Are You Getting The Most Out You 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 provide safety and security for your baby. Choose a cot that has fixed sides (rather than drop-sides), which comply with strict UK safety standards. This minimalist, stylish coffin is our top choice from the Anyday range of John Lewis. It comes with three mattress positions, teething bars, and a storage drawer. It's also simple to put together with clear instructions. Comfort The best cot bed keeps infants comfortable and warm. Find a comfortable, soft fabric. Make sure that the mattress fits snugly, to avoid any gaps that could pose the risk of the mattress becoming suffocated. There are many types of mattresses available, including coils springs, foam and natural materials for allergy sufferers. Do your research to determine the ideal mattress for your child. No matter if you choose a conventional cot or a convertible the mattress is essential to the comfort. It should provide proper support and encourage an ideal posture. The same applies to the slats, which must be securely attached and not sagging or bent. The slats should also be securely attached to the frame, so that your child isn't stuck in them while they move in their sleep. If you're not sure which mattress to buy, ask your family and friends or consult online reviews for suggestions. Select mattresses that are breathable, since they can help you regulate your body temperature and are less likely to harbor bacteria. When it comes to fashion there's a variety of styles, from traditional sleigh styles with elaborate detailing to sleek, modern designs. Some are even painted with bold primary colours which is perfect when you want your child to wake up feeling fresh and happy! Most cots come with a drawer for storage underneath, teething rails that prevent your child from chewing the sides of the cot, and height bases that can be adjusted to accommodate baby's growth. You can even buy a drop side for smaller infants or those with medical conditions that make it difficult for them to bend over. Find a cot that is compliant with the strict UK safety standard and is able to be easily transformed into a toddler's cot when it is time. This information is available in the product description as well as the specifications. Safety A safe and secure sleeping environment is an essential aspect to consider when choosing a bed. The mattress should fit snugly and there shouldn't be gaps between the mattress and the ends 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 could increase the risk of SIDS. There are many companies that offer a variety of mattresses, ranging from basic foam to natural materials for allergy sufferers. Some have anti-microbial treatment. If your cot features a drop-side, make sure it is secured and in the up position. A drop side should only be allowed to fall only if an adult is present, this will prevent accidental release. Do not place your cot against the wall if it is an end that is solid. This can restrict airflow, which can result in death of the coffin. According to the latest research, slatted end cots may be safer because they allow for more airflow. If nursery cots has a fixed edge, opt for this as it's safer when your child begins to crawl and climb up. If your child is climbing with confidence and standing, it's the time to move to a junior bed. Some cots are equipped with a feature that allows the base to be raised up to three levels. This is a wonderful security measure that allows your child's cot to expand with the child. Some cots have footplates that are adjustable, which is ideal for toddlers wanting to sit up in their beds. When you put your child in their cot, make sure that there isn't any visible danger. It must be kept away from heaters, windows, power points and blind cords and curtains (these pose a strangulation risk). When buying second-hand furniture or heirlooms to look out for potential hazards to your child's safety such as labels and transfers. They may peel off and create a risk. If you're unsure about how to use your cot in a safe manner consult parents around or go to a local NCT New Baby course for support and advice. If your crib comes with a manual be sure to go through it before using it and follow all the instructions. Style With its stunning sleigh design This stunning cot bed will look great in your nursery. The panel was awed by the mix of natural and white wood, as well as the clever features such as under-bed storage drawers that can hold all baby essentials, like bedding, nappies, and a huge selection of baby clothes. It's also easy to construct with clear instructions and screws for each section. Additionally, it can be transformed into a toddler bed and desk when your child gets older (see the product description for more details). One of our most loved features are the teething rails, which shield your baby from smacking their head against the side of the cot or any other protruding parts of the cot like a handle or a corner post, and which will also stop them from chewing on the wood, which prevents them from becoming trapped. There's also a drop-side to allow easier access to your infant. We love that the cot can be transformed into a toddler bed and that it's strong enough to last for four years. It also met strict UK safety standards. These are listed in the main specifications below each product. Cot beds can be turned into toddler beds in the event that your child is old enough. This allows you to not have to buy a new bed when your child's ready to make the leap. However, they can be more expensive upfront than the crib that is standard. If your nursery is small, a crib may be the best option for you as it is smaller and occupies less space. However, if your baby is likely to spend most of the time in their parents' bedroom or you're looking for a more durable bed, you should consider a crib. If the cot you are using does not meet the UK safety standards outlined by BS EN 716 or BS 8509 (which cover mattress thicknesses, materials and other important elements in baby mattresses for cots), it is unsafe for babies to sleep. The slats shouldn't be too wide apart to stop your baby from falling off. Storage The amount of baby gear you'll need is overwhelming whether you're a new parent or an experienced one. It's crucial to think about storage when choosing a cot-bed. A number of cots have additional storage options like drawers under the bed or a coordinating cot top changer (available separately). Some are even able to be converted into a toddler or small single bed, increasing their use for a longer time. Some cot beds can be adapted into a day bed like this one on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is a great choice for those who prefer more flexible designs as the process of conversion is easy and only requires the removal of a side panel. It also lets parents save money on a separate bed. A number of cot beds come with hanging rails that can be used to store muslins, Dummies, and other small items. This makes it easier to keep everything organized, neat and tidy – and it also looks amazing. These items are easily accessible to parents and make it easier for parents to feed their child. Another desirable feature to look for is a toothing rail that is available with cots. This can help to stop your child from chewing on the wood, which could cause irritation. Some cots come with an older style and include a large storage drawer underneath the bed that is ideal for clothes, toys, blankets and other baby essentials. This is a great option if space is an issue however, you will need to purchase a drawer separately. You might need to purchase a separate mattress and bedding since oval sheets and mattresses don't come with the cot. This sleigh-style cot bed stunning example of Scandi style at its finest. It features a huge under-bed storage area that is ideal to keep baby's essentials out-of-sight but within easy access. Our panel found it very straightforward 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's crib when your child's ready.