10 Inspirational Graphics About Cot Beds

How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby

If you are expecting a child it is crucial to select a cot which will ensure safety and security for your baby. Look for a cot with fixed sides (rather than drop-sides) that meet strict UK safety standards.

Our top pick is this basic but elegant coffin from John Lewis' Anyday range. It has three mattress positions, teething bars, and storage drawers. It is also easy to put together and comes with clear instructions.

Comfort

The best cot beds keep babies comfy and cosy. Find a comfortable soft and comfortable fabric. Make sure the mattress is snug to avoid any gaps that could cause the risk of suffocation. There are a variety of mattresses available: coils springs, foam, and natural materials for allergy-sufferers. Do your research to determine the most suitable one for your child.

No matter if you select a convertible or standard cot, the key to comfort is a mattress of high-quality that provides proper support and encourages healthy posture. The same applies to the slats. They should be secured and not sagging or bent. The slats should 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 browse online cots reviews. Choose mattresses that are breathable, as they can help regulate your body temperature and less likely to be a breeding ground for bacteria.

There are a variety of styles to pick from, including traditional sleighs with ornate details and modern, sleek designs. Some are painted in vibrant primary colors to make your child feel happy and happy when they awake.

You'll find most cots have an under-bed drawer for storage as well as teething rails that protect 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 are small or suffer from health issues that make it difficult for them to bend over.

Find a cot that is compliant with the strict UK safety standards and is able to be easily transformed into a toddler's cot when it's time. Find this information in the product description or key specs.

Safety

A secure sleeping space is a must and a major aspect to consider when choosing a cot. Make sure the mattress is snug and has no gaps between it and the cot/cot 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 could increase the risk of SIDS. There are many companies that offer mattresses made of different materials, from foam to natural materials that are good for those suffering from allergies. Some have anti-microbial treatment. If your cot has drop-sides, make sure it is secured and in the upward position.

Drop sides should only be allowed down only when an adult is in the room. This will prevent accidental release. If your cot has a solid end do not place it against the wall because it will block airflow and may contribute to the death of a coffin. Recent research suggests that slatted ends could be safer because they allow for 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 when they start to crawl and pull themselves upward. When your child is confidently standing and climbing, this is a sign they're ready to transition into a junior bed.

Some cots have an option where the base can be raised to three different levels in order to increase with your child's growth which is extremely practical and a great safety measure. Some cots feature adjustable footplates that are ideal for toddlers who want to stand up.

Whenever you place your child in their cot, check that there is no visible danger. It must be kept away from heaters or power points, windows and blind cords and curtains (these can be strangulation hazards). If you are buying second-hand furniture or heirlooms, make sure to look out for dangers to your child's health such as stickers and transfers. They may peel off and cause danger.

If you are unsure about how to use your cot, ask other parents for advice or take part in an local NCT New Baby class. If your cot has instructions, read them carefully before you start using it, and then follow the safety guidelines closely.

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 innovative features, like drawers under the bed to store all the baby necessities like bedding, nappies and a dazzling variety of baby outfits. It's also simple to put together, with concise instructions and separate sets of screws for each section. It can also be transformed into a toddler bed or desk when your baby grows older (see the product's description for more details).

The rails for teething are one of our favorite features. They stop your child from hitting their head against the side of the crib or any protruding part of the crib, such as the corner post or handle. They also prevent them from chewing on the wood and also preventing them from being suffocated. It also features a drop-side to allow you to access your newborn. We love that it can be converted into a toddler bed, and it's built to last up to four years. It also complies with the stringent UK safety standards, which are listed in the key specs beneath each product.

Cot beds are typically larger than recommended cribs and can be turned into toddler beds when your child is ready, allowing you to avoid purchasing a bed at an age when they're ready for the transition. However, they are more expensive upfront than a standard crib.

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

If the cot you are using does not meet the UK safety standards outlined by BS EN 716 or BS 8509 (which cover mattress thicknesses, materials and other important elements in baby mattresses for cots) It is unsafe for babies to sleep. The slats must not be too close together to ensure that your baby won't get tossed out.

Storage

No matter if you're a first-time parent or a seasoned one, the amount of stuff that a baby requires is overwhelming. It's crucial to think about storage when choosing a cot-bed. Some cots to tots come with additional storage options, like drawers under the bed or a coordinating top changer (available separately). Some can even be adapted into a toddler bed or a single bed, extending their usability for longer.

Some cots are able to be converted into day beds, as shown here on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is a great option for those who prefer a more flexible design. The conversion is simple and only requires the removal of a single side panel. This lets parents reduce the expense of the purchase of a separate bed.

Some cot beds are equipped with a hanging rail that can be used to hang muslins and Dummies, as well as other small items. This helps keep everything neat, tidy and organized. It also looks great. Having easy access to these items will make it much easier for parents when feeding their infant.

A teething rail is an additional desirable feature that is included in some cots. This will stop your child from chewing on the cot's wooden structure, which can cause irritation. Some cots feature more traditional designs and come with a large storage drawer under the bed. It is perfect for clothes, toys blankets, and other baby necessities.

While this is a great option if you're running out of space, you must remember that you will require a separate extra drawer. You may need to buy an additional mattress and bedding since oval sheets and mattresses don't come with the cot.

This sleigh-style cot bed is an exquisite illustration of Scandi style at its best infant cribs. It features a huge under-bed storage area that is ideal to keep baby's essentials out of sight but still easily accessible. The alphabetically labeled parts and clear instructions made it easy to put together for our panel. It's suitable for babies as young as birth and can be transformed into a toddler bed once your child is ready, meaning it's a good investment too.