The Best Way To Explain Cot Beds To Your Boss
How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby
When you are expecting a baby it is essential to choose a cot that will ensure safety and security for your baby. Look for a cot that has fixed sides instead of drop-sides. This will be in line with UK safety standards.
Our top pick is this simple yet stylish coffin from John Lewis' Anyday range. It has three mattress height positions, teething rails as well as a storage drawers. It is also easy to put together, and comes with clear instructions.
Comfort
The best cot mattress keeps babies comfortable and cozy. Choose a breathable, soft fabric. Make sure that the mattress is snug to prevent any gaps that could create a risk of suffocation. There are a range of mattresses available on the market including coil springs, foam and natural materials for allergy sufferers, so do your research and choose the right one for your baby's needs.
Whether you opt for a standard or convertible cot, the key to comfort is a good-quality mattress that is supportive and promotes a healthy posture. The same applies to the slats, which should be securely attached and not bent or sagging. The slats must also be securely fixed to the frame, to ensure that your child does not become caught in the movement during sleep.
If you're unsure of the mattress to buy, ask friends and family or check online reviews for suggestions. Select Baby beds that are breathable, since they can help you regulate your body temperature and are less likely to harbor bacteria.
There are a variety of styles to pick from, including traditional sleighs with intricate details and sleek, modern designs. Some are even painted with bright primary colors which is great if you want your baby to wake up feeling bright and happy!
There are a lot of cots that have a drawer underneath for storage, teething rails to protect your child from chewing on the side of the cot, as well as adjustable height bases to accommodate baby's growth. You can also buy a drop-side for babies who aren't tall enough or have medical conditions that make it difficult for them to bend over.
Find a cot that is compliant with the strict UK safety standard and is easily transformed into a toddler's bed when it's time. This information can be found in the product description and the specifications.
Safety
When selecting a cot, an environment that is safe for sleeping should be the top priority. Make sure that the mattress fits snugly, with no gap between it and the cot's bed sides or ends (big gaps can trap your child's head or arms). Check that it's firm and thin - thicker mattresses aren't advised as they may increase the risk of SIDS. There are many companies that offer mattresses made of a variety of materials including foam and natural materials that are suitable for those suffering from allergies. Some have 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 will prevent accidental releases. If your coffin has a solid bottom be sure to avoid placing it against the wall because this will restrict airflow and may contribute to coffin death. According to the most recent research, cots with slatted edges are safer since they permit more airflow.
If your cot has a fixed side, opt for this as it is the most secure option when your baby starts to crawl and climb up. When your child is confidently climbing and standing, it's the time to move to a junior bed.
Some cots are equipped with an option that allows the base to be raised up to three different levels. This is a great safety measure and enables the cot of your child to grow with their needs. Some cots come with footplates that can be adjusted to suit for toddlers who like to stand up.
When you put your child in their cot, check that there isn't any obvious danger - it should be away from heaters or windows, power points and curtains and blind cords (these pose a strangulation risk). If you're buying second-hand or heirloom furniture Be sure to check for potential dangers to your child's health such as stickers and transfers that can be removed and create the risk of.
If you're unsure of how to use your cot in a safe manner, ask other parents or attend a local NCT New Baby course for support and advice. If your cot comes with a manual be sure to go through it before using it and follow the directions.
Style
This gorgeous cot bed, with its sleigh-style design will look fantastic in your nursery. The panel was impressed by the mix of white and natural wood, as well as the innovative features like under-bed storage drawers for everything essential for babies, including bedding, nappies, and a huge selection of baby clothes. It's also easy to assemble with clear instructions and separate packs of screws for each section. It could also be transformed into a toddler desk or bed when your child gets older (see product description for more details).
The rails for teething are among our top features. They prevent your baby 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 children from chewing on the wood, and prevent them from suffocating. There's also drop-sides to allow you to get access to your baby. We appreciate that it is able to be converted to an infant bed, and it is sturdy enough to last up to four years. It also complies with the stringent UK safety standards, which are listed in the main specifications beneath each product.
Cot beds are typically larger than cribs and can be transformed into toddler beds once your child is ready and you can avoid buying another bed at an age when they're ready to move on. They are more expensive than a crib.
If your nursery is very small, a crib might be the best choice for you since it is smaller and takes up less space. However, if your baby is likely to spend a lot of time in their parents' rooms or you want a longer-lasting bed, you should consider a cot.
A crib isn't safe for babies to sleep in if it doesn't meet the strict UK safety standards as outlined in BS EN 716 and BS 8509, which deals with the thickness of mattresses, the materials used and other key elements of cot mattresses for babies. The slats shouldn't be too wide apart to prevent your baby from falling out.
Storage
No matter if you're a first-time parent or an experienced one the amount of things the baby will require is immense. It is important to think about storage when selecting a cot. Some cots come with additional storage options, such as drawers beneath the bed or a coordinating top changer (available separately). Some are even able to be converted into a toddler or small single bed, increasing their use for a longer time.
Some cot beds can be further transformed into a daybed like this one on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is a great choice for those who prefer an edgier design. The conversion is simple and requires only the removal of one side panel. This will allow parents to reduce the expense of an additional bed.
Some cot beds have a hanging rail that can be used to hang muslins, dummies and other small things. This helps keep everything neat, tidy and organised. It also looks great. These items are easily accessible to parents which makes it easier for parents to feed their child.
A teething rail is an additional important feature that's included in some cots. This will stop your child from chewing on the cot's wooden structure, which could cause irritation. Some cots come with more traditional designs and come with a large storage drawer beneath the bed. It is perfect for clothes, toys blankets, baby necessities.
While this is a great option if you're in a tight space, you must be aware that you'll need to buy a separate extra for the drawer. You may also need to purchase a different mattress and bedding since oval mattresses and sheets are not typically included with the cot itself.
This sleigh cot from Stokke is a lovely example of Scandi-style in its finest and features a huge under-bed storage drawer that's ideal for keeping all those baby necessities out of sight but easily reachable. Our panel of experts found it straightforward to put together, thanks to alphabetically labelled parts and clear instructions. It's suitable for infants as young as birth, and can be made into a toddler's bed once your child is ready.