Five Killer Quora Answers On Cot Beds
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 secure and safe for your little one. Look for a cot sales with fixed sides (rather than drop-sides) that are in line with strict UK safety standards.
This slick and elegant coffin is our top pick from the Anyday collection by John Lewis. It comes with three mattress positions, teething bars and an storage drawer. It is also simple to put together and comes with clear instructions.
Comfort
The best baby cots cot beds keep babies comfy and cosy. Find a comfortable soft and comfortable fabric. Make sure that the mattress fits snugly, to prevent any gaps that could cause the danger of the mattress becoming suffocated. There are a variety of mattresses available on the market that include coil springs, foam and natural materials for allergy sufferers - so do your research and choose the right one for your baby's requirements.
It doesn't matter if you pick a standard cot or a convertible one, a comfortable mattress is vital to your the comfort. It must provide the right support and promote an ideal posture. The slats must be firmly attached, and not sagging. The slats must also be securely attached to the frame, so that your child doesn't get caught in them when moving during sleep.
Ask your family and friends for recommendations or browse online reviews. Choose a mattress that is air-conditioned, as they'll help maintain temperature and are less likely to harbour bacteria.
When it comes to style, there's a wide choice from classic sleigh styles with intricate detailing to sleek, modern designs. Some are decorated with bright primary colors to make your child feel joyful and cheerful as they awake.
Most cots come with drawers underneath to store items, teething rails to protect your child from chewing on the sides of the cot, as well as adjustable height bases to accommodate baby's growth. You can also purchase a drop side for petite babies or those with health issues that make it difficult for them to bend over.
Find a cot that meets the strict UK safety standards and can easily be transformed into a toddler's cot when it is time. This information can be found in the product description as well as the 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 edges or sides of the cot or cot-bed (large gaps can trap the child's arms or head). Make sure the mattress is firm and thin. Thick mattresses can increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies offer a range of mattresses, from simple foam to natural substances for allergy sufferers and some even come with anti-microbial treatment. If your cot has a drop-side, make sure it is secured and in the upward position.
Drop sides should only be allowed to fall when an adult is present in the room. This can prevent accidental release. If your cot has a solid end be sure to avoid placing it against the wall as it will block airflow and can cause death in the coffin. Recent research suggests that slatted ends may be safer as they allow for more airflow.
If your cot has a fixed side choose this option as it will be safest when your child begins to crawl and pull themselves up. When your child is standing and climbing, it is a sign they're ready to transition into a junior bed.
Some cots have an option where the base can be raised to three different heights, so that it will increase with your child's growth which is extremely useful and is a safety measure. Some cots have footplates that can be adjusted to suit for toddlers who love to stand up.
When you put your child in their cot, check that there isn't any visible danger - it must be kept away from heaters and power points, windows, blind cords and curtains (these pose a strangulation risk). If you're purchasing second-hand or heirloom furniture be sure to look for any hazards to choking such as stickers and transfers that can be removed and create a risk.
If you are unsure how to safely use your cot, consult other parents for help or go to an local NCT New Baby class. If your cot has an instruction manual, read it carefully before you start using it, and be sure to follow the safety guidelines closely.
Style
With its stunning sleigh design This stunning cot bed will look great 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 those cheap baby cots essentials like nappies, bedding, and a dazzling array of baby outfits. It's also easy to construct, with clear instructions and separate screws for each section. What's more, it can be transformed into a toddler bed and desk as your baby gets older (see the product description for more details).
The rails for teething are one of our favorite features. They keep your child from hitting their head against the side of the crib or any other protruding part of the crib, such as the corner post or handle. They also prevent them from chewing on the wood and also preventing them from getting suffocated. There's also an opening that can be removed to make it easier for you to access your newborn. We appreciate that the cot could be converted into a toddler bed, and that it's built to last up to four years. It also met the strict UK safety standards, which are listed in the key specs beneath each product.
Cot beds are usually larger than cribs and can be converted into toddler beds when your child is ready, allowing you to avoid purchasing a new bed when they're ready to move on. However, they can be pricier upfront than the crib that is standard.
If your nursery cots is small, you may want to consider a crib. It is smaller and occupies less space. However, if you plan on spending a lot of your baby's time in your bedroom or if you require an item that lasts longer, you should opt for a crib.
A cot isn't safe for babies to sleep in if it does not meet the strict UK safety standards set out in BS EN 716 and BS 8509, which deals with the thickness of mattresses, the materials used and other key elements of cot mattresses for babies. The slats should not be too far apart to prevent your baby from falling out.
Stores
The amount of baby equipment you'll need is a mess whether you're a new parent or a seasoned one. This is the reason it's important to consider the storage options when you choose a crib bed. Many cots come with additional storage options such as drawers in the under-bed or a coordinating top changer (available separately). Some can be transformed into a toddler bed or a single bed, extending their use for a longer time.
Some cot beds can be adapted into a day bed as shown on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is an excellent option for those who prefer a more flexible design. The conversion is simple and requires only the removal of one side panel. It also lets parents save money on a separate bed.
A variety of cot beds come with a hanging rail which can be used to store muslins dolls and other small objects. This makes everything neat, tidy and organized. It also looks great. These items are easily accessible to parents which makes it easier for parents to feed their child.
A teething rail is another desirable feature that is included in some cots. This will help prevent your little one chewing on the wood that could cause them irritation. Some cots are designed with a more traditional style and have a huge under-bed storage drawer that is perfect for storing blankets, toys, clothes and other baby essentials.
This is a great choice for those who have limited space but you'll need to purchase a drawer separately. You may also have to purchase a different 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 lovely example of Scandi-style at its best and has a huge under-bed storage drawer that's perfect to keep all the baby's essentials out of view but easily reachable. Our panel of experts found it easy to put together, thanks to the alphabetically labeled parts and clear instructions. It is suitable for babies as young as birth, and can be transformed into a toddler's crib when your child is ready.