20 Things You Must Know About Cot Beds

How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby

When you are expecting your first child, it is important to select a cot which can provide security and safety for your baby. Choose a cot that has fixed sides (rather than drop-sides), which comply with strict UK safety standards.

Our top pick is this simple yet elegant cot from John Lewis' Anyday range. It comes with three mattress height positions, teething rails as well as a storage drawers. It's also easy to set up with clear instructions.

Comfort

The Best cot for newborn cot beds keep baby's warm and comfortable. Choose a breathable soft and comfortable fabric. Make sure the mattress is snug to prevent any gaps that could pose a risk of being suffocated. There are many types of mattresses available - foam, coils springs, and natural materials for allergy sufferers. Do your research to find the most suitable one for your child.

If you choose a standard or convertible cot, the primary factor to comfort is a good-quality mattress that provides proper support and promotes healthy posture. The slats must be securely attached and not sliding. The slats should also be securely fixed 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, consult friends and family or check online reviews for suggestions. Select mattresses that are breathable, since they aid in regulating your body temperature and less likely to hold bacteria.

When it comes to style, there's a wide choice of styles, from traditional sleigh designs with intricate details to sleek, contemporary designs. Some are decorated with bright primary colors to make your child feel cheerful and cheerful as they wake up.

Most cots come with an under-bed drawer for storage as well as teething rails that protect your baby from chewing on the sides of the cot, and adjustable height bases for baby growth. You can also purchase drop sides for small babies or those who have 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 convert into a toddler bed when the time is right. Find this information in the product description or key specs.

Safety

When selecting a cot, the safety of your child's sleep is a must. 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 could hold the child's arms and head). Verify that the mattress is firm and thin. Thicker mattresses aren't recommended, since they could increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies sell mattresses in various materials from foam to natural materials that are suitable for those suffering from allergies. Some even have an anti-microbial treatment. If your mattress has a drop side, ensure it is in the up position and secured.

A drop side should only be allowed to fall when an adult is present, this will prevent accidental releases. If your cot has a solid end be sure to avoid placing it against the wall because it can block airflow and may contribute to coffin death. Recent research suggests that slatted ends could be safer because they permit more airflow.

If your crib has a fixed side choose this option as it will be safest when your child begins to crawl and then pull themselves up. If your child is confidently climbing and standing, it's time to move to a junior bed.

Some cots have a feature where the base can be raised to three different heights, so that it will expand with your child This is extremely convenient and an added safety measure. Some cots have adjustable footplates that are perfect for toddlers who want to stand up.

When putting your child's cot in the crib, make sure there are no visible hazards. It should be placed away from heaters and power points. Also, keep it away from windows, curtains and blind cords. These can all pose a strangulation risk. If you're buying second-hand or heirloom furniture be sure to look for any choking hazards like stickers and transfers that may peel off and present the risk of.

If you're unsure of how to use your cot safely consult parents around or go to a local NCT New Baby course for assistance and guidance. If your cot comes with a manual be sure to go through it prior to using it and adhere to the instructions.

Style

This stunning cot sales bed with its sleigh design will look fantastic in your nursery cots. The panel was impressed by the mix of white and natural wood, as well as the clever features like under-bed storage drawers that can hold all cheap baby cots essentials, like bedding, nappies, and a wide selection of baby clothes. It's also easy to construct, with clear instructions and screws for each section. What's more, it can be converted into a bed for toddlers and a desk when your child gets older (see the product description for details).

One of our favourite features is the teething rails that protect your little one from smacking their head against the side of the cot or any other protruding parts of the cot like the handle or corner post. They also help stop them chewing on the wood, which prevents them from getting trapped. It also features drop-sides to make it easier for parents to reach their newborn. We are thrilled that the cot can be transformed into a toddler bed and that it's sturdy enough to last for up to four years. It also met strict UK safety standards. You can find these in the key specs below each product.

Cot beds are typically larger than cribs and can be transformed into toddler beds once your child is ready which means you don't have to worry about buying another bed until they're ready for the transition. They are more expensive than cribs.

If your nursery is very small, a crib may be the best option for you, as it's smaller and takes up less space. However, if your child is likely to spend much of their time in their parents' room or you want a longer-lasting bed, opt for a crib.

If a cot doesn't meet the UK safety standards outlined by BS EN 716 or BS 8509 (which cover mattress thicknesses, materials, and other key elements in baby mattress cots), it is unsafe for babies to sleep. The slats shouldn't be too wide apart to prevent your baby from falling out.

Stores

Whether you're a first-time parent or a seasoned one, the amount of stuff the baby will require is immense. It is important to think about storage when choosing a cot-bed. Many cots come with additional storage solutions available such as under-bed drawers or a coordinating cot top changer (available separately). Some are even able to be converted into a toddler bed or a single bed, increasing their use for a longer time.

Some cots can be converted into day beds, as shown here on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is an excellent option for those who prefer a more flexible design. The conversion is simple and requires only the removal of one side panel. This lets parents save on the cost of an additional bed.

Some cot beds are equipped with a hanging rail that can be used to hang muslins and dolls along with other small objects. This helps to keep everything organised tidy, neat and tidy - and it also looks fantastic. Being able to access these items makes it easier for parents when feeding their infant.

Another thing to look for is a toothing rail which is included in a few cots. This will stop your child from chewing on the cot's wooden structure, which can cause irritation. Some cots are designed with a more traditional style and have a huge under-bed storage drawer that is perfect for storing toys, blankets, clothes and other baby essentials.

While this is a great idea if you're running out of space, you should be aware that you'll need to buy a separate additional drawer. You may also need to buy a new mattress and bedding, as sheets and mattresses that are oval are not typically included with the cot itself.

This sleigh cot bed by Stokke is a stunning example of the Scandi-style at its finest and features a huge under-bed storage drawer that's great for keeping all those baby's essentials out of view but still within reach. The alphabetically labeled components and clear instructions made it simple to put together for our panel. It's suitable for babies from birth and can be made into a toddler bed when your child is ready, meaning it's also a good value.