The Biggest Problem With Cot Beds, And How You Can Fix It

How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby

If you're expecting a child it's crucial to select a cot that's safe and secure for your child. Find a cot with fixed sides (rather than drop-sides) that meet strict UK safety standards.

This slick and stylish cot is our top pick from the Anyday range of John Lewis. It has three mattress positions, teething bars and storage drawers. 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 is fitted snugly to avoid any gaps, which could create an suffocation threat. There are a range of mattresses on the market including coil springs, foam, natural materials for allergy sufferers. So do your research before deciding on the best baby cots - read this blog article from tupalo.com, one for your baby's needs.

If you choose an ordinary or convertible cot, the most important thing to ensure comfort is a good-quality mattress that provides proper support and promotes a healthy posture. The same applies to the slats, which should be securely attached and not bent or sagging. The slats should also be securely fixed to the frame, so that your child isn't trapped in them while moving in their sleep.

If you're not sure what mattress to purchase, talk to your family members or friends or look up online reviews for recommendations. Choose mattresses that are breathable, as they can help you regulate your body temperature and less likely to harbor bacteria.

In terms of style there's a variety of styles of styles, from traditional sleigh designs with intricate details to sleek, contemporary designs. Some are even painted in bold primary colours, which is ideal if you want your little one to wake up bright and content!

The majority of cots have an under-bed storage drawer, teething rails that prevent your child from chewing on the sides of the cot and adjustable height bases to accommodate the growth of your baby. You can also purchase a drop side for petite babies or those who have medical conditions that make it difficult to bend over.

For extra peace of mind, look for a cot that complies with the strict UK safety standards and will easily convert into a toddler bed when the time is right. Find this information in the description or key specs.

Safety

When choosing a cot the safety of your child's sleep is a must. Make sure that the mattress is snugly fitted, with no gap between it and the cot bed sales/cot bed sides or ends (big gaps can keep your child's head from being caught in the arms). Check that 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 a variety of materials, from foam to natural materials that are suitable for those suffering from allergies. Some even come with an anti-microbial treatment. If your cot features a drop-side, make sure it is locked and in the up position.

Drop sides should only be allowed down when an adult is present in the room. This can prevent accidental release. Do not place your cot against a wall if it has a solid end. This could hinder airflow and could result in death of the coffin. According to the most recent research, slatted end cots are safer since they allow for greater airflow.

If your crib sets has a fixed side, opt for this as it will be safest when your baby starts to crawl and climb up. If your child is climbing with confidence and standing, it's time to upgrade to a junior bed.

Some cots feature a feature where the base can be raised to three different levels to allow it to expand with your child which is extremely practical and a great safety measure. Some cots feature footplates that can be adjusted to suit for toddlers who love to stand up.

When you place your child's cot ensure there aren't any obvious dangers. It should be kept away from any heaters or power points. Also make sure it is away from windows, curtains, and blind cords. All of these could present a strangulation threat. When buying second-hand furniture or heirlooms, make sure to check for potential hazards to your child's safety such as labels and transfers. These can peel off and create a risk.

If you are unsure what you should do to use your cot, consult other parents for help or go to an local NCT New Baby class. If your cot comes with a manual, make sure you go through it before using it and follow all the directions.

Style

With its beautiful sleigh design, this gorgeous cot bed will look great in your nursery. The panel was impressed with the combination of white and natural wood and the innovative features like under-bed storage drawers that can hold everything essential for babies, including bedding, nappy and an impressive array of baby clothes. It's also simple to build with clear instructions and separate screws for each section. Additionally, it can be transformed into a toddler bed and desk as your baby gets older (see the product's description for more details).

The teething rails are one of our favorite features. They prevent your child from hitting their head on the crib's side or any protruding portion of the crib, like the corner post or handle. They also stop children from chewing on the wood and also preventing them from being suffocated. There's also a drop-side to allow parents to reach their newborn. We are thrilled that it can be converted to an infant bed, and it's sturdy enough to last for four years. It also complies with strict UK safety standards. You can find these in the main specifications below each product.

Cot beds can be converted into toddler beds in the event that your child is old enough. This allows you to avoid buying an entirely new bed as your child gets ready to go up. However, they may be more expensive upfront than a crib that is standard.

If your nursery is small, a crib could be the best choice for you, as it's smaller and occupies less space. However, if your child is likely to spend a lot of time in their parents' rooms or you want a longer-lasting bed, you should consider a cot.

If a cot does not meet the UK safety standards outlined by BS EN 716 or BS 8509 (which refers to mattress thicknesses, materials, and other key elements of baby Mini Cot Bed mattresses), it is unsafe for babies to sleep. The slats must not be too far apart to prevent your baby from falling off.

Stores

The amount of baby equipment you need is overwhelming, regardless of whether you're a first-time parent or a seasoned one. This is why it's crucial to think about the storage options when you choose the right crib bed. Some cots have additional storage options, like drawers under the bed or a coordinating top changer (available separately). Some can be transformed into a toddler or small single bed, extending their use for a longer time.

Some cots are able to be converted into day beds, as seen on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is an excellent option for those who prefer an edgier design. The conversion is simple and requires only the removal of one side panel. It also lets parents save money on a bed purchase.

A few cot beds feature a hanging rail which can be used to store muslins Dummies, and other small items. This helps to keep everything organized tidy, neat and tidy and also looks amazing. The ease of access to these items will make it easier for parents to feed their infant.

Another thing to look out for is a teething rail that comes with some cots. This will prevent your child from chewing on the wooden cot, which can cause irritation. Some cots are designed with an older style and include a large under-bed storage drawer which is perfect for storing toys, blankets, clothes and other baby essentials.

This is a great choice when space is a problem, but you will have to purchase a drawer on your own. You might need to purchase a separate mattress and bedding because oval mattresses tots and cots sheets do not come with the cot.

This sleigh cot bed from Stokke is a beautiful example of the Scandi-style at its finest and has a huge under-bed storage drawer that's perfect to keep all the baby essentials out of sight but easily reachable. The alphabetically labeled pieces and clear instructions made it simple to assemble our panel. It's suitable for babies as young as birth and can be transformed into a toddler bed once your child is ready, which means it's a good investment too.