5 Tools Everyone In The Cot Beds Industry Should Be Using

How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby

When you are expecting a child it is essential to choose a cot that will ensure safety and security for your baby. Choose a cot that has fixed sides, rather than drop-sides. This will be in line with UK safety standards.

Our top pick is this basic but elegant cot from John Lewis' Anyday range. It has three mattress height positions, teething rails as well as a storage drawers. It's also simple to put together with clear instructions.

Comfort

The best cot beds keep baby's warm and comfortable. Look for a soft and comfortable fabric. Also, make sure that the mattress is fitted snugly to avoid any gaps, which could pose the risk of suffocation. There are many types of mattresses available - foam, coils springs, and even natural materials for allergy sufferers. Do your research to find the best cots for newborns one for your child.

If you choose an ordinary or convertible cot, the most important thing to ensure satisfaction is a high-quality mattress that provides proper support and promotes healthy posture. The same is true for the slats, which should be secured and not bent or sagging. The slats need to be securely connected to the frame so that your child does not be caught when they move during sleep.

If you're not sure what mattress to buy, ask your family members or friends or look up online reviews for recommendations. Choose breathable mattresses, as they help you regulate your body temperature, and are less likely to be a breeding ground for bacteria.

There are many styles to pick from, including traditional sleighs with elaborate details and modern, sleek designs. Some are painted in vibrant primary colors to make your child feel joyful and cheerful as they awake.

Most cots come with a drawer for storage underneath teething rails to prevent your child from chewing the sides of the cot, and adjustable height bases to accommodate the growth of your baby. You can also buy a drop-side for babies who aren't big or suffer from health issues that make it difficult to bend over.

Look for a cot which is compliant with the strict UK safety standard and can easily be transformed into a toddler's cot when it is time. Find this information in the product description or in the key specifications.

Safety

When selecting a cot, the safety of your child's sleep should be the top priority. Make sure that the mattress is snug and has no gaps between it and the cot's beds edges or sides (big gaps could keep your child's head from being caught in the arms). Check that the mattress is firm and thin. Mattresses that are too thick can increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies offer a choice of mattresses, from simple foam to natural materials for allergy sufferers. Some even come with 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 go down only when an adult is present, this prevents accidental releases. Avoid placing your cot on the wall if it is an end that is solid. This could restrict airflow, which can result in death of the coffin. According to the latest research, cots with slatted edges may be safer because they permit more airflow.

If your cot is fixed on one side, then you can choose it. It will be the most secure option for your baby as they start to crawl and pull themselves up. Once your child is confidently standing and climbing, this is a sign that they are ready to move into a junior bed.

Some cots to tots are equipped with an option that allows the base to be raised to three levels. This is a great security measure that allows the cot of your child to grow with their needs. Some cots also have footplates that can be adjusted, which are ideal for toddlers who wish to sit up in their bed.

If you are putting your child in their cot, make sure whether there is no obvious danger - it must be away from heat sources, windows, power points and blind cords and curtains (these pose a strangulation risk). If you're purchasing furniture that is second-hand or an heirloom, check for choking hazards like stickers and transfers that can peel off and present the risk of.

If you are unsure about how to use your cot, consult other parents for advice or go to an local NCT New Baby class. If your crib comes with a manual be sure to read it before using it and adhere to the directions.

Style

With its gorgeous sleigh style, this gorgeous cot bed will look great in your nursery. The panel was impressed by the mix of natural and white wood, as well as the clever features such as under-bed storage drawers for everything needed by babies, such as bedding, nappy and an impressive array of baby clothes. It is also easy to put together with clear instructions and separate screws for each section. It can also be converted into a toddler desk and bed as your child gets older (see the product description for more details).

One of our favorite features is the teething rails that protect your little one from smacking their head against the sale cot's side or any protruding parts of the cot, like handles or a corner post. They can also stop them from chewing on the wood, preventing them from getting suffocated. There's also drop-sides to make it easier for parents to reach their newborn. We appreciate that it is able to be converted into an infant bed, and it is sturdy enough to last up to four years. It also met strict UK safety standards. These are listed in the key specs below each product.

Cot beds are typically larger than cribs and can be converted into toddler beds when your child is ready which means you don't have to worry about purchasing a bed when they're ready to transition. However, they can be more expensive than a crib that is standard.

If your nursery is very small, a crib might be the best option for you as it is smaller and occupies less space. However, if your child is likely to spend a lot of time in their parents' bedroom or you'd like a more long-lasting bed, consider a cot.

A cot isn't suitable 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 the thickness of mattresses, the materials used and other important elements of cot mattresses for baby. The slats must not be too far apart to stop your baby from falling off.

Stores

The amount of baby gear you'll 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 storage options when selecting the cot bed. There are a variety of cots that have additional storage solutions available such as drawers in the under-bed or a coordinating top changer (available separately). Some can be transformed into a toddler or small single bed, which can extend their use for a longer time.

Some cots can be transformed into day beds, like the one shown here on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is a great choice for those who like an edgier design. The conversion is simple and requires only the removal of one side panel. This will allow parents to save on the cost of the purchase of a separate bed.

Some cot beds are equipped with a hanging rail that can be used to hang muslins and dolls and other small objects. This makes it easier to keep everything organized, neat and tidy - and it also looks great. These items are easily accessible to parents which makes it easier for them to feed their baby.

Another feature worth looking for is a toothing rail that comes with some cots to tots. This can prevent your little one chewing on the wood which can cause irritation. Some cots 4 tots feature an older style and include a large storage drawer underneath the bed that is ideal for clothes, toys blankets, baby necessities.

While this is a great idea if you're in a tight space, it's important to remember that you will require a separate extra drawer. You may also have to buy a new mattress and bedding since oval mattresses and sheets aren't usually included in the cot.

This sleigh cot bed from Stokke is a lovely example of Scandi-style in its finest and has a huge under-bed storage drawer that's ideal to keep baby necessities out of sight 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 babies as young as birth and can be transformed into a toddler's bed when your child's ready.