A Step-By-Step Instruction For Cot Beds
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 baby. Find a cot with fixed sides (rather than drop-sides) that meet strict UK safety standards.
Our top pick is this simple yet elegant coffin from John Lewis' Anyday range. It comes with three mattress height positions, teething rails as well as a storage drawer. It's also easy to assemble with clear instructions.
Comfort
The best cot mattress keeps children comfortable and warm. Look for a soft, comfortable fabric. Also, make sure that the mattress is fitted snugly to prevent any gaps which could cause an suffocation threat. There are many mattresses available on the market including coil springs, foam and natural materials for allergy sufferers. So do your research and select the one that is suitable for your baby's requirements.
No matter if you select an ordinary or convertible cot, the key to comfort is a mattress of high-quality that provides proper support and promotes healthy posture. The slats must be securely attached and not sliding. The slats should also be firmly fixed to the frame, to ensure that your child will not get caught when they move in their sleep.
Ask your family and friends for recommendations or browse online reviews. Choose mattresses that are breathable, as they will help regulate your body temperature, and are less likely to be a breeding ground for bacteria.
There are a myriad of styles to choose from, including traditional sleighs with elaborate details and modern, sleek designs. Some are decorated with bright primary colors to make your child feel joyful and happy when they awake.
You'll find most cots 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 infant growth. You can also purchase a drop side for petite babies or those who have medical conditions that make it difficult for them to bend over.
Find a cot that meets the strict UK safety standard and is able to be easily converted into a toddler's bed when it's time. Find this information in the product description or key specs.
Safety
When choosing a cot an environment that is safe for sleeping is a must. The mattress should be snugly fitted and there should be no gaps between the mattress and the sides or ends of the cot/cot-bed (large gaps can restrict the child's arms or head). Check that the mattress is not too firm and thin. Thick mattresses can 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 even contain anti-microbial treatments. If your cot has a drop side, ensure that it is in the up position and locked securely.
Drop sides should only be permitted to fall when an adult is present in the room. This will prevent accidental releases. Avoid placing your cot on the wall if it is an end that is solid. This will limit airflow, which could result in death of the coffin. According to the latest research, cots with slatted ends may be safer because they permit more airflow.
If your cot is set on one side, then you can choose it. It's the most secure choice for your child when they start to crawl and pull themselves upward. If your child is confidently climbing and standing, it's the time to upgrade to a junior bed.
Some cots have features that allow the base can be raised to three different heights in order to increase with your child's growth This is extremely practical and a great safety measure. Some cots feature adjustable footplates that are ideal for toddlers who like to stand up.
If you are putting your child in their cot, check that there is no obvious danger - it must be kept away from heaters and power points, windows and blind cords and curtains (these are a strangulation hazard). If you are buying second-hand furniture or heirlooms, make sure to check for potential hazards to your child's safety such as labels and transfers. They may peel off and create a risk.
If you're unsure of what you should do to use your cot, consult other parents for advice or go to a local NCT New Baby class. If your cot comes with a guide, make sure you read it before using it and adhere to the instructions.
Style
This stunning cot bed with its sleigh-style design will look fantastic in your nursery. Our panel loved the mix of natural and white pine, and its smart features, including under-bed storage drawers to keep all the baby necessities like bedding, nappies and an enviable variety of baby outfits. It's also easy to assemble with clear instructions and separate sets of screws for each section. It can also be converted into a toddler desk or bed as your child grows older (see the product description for more details).
One of our favourite features are the teething rails, which shield your little one from bumping their head against the side of the cot or any protruding parts of the cot, like a handle or a corner post, and which also help stop them chewing on the wood, preventing them from becoming in danger of being suffocated. It also features a drop-side to make it easier for you to get access to your baby. We love that the cot can be converted into a toddler bed and that it's built to last for up to four years. It also complies with strict UK safety standards. These are listed in the main specifications below each product.
Cot beds are generally bigger than cribs and can be converted into toddler beds once your child is ready, allowing you to avoid purchasing a new bed when they're ready to move on. However, they are more expensive than the crib that is standard.
If your nursery is very small, a crib could be the best option for you as it is smaller and takes up less space, but should your baby be expected to spend most of the time in their parents' room or you'd like a more long-lasting bed, you should consider a crib.
A cot isn't safe for babies to sleep in if it doesn't meet the strict UK safety standards set out 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 stop your baby from falling out.
Storage
The amount of baby gear you'll need is overwhelming whether you're a new parent or a seasoned one. Best cot for newborn to consider storage when selecting a cot. Some cots come with additional storage options, like drawers under the bed or a coordinating top changer (available separately). Some can even be adapted into a toddler or small single bed, which can extend their usability for longer.
Some cots can be transformed into day beds, as seen on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is a great choice for those who prefer a more flexible design. The conversion is easy and only requires the removal of one side panel. This allows parents to save on the cost of the purchase of a separate bed.
Some cot beds come with a hanging rail that can be used to hang muslins and dummies, as well as other small objects. This makes everything tidy, neat and organized. It also looks beautiful. These items are easily accessible to parents and make it easier for parents to feed their child.
Another thing to look for is a toothing rail that comes with some cots. This will help stop your child from chewing on the wood which could cause them irritation. Some cots feature an older style and include a large storage drawer underneath the bed, which is perfect for clothes, toys, blankets and other baby necessities.
This is a great solution if space is an issue however, you will need to purchase a drawer on your own. You may also need to purchase a different mattress and bedding since sheets and mattresses that are oval aren't usually included in the cot itself.
This sleigh cot bed by Stokke is a stunning example of the Scandi-style at its finest and has a huge under-bed storage drawer that's great to keep baby's essentials out of view but still within reach. The alphabetically labeled pieces and clear instructions made it easy to assemble for our panel. It's suitable for infants from birth and can be transformed into a toddler bed once your child is ready, meaning it's a good investment too.