What s Holding Back From The Cot Beds Industry
How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby
If you're expecting a child, it's important to choose a cot that's safe and secure for your little one. Find a cot which has fixed sides instead of drop-sides. This will comply with UK safety standards.
This minimalist, stylish coffin is our top pick from the Anyday range by John Lewis. It has three mattress positions, teething bars, and storage drawers. It is also simple to put together and comes with clear instructions.
Comfort
The best cots for newborns cot beds keep babies comfy and cosy. Choose a soft, comfortable fabric. Also, make sure that the mattress is fitted snugly to avoid any gaps, which could pose the risk of suffocation. There are a range of mattresses available including coil springs, foam and other natural materials suitable for allergy sufferers. So do your research before deciding on the right one for your baby's requirements.
No matter if you choose a conventional cot or a convertible the mattress is essential to ease of use. It should provide proper support and encourage an upright posture. The same applies to the slats, which must be securely attached and not sagging or bent. The slats must also be securely attached to the frame, so your little one doesn't get trapped in them while moving during sleep.
If you're unsure of the mattress to buy, consult your family members or friends or look up online reviews for suggestions. Make sure you choose a mattress that's ventilated, as they'll aid in to regulate temperature and are less likely to harbor bacteria.
When it comes to style there's a broad selection of styles, from traditional sleigh designs with intricate detailing to sleek, modern designs. Some are even painted with vibrant primary colours which is perfect if you want your baby to wake up feeling bright and content!
The majority of cots have a drawer for storage underneath, teething rails that prevent your child from chewing on the sides of the cot, and height bases that can be adjusted to accommodate your child's growth. You can even purchase drop sides for small babies or those who have medical conditions that make it difficult for them to bend over.
For extra peace of mind, look for a cot that complies with the strict UK safety standards and will easily transform into a toddler bed when the time is appropriate. This information is found in the product description as well as the key specifications.
Safety
When choosing a cot an environment that is safe for sleeping should be the top ranked cribs priority. Make sure that the mattress is snugly fitted, with no gap between it and the cot's bed's sides or ends (big gaps can keep your child's head from being caught in the arms). Verify that the mattress is not too firm and thin. Mattresses that are too thick could increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies offer a range of mattresses, ranging from basic foam to natural substances for allergy sufferers and some even have anti-microbial treatment. If your mattress has an inclined side, make sure it is in the upward position and secured.
Drop sides should only be permitted down only when an adult is present in the room. This will prevent accidental release. If your coffin has a solid bottom do not place it against the wall as it can block airflow and may contribute to death in the coffin. The latest research suggests that slatted ends may be safer since they allow more airflow.
If your crib has a fixed side choose this option as it will be safest when your child starts to crawl and climb up. Once your child is confidently standing and climbing, it is a sign that they are ready to transition into the junior bed.
Some cots have an option where the base can be raised to three different heights, so that it will grow with your child - this is very convenient and an added security measure. Some cots have adjustable footplates, which are ideal for toddlers wanting to sit up in their beds.
When you place your child's cot, make sure there are no visible hazards. It should be put away from power and heater points. Also make sure it is away from windows, curtains and blind cords. They all could create strangulation risks. If you're purchasing second-hand or heirloom furniture, check for choking hazards like stickers and transfers that may peel off and present the risk of.
If you're not sure what you should do to use your cot, consult other parents for advice or attend a local NCT New Baby class. If your cot comes with a manual ensure that you read it before using it and follow all the directions.
Style
With its beautiful sleigh design This stunning cot bed will look great in your nursery. Our panel members loved the mix of white and natural pine, as well as its smart features, including drawers under the bed to store all those baby essentials like nappies, bedding and a dazzling variety of baby outfits. It's also easy to assemble with clear instructions and separate packs of screws for each section. It can also be converted into a toddler desk and bed as your child gets older (see the product description for more information).
The rails for teething are one of our favorite features. They prevent your baby from hitting their head against the side of the crib or any other protruding part of the crib, like the corner post or handle. They also prevent them from chewing on the wood and also preventing them from being suffocated. It also features drop-sides to allow parents to reach their newborn. We are thrilled that it can be converted into 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 key specs below each product.
Cot beds can be converted into toddler beds when your child is old enough. This allows you to avoid purchasing a new bed as your child gets ready to go up. They can be more expensive than a crib.
If your nursery is small, you might want to consider a crib. It is smaller and occupies less space. However should you be planning on spending a lot of your baby's time in your bedroom, or if you need an item that lasts longer, you should opt for 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 refers to mattress thicknesses, materials, and other key elements in baby mattresses for best cots) It is unsafe for babies to sleep. The slats must not be too far apart, to ensure that your baby won't fall out.
Storage
The amount of baby stuff you need is overwhelming, regardless of whether you're a first-time parent or an experienced one. This is why it's essential to think about storage options when choosing the cot bed. Many cots come with additional storage solutions available such as under-bed drawers or a coordinating top changer (available separately). Some are even able to be converted to a toddler or a small single bed, which can extend their usefulness for a longer period of time.
Some cot beds can be transformed into a daybed as shown on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is an ideal option for those who prefer more flexible designs as the conversion process is simple and requires just the removal of one side panel. This lets parents save money on an additional bed.
A number of cot beds feature a hanging rail which can be used to store muslins Dummies, and other small items. This helps to keep everything organized tidy, neat and tidy and also looks fantastic. The ease of access to these items will make it much easier for parents when feeding their baby.
Another thing to look for is a toothing rail that is available with cots. This will prevent your child from chewing on the cot's wooden structure, which could cause irritation. Some cots are designed in an older style and come with a large drawer under the bed that is perfect for storing toys, blankets, clothes and other baby necessities.
This is a great option if space is an issue however, you will need to purchase a drawer separately. It is also possible to purchase a different mattress and bedding, as oval mattresses and sheets aren't typically included in the cot.
This sleigh cot bed from Stokke is a lovely 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 easily reachable. Our panel was able to find it easy to put together thanks to the alphabetically labeled parts and clear instructions. It's suitable for babies from birth and can be converted into a toddler's bed once your child's ready.