulate temperature and are less likely to harbor bacteria.
When it comes to style there's a broad selection from classic sleigh styles with ornate details to sleek, contemporary designs. Some are painted in vibrant primary colors to make your child feel cheerful and cheerful when they awake.
There are a lot of cots that have an under-bed drawer for storage as well as teething rails that protect your child from chewing on the sides of the cot, and adjustable height bases to accommodate baby's growth. You can also purchase a drop side for petite babies or those with medical conditions that make it difficult for them to bend over.
To ensure your peace of mind, search for a cot that meets the stringent UK safety standards and can easily transform into an infant bed when the time is appropriate. This information is available in the product description and key specifications.
Safety
When choosing a cot a safe sleeping environment is a must. The mattress should fit snugly 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). Make sure it's firm and thin. Thicker mattresses aren't advised because they can increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies offer a range of mattresses, ranging from basic foam to natural materials suitable for allergy sufferers. Some even contain anti-microbial treatments. If your cot features drop-sides, ensure that it is locked and in the upward position.
A drop side should be allowed to fall only when an adult is present - this will prevent accidental releases. If your coffin has a solid bottom be sure to avoid placing it against the wall because this will restrict airflow and could cause the death of a coffin. The latest research suggests that slatted ends may be safer since they permit more airflow.
If your crib has a fixed side you should choose this because it is the most secure option when your baby starts to crawl and pull themselves up. Once your child is confidently standing and climbing, it is a sign that they're ready to move into the junior bed.
Some cots are equipped with a feature that allows the base to be raised to three different levels. This is a wonderful security feature that allows your child's cot to expand with their needs. Some cots come with adjustable footplates that are perfect for toddlers who want to stand up.
When putting your child's cot in the crib, make sure there aren't any visible dangers. It should be kept away from any heaters or power points. Also, keep it away from windows, curtains and blind cords. All of these could present a strangulation threat. If you're purchasing furniture that is second-hand or an heirloom, check for dangers to your child's health such as stickers and transfers that can be removed and pose a risk.
If you're not sure how to use your cot in a safe manner, ask other parents or attend the local NCT New Baby course for support and advice. If your cot comes with a guide ensure that you go through it prior to using it and follow the instructions.
Style
With its gorgeous sleigh style, this gorgeous cot bed will look great in your nursery cots. Our panel loved the combination of natural and white pine, as well as its clever features, such as under-bed storage drawers that can hold all those baby essentials like nappies, bedding and an enviable variety of baby outfits. It's also easy to assemble, with concise instructions and separate sets of screws for each section. It can also be converted into a bed for toddlers and a desk as your baby gets older (see the product description for details).
One of our most loved features are the teething rails which protect your little one from bumping their head against the side of the cheap cot bed or any protruding part of the cot, like handles or a corner post. They also help stop them chewing on the wood, preventing them from being trapped. There's also drop-sides to allow parents to reach their newborn. We love that it can be converted to an infant bed, and it is sturdy enough to last for four years. It also met the strict UK safety standards. You can find these in the main specifications below each product.
Cot beds are typically larger than cribs and can be converted into toddler beds once your child is ready, allowing you to avoid purchasing a new bed when they're ready to move on. They can be more expensive than a crib.
If your nursery is small, a crib may be the best option for you, as it's smaller and takes up less space. However, if your child is likely to spend much of their time in their parents' room or you want a longer-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 covers mattress thicknesses, materials and other important elements in baby mattresses for cots) it is not safe for babies to sleep. The slats must not be too far apart, to ensure that your child doesn't fall out.
Storage
If you're a new parent or a seasoned one the amount of items the baby will require is immense. This is why it's crucial to think about storage options when choosing the cot bed. A number of cots have additional storage options such as under-bed drawers or a top changer (available separately). Some cots are able to be converted into an infant bed or a small single bed to extend their use.
Some cot beds can be transformed into a daybed as shown on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is a great choice for those who prefer more flexible designs as the conversion process is simple and requires just the removal of one side panel. This will allow parents to save on the cost of a separate bed.
A number of cot beds come with hanging rails that can be used to store muslins, dolls and other small objects. This makes everything tidy, neat and organized. It also looks great. The ease of access to these items makes it much easier for parents to feed their baby.
A teething rail is another desirable feature that is included in some cots. This will help stop your child from chewing on the wood, which could cause them irritation. Some cots are designed in an older style and include a large under-bed storage drawer that is ideal for storing toys, blankets clothes, and other baby essentials.
While this is a great idea if you're in a tight space, it's important to remember that you will need to buy a separate extra for the drawer. You may also need to purchase a different mattress and bedding as sheets and mattresses that are oval aren't usually included in the cot itself.
This sleigh-style cheap cot beds bed is stunning illustration of Scandi style at its best. It has a spacious under-bed storage compartment that's ideal for keeping all baby essentials away from view but easily accessible. 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, meaning it's good cribs value too.