Buzzwords, De-Buzzed: 10 Other Methods For Saying Cot Beds

How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby

If you're expecting a baby it's crucial to select the right cot that is secure and safe for your child. Look for a cot that has fixed sides, instead of drop-sides. This will be in line with UK safety standards.

Our top pick is this simple yet elegant coffin from John Lewis' Anyday range. It has three mattress positions, teething bars and a storage drawer. It is also easy to assemble, with clear instructions.

Comfort

The best cot beds will keep children warm and cozy. Choose a soft, airy fabric, and ensure that the mattress fits snugly to avoid any gaps, which could pose a suffocation risk. There are many types of mattresses available, including coils springs, foam and natural materials for allergy-sufferers. Do your research to determine the best one for your child.

No matter if you select a standard or convertible cot, the primary factor to comfort is a mattress of high-quality that provides proper support and promotes healthy posture. The slats need to be firmly attached, and not sagging. The slats must also be firmly connected to the frame to ensure that your child does not become caught in the movement in their sleep.

If you're unsure of the mattress to purchase, talk to your family and friends or consult online reviews for recommendations. Choose a mattress that is ventilated, as they'll aid in maintain temperature and are less likely to harbour bacteria.

When it comes to style, there's a wide choice from classic sleigh styles with ornate details to sleek, contemporary designs. Some are even painted in bright primary colors which is great for those who want their little one to wake up feeling fresh and content!

Most cots come with a drawer for storage underneath and teething rails that stop your child from chewing on the sides of the cot, and height bases that can be adjusted to accommodate baby's growth. You can also purchase an extra drop-side for babies that aren't tall enough or suffer from health issues that make it difficult for them to bend over.

For extra peace of mind, look for a cot that meets the stringent UK safety standards and can easily convert into a toddler bed when the time is right. Look for this information in the product description or key specs.

Safety

When selecting a cot, a safe sleeping environment should be the top priority. Make sure the mattress fits snugly, with no gaps between it and the cot's beds edges or sides (big gaps could restrict your child's head or arms). Check that the mattress is not too firm and thin. Thick mattresses could increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies offer a choice of mattresses, ranging from basic foam to natural substances for allergy sufferers. Some contain anti-microbial treatments. If your cot features drop-sides, make sure it is locked and in the upward position.

Drop sides should only be allowed down only when an adult is present in the room. This will prevent accidental releases. Avoid placing your cot against walls if it has a solid end. This can hinder airflow and could lead to coffin death. Recent research suggests that slatted edges could be safer since they allow for more airflow.

If your crib has a fixed side you should choose this because it will be safest when your baby starts to crawl and then pull themselves up. Once your child is confidently standing and climbing, it is a sign that they're ready to move into a junior bed.

Some cots come with a feature that allows the base to be raised up to three different levels. This is a great security feature that allows your child's cot to expand with them. Some cots feature adjustable footplates that are perfect for toddlers who like to stand up.

If you are putting your child in their cot, make sure that there is no visible danger. It must be away from heat sources or power points, windows, blind cords and curtains (these can be strangulation hazards). When buying second-hand furniture or heirlooms, be sure to look out for potential hazards to your child's safety such as labels and transfers. They may peel off and create a risk.

If you're unsure of how to use your cot safely you can ask parents around or go to the local NCT New Baby course for support and advice. If your cot comes with a guide ensure that you read it before using it and follow all the directions.

Style

With its stunning sleigh design This stunning cot bed will look amazing in your nursery.  cots and tots  was impressed by the mix of natural and white pine, as well as its clever features, such as drawers under the bed to store all the baby necessities like nappies, bedding and a stunning assortment of baby clothes. It's also simple to put together, with concise instructions and separate packs of screws for each section. It can also be converted into a toddler's desk and bed as your child gets older (see product description for more information).

The teething rails are among our most loved features. They prevent your child from hitting their head on the side of the crib or any other protruding part of the crib, like the corner post or handle. They also prevent them from chewing on the wood and also preventing them from being suffocated. It also features an opening that can be removed to make it easier for you to access your newborn. We love that the cot can be transformed into a toddler bed and that it's sturdy enough to last up to four years. It also met the strict UK safety standards, which can be found in the specifications that are listed under each product.

Cot beds are generally bigger than cribs and can be transformed into toddler beds when your child is ready and you can avoid purchasing a bed until they're ready to move on. However, they may be more expensive upfront than the standard crib.

If your nursery isn't big enough, you might think about the possibility of a crib. It is smaller and requires less space. However should you be planning to spend a significant portion of your baby's time in your room, or if you need a bed that will last longer, you should consider a crib.

A cot isn't safe for babies to sleep in if it does not meet the strict UK safety standards as outlined in BS EN 716 and BS 8509, which deals with mattress thicknesses, materials and other essential elements of cot mattresses for babies. The slats shouldn't be too close together, to ensure that your child doesn't fall out.

Stores

Whether you're a first-time parent or a veteran the amount of things that a baby requires is overwhelming. This is why it's crucial to consider the storage options when you choose the right crib bed. Some cots come with additional storage options, like drawers underneath the bed or a top changer (available separately). Some cots are able to be converted into toddler beds or a smaller single beds to expand their use.

Some cots are able to be converted into day beds, as seen on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is a great option for those who prefer more flexible designs as the conversion process is fairly simple and involves the removal of a side panel. This also allows parents to save money on a separate bed purchase.

Some cot beds have a hanging rail that can be used to hang muslins and dummies and other small objects. This helps keep everything neat, tidy and organised. It also looks great. These items are easily accessible to parents and make it easier for parents to feed their child.

Another desirable feature to look out for is a teething rail which is included with some cots. This will prevent your child from chewing on the cot's wooden structure, which could cause irritation. Some cots are designed in an older style and include a large under-bed storage drawer which is ideal for storing blankets, toys, clothes and other baby essentials.

This is a great option for those who have limited space, but you will have to purchase a drawer separately. You may have to purchase bedding and a mattress separately, as oval mattresses and sheets do not come with the cot.

This sleigh cot bed from Stokke is a lovely example of the Scandi-style at its finest and features a huge under-bed storage drawer that's great to keep all the baby essentials out of sight but within easy reach. Our panel was able to find it straightforward to put together, due to the alphabetically-labelled parts and clear instructions. It's suitable for babies from birth and can be transformed into a toddler bed when your child is ready. This means it's a good investment too.