Five Killer Quora Answers On Cot Beds

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 provide 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 simple yet stylish coffin from John Lewis' Anyday range. It has three mattress positions, teething bars, and an storage drawer. It's also easy to assemble with clear instructions.

Comfort

The best cot beds keep children warm and cozy. Look for a soft and breathable fabric and make sure the mattress is fitted snugly to prevent any gaps which could pose a suffocation risk. There are a variety of mattresses available, including coils springs, foam and even natural materials for allergy sufferers. Do your research to determine the ideal mattress for your child.

It doesn't matter if you pick a standard cot or a convertible the mattress is vital to your ease of use. It must provide the right support and encourage an upright posture. The slats must be secured and not sliding. The slats must also be firmly attached to the frame to ensure that your child will not become caught in the movement during sleep.

Ask your family and friends for recommendations, or read online reviews. Select mattresses that are breathable, since they can 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 painted in vibrant primary colors to make your child feel joyful and cheerful when they awake.

The majority of affordable cots have an under-bed storage drawer, teething rails that prevent your child from chewing on the sides of the cot, and height bases that can be adjusted to accommodate the growth of your baby. You can even purchase a drop side for smaller infants or those with health issues that make it difficult to bend over.

For added peace of mind, search for a cot that is compliant with the stringent UK safety standards and will easily convert into a toddler bed when the time is appropriate. Find this information in the product description or key specs.

Safety

When choosing a cot, a safe sleeping environment should be a priority. Make sure the mattress is snugly fitted, with no gap between it and the cot/Cot Bed; source for this article,'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. Many companies sell mattresses in various materials, from foam to natural materials that are great for those suffering from allergies. Some have anti-microbial treatment. If your crib has drop sides, make sure it is in the up position and secured.

A drop side should be allowed to drop only if an adult is present, to prevent accidental release. Avoid placing your cot against walls if it has a solid end. This will limit airflow, which could cause death in the coffin. The latest research suggests that slatted ends may be safer because they permit more airflow.

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

Some cots come with an option that allows the base to be raised up to three different levels. This is a fantastic security measure that allows your child's cot to expand with the child. Some cots have adjustable footplates that are perfect for toddlers who love to stand up.

When placing your child's cot, make sure there are no visible hazards. It should be placed away from heaters and power points. Also be sure to keep it away from windows, curtains, and blind cords. These can all pose a strangulation risk. If you are buying second-hand furniture or heirlooms to look for any choking hazards such as stickers and transfers. They can come off and create a risk.

If you're not sure about how to use your cot, ask other parents for advice or go to an local NCT New Baby class. If your cot comes with a guide ensure that you go through it before using it and follow all the instructions.

Style

With its stunning sleigh design, this gorgeous cot bed will look great in your nursery. Our panel loved the mix of natural and white pine, and its smart features, including under-bed storage drawers to keep all those baby essentials like nappies, bedding, and an enviable assortment of baby clothes. It is also easy to build with clear instructions and screws for each section. It can also be converted into a toddler desk or bed as your child gets older (see product description for more details).

The teething rails are among our most loved features. They keep your child from hitting their head on the crib's side or any protruding portion of the crib, such as the corner post or handle. They also stop children from chewing on the wood and also preventing them from getting suffocated. There's also an opening that can be removed to allow you to access your newborn. We love that it can be converted into a toddler bed, and it is sturdy enough to last up to four years. It also meets the strict UK safety standards, which are listed in the key specs beneath each product.

Cot beds are typically larger than cribs and can be transformed into toddler beds once your child is ready and you can avoid purchasing a bed at an age when they're ready to move on. However, they are more expensive than the standard crib.

If your nursery is small, you may want to consider the possibility of a crib. It is smaller and occupies less space. However should you be planning to spend a significant portion of your baby's time in your bedroom, or if you need an item that lasts longer, you should choose a crib.

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 deals with mattress thicknesses, materials and other important elements of cot mattresses for babies. The slats must not be too far apart to prevent your baby cots on sale from falling out.

Stores

Whether you're a first-time parent or a seasoned one the amount of things that a baby requires is overwhelming. It is important to think about storage when you choose a cot. A number of cots have additional storage options, such as under-bed drawers or a coordinating cot top changer (available separately). Some can even be adapted into a toddler or small single bed, extending their use for a longer time.

Some cot beds can be further converted into a daybed as shown on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is an excellent option for those who prefer an edgier design. The conversion is simple and only requires the removal of one side panel. This allows parents to save money on a separate bed.

A number of infant cot bed beds feature hanging rails that can be used to store muslins, dolls and other small objects. This allows you to keep everything organized tidy, neat and tidy and looks great. These items are easily accessible to parents which makes it easier for parents to feed their child.

A teething rail is a desired feature that is found in some cots. This can help to keep your baby from chewing on the wood, which could cause irritation. Some cots have more traditional designs and have a huge storage drawer under the bed. It is perfect for toys, clothes, blankets and other baby essentials.

While this is a great option if you're running out of space, it's important to be aware that you'll have to purchase an extra for the drawer. It is also possible to buy a new mattress and bedding since oval mattresses and sheets aren't usually included in the cot itself.

This sleigh cot bed by Stokke is a lovely example of the Scandi-style at its finest and comes with a massive under-bed storage drawer that's great to keep baby essentials out of sight but within easy reach. Our panel was able to find it easy to put together thanks to alphabetically labelled parts and clear instructions. It's suitable for babies from birth and can be made into a toddler bed when your child is ready, which means it's also a good value.