The Biggest Problem With Cot Beds, And How You Can Repair It
How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby
When you are expecting your first child it is essential to choose a cot that can provide security and safety for your baby. Choose a cot that has fixed sides, instead of drop-sides. best infant cribs www.cots4tots.co.uk will meet UK safety standards.
This minimalist, elegant coffin is our top choice from the Anyday range by John Lewis. It comes with three mattress height positions, teething rails as well as a storage drawers. It's also easy to set up with clear instructions.
Comfort
The best cot bed keeps infants comfortable and warm. Look for a soft, comfortable fabric. Also, make sure that the mattress is fitted snugly to prevent any gaps which could pose a suffocation risk. 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 crucial to ensure your comfort. It should provide adequate support and encourage an ideal posture. The same applies to the slats, which should be secured and not sagging or bent. The slats must also be securely connected to the frame so that your child does not become caught in the movement during sleep.
Ask your family and friends for recommendations or browse online reviews. Choose breathable mattresses, as they help you regulate your body temperature and are less likely to be a breeding ground for bacteria.
There are a variety of styles to pick from that include traditional sleighs with elaborate details and sleek, modern designs. Some are even painted in bright primary colors which is great if you want your child to wake up feeling fresh and happy!
There are a lot of cots that have a drawer underneath for storage, teething rails to protect your baby from chewing on the sides of the cot, and adjustable height bases for infant growth. You can even buy a drop side for petite babies or those with health issues that make it difficult to bend over.
For added peace of mind, look for a cot that is compliant with the stringent UK safety standards and will easily transform into a toddler bed when the time is appropriate. This information can be found in the description of the product and the key specifications.
Safety
When choosing a cot, a safe sleeping environment should be the top priority. Make sure that the mattress fits snugly, with no gap between it and the cot/cot bed's sides or ends (big gaps could restrict your child's head or arms). Make sure it's firm and thin - thicker mattresses aren't recommended, as they may increase the risk of SIDS. There are many companies that offer mattresses made of various materials from foam to natural materials that are good for allergy sufferers. Some even have an anti-microbial treatment. If your crib has an inclined side, make sure that it is in the up position and locked securely.
A drop side should be allowed to drop only when an adult is present, this will prevent accidental releases. If your coffin has a solid bottom be sure to avoid placing it against the wall as this will restrict airflow and may contribute to death in the coffin. According to the most recent research, slatted end cots are safer since they allow for more airflow.
If your crib has a fixed side choose this option as it's safer when your child begins to crawl and climb up. When your child is confidently standing and climbing, this is a sign they're ready to transition into a junior bed.
Some cots have features that allow the base can be raised to three different levels to allow it to expand with your child This is extremely useful and is a security measure. Some cots have footplates that can be adjusted to suit for toddlers who like to stand up.
Whenever you place your child in their cot, check whether there is no visible danger - it must be away from heat sources and power points, windows, blind cords and curtains (these can be strangulation hazards). If you're buying furniture that is second-hand or an heirloom be sure to look for any choking hazards like stickers and transfers that may peel off and present the risk of.
If you're unsure of how to use your cot safely you can ask other parents or visit an local NCT New Baby course for support and advice. If your cot comes with a manual ensure that you go through it prior to using it and follow the directions.
Style
This stunning cot bed with its sleigh style will look stunning in your nursery. Our panel was impressed by the mix of natural and white pine, as well as its smart features, including drawers under the bed to store everything necessary for babies, including bedding, nappies and a stunning array of baby outfits. It's also simple to put together with clear instructions and screws for each section. It can also be transformed into a bed for toddlers and a desk as your baby gets older (see the product description for details).
The teething rails are one of our favorite 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 handle or corner post. They also stop them from chewing on the wood and preventing them from being suffocated. The cot also has an opening that can be removed to allow you to get access to your baby. We are thrilled that the cot can 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 main specifications beneath each product.
Cot beds are usually larger than cribs and can be converted into toddler beds when your child is ready which means you don't have to worry about buying another bed until they're ready to transition. They may cost more than a crib.
If your nursery isn't big enough, you might be considering a crib. It is smaller and occupies less space. However should you be planning to spend a lot of your baby's time in your room or you need an item that lasts longer, you should opt for a crib.
If a cot doesn't meet the UK safety standards outlined by BS EN 716 or BS 8509 (which refers to the thickness of mattresses, the materials used, and other essential elements in baby cot mattresses) it is not safe for babies to sleep. The slats shouldn't be too far apart to prevent your baby from falling out.
Storage
Whether you're a first-time parent or an experienced one the amount of items that a baby requires is overwhelming. It's crucial to think about storage when you choose a cot. There are a variety of cots that have additional storage solutions available such as under-bed drawers or a coordinating cot top changer (available separately). Some cots are able to be converted into a toddler bed or small single bed to extend their use.
Some cot beds can be further transformed into a daybed, as seen here on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is a great option for those who prefer a less rigid design as the conversion process is fairly simple and requires just the removal of a side panel. It also lets parents save money on a bed purchase.
Some cot beds are equipped with hanging rails that can be used to hang muslins and dummies, as well as other small objects. This makes it easier to keep everything organized, neat and tidy and also looks amazing. These items are easily accessible to parents and make it easier for parents to feed their child.
Another feature worth looking out for is a teething rail that comes in a few cots. This will stop your child from chewing on the wooden cot which can cause irritation. Some cots are designed in more traditional designs and come with a large under-bed storage drawer that is ideal for storing blankets, toys clothes, and other baby essentials.
While this is a great idea if you're short on space, you must be aware that you'll require a separate additional drawer. You may also have to purchase a different mattress and bedding since sheets and mattresses that are oval are not typically included with the cot itself.
This sleigh-style cot is a beautiful illustration of Scandi style at its best. It features a huge under-bed storage area that is ideal for keeping all baby essentials away from view but easily accessible. The alphabetically labeled components and clear instructions made it easy to put together for our panel. It's suitable for babies as young as birth and can be transformed into a toddler bed once your child is ready. This means it's good value too.