The Advanced Guide To Cot Beds
How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby
When you are expecting a child, it is important 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 comply with UK safety standards.
This simple but elegant cot is our top choice from the Anyday range of John Lewis. It comes with three mattress positions, teething bars and a storage drawer. It is also easy to assemble, with clear instructions.
Comfort
cots and tots keeps children comfortable and warm. Choose a breathable soft, soft fabric. Make sure the mattress fits snugly, to avoid any gaps that could create a risk of suffocation. There are many types of mattresses available, including coils springs, foam, and natural materials for allergy-sufferers. Do your research to find the most suitable one for your child.
If you choose a standard or convertible cot, the key to comfort is a mattress of high-quality that is supportive and encourages healthy posture. The slats must be securely attached and not sagging. The slats should also be secured to the frame so that your child isn't trapped in them while moving during sleep.
If you're unsure of the mattress to buy, ask your family and friends or consult online reviews for suggestions. Look for ones that are ventilated, as they'll aid in maintain temperature and are less likely to be a home for bacteria.
When it comes to style there's a variety of styles of styles, from traditional sleigh designs with ornate detailing to sleek, modern designs. Some are even painted in bold primary colours which is great for those who want their child to wake up feeling bright and content!
The majority of cots have an under-bed storage drawer and teething rails that stop your child from chewing on the sides of the cot and height bases that are adjustable to accommodate your child's growth. You can even buy a drop side for smaller babies or those with health issues that make it difficult for them to bend over.
Find a cot that is compliant with the strict UK safety standards and is easily transformed into a toddler's cot when it is time. This information can be found in the product description as well as the specifications.
Safety
When selecting a cot, an environment that is safe for sleeping is a must. The mattress should be snugly fitted and there shouldn't be gaps between the mattress and the edges or sides of the cot or cot-bed (large gaps can hold the child's arms and 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 allergy sufferers. 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 fall only when an adult is present; this will prevent accidental release. Do not place your cot against the wall if it is a solid end. This could restrict airflow, which can cause death in the coffin. The latest research suggests that slatted ends may be safer because they allow more airflow.
If your cot is set on one side, then you can choose it. It's the most secure option for your child when they begin to crawl and pull themselves up. Once your child is standing and climbing, this is a sign that they're ready to transition into a junior bed.
Some cots come with a feature that allows the base to be raised up to three different levels. This is a great security measure that allows your child's cot to expand with the child. Some cots feature adjustable footplates that are perfect for toddlers who want to stand up.
When you put your child in their cot, make sure that there isn't any visible danger - it must be away from heat sources or windows, power points and curtains and blind cords (these are a strangulation hazard). When buying second-hand furniture or heirlooms, be sure to check for dangers to your child's health such as stickers and transfers. These can peel off and create a risk.
If you're not sure what you should do to use your cot, consult other parents for help or take part in an local NCT New Baby class. If your cot has an instruction manual, read it carefully before you start using it, and then follow the safe-use instructions closely.
Style
This stunning cot bed with its sleigh design will look fantastic in your nursery. Our panel loved the combination of natural and white pine, and its innovative features, like drawers under the bed to store everything necessary for babies, including nappies, bedding and a dazzling variety of baby outfits. It's also simple to build, 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).
One of our most loved features are the teething rails which protect your baby from smacking their head against the cot's side or any protruding parts of the cot like handles or a corner post. They can also stop them from chewing on the wood, which prevents them from getting in danger of being suffocated. It also features drop-sides to allow parents to reach their newborn. We are thrilled that it can be converted into a toddler bed, and it is sturdy enough to last for up to four years. It also met the strict UK safety standards, which are listed in the key specs beneath each product.
Cot beds can be converted into toddler beds in the event that your child is old enough. This allows you to avoid purchasing a new bed when your child is ready to move up. However, they are pricier upfront than a standard crib.
If your nursery is very small, a crib could be the best choice for you as it is smaller and takes up less space, but if your baby is likely to spend much of their time in their parents' rooms or you want a longer-lasting bed, consider a cot.
A cot isn't suitable 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 covers the thickness of mattresses, the materials used and other essential elements of baby cot mattresses. The slats shouldn't be too wide apart to prevent your baby from falling off.
Stores
If you're a new parent or a veteran the amount of things that a baby requires is overwhelming. online cots is important to think about storage when choosing a cot-bed. Some cots come with additional storage options, such as drawers underneath the bed or a coordinating top changer (available separately). Some can even be adapted into a toddler or small single bed, extending their usefulness for a longer period of time.
Some cot beds can be further converted 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 fairly simple and involves the removal of one side panel. This allows parents to save money on a bed purchase.
A number of cot beds feature hanging rails that can be used to store muslins, dummies and other small items. This allows you to keep everything organised tidy, neat and tidy - and it also looks fantastic. These items are easily accessible to parents which makes it easier for them to feed their baby.
Another feature worth looking out for is a teething rail that comes in a few cots. This will prevent your child from chewing on the wooden cot, which can cause irritation. Some cots are designed with more traditional designs and have a huge under-bed storage drawer which is perfect for storing blankets, toys clothes, and other baby necessities.
While this is a great option if you're in a tight space, you should keep in mind that you'll have to purchase an extra drawer. It is also possible to purchase a different mattress and bedding, as oval mattresses and sheets aren't typically included in the cot itself.
This sleigh cot bed by Stokke is a stunning example of Scandi-style in its finest and features a huge under-bed storage drawer that's ideal to keep all the baby's essentials out of view but easily reachable. The alphabetically labeled pieces and clear instructions made it simple to assemble our panel. It's suitable for babies from birth and can be transformed into a toddler bed once your child is ready, which means it's also a good value.