10 Of The Top Mobile Apps To Use For Cot Beds

How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby

If you're expecting a baby it's crucial to select a cot that will be secure and safe for your little one. Choose a cot that has fixed sides (rather than drop-sides), which comply with strict UK safety standards.

This simple but elegant crib is our top choice from the Anyday collection by John Lewis. It comes with three mattress positions, teething bars and storage drawers. It's also easy to set up with clear instructions.

Comfort

The best baby cots cot beds keep babies comfy and cosy. Choose a soft, comfortable fabric. Also, make sure that the mattress is snug to avoid any gaps, which could cause the risk of suffocation. There are many types of mattresses available, including foam, coils springs, and natural materials for allergy sufferers. Do your research to find the ideal mattress for your child.

No matter if you select a convertible or standard cot, the most important thing to ensure comfort is a mattress of high-quality that provides proper support and promotes healthy posture. The slats need to be firmly attached, and not sagging. The slats need to be securely fixed to the frame, so that your child does not become caught in the movement in their sleep.

Ask your friends and family for recommendations, or read online reviews. Choose a mattress that is ventilated, as they'll aid in maintain temperature and are less likely to harbour bacteria.

There are a myriad of styles to pick from such as traditional sleighs, with intricate details and modern, sleek designs. Some are even painted with bright primary colors which is great if you want your little one to wake up feeling fresh and content!

You'll find most cots have a drawer underneath for storage as well as teething rails that protect your baby from chewing on the sides of the cot, as well as adjustable height bases to accommodate baby's growth. You can even purchase a drop side for petite babies or those with health issues that make it difficult for them to bend over.

For added peace of mind, search for a cot that is compliant with the strict UK safety standards and can easily transform into an infant bed when the time is right. This information can be found in the description of the product and key specifications.

Safety

When choosing a cot, a safe sleeping environment is a must. Make sure that the mattress fits snugly, with no gaps between it and the cot's beds edges or sides (big gaps could restrict your child's head or arms). Check that the mattress is firm and thin. Mattresses that are thick could increase the risk of SIDS. There are many companies that offer mattresses made of various materials including foam and natural materials that are good for allergy sufferers. Some even come with an anti-microbial treatment. If your mattress has drop sides, make sure it is in the up position and locked securely.

Drop sides should only be allowed to fall when an adult is present in the room. This prevents accidental release. If your cot has a solid end do not place it against the wall as it will block airflow and may contribute to the death of a coffin. According to the latest research, cots with slatted ends may be safer because they allow for more airflow.

If your cot is fixed to one side, you should choose it. It will be the most secure option for your baby when they start to crawl and pull themselves upward. If your child is confidently climbing and standing, it's the time to move to a junior bed.

Some affordable cots are equipped with a feature that allows the base to be raised up to three different levels. This is a great security measure that allows your child's cot to grow with the child. Other cots offers come with footplates that can be adjusted, which are ideal for toddlers who wish to stand up in their bed.

When putting your child's cot in the crib, make sure there are no visible hazards. It should be put away from heaters and power points. Also make sure it is away from windows, curtains, and blind cords. These can all pose a strangulation risk. If you're buying second-hand or heirloom furniture be sure to look for any hazards to choking such as stickers and transfer tapes that could be removed and pose danger.

If you're not sure what you should do to use your cot, ask other parents for advice or take part in an local NCT New Baby class. If your cot comes with a manual ensure that you go through it prior to using it and follow all the directions.

Style

This gorgeous cot bed, with its sleigh-style design will look stunning in your nursery. The panel was awed by the combination of natural wood and white as well as the clever features such as under-bed storage drawers for everything needed by babies, such as bedding, nappies, and a wide selection of baby clothes. It's also simple to build with clear instructions and separate screws for each section. It could also be transformed into a toddler desk or bed as your child grows older (see the product description for more details).

One of our most loved features is the teething rails which protect your baby from smacking their head against the cot's side or any protruding parts of the cot, like the handle or corner post, and which can also stop them from chewing on the wood, which prevents them from being in danger of being suffocated. The cot also has a drop-side to make it easier for parents to reach their newborn. We appreciate that the cot could be converted into a toddler bed and that it's strong enough to last for four years. It also met the strict UK safety standards. You can find these in the key specs below each product.

Cot beds can be converted into toddler beds if your child is old enough. This allows you to not have to buy a new bed when your child's ready to go up. However, they may be more expensive upfront than a crib that is standard.

If your nursery is small, you might want to consider a crib. It is smaller and requires less space. However, if you plan to spend a significant portion of your baby's time in your room or if you require a bed that lasts longer, you should consider a cot.

If a cot doesn't meet the UK safety standards outlined by BS EN 716 or BS 8509 (which covers mattress thicknesses, materials and other important elements of baby cot mattresses), it is unsafe for babies to sleep. The slats must not be too close together to ensure your baby doesn't get tossed out.

Storage

The amount of baby gear you need is overwhelming, whether you're a new parent or an experienced one. This is why it's crucial to think about storage options when selecting the right crib bed. Some cots have additional storage options, such as drawers underneath the bed or a coordinating top changer (available separately). Some can be transformed into a toddler bed or a single bed, which can extend their use for a longer time.

Some cot sets beds can be further transformed into a daybed, as seen here on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is an excellent option for those who like a more flexible design. The conversion is easy and requires only the removal of a single side panel. This allows parents to reduce the expense of a separate bed.

A variety of cot beds come with a hanging rail which can be used to store muslins dummies and other small items. This allows you to keep everything organised, neat and tidy and looks fantastic. Being able to access these items makes it easier for parents when feeding their baby.

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 can cause irritation. Some cots are designed in a more traditional style and come with a large drawer under the bed that is ideal for storing blankets, toys, clothes and other baby necessities.

This is a great option for those who have limited space, but you will have to purchase a drawer separately. You may have to purchase a separate mattress and bedding, as oval mattresses and sheets do not come with the cot.

This sleigh cot bed from Stokke is a stunning example of Scandi-style in its finest and comes with a massive under-bed storage drawer that's ideal to keep baby essentials out of sight but within easy reach. The alphabetically labeled components and clear instructions made it easy to put together for our panel. It's suitable for babies from birth and can be transformed into a toddler's bed once your child is ready.