14 Misconceptions Common To Cot Beds

How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby If you're expecting a child it's crucial to select a cot that will be secure and safe for your baby. Look for a cot with fixed sides (rather than drop-sides), which comply with strict UK safety standards. This slick and elegant crib is our top pick from the Anyday range of John Lewis. It comes with three mattress positions, teething bars and storage drawers. It is also easy to put together and comes with clear instructions. Comfort The most comfortable cot beds keep baby's warm and comfortable. Look for a soft, airy fabric, and ensure that the mattress is snug to avoid any gaps, which could create an suffocation threat. There are many mattresses available that include coil springs, foam and natural materials for allergy sufferers. So do your research and select the one that is suitable for your baby's needs. No matter if you choose a conventional cot or a convertible cot one, a comfortable mattress is crucial to ensure your ease of use. It must provide the right support and promote an upright posture. The same is true for the slats. They should be secured and not bent or sagging. The slats need to be firmly attached to the frame to ensure that your child will not get caught when they move during sleep. Ask your friends and family for recommendations or browse online reviews. Choose breathable mattresses, as they can help you regulate your body temperature and less likely to harbor bacteria. In terms of style, there's a wide choice from classic sleigh styles with elaborate details to sleek, contemporary designs. Some are decorated with bright primary colors to make your child feel cheerful and happy when they wake up. Most cots come with an under-bed storage drawer teething rails to prevent your child from chewing the sides of the cot, and adjustable height bases to accommodate your child's growth. You can also buy an extra drop-side for babies that are small or have health issues that make it difficult for them to bend over. To ensure your security, opt for a cot that complies with the stringent UK safety standards and can easily convert into a toddler bed when the time is right. This information is available in the description of the product and the key specifications. Safety A secure sleeping space is a must and a major aspect to consider when choosing a bed. The mattress should fit snugly and there shouldn't be gaps between the mattress and the ends or sides of the cot or cot-bed (large gaps can trap the child's arms or head). Verify that the mattress is firm and thin. Mattresses that are too thick can increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies offer mattresses in different materials from foam to natural materials that are great for those suffering from allergies. Some even come with an anti-microbial treatment. If your crib has an inclined side, make sure it is in the upward position and locked securely. Drop sides should only be allowed down when an adult is present in the room. This will prevent accidental releases. Avoid placing your cot against the wall if it is an end that is solid. This will limit airflow, which could lead to coffin death. According to the latest research, cots with slatted edges are safer since they allow for greater airflow. If your cot is set to one side, you should choose it. It will be the most secure choice for your baby as they begin to crawl and pull themselves upward. Once your child is standing and climbing, it is a sign they're ready to transition into the junior bed. Some cots come with an option where the base can be raised to three different heights, so that it will grow with your child This is extremely convenient and an added safety measure. Some cots also have footplates that can be adjusted, which are ideal for toddlers who wish to sit up in their bed. When putting your child's cot in the crib, make sure there are no visible hazards. cot sales should be put away from power and heater points. Also make sure it is away from windows, curtains, and blind cords. These can all create strangulation risks. If you're buying furniture from a secondhand store or an heirloom piece be sure to look for any hazards to choking such as stickers and transfers that may be removed and pose the risk of. If you're unsure of how to use your cot safely consult other parents or attend the local NCT New Baby course for support and advice. If your cot comes with an instruction manual, read it carefully before you start using it, and be sure to follow the safety guidelines closely. Style This gorgeous cot bed, with its sleigh design will look fantastic in your nursery. The panel was impressed with the mix of white and natural wood and the clever features such as drawers under the bed for everything essential for babies, including bedding, nappies, and an impressive array of baby clothes. It's also simple to put together, with concise instructions and separate sets of screws for each section. It could also be transformed into a toddler's desk and bed as your child grows older (see product description for more details). One of our favourite features are the teething rails which protect your baby from smacking their head against the cot's side or any other protruding parts of the cot, like handles or a corner post, and which can also stop them from chewing on the wood, which prevents them from being trapped. It also features a drop-side to allow parents to reach their newborn. We love 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 key specs below each product. Cot beds are generally bigger than cribs and can be transformed into toddler beds when your child is ready and you can avoid purchasing a new bed when they're ready to move on. However, they may be more expensive upfront than a crib that is standard. If your nursery is small, a crib might be the best choice for you, as it's smaller and takes up less space, but if your child is likely to spend much of their time in their parents' room or you're looking for a more durable bed, consider a crib. If a cot doesn't meet the UK safety standards as defined by BS EN 716 or BS 8509 (which refers to mattress thicknesses, materials and other essential elements of baby mattress cots) it is not safe for babies to sleep. The slats must not be too wide apart to stop your child from falling out. Storage The amount of baby equipment you'll need is a mess regardless of whether you're a new mom or an experienced one. It's crucial to think about storage when you choose a cot. Many cots come with additional storage options such as drawers in the under-bed or a coordinating top changer (available separately). Some can even be adapted into a toddler bed or a single bed, extending their use for a longer time. Some cot beds can be further adapted into a day bed like this one on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is a great choice for those who prefer an unstructured design since the conversion process is easy and only requires the removal of one side panel. This allows parents to save money on a separate bed. A variety of cot beds feature hanging rails that can be used to store muslins dummies and other small items. This makes it easier to keep everything organized tidy, neat and tidy and looks amazing. These items are easily accessible to parents, making it easier for parents to feed their child. A teething rail is an additional desirable feature that is included in some cots. This can help to prevent your little one chewing on the wood, which could cause irritation. Some cots have an older style and come with a large storage drawer under the bed that is ideal for toys, clothes blankets, and other baby necessities. This is a great choice if space is an issue however, you will need to purchase a drawer separately. You may also need to purchase a different mattress and bedding, as sheets and mattresses that are oval aren't usually included in the cot itself. This sleigh-style cot bed is an exquisite example of Scandi style at its best. It features a huge under-bed storage area that is ideal for keeping all baby essentials out of sight but still easily accessible. Our panel found it very straightforward to put together, thanks to the alphabetically labeled parts and clear instructions. It's suitable for babies as young as birth and can be transformed into a toddler's bed when your child's ready.