5 Killer Quora Answers To Cot Beds

How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby

If you're expecting a baby it is essential to select the right cot that is safe and secure for your little one. Find a cot with fixed sides (rather than drop-sides) that are in line with strict UK safety standards.

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

Comfort

The best crib newborn cot beds keep babies comfy and cosy. Look for a soft, comfortable fabric. Also, make sure that the mattress fits snugly to prevent any gaps which could cause an suffocation threat. There are many types of mattresses available, including coils springs, foam, and even natural materials for allergy sufferers. Do your research to determine the most suitable one for your child.

Whether you opt for an ordinary or convertible cot, the most important thing to ensure satisfaction is a high-quality mattress that provides proper support and encourages healthy posture. This is also true for the slats, which should be securely attached and not sagging or bent. The slats must be securely attached to the frame, so your little one doesn't get stuck in them while they move in their sleep.

If you're not sure what mattress to purchase, talk to friends and family or check online reviews for recommendations. Choose breathable mattresses, as they can help you regulate your body temperature and are less likely to hold bacteria.

There are a variety of styles to pick from, including traditional sleighs with ornate details and modern, sleek designs. Some are even painted in bold primary colours, which is ideal for those who want their little one to wake up feeling bright and content!

You'll find most cots have an under-bed drawer for storage and teething rails to guard your child from chewing on the sides of the cot, and adjustable height bases for baby growth. You can also purchase a drop side for smaller babies or those who have health issues that make it difficult for them to bend over.

For extra peace of mind, look for a cot that is compliant with the strict UK safety standards and can easily convert into a toddler bed when the time is right. Find this information in the product description or in the specifications.

Safety

A secure sleeping space is essential and a big consideration when choosing a crib. Make sure that the mattress is snug and has no gap between it and the cot's bed sides or ends (big gaps can keep your child's head from being caught in the arms). Make sure the mattress is firm and thin. Mattresses that are thick can increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies sell mattresses in a variety of materials from foam to natural materials that are great for those suffering from allergies. Some even have an anti-microbial treatment. If your cot has drop-sides, make sure it is secured and in the up position.

Drop sides should only be allowed to fall when an adult is in the room. This can prevent accidental releases. Avoid placing your cot on the wall if it is an end that is solid. This could restrict airflow, which can result in death of the coffin. According to the most recent research, cots with slatted ends could be safer as they allow for greater airflow.

If your cot is set to one side, you should choose it. It will be the safest option for your child when they begin to crawl and then pull themselves upwards. When your child is confidently climbing and standing, it's time to move to a junior bed.

Some cots come with an option where the base can be raised to three different levels, so that it will increase with your child's growth - this is very useful tots and cots is a safety measure. Some cots come with adjustable footplates that are perfect for toddlers who love to stand up.

Whenever you place your child in their cot, check that there isn't any visible danger. It must be kept away from heaters, power points, windows and curtains and blind cords (these are a strangulation hazard). If you're purchasing furniture that is second-hand or an heirloom be sure to look for any hazards to choking such as stickers and transfers that may be removed and create the risk of.

If you're unsure of what you should do to use your cot beds for sale, ask other parents for help or attend a local NCT New Baby class. If your cot comes with a guide be sure to go through it before using it and follow all the instructions.

Style

With its gorgeous sleigh style, this gorgeous crib will look stunning in your nursery. Our panel members loved the combination of natural and white pine, and its smart features, including under-bed storage drawers to keep everything necessary for babies, including nappies, bedding and a dazzling assortment of baby clothes. It is also easy to put together, with clear instructions and separate screws for each section. It can also be converted 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 child from hitting their head on the side of the crib or any protruding portion of the crib, such as the handle or corner post. They also prevent children from chewing on the wood and also preventing them from suffocating. The cot also has a drop-side for easier access to your infant. We are thrilled that the cot can be converted into a toddler bed and that it's strong 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 are usually larger than cribs and can be transformed into toddler beds when your child is ready and you can avoid buying another bed at an age when they're ready to move on. They may cost more than a crib.

If your nursery is small, you may want to consider a crib. It is smaller and takes less space. However it is recommended to consider a cot if you are planning on spending a lot of your baby's time in your room or if you require a bed that lasts longer, you should opt for a crib.

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

Storage

The amount of baby stuff you'll need is a mess whether you're a new parent or a seasoned one. This is the reason it's important to think about storage options when selecting the right cot bed. Many cots come with additional storage solutions available such as drawers in the under-bed or a coordinating cot top changer (available separately). Certain cots can be transformed into a toddler bed or small single beds to expand their usage.

Some cot beds can be further converted into a daybed like this one on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is a great option for those who prefer a less rigid design as the conversion process is fairly simple and involves the removal of a side panel. It also lets parents save money on a bed purchase.

A few cot beds feature a hanging rail which can be used to store muslins Dummies, and other small items. This helps to keep everything organised tidy and neat and also looks fantastic. Having easy access to these items will make it much easier for parents to feed their child.

A teething rail is a desirable feature that is included in some cots. This can help to stop your child from chewing on the wood that could cause them irritation. Some affordable cots feature more traditional designs and include a large storage drawer underneath the bed. It is perfect for clothes, toys blankets, baby necessities.

While this is a great option if you're short on space, it's important to keep in mind that you'll require a separate extra drawer. You may also need to purchase a different mattress and bedding as oval mattresses and sheets aren't typically included in the cot itself.

This sleigh-style cot bed is stunning example of Scandi style at its best cots for newborns. It has a large under-bed storage compartment that's ideal to keep all baby necessities out of sight but still easily accessible. Our panel was able to find it easy to put together thanks to alphabetically labelled parts and clear instructions. It's suitable for infants from birth and can be converted into a toddler bed once your child is ready, which means it's good value too.