Five Killer Quora Answers On Cot Beds
From Shiapedia
How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby
If you are expecting a child, it is important to select a cot which will ensure safety and security for your baby. Look for a cot with fixed sides (rather than drop-sides), which comply with strict UK safety standards.
Our top rated cots 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 simple to put together with clear instructions.
Comfort
The Best cot for newborn cot beds keep children warm and cozy. Look for a breathable soft, soft fabric. Make sure that the mattress is fitted snugly to prevent any gaps that could cause the danger of being suffocated. There are many types of mattresses available - coils springs, foam, and natural materials for allergy-sufferers. Do your research to determine the ideal mattress for your child.
If you choose a standard or convertible cot, the primary factor to comfort is a mattress of high-quality that is supportive and promotes a healthy posture. This is also true for the slats, which should be secured and not sagging or bent. The slats must also be securely fixed to the frame, so that your child does not be caught when they move in their sleep.
If you're not sure what mattress to buy, consult friends and family or check online reviews for recommendations. 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 such as traditional sleighs, with elaborate details and modern, sleek designs. Some are even painted in bright primary colors, which is ideal for those who want their baby to wake up bright and happy!
The majority of cots have a drawer for storage underneath and teething rails that stop your child from chewing the sides of the cot, and height bases that can be adjusted to accommodate the growth of your baby. You can also buy a drop-side for infants who aren't big or suffer from medical conditions that make it difficult for them to bend over.
For extra peace of mind, look for a cot that complies with the strict UK safety standards and will easily transform into a toddler bed when the time is right. Look for this information in the description or in the key specifications.
Safety
When choosing a cot, a safe sleeping environment should be a priority. Make sure the mattress fits snugly, with no gap between it and the cot/cot beds edges or sides (big gaps could trap your child's head or arms). Make sure the mattress is not too firm and thin. Mattresses that are thick can increase the risk of SIDS. There are many companies that offer mattresses made of a variety of materials including foam and natural materials that are suitable for allergy sufferers. Some even come with an anti-microbial treatment. If your mattress has an inclined side, make sure it is in the up position and locked securely.
Drop sides should only be permitted down when an adult is present in the room. This will prevent accidental releases. If your cot has a solid end do not place it against the wall since it can block airflow and may contribute to the death of a coffin. According to the latest research, cots with slatted ends could be safer as they allow for more airflow.
If your cot has a fixed side choose this option as it's safer when your child starts to crawl and climb up. Once your child is confidently standing and climbing, it is a sign that they are ready to transition into the junior bed.
Some cots have a feature that allows the base to be raised to three levels. This is a fantastic security measure that allows the cot of your child to grow with the child. Some cots also have footplates that are adjustable, which is ideal for toddlers wanting to sit up in their bed.
When you place your child's cot be sure that there aren't any obvious dangers. It should be put away from power and heater points. Also, keep it away from windows, curtains, and blind cords. These can all create strangulation risks. When purchasing second-hand furniture, or heirlooms, be sure to look out for potential hazards to your child's safety such as labels and transfers. They can come off and cause danger.
If you're not sure how to use your cot safely, ask parents around or go to the local NCT New Baby course for assistance and guidance. If your cot has instructions, read them carefully before you begin using it, and follow the safety-use guidelines carefully.
Style
With its stunning sleigh design, this gorgeous crib will look stunning in your nursery. Our panel loved the mix of white and natural pine, as well as its clever features, such as under-bed storage drawers to keep all those baby essentials like nappies, bedding and an enviable variety of baby outfits. It is also easy to construct with clear instructions and separate screws for each section. It can also be converted into a toddler bed and desk when your child gets older (see the product's description for more details).
One of our favorite features are the teething rails, which shield your baby from bumping their head against the side of the cot or any other protruding parts of the cot like the handle or corner post. They can also stop them from chewing on the wood, preventing them from getting in danger of being suffocated. There's also a drop-side to allow you to access your newborn. We appreciate that it is able to be converted to a toddler bed, and it's sturdy enough to last up to four years. It also met strict UK safety standards. These are listed in the specifications below for each product.
Cot beds are generally bigger than cribs and can be converted into toddler beds once your child is ready, allowing you to avoid buying another bed until they're ready to transition. However, they may be more expensive upfront than the standard crib.
If your nursery isn't big enough, you might want to consider the possibility of a crib. It is smaller and requires less space. However, if you plan on spending a lot of your baby's time in the room, or if you need an item that lasts longer, you should opt for a crib.
A crib isn't safe for babies to sleep in if it does not meet the strict UK safety standards set out 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 babies. The slats should not be too wide apart to stop your child from falling out.
Storage
The amount of baby gear you'll need is a mess regardless of whether you're a new mom or a seasoned one. This is why it's crucial to consider storage options when choosing the right crib bed. Certain cots offer additional storage options, like drawers underneath the bed or a coordinating top changer (available separately). Some can be transformed to a toddler or a small single bed, which can extend their use for a longer time.
Some cot beds can be converted into a daybed, as seen here on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is a great choice for those who like an edgier design. The conversion is easy and requires only the removal of a single side panel. It also lets parents save money on a separate bed.
A number of cot beds come with hanging rails that can be used to store muslins, Dummies, and other small items. This keeps everything neat, tidy and organized. It also looks great. Being able to access these items makes it easier for parents to feed their child.
A teething rail is another desirable feature that is included in some cots. This can stop your child from chewing on the wood, which could cause them irritation. Some cots are designed with more traditional designs and have a huge drawer under the bed that is perfect for storing blankets, toys, clothes and other baby essentials.
While this is a great idea if you're running out of space, it's important to keep in mind that you'll have to purchase an additional drawer. You may also need to buy a new mattress and bedding as sheets and mattresses that are oval aren't usually included in the cot itself.
This sleigh-style cot bed an exquisite illustration of Scandi style at its best. It has a spacious under-bed storage compartment that's ideal to keep baby's essentials away from view but easily accessible. The alphabetically labeled parts and clear instructions made it easy to assemble for our panel. It's suitable for babies from birth and can be made into a toddler bed when your child is ready, which means it's good value too.
