10 Misconceptions Your Boss Has Concerning 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 secure and safe for your little one. Find a cot with fixed sides (rather than drop-sides), which comply with strict UK safety standards.

This simple but stylish coffin is our top pick from the Anyday collection by John Lewis. It comes with three mattress positions, teething rails, and a storage drawers. It’s also easy to assemble with clear instructions.

Comfort

The best cot beds keep children warm and cozy. Look for a breathable, soft fabric. Make sure that the mattress fits snugly, to avoid any gaps that could create the risk of the mattress becoming suffocated. There are many types of mattresses available, including coils springs, foam and natural materials for allergy sufferers. Do your research to determine the most suitable one for your child.

It doesn’t matter if you pick a conventional cot or a convertible cot the mattress is vital to your ease of use. It should provide proper support and encourage an ideal posture. The slats need to be secured and not sagging. The slats should also be securely fixed to the frame, so your child isn’t stuck in them while they move in their sleep.

Ask your friends and family for recommendations or browse online reviews. Choose breathable mattresses, as they can help regulate your body temperature and less likely to hold bacteria.

In terms of style there’s a broad selection of styles, from traditional sleigh designs with intricate details to sleek, contemporary designs. Some are even painted in vibrant primary colours, which is ideal for those who want their child to wake up feeling bright and cheerful!

There are a lot of cots that have drawers underneath to store items, teething rails to protect your child from chewing on the side of the cot, and adjustable height bases for baby growth. You can even purchase a drop side for petite babies or those with health issues that make it difficult to bend over.

Find a cot that is compliant with the strict UK safety standards and is able to be easily converted into a toddler’s bed when it’s time. Find this information in the product description or in the key specifications.

Safety

When choosing a cot a safe sleeping environment is a must. The mattress should be able to fit snugly and there should be no gaps between the mattress and the ends or sides of the cot/cot-bed (large gaps can trap the child’s arms or head). Check that the mattress is firm and thin. Mattresses that are too thick could increase the risk of SIDS. There are many companies that offer a variety of mattresses, ranging from basic foam to natural materials for allergy sufferers. Some contain anti-microbial treatments. If your cot has drop-sides, ensure that it is secured and in the up position.

A drop side should only be allowed to drop when an adult is present – this prevents accidental release. If your cot has a solid end be sure to avoid placing it against the wall since it can block airflow and could cause death in the coffin. Recent research suggests that slatted edges could be safer because they permit more airflow.

If your cot has a fixed side you should choose this because it’s safer when your child starts to crawl and then pull themselves up. When your child is climbing with confidence and standing, it’s time to move to a junior bed.

Some cots come with a feature that allows the base to be raised to three different levels. This is a great security feature that allows your child’s cot to grow with them. Some cots come with adjustable footplates that are perfect for toddlers who want to stand up.

When you place your child’s cot be sure that there aren’t any visible dangers. It should be kept away from any heaters or power points. Also be sure to keep it away from windows, curtains, and blind cords. They all could pose a strangulation risk. If you are buying second-hand furniture or heirlooms to look out for potential hazards to your child’s safety such as labels and transfers. These can peel off and cause danger.

If you’re unsure of how to use your cot safely, ask parents around or go to a local NCT New Baby course for assistance and guidance. If your cot has instructions, read them carefully before using it, and be sure to follow the safety-use guidelines carefully.

Style

This gorgeous cot bed with its sleigh-style design will look amazing in your nursery. The panel was impressed by the combination of natural wood and white as well as the innovative features like drawers under the bed for everything needed by babies, such as bedding, nappies and a huge selection of baby clothes. It is also easy to put together with clear instructions and screws for each section. It can also be converted into a toddler’s desk and bed as your child grows older (see product description for more information).

The teething rails are among our most loved features. They keep your baby from hitting their head on the crib’s side or any other protruding part of the crib, such as the corner post or handle. They also prevent them from chewing the wood, and prevent them from suffocating. There’s also a drop-side to make it easier for you to get access to your baby. We appreciate that the cot could be converted into a toddler bed and that it’s built to last for up to four years. It also meets the strict UK safety standards, which are listed in the specifications that are listed under each product.

Cot beds are generally bigger than cribs and can be converted into toddler beds when your child is ready, allowing you to avoid buying another bed until they’re ready for the transition. They may cost more 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 the room, or if you need an item that lasts longer, you should choose a cot.

A cot isn’t safe for babies to sleep in if it does not meet the strict UK safety standards as outlined in BS EN 716 and BS 8509, which covers the thickness of mattresses, the materials used and other key elements of baby cot mattresses. The slats should not be too wide apart to prevent your baby from falling out.

Stores

No matter if you’re a first-time parent or an experienced one the amount of things a baby needs is staggering. This is why it’s crucial to consider storage options when choosing the cot bed. A number of cots have additional storage solutions available like drawers under the bed or a top changer (available separately). Some are even able to be converted into a toddler or small single bed, extending their use for a longer time.

Some cots are able to be converted into day beds, like the one shown here on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is a great option for those who prefer a less rigid design as the process of conversion is easy and only requires the removal of one side panel. This lets parents reduce the expense of a separate bed.

Some cot beds come with a hanging rail that can be used to hang muslins, Dummies and other small things. This helps to keep everything organized tidy and neat and also looks fantastic. These items are easily accessible to parents and make it easier for them to feed their baby.

A teething rail is another desired feature that is found in some cots. This will prevent your child from chewing on the cot’s wooden structure, which could cause irritation. Some cots are designed with more traditional designs and have a huge drawer under the bed that is ideal for storing toys, blankets clothing, and other baby necessities.

This is a great solution when space is a problem, but you will have to purchase a drawer separately. You might need to purchase an additional mattress and bedding since oval sheets and mattresses do not come with the cot.

This sleigh-style cot is stunning example of Scandi style at its finest. 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 components and clear instructions made it easy to assemble for our panel. It is suitable for babies as young as birth and can be made into a toddler’s bed when your child is ready.