The Largest Issue That Comes With Cot Beds, And How You Can Fix It

How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby When you are expecting a baby, it is important to select a cot which will ensure safety and security for your baby. Choose a cot that has fixed sides (rather than drop-sides) that meet strict UK safety standards. Our top pick is this basic but elegant coffin from John Lewis' Anyday range. It has three mattress height positions, teething rails, and a storage drawer. It is also simple to assemble, with clear instructions. Comfort The best cot mattress keeps babies comfortable and cozy. Choose a soft, comfortable fabric. Also, make sure that the mattress fits snugly to prevent any gaps which could cause the risk of suffocation. There are a variety of mattresses available on the market that include coil springs, foam and natural materials for allergy sufferers, so do your research and select the right one for your baby's needs. Whatever you decide to use, whether a standard cot or a convertible cot the mattress is essential to the comfort. It must provide the right support and encourage a healthy posture. The same applies to the slats, which should be secured and not sagging or bent. The slats should also be secured to the frame, so that your child isn't trapped in them while moving in their sleep. Ask your family and friends for recommendations or browse online reviews. Look for ones that are air-conditioned, as they'll help maintain temperature and are less likely to harbor bacteria. There are a myriad of styles to choose from that include traditional sleighs with elaborate details and modern, sleek designs. Some are even painted in bright primary colors, which is ideal for those who want their little one to wake up feeling bright and cheerful! There are a lot of cots that have drawers underneath to store items as well as teething rails that protect your baby from chewing on the side of the cot, and adjustable height bases for baby growth. You can even buy a drop side for smaller infants or those with 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 easily transformed into a toddler's cot when it's time. This information is available in the product description as well as key specifications. Safety When selecting a cot, an environment that is safe for sleeping should be a priority. The mattress should be snugly fitted and there should be no gaps between the mattress and the edges or sides of the cot/cot-bed (large gaps could hold the child's arms and head). Check that the mattress is not too firm and thin. Mattresses that are too thick can increase the risk of SIDS. There are many companies that offer mattresses made of different materials, from foam to natural materials that are suitable for those suffering from allergies. Some even have an anti-microbial treatment. If your crib has an inclined side, make sure it is in the up position and locked securely. Drop sides should only be permitted down only when an adult is present in the room. This can prevent accidental release. If your cot has a solid end do not place it against the wall because this will restrict airflow and can cause death in the coffin. Recent research suggests that slatted ends could be safer as they allow more airflow. If your crib has a fixed side you should choose this because it will be safest when your child starts to crawl and pull themselves up. When your child is climbing with confidence and standing, it's the time to move to a junior bed. Some cots feature an option where the base can be raised to three different heights in order to grow with your child This is extremely useful and is a security measure. Other cots come with footplates that can be adjusted, which are ideal for toddlers wanting to sit up in their beds. When you put your child in their cot, ensure that there isn't any obvious danger – it must be kept away from heaters and power points, windows and blind cords and curtains (these can be strangulation hazards). When purchasing second-hand furniture, or heirlooms, make sure to look out for potential hazards to your child's safety such as labels and transfers. They can come off and pose a danger. If you're unsure about how to use your cot in a safe manner consult parents around or go to a local NCT New Baby course for assistance and guidance. If your cot has a manual, read it carefully before you begin using it, and then follow the safe-use instructions closely. Style This stunning cot bed with its sleigh design will look amazing in your nursery. The panel was impressed by the combination of natural and white wood and the clever features like under-bed storage drawers for everything needed by babies, such as bedding, nappy and a wide selection of baby clothes. It's also easy to put together, with clear instructions and screws for each section. What's more, it can be converted into a toddler bed and desk as your baby gets older (see the product description for more details). One of our favorite features are the teething rails which protect your little one from bumping their head against the side of the cot or any protruding part of the cot, such as the handle or corner post, and which also help stop them chewing on the wood, preventing them from getting suffocated. It also has a drop-side for easier access to your newborn. We are thrilled that the cot can be transformed into a toddler bed and that it's strong enough to last for up to four years. It also met strict UK safety standards. These are listed in the specifications below for each product. Cot beds are typically larger than cribs and can be transformed into toddler beds once your child is ready which means you don't have to worry about buying another bed until they're ready for the transition. However, they may be more expensive than the crib that is standard. If your nursery is very small, a crib might be the best option for you since it is smaller and occupies less space, but should your baby be expected to spend much of their time in their parents' rooms or you're looking for a more durable bed, opt for a cot. A cot isn't safe for babies to sleep in if it does not meet the strict UK safety standards outlined in BS EN 716 and BS 8509, which covers mattresses' thicknesses, materials, and other essential elements of cot mattresses for babies. The slats should not be too close together, to ensure that your baby won't fall out. Stores If you're a new parent or an experienced one, the amount of stuff a baby needs is staggering. This is why it's crucial to consider storage options when choosing a cot bed. Some cots come with additional storage options, including drawers beneath the bed or a top changer (available separately). Certain cots can be transformed into an infant bed or a small single bed to increase their usage. Some cot beds can be further adapted into a day bed as shown on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is a great choice for those who prefer a less rigid design as the conversion process is simple and involves the removal of a side panel. This will allow parents to save money on a separate bed. A few cot beds feature hanging rails that can be used to store muslins Dummies, and other small items. This keeps everything tidy, neat and organized. It also looks beautiful. These items are easily accessible to parents which makes it easier for them to feed their baby. infant cot bed teething rail is a desired feature that is found in some cots. This can help to prevent your little one chewing on the wood, which could cause them irritation. Some cots feature an older style and include a large storage drawer under the bed that is ideal for toys, clothes, blankets and other baby necessities. This is a great option for those who have limited space, but you will have to purchase a drawer on your own. You may also have to buy a new mattress and bedding since oval mattresses and sheets are not typically included with the cot itself. This sleigh cot from Stokke is a stunning example of Scandi-style in its finest and has a huge under-bed storage drawer that's perfect for keeping all those baby's essentials out of view but still within reach. Our panel was able to find it easy to put together, thanks to alphabetically labelled parts and clear instructions. It's suitable for infants as young as birth and can be converted into a toddler's crib when your child's ready.