3 Reasons You're Cot Beds Is Broken (And How To Fix It)
How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby If you are expecting a child, it is important to choose a cot that will ensure safety and security for your baby. Look for a cot that has fixed sides instead of drop-sides. This will comply with UK safety standards. This slick and stylish coffin is our top pick from the Anyday collection by John Lewis. It comes with three mattress positions, teething rails and storage drawer. It is also easy to put together, and comes with clear instructions. Comfort The best cot beds keep children warm and cozy. Find a comfortable soft, soft fabric. Make full report that the mattress is snug to eliminate any gaps that could cause the risk of being suffocated. There are full report of mattresses available on the market including coil springs, foam and other natural materials suitable for allergy sufferers, so do your research and choose the best one for your baby's needs. Whether you opt for a standard or convertible cot, the key to satisfaction is a high-quality mattress that provides proper support and promotes a healthy posture. The slats should also be firmly attached, and not sliding. The slats need to be securely attached to the frame to ensure that your child will not be caught when they move in their sleep. If you're unsure of the mattress to purchase, talk to your family and friends or consult online reviews for suggestions. Choose a mattress that is air-conditioned, as they'll help to regulate temperature and are less likely to harbour bacteria. There are many styles to pick from such as traditional sleighs, with ornate details and sleek, modern designs. Some are even painted in bold primary colours which is perfect if you want your little one to wake up bright and content! Most cots come with drawers underneath to store items and teething rails to guard your child from chewing on the side of the cot, and adjustable height bases to accommodate baby's growth. You can also buy a drop-side for infants who aren't big or suffer from health issues that make it hard to bend over. For extra security, opt for a cot that is compliant with the stringent UK safety standards and will easily transform into a toddler bed when the time is appropriate. This information is available in the product description and the key specifications. Safety A safe and secure sleeping environment is an essential factor when selecting a cot. The mattress should be snugly fitted and there should be no gaps between the mattress and the edges or sides of the cot or cot-bed (large gaps can hold the child's arms and head). Check that the mattress is firm and thin. Mattresses that are thick can increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies offer a range of mattresses, from simple foam to natural materials suitable for allergy sufferers. Some even contain anti-microbial treatments. If your cot features a drop-side, make sure it is locked and in the upward position. Drop sides should only be permitted down only when an adult is present in the room. This prevents accidental release. Avoid placing your cot against the wall if it is a solid end. This can limit airflow, which could lead to coffin death. The latest research suggests that slatted ends could be safer as they allow more airflow. If your cot is fixed to one side, you should choose it. It will be the most secure choice for your baby as they start to crawl and pull themselves up. If your child is confidently climbing and standing, it's time to move to a junior bed. Some cots are equipped with a feature that allows the base to be raised to three levels. This is a great security measure that allows your child's cot to grow with the child. Other cots come with adjustable footplates, which are ideal for toddlers wanting to sit up in their beds. When you put your child in their cot, check whether there is no obvious danger – it must be away from heat sources and power points, windows and curtains and blind cords (these can be strangulation hazards). If you're buying furniture from a secondhand store or an heirloom piece be sure to look for any choking hazards like stickers and transfers that may peel off and present danger. If you're unsure about how to use your cot safely, ask other parents or attend a local NCT New Baby course for support and advice. If your cot comes with instructions, read them carefully before you begin using it, and follow the safety guidelines closely. Style With its beautiful sleigh design, this gorgeous crib will look stunning in your nursery. Our panel loved the mix of white and natural pine, and its innovative features, like under-bed storage drawers that can hold all the baby necessities like nappies, bedding and a stunning array of baby outfits. It's also a breeze to put together, with concise instructions and separate sets of screws for each section. It can also be transformed into a toddler desk or bed when your child gets older (see product description for more details). One of our most loved features are the teething rails that protect your little one from bumping their head on the side of the cot or any other protruding parts of the cot, such as a handle or a corner post. They will also stop them from chewing on the wood, which prevents them from being suffocated. It also has an opening that can be dropped to make it easier for access to your baby. We are thrilled that it can be converted to an infant bed, and it's built 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 converted into toddler beds once your child is ready which means you don't have to worry about buying another bed at an age when they're ready to move on. However, they can be more expensive than a crib that is standard. If your nursery is very small, a crib may be the best choice for you as it is smaller and occupies less space, but should your baby be expected to spend a lot of time in their parents' room or you'd like a more long-lasting bed, consider a crib. If the cot you are using does not meet the UK safety standards set by BS EN 716 or BS 8509 (which refers to mattress thicknesses, materials, and other important elements in baby mattress cots), it is unsafe for babies to sleep. The slats must not be too far apart to stop your child from falling out. Stores The amount of baby equipment you'll need is overwhelming regardless of whether you're a first-time parent or a seasoned one. This is the reason it's important to think about storage options when selecting the cot bed. Many cots come with additional storage solutions available such as under-bed drawers or a coordinating cot top changer (available separately). Some can be transformed to a toddler or a small single bed, increasing 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 prefer the flexibility of a design. The conversion is easy and only requires the removal of one side panel. This also allows parents to save money on a separate bed. A few cot beds have a hanging rail which can be used to store muslins, Dummies, and other small items. This helps keep everything neat, tidy and organized. It also looks beautiful. These items are easily accessible to parents and make it easier for them to feed their baby. Another desirable feature to look out for is a teething rail that comes in a few cots. This will prevent your child from chewing on the cot's wooden structure, which could cause irritation. Some cots are designed in more traditional designs and include a large under-bed storage drawer that is perfect to store blankets, toys clothing, and other baby necessities. This is a great solution 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 as oval mattresses and sheets are not typically included with the cot itself. This sleigh-style cot bed stunning illustration of Scandi style at its finest. It has a large under-bed storage area that is ideal for keeping all baby essentials out-of-sight but within easy access. The alphabetically labeled pieces and clear instructions made it easy to put together for our panel. It's suitable for infants from birth and can be converted into a toddler bed once your child is ready, which means it's good value too.