10 Things People Hate About Cot Beds
How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby
When you are expecting your first child, it is important to choose a cot that can provide security and safety for your baby. Find a cot with fixed sides (rather than drop-sides) that are in line with strict UK safety standards.
Our top pick is this simple yet elegant cot from John Lewis' Anyday range. It comes with three mattress height positions, teething rails as well as a storage drawer. It's also simple to put together with clear instructions.
Comfort
The most comfortable cot beds keep babies comfy and cosy. Find a comfortable soft and comfortable fabric. Make sure the mattress is snug to eliminate any gaps that could pose the danger of suffocation. There are many mattresses available on the market - foam, coil springs, natural materials for allergy sufferers - so do your research and choose the right one for your baby's needs.
No matter if you select an ordinary or convertible cot, the key to comfort is a good-quality mattress that provides proper support and promotes healthy posture. The same is true for the slats, which should be firmly attached and not bent or sagging. The slats must be securely fixed to the frame, so your child isn't stuck in them while they move in their sleep.
Ask your friends and family for recommendations, or read online reviews. Choose a mattress that is ventilated, as they'll aid in regulate temperature and are less likely to harbor bacteria.
There are many styles to choose from, including traditional sleighs with ornate details and modern, sleek designs. Some are even painted in vibrant primary colours, which is ideal when you want your baby to wake up bright and cheerful!
The majority of cots have 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 the growth of your baby. You can also buy a drop-side for babies who are small or have health issues that make it difficult to bend over.
For added peace of mind, search for a cot that complies with the strict UK safety standards and will easily convert into a toddler bed when the time is appropriate. This information is found in the product description and the specifications.
crib sets
When selecting a cot, the safety of your child's sleep should be a priority. Make sure the mattress is snug and has no gap between it and the cot/cot bed's sides or ends (big gaps could restrict your child's head or arms). Make sure it's solid and thin - more thick mattresses aren't advised since they could increase the risk of SIDS. There are many companies that offer a variety of mattresses, from simple foam to natural materials suitable for allergy sufferers. Some contain anti-microbial treatments. If your crib has an inclined side, make sure that it is in the up position and locked securely.
A drop side should be allowed to go down only if an adult is present - this prevents accidental releases. If your coffin has a solid bottom, avoid placing it against the wall since this will restrict airflow and can cause death in the coffin. The latest research suggests that slatted edges could be safer because they allow for more airflow.
If your cot is fixed on one side, choose it. It's the safest option for your baby as they start to crawl and then pull themselves upwards. If your child is confidently climbing and standing, it's time to upgrade to a junior bed.
Some cots come with a feature where the base can be raised to three different heights to allow it to grow with your child This is extremely convenient and an added security measure. Some cots have footplates that are adjustable, which is ideal for toddlers who wish to sit up in their beds.
When you put your child in their cot, check that there isn't any visible danger - it must be away from heat sources and windows, power points and blind cords and curtains (these can be strangulation hazards). When purchasing second-hand furniture, or heirlooms to look out for choking hazards such as stickers and transfers. These can peel off and cause danger.
If you're unsure of how to safely use your cot, consult other parents for help or go to an local NCT New Baby class. If your cot has instructions, read them carefully before you begin using it, and follow the safety-use guidelines carefully.
Style
This gorgeous cot bed, with its sleigh design will look fantastic in your nursery. Our panel was impressed by the mix of natural and white pine, as well as its smart features, including under-bed storage drawers to keep all the baby necessities like bedding, nappies and a dazzling assortment of baby clothes. It is also easy to put together with clear instructions and screws for each section. It can also be transformed into a bed for toddlers and a desk when your baby grows older (see the product description for details).
The rails for teething are among our top features. They prevent your baby from hitting their head against the crib's side or any other protruding part of the crib, like the handle or corner post. They also stop them from chewing the wood, and prevent them from being suffocated. There's also an opening that can be dropped to make it easier for access to your newborn. We love that the cot can be transformed into a toddler bed and that it's sturdy enough to last for up to four years. It also met the strict UK safety standards, which you'll find in the main specifications beneath each product.
Cot beds can be transformed into toddler beds in the event that your child is old enough. This lets you not have to buy a new bed when your child is ready to go up. They are more expensive than a crib.
If cheap cot beds is very small, a crib may be the best choice for you as it is smaller and takes up less space, but if your child is likely to spend much of their time in their parents' rooms or you want a longer-lasting bed, you should consider a cot.
A cot isn't suitable for babies to sleep in if it does not meet the strict UK safety standards outlined in BS EN 716 and BS 8509, which deals with mattresses' thicknesses, materials, and other key elements of baby cot mattresses. The slats must not be too far apart to stop your baby from falling off.
Stores
The amount of baby equipment you need is overwhelming, regardless of whether you're a new mom or an experienced one. This is the reason it's important to think about storage options when choosing a crib bed. Many cots come with additional storage solutions available like drawers under the bed or a coordinating cot top changer (available separately). Some cots can be converted into a toddler bed or small single bed to increase their use.
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 prefer an edgier design. The conversion is easy and requires only the removal of a single side panel. This allows parents to save money on a separate bed purchase.
Some cot beds come with a hanging rail that can be used to hang muslins, dolls and other small objects. This makes everything neat, tidy and organised. It also looks fantastic. These items are easily accessible to parents, making it easier for parents to feed their child.
Another feature worth looking for is a toothing rail that comes with some cots. This can prevent your little one chewing on the wood, which could cause irritation. Some cots are designed with more traditional designs and come with a large under-bed storage drawer that is perfect for storing toys, blankets clothes, and other baby necessities.
This is a great choice for those who have limited space, but you will have to purchase a drawer on your own. You might need to purchase a separate mattress and bedding, as oval mattresses and sheets do not come with the cot.
This sleigh cot bed from Stokke is a stunning example of Scandi-style in its finest and features a huge under-bed storage drawer that's perfect to keep all the baby necessities out of sight but within easy reach. The alphabetically labeled pieces and clear instructions made it easy to assemble our panel. It's suitable for infants from birth and can be transformed into a toddler bed when your child is ready, which means it's also a good value.