20 Resources That Will Make You Better At Cot Beds

How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby

When you are expecting a child it is essential to select a cot which will provide safety and security for your baby. Find a cot which has fixed sides instead of drop-sides. This will be in line with UK safety standards.

Our top rated cots pick is this simple yet elegant cot from John Lewis' Anyday range. It comes with three mattress positions, teething bars and a storage drawer. It's also easy to set up with clear instructions.

Comfort

The best cot bed cot beds keep children warm and cozy. Choose a soft, comfortable fabric. Also, make sure that the mattress is snug to prevent any gaps which could pose the risk of suffocation. There are a range of mattresses on the market including coil springs, foam, natural materials for allergy sufferers. So do your research before deciding on the one that is suitable for your baby's requirements.

No matter if you choose a conventional cot or a convertible one, a comfortable mattress is crucial to ensure your ease of use. It should provide proper support and promote a healthy posture. This is also true for the slats. They should be secured and not sagging or bent. The slats need to be securely connected to the frame so that your child does not be caught when they move during sleep.

Ask your family and friends for recommendations or look at online reviews. Make sure you choose a mattress that's breathable, as they'll help to regulate temperature and are less likely to be a home for bacteria.

There are a variety of styles to pick from that include traditional sleighs with elaborate details and modern, sleek designs. Some are painted in vibrant primary colors to make your child feel joyful and cheerful as they awake.

There are a lot of cots that have a drawer underneath for storage as well as teething rails that protect your baby from chewing on the sides of the cot, as well as adjustable height bases to accommodate cheap baby cots for sale's growth. You can also buy an extra drop-side for babies that aren't tall enough or suffer from health issues that make it hard to bend over.

Look for a cot which meets the strict UK safety standard and is easily transformed into a toddler's cot when it's time. Look for this information in the description or in the specifications.

Safety

When choosing a cot the safety of your child's sleep is a must. The mattress should be able to fit snugly and there should be no gaps between the mattress and the sides or ends of the cot/cot-bed (large gaps can restrict the child's arms or head). Check that it's firm and thin - thicker mattresses aren't advised because they can increase the risk of SIDS. There are many companies that offer mattresses made of various materials including foam and natural materials that are suitable for those suffering from allergies. Some have anti-microbial treatment. If your crib has a drop side, ensure it is in the upward position and locked securely.

A drop side should only be allowed to fall only when an adult is present; this prevents accidental release. Do not place your cot against a wall if it has an end that is solid. This could hinder airflow and could lead to coffin death. According to the most recent research, cots with slatted ends could be safer as they allow for more airflow.

If your cot is fixed to one side, you should choose it. It's the safest option for your baby when they begin to crawl and pull themselves upward. Once your child is confidently standing and climbing, it is a sign they're ready to transition into the junior bed.

Some cots are equipped with an option that allows the base to be raised to three levels. This is a great safety measure and enables the cot of your child to grow with the child. Some cots come with footplates that can be adjusted to suit for toddlers who love to stand up.

When placing your child's cot be sure that there are no visible hazards. It should be kept away from power and heater points. Also, keep it away from windows, curtains, and blind cords. They all could present a strangulation threat. 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 can come off and pose a danger.

If you are unsure how to safely use your cot, consult other parents for advice or take part in a local NCT New Baby class. If your cot comes with a manual, read it carefully before you begin using it, and then follow the safe-use instructions closely.

Style

This gorgeous cot bed, with its sleigh-style design will look amazing in your nursery. Our panel members loved the mix of white and natural pine, and its innovative features, like under-bed storage drawers that can hold everything necessary for babies, including nappies, bedding, and a stunning variety of baby outfits. It's also simple to put together with clear instructions and separate sets of screws for each section. It could also be transformed into a toddler desk and bed when your child gets older (see product description for more details).

One of our favorite features is the teething rails which protect your little one from bumping their head against the side of the cot or any protruding parts of the cot, such as a handle or a corner post, and which can also stop them from chewing on the wood, which prevents them from becoming trapped. There's also drop-sides to allow you to access your newborn. We appreciate that it is able to be converted to 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 specifications that are listed under each product.

Cot beds are generally bigger than cribs and can be transformed into toddler beds once your child is ready which means you don't have to worry about purchasing a new bed when they're ready to move on. They are more expensive than cribs.

If your nursery is small, a crib could be the best choice for you as it is smaller and takes up less space, but should your baby be expected to spend most of the time in their parents' room or you're looking for a more durable bed, you should consider a crib.

A crib 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 mattresses' thicknesses, materials, and other essential elements of cot mattresses for babies. The slats shouldn't be too far apart, to ensure your baby doesn't fall off.

Stores

The amount of baby equipment you'll need is a mess regardless of whether you're a first-time parent or a seasoned one. This is why it's crucial to consider storage options when selecting the right cot bed. Some cots have additional storage options, like drawers underneath the bed 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 use for a longer time.

Some cots are able to be converted into day beds, as seen on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is a great option for those who prefer a less rigid design as the conversion process is easy and only requires the removal of one side panel. It also lets parents save money on a separate bed purchase.

Some cot beds are equipped with a hanging rail that can be used to hang muslins and dummies along with other small items. This helps keep everything neat, tidy and organized. It also looks fantastic. These items are easily accessible to parents and make it easier for parents to feed their child.

Another desirable feature to look out for is a teething rail that comes with some cots. This will stop your child from chewing on the cot's wooden structure, which can cause irritation. Some cots come with an older style and come with a large storage drawer beneath the bed. It is perfect for toys, clothes blankets, baby essentials.

While this is a great idea for when you're running out of space, you must keep in mind that you'll require a separate additional drawer. You may also need to buy a new mattress and bedding, as sheets and mattresses that are oval aren't usually included in the cot itself.

This sleigh-style Mini Cot Bed bed is a beautiful example of Scandi style at its finest. It has a large under-bed storage compartment that's ideal for keeping all baby essentials away from view but easily accessible. The alphabetically labeled parts and clear instructions made it simple to assemble our panel. It's suitable for babies as young as birth and can be converted into a toddler's bed once your child is ready.