20 Resources To Make You More Effective At Cot Beds

How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby

If you're expecting a baby, it's important to choose a cot that will be secure and safe for your baby. Find a cot which has fixed sides, instead of drop-sides. This will meet UK safety standards.

This slick and stylish crib is our top choice from the Anyday range by John Lewis. It comes with three mattress height positions, teething rails and storage drawer. It's also easy to assemble with clear instructions.

Comfort

The most comfortable cot beds keep children warm and cozy. Look for a soft and breathable fabric and make sure the mattress fits snugly to avoid any gaps, which could pose the risk of suffocation. There are a range of mattresses on the market that include coil springs, foam and other natural materials suitable for allergy sufferers - so do your research and choose the best one for your baby's needs.

If you choose an ordinary or convertible cot, the primary factor to comfort is a good-quality mattress that provides proper support and promotes healthy posture. This is also true for the slats, which should be secured and not sagging or bent. The slats need to be securely connected to the frame to ensure that your child does not become caught in the movement during sleep.

If you're not sure which mattress to buy, consult your family and friends or consult online reviews for suggestions. Look for ones that are breathable, as they'll help maintain temperature and are less likely to be a home for bacteria.

There are many styles to choose from, including traditional sleighs with intricate details and sleek, modern designs. Some are painted in vibrant primary colors to make your child feel cheerful and cheerful when they wake up.

There are a lot of cheap cots that have a drawer underneath for storage, teething rails to protect your child from chewing on the sides of the cot and adjustable height bases for baby growth. You can also buy a drop-side for infants who are small or suffer from medical conditions that make it difficult to bend over.

Look for a cot which is in compliance with the strict UK safety standard and is able to be easily transformed into a toddler's bed when it's time. Find this information in the product description or key specs.

Safety

A safe sleeping environment is a must and a major factor when selecting a crib. Make sure the mattress is snugly fitted, with no gap between it and the cot/cot bed's sides or ends (big gaps could trap your child's head or arms). Make sure it's solid and thin - more thick mattresses aren't recommended, because they can increase the risk of SIDS. There are many companies that offer a variety of mattresses, from simple foam to natural substances for allergy sufferers. Some contain anti-microbial treatments. If your mattress has an inclined side, make sure it is in the up position and locked securely.

A drop side should be allowed to drop only when an adult is present - to prevent accidental release. If your coffin has a solid bottom, avoid placing it against the wall because this will restrict airflow and could cause the death of a coffin. According to the latest research, slatted end cots 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 pull themselves upward. When your child is confidently standing and climbing, it is a sign that they are ready to transition into the junior bed.

Some cots have an option where the base can be raised to three different levels to allow it to increase with your child's growth This is extremely practical and a great safety measure. Some cots to tots also have footplates that can be adjusted, which are ideal for toddlers who wish to stand up in their bed.

When you place your child's cot ensure there aren't any visible dangers. It should be placed away from any heaters or power points. Also be sure to keep it away from windows, curtains and blind cords. These can all pose a strangulation risk. If you're buying furniture that is second-hand or an heirloom Be sure to check for potential dangers to your child's health such as stickers and transfer tapes that could peel off and present a risk.

If you're unsure of how to use your cot in a safe manner, ask other parents or visit the local NCT New Baby Cots Online course for support and advice. If your cot comes with a guide be sure to read it before using it and follow the instructions.

Style

With its stunning sleigh design, this gorgeous crib will look stunning in your nursery. Our panel was impressed by the mix of white and natural pine, and its clever features, such as under-bed storage drawers that can hold all those baby essentials like nappies, bedding and a dazzling variety of baby outfits. It's also easy to assemble, with concise instructions and separate sets of screws for each section. It can also be converted into a toddler's desk and bed when your child gets older (see product description for more details).

One of our favorite features is the teething rails which protect your baby from smacking their head against the side of the cot or any protruding parts of the cot, like the handle or corner post. They also help stop them chewing on the wood, which prevents them from becoming suffocated. It also features drop-sides to allow you to get access to your baby. We are thrilled that it can be converted to an infant bed, and it's built to last for up to four years. It also complies with the stringent UK safety standards, which you'll find in the specifications that are listed under each product.

Cot beds are typically larger than cribs and can be converted into toddler beds once your child is ready and you can avoid purchasing a bed at an age when they're ready to transition. They are more expensive than cribs.

If your nursery isn't big enough, you might want to consider the possibility of a crib. It is smaller and requires less space. However it is recommended to consider a cot if you are planning to spend a significant portion of your baby's time in your room or you need a bed that will last longer, you should choose a cot sets.

A crib isn't safe for babies to sleep in if it doesn't meet the strict UK safety standards outlined in BS EN 716 and BS 8509, which deals with mattresses' thicknesses, materials, and other important elements of cot mattresses for babies. The slats must not be too wide apart to prevent your baby from falling off.

Stores

The amount of baby gear you'll need is a mess regardless of whether you're a first-time parent or a seasoned one. It is important to think about storage when choosing a cot-bed. Certain cots offer additional storage options, like drawers beneath the bed or a top changer (available separately). Some are even able to be converted into a toddler bed or a single bed, which can extend their usefulness for a longer period of time.

Some cots can be transformed into day beds, like the one shown here on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is an ideal option for those who prefer a less rigid design as the conversion process is easy and only requires the removal of one side panel. This allows parents to save money on a separate bed.

Some cot beds have hanging rails that can be used to hang muslins, dolls and other small objects. This keeps everything neat, tidy and organised. It also looks fantastic. The ease of access to these items will make it easier for parents when feeding their baby.

Another desirable feature to look out for is a teething rail which is included with cots. This will help prevent your little one chewing on the wood that could cause them irritation. Some cots come with a more traditional design and have a huge storage drawer beneath the bed. It is perfect for toys, clothes blankets, and other baby necessities.

This is a great option if space is an issue however, you will need to purchase a drawer separately. You may also need to buy a new mattress and bedding as oval mattresses and sheets are not typically included with the cot itself.

This sleigh-style cot bed stunning illustration of Scandi style at its best. It has a large under-bed storage compartment that's ideal for keeping all baby essentials out of sight but still easily accessible. The alphabetically labeled components and clear instructions made it simple to put together for our panel. It's suitable for infants from birth and can be converted into a toddler bed once your child is ready, which means it's also a good value.