10 Myths Your Boss Is Spreading About Cot Beds
How to Choose the Best cot for newborn Cot Beds for Your Baby
If you are expecting a child it is essential to choose a cot that will ensure safety and security for your baby. Find a cot which has fixed sides, rather than drop-sides. This will comply with UK safety standards.
This simple but stylish cot is our top choice from the Anyday range of John Lewis. It comes with three mattress positions, teething bars, and storage drawers. It's also simple to put together with clear instructions.
Comfort
The best cot newborn cot beds (Telegra blog post) keep baby's warm and comfortable. Look for a breathable soft and comfortable fabric. Make sure the mattress fits snugly, to eliminate any gaps that could cause the danger of the mattress becoming suffocated. There are a variety of mattresses available - foam, coils springs, and even natural materials for allergy sufferers. Do your research to find the most suitable one for your child.
No matter if you select a standard or convertible cot, the key to satisfaction is a high-quality mattress that is supportive and promotes healthy posture. The slats need to be secured and not sagging. The slats should also be firmly attached to the frame to ensure that your child does not be caught when they move during sleep.
If you're not sure what mattress to purchase, talk to your family members or friends or look up online reviews for recommendations. Choose mattresses that are breathable, as they can help regulate your body temperature, and are less likely to harbor bacteria.
There are a variety of styles to choose from, including traditional sleighs with intricate details and modern, sleek designs. Some are even painted with bold primary colours which is great if you want your child to wake up bright and content!
Most cots come with drawers underneath to store items, teething rails to protect your baby 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 smaller babies or those who have medical conditions that make it difficult to bend over.
Look for a cot which is compliant with the strict UK safety standards and is able to be easily transformed into a toddler's bed when it's time. This information is found in the product description and key specifications.
Safety
When choosing a cot the safety of your child's sleep should be a priority. The mattress should be snugly fitted and there should be no gaps between the mattress and the edges or sides of the cot or cot-bed (large gaps can restrict the child's arms or head). Verify that the mattress is firm and thin. Thicker mattresses aren't advised as they may increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies sell mattresses in various materials from foam to natural materials that are suitable for allergy sufferers. Some even have an anti-microbial treatment. If your cot features drop-sides, ensure that it is locked and in the upward position.
A drop side should only be allowed to drop only if an adult is present; to prevent accidental release. If your cot has a solid end, avoid placing it against the wall because this will restrict airflow and could cause coffin death. The latest research suggests that slatted ends could be safer because they allow more airflow.
If your cot has a fixed side, opt for this as it is the most secure option when your child begins to crawl and then pull themselves up. When your child is confidently standing and climbing, this is a sign they're ready to move into a junior bed.
Some cots have an option that allows the base to be raised to three levels. This is a wonderful safety measure and enables your child's cot sales to expand with them. Some cots also have adjustable footplates, which are ideal for toddlers wanting to sit up in their bed.
When you place your child's cot, make sure there are no visible hazards. It should be placed away from power and heater points. Also be sure to keep it away from windows, curtains and blind cords. All of these could present a strangulation threat. When buying second-hand furniture or heirlooms, make 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're unsure of how to use your cot in a safe manner consult other parents or attend a local NCT New Baby course for assistance and guidance. If your cot comes with a guide, make sure you read it before using it and follow all the directions.
Style
This gorgeous cot bed, with its sleigh design will look stunning in your nursery. The panel was awed by the mix of natural wood and white and the clever features like under-bed storage drawers that can hold everything essential for babies, including bedding, nappies, and a huge selection of baby clothes. It's also easy to put together, with clear instructions and separate screws for each section. It could also be transformed into a toddler desk and bed as your child gets older (see the product description for more details).
The teething rails are one of our favorite features. They stop your child from hitting their head against the side of the crib or any protruding part of the crib, like the corner post or handle. They also prevent them from chewing on the wood and preventing them from getting suffocated. It also has a drop-side to allow easier access to your baby. We love that the cot can be converted into a toddler bed, and that it's strong enough to last up to four years. It also complies with the stringent UK safety standards, which can be found in the key specs beneath each product.
Cot beds are generally bigger than cribs and can be transformed into toddler beds when your child is ready which means you don't have to worry about purchasing a new bed when they're ready for the transition. They are more expensive than cribs.
If your nursery is very small, a crib may be the best choice for you since 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'd like a more long-lasting bed, opt for 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 deals with mattresses' thicknesses, materials, and other essential elements of cot mattresses for baby. The slats must not be too wide apart to stop your baby from falling out.
Stores
No matter if you're a first-time parent or an experienced one the amount of things a baby needs is staggering. This is why it's crucial to think about storage options when selecting a cot bed. Some cots come with additional storage options, including drawers underneath the bed or a top changer (available separately). Some can be transformed to a toddler or a small single bed, which can extend their use for a longer time.
Some cots can be transformed into day beds, as seen on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is an excellent option for those who like the flexibility of a design. The conversion is easy and requires only the removal of ONE side panel. This also allows parents to save money on a bed purchase.
A variety of cot beds come with a hanging rail which can be used to store muslins dummies and other small items. This makes everything tidy, neat and organized. It also looks great. These items are easily accessible to parents which makes it easier for them to feed their baby.
A teething rail is another desirable feature that is included in some cots. This can help to prevent your little one chewing on the wood which could cause irritation. Some cots have more traditional designs and include a large storage drawer under the bed that is ideal for toys, clothes blankets, baby essentials.
This is a great solution when space is a problem, but you will have to purchase a drawer separately. It is also possible to purchase a different mattress and bedding as oval mattresses and sheets aren't usually included in the cot itself.
This sleigh cot bed by Stokke is a beautiful example of the Scandi-style at its finest and comes with a massive under-bed storage drawer that's perfect for keeping all those baby's essentials out of view but still within reach. Our panel was able to find it easy to put together thanks to alphabetically labelled parts and clear instructions. It is suitable for babies as young as birth and can be converted into a toddler's bed when your child's ready.