The Main Issue With Cot Beds And How You Can Fix It

How to Choose the best crib newborn Cot Beds for Your Baby beds

If you are expecting a baby it is crucial to choose a cot that will provide safety and security for your baby. Choose a cot that has fixed sides, instead of drop-sides. This will comply with UK safety standards.

This slick and elegant coffin is our top choice from the Anyday range by John Lewis. It has three mattress height positions, teething rails, and a storage drawer. It is also easy to put together, and comes with clear instructions.

Comfort

The best cot beds keep children warm and cozy. Look for a soft and breathable fabric and make sure the mattress fits snugly to prevent any gaps which could cause an suffocation threat. There are many mattresses available - foam, coil springs and natural materials for allergy sufferers - so do your research and select the one that is suitable for your baby's needs.

No matter if you choose a conventional cot or a convertible, a good mattress is crucial to ensure your the comfort. It must provide the right support and promote an ideal posture. The slats should also be securely attached and not sagging. The slats need to be securely fixed to the frame, to ensure that your child will not get caught when they move in their sleep.

Ask your friends and family for recommendations or browse online reviews. Choose mattresses that are breathable, as they help you regulate your body temperature and less likely to be a breeding ground for bacteria.

When it comes to style there's a variety of styles of styles, from traditional sleigh designs with intricate details to sleek, contemporary designs. Some are even painted with bright primary colors which is perfect if you want your child to wake up feeling bright and cheerful!

There are a lot of cots that have an under-bed drawer for storage, teething rails to protect your baby from chewing on the sides of the cot, and adjustable height bases for infant growth. You can also purchase an extra drop-side for babies that are small or have health issues that make it hard to bend over.

For added security, opt for a cot that is compliant with 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 in the specifications.

Safety

When choosing a cot, an environment that is safe for sleeping should be the top priority. Make sure that the mattress fits snugly, with no gap between it and the cot/cot bed's sides or ends (big gaps can keep your child's head from being caught in the arms). Check that the mattress is firm and thin. Mattresses that are too thick can increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies offer mattresses in different materials including foam and natural materials that are great for those suffering from allergies. Some even come with an anti-microbial treatment. If your crib has drop sides, make sure it is in the up position and locked securely.

A drop side should only be allowed to drop when an adult is present - this will prevent accidental releases. Avoid placing your cot on a wall if it has an end that is solid. This could restrict airflow, which can lead to coffin death. According to the latest research, cots with slatted edges may be safer because they allow for greater airflow.

If your cot is fixed on one side, then you can choose it. It will be the safest option for your baby as they start to crawl and then pull themselves upwards. If your child is confidently climbing and standing, it's the time to upgrade to a junior bed.

Some cots feature features that allow the base can be raised to three different levels to allow it to increase with your child's growth This is extremely convenient and an added security measure. Some cots have adjustable footplates that are ideal for toddlers who love to stand up.

When you place your child's cot ensure there are no visible hazards. It should be put away from power and heater points. Also be sure to keep it away from windows, curtains, and blind cords. All of these could pose a strangulation risk. If you're buying furniture from a secondhand store or an heirloom piece, check for hazards to choking such as stickers and transfers that can peel off and present a risk.

If you're unsure of how to use your cot safely you can ask other parents or visit a local NCT New Baby course for support and advice. If your cot has instructions, read them carefully before using it, and then follow the safe-use instructions closely.

Style

With its beautiful sleigh design This stunning cot bed will look amazing in your nursery. The panel was awed by the mix of natural wood and white, as well as the innovative features like drawers under the bed for everything needed by babies, such as bedding, nappy and a wide selection of baby clothes. It's also easy to assemble, with concise instructions and separate sets of screws for each section. It could also be transformed into a toddler's desk and bed as your child grows older (see product description for more details).

The teething rails are one of our favorite features. They prevent your baby from hitting their head against the crib's side or any other protruding part of the crib, like the corner post or handle. They also prevent them from chewing on the wood, and prevent them from being suffocated. The cot also has drop-sides to allow you to get access to your baby. We appreciate that the cot could be converted into a toddler bed and that it's strong enough to last for up to four years. It also met the strict UK safety standards. You can find these in the key specs below each product.

Cot beds can be converted into toddler beds if your child is old enough. This allows you to avoid purchasing an entirely new bed as your child gets ready to make the leap. They are more expensive than cribs.

If your nursery is very small, a crib could be the best choice for you as it is smaller and occupies less space. However, should your baby be expected to spend a lot of time in their parents' rooms or you'd like a more long-lasting bed, consider a cot.

If the cot you are using does not meet the UK safety standards as defined by BS EN 716 or BS 8509 (which cover mattress thicknesses, materials, and other important elements of baby cot mattresses) It is unsafe for babies to sleep. The slats should not be too close together to ensure your baby doesn't fall out.

Storage

The amount of baby gear you'll need is overwhelming whether you're a new parent or an experienced one. This is why it's crucial to think about the storage options when you choose the cot bed. Some cots come with additional storage options, including drawers beneath the bed or a top changer (available separately). Some are even able to be converted to a toddler or a small single bed, increasing their usefulness for a longer period of time.

Some cot beds can be adapted into a day bed, as seen here on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is an ideal option for those who prefer more flexible designs as the process of conversion is easy and only requires the removal of a side panel. This allows parents to save money on a separate bed.

A number of cot beds feature a hanging rail which can be used to store muslins dummies and other small items. This allows you to keep everything organised tidy, neat and tidy and also looks great. The ease of access to these items makes it much easier for parents to feed their infant.

A teething rail is an additional desired feature that is found in some cots. This will prevent your child from chewing on the cot's wooden structure, which can cause irritation. Some cots are designed with more traditional designs and include a large drawer under the bed that is ideal for storing blankets, toys, clothes and other baby necessities.

While this is a great crib option if you're in a tight space, you should keep in mind that you'll need to buy a separate extra drawer. You may need to buy an additional mattress and bedding, as oval sheets and mattresses don't come with the cot.

This sleigh cot bed by Stokke is a lovely example of Scandi-style at its best and comes with a massive under-bed storage drawer that's ideal for keeping all those baby necessities out of sight but easily reachable. Our panel found it very easy to put together, due to the alphabetically-labelled parts and clear instructions. It's suitable for babies as young as birth and can be transformed into a toddler bed once your child is ready, meaning it's good value too.