Are The Advances In Technology Making Cot Beds Better Or Worse?

How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby

If you're expecting a baby, it's important to choose the right cot that is secure and safe for your little one. Look for a cot with fixed sides (rather than drop-sides), which comply with strict UK safety standards.

Our top pick is this basic but stylish coffin from John Lewis' Anyday range. It comes with three mattress positions, teething bars, and a storage drawer. It's also easy to assemble with clear instructions.

Comfort

The best Cot bed cot beds keep baby's warm and comfortable. Look for a soft and airy fabric, and ensure that the mattress is fitted snugly to avoid any gaps, which could cause the risk of suffocation. There are a variety of mattresses available: foam, coils springs, and natural materials for allergy-sufferers. Do your research to find the ideal mattress for your child.

Whatever you decide to use, whether a conventional cot or a convertible cot one, a comfortable mattress is vital to your the comfort. It must provide the right support and promote an ideal posture. This is also true for the slats. They should be securely attached and not bent or sagging. The slats must also be firmly attached to the frame so that your child does not get 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 suggestions. Make sure you choose a mattress that's breathable, as they'll help to regulate temperature and are less likely to harbor bacteria.

When it comes to style, there's a wide choice, from traditional sleigh styles with elaborate details to sleek, contemporary designs. Some are decorated with bright primary colors to make your child feel cheerful and cheerful as they wake up.

You'll find most cots have drawers underneath to store items and teething rails to guard your child from chewing on the sides of the cot, as well as adjustable height bases to accommodate baby's growth. You can also purchase an extra drop-side for babies that aren't big or have health issues that make it hard to bend over.

For added peace of mind, look for a cot that complies with the stringent UK safety standards and will easily convert into an infant bed when the time is appropriate. This information is available in the product description and key specifications.

Safety

When choosing a cot the safety of your child's sleep should be a priority. Make sure the mattress fits snugly, with no gaps between it and the cot's bed's sides or ends (big gaps could restrict your child's head or arms). Make sure the mattress is firm and thin. Mattresses that are thick could increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies offer mattresses in different materials, from foam to natural materials that are suitable for allergy sufferers. Some even have an anti-microbial treatment. If your cot features a drop-side, make sure it is secured and in the upward position.

A drop side should be allowed to fall when an adult is present; this will prevent accidental release. Do not place your cot against walls if it has an end that is solid. This could limit airflow, which could result in death of the coffin. The latest research suggests that slatted ends may be safer because they allow more airflow.

If your crib has a fixed side you should choose this because it's safer when your baby starts to crawl and pull themselves up. If your child is confidently climbing and standing, it's the time to move to a junior bed.

Some cots feature an option where the base can be raised to three different heights, so that it will grow with your child - this is very useful and is a security measure. Some affordable cots come with footplates that can be adjusted to suit for toddlers who want to stand up.

When you place your child's cot be sure that there aren't any obvious dangers. It should be placed away from any heaters or power points. Also make sure it is away from windows, curtains and blind cords. These can all present a strangulation threat. If you're buying furniture that is second-hand or an heirloom Be sure to check for potential choking hazards like stickers and transfers that can peel off and present danger.

If you're unsure of about how to use your cot, ask other parents for advice or take part in a local NCT New Baby beds class. If your cot comes with a guide be sure to go through it before using it and follow the directions.

Style

This stunning cot sets bed with its sleigh-style design will look amazing in your nursery. The panel was impressed by the combination of white and natural wood and the clever features like drawers under the bed for everything essential for babies, including bedding, nappies and a wide selection of baby clothes. It's also a breeze to put together, with concise instructions and separate packs of screws for each section. It can also be converted into a toddler's desk and bed when your child gets older (see the product description for more details).

One of our most loved features are the teething rails that protect your little one from bumping their head on the side of the Mini Cot Bed or any protruding parts of the cot, such as handles or a corner post, and which also help stop them chewing on the wood, preventing them from becoming in danger of being suffocated. The cot also has an opening that can be removed to make it easier for you to access your newborn. We love that it can be converted to a toddler bed, and that it is sturdy enough to last up to four years. It also meets the strict UK safety standards, which can be found in the main specifications beneath each product.

Cot beds are usually larger than cribs and can be transformed into toddler beds when your child is ready, allowing you to avoid purchasing a bed when they're ready to move on. However, they are more expensive upfront than a standard crib.

If your nursery isn't big enough, you might think about a crib. It is smaller and takes less space. However it is recommended to consider a cot if you are planning to spend a lot of your baby's time in your bedroom or if you require an item that lasts longer, you should choose a crib.

If a cot doesn't meet the UK safety standards outlined by BS EN 716 or BS 8509 (which covers mattress thicknesses, materials, and other important elements in baby mattresses for cots), it is unsafe for babies to sleep. The slats must not be too far apart to stop your child from falling out.

Stores

The amount of baby stuff you'll 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 the storage options when you choose the crib bed. Many cots come with additional storage options such as under-bed drawers or a coordinating cot top changer (available separately). Certain cots can be transformed into an infant bed or a small single bed to increase their use.

Some cots are able to be converted into day beds, like the one shown 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 only requires the removal of a single side panel. This allows parents to save on the cost of an additional bed.

Some cot beds come with a hanging rail that can be used to hang muslins, dummies and other small items. This helps keep everything neat, tidy and organized. It also looks fantastic. Being able to access these items will make it much easier for parents when feeding their infant.

A teething rail is a desired feature that is found in some cots. This can help to keep your baby from chewing on the wood which can cause irritation. Some cots feature more traditional designs and have a huge 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'll need to purchase a drawer on your own. You may also have to buy a new mattress and bedding since sheets and mattresses that are oval aren't usually included in the cot itself.

This sleigh-style cot is an exquisite illustration of Scandi style at its best cots. It features a huge under-bed storage compartment that's ideal for keeping all baby essentials out of sight but still easily accessible. The alphabetically labeled pieces and clear instructions made it easy to put together for our panel. It's suitable for babies from birth and can be transformed into a toddler bed when your child is ready. This means it's good value too.