20 Things You Need To Know About Cot Beds

How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby

When you are expecting a child, it is important to select a cot which will provide safety and security for your baby. Look for a cot that has fixed sides, instead of drop-sides. This will be in line with UK safety standards.

This slick and stylish coffin is our top pick from the Anyday range of John Lewis. It comes with three mattress positions, teething rails and storage drawers. It's also easy to set up with clear instructions.

Comfort

The best cot beds keep baby's warm and comfortable. Look for a breathable soft and comfortable fabric. Make sure the mattress is fitted snugly to avoid any gaps that could cause the risk of being suffocated. There are a range of mattresses on the market including coil springs, foam, natural materials for allergy sufferers. So do your research and choose the one that is suitable for your baby's requirements.

If you choose a standard or convertible cot, the key to satisfaction is a high-quality mattress that is supportive and promotes healthy posture. The same is true for the slats. They should be firmly attached and not bent or sagging. The slats need to be firmly fixed to the frame, to ensure that your child will not be caught when they move in their sleep.

If you're not sure what mattress to purchase, talk to your family and friends or consult online cots reviews for recommendations. Make sure you choose a mattress that's air-conditioned, as they'll help to regulate temperature and are less likely to be a home for bacteria.

When it comes to style there's a variety of styles of styles, from traditional sleigh designs with intricate details to sleek, contemporary designs. Some are even painted in vibrant primary colours, which is ideal when you want your baby to wake up bright and cheerful!

There are a lot of cots that have an under-bed drawer for storage, teething rails to protect your child from chewing on the sides of the cot and adjustable height bases for infant 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.

Look for a cot which meets the strict UK safety standards and is able to be easily converted into a toddler's bed when it's time. Find this information in the product description or in the key specifications.

Safety

When choosing a cot the safety of your child's sleep should be a priority. The mattress should fit snugly and there shouldn't be gaps between the mattress and the sides or ends of the cot or cot-bed (large gaps can hold the child's arms and head). Make sure the mattress is firm and thin. Mattresses that are thick could increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies offer a range of mattresses, ranging from basic foam to natural substances for allergy sufferers. Some even contain anti-microbial treatments. If your crib sets has an inclined side, make sure it is in the up position and secured.

Drop sides should only be allowed to fall when an adult is in the room. This can prevent accidental release. Avoid placing your cot against the wall if it is a solid end. This could hinder airflow and could lead to coffin death. According to the most recent research, cots with slatted edges may be safer because they allow for greater airflow.

If your crib has a fixed side choose this option as it's safer when your child begins to crawl and then pull themselves up. If your child is climbing with confidence 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 in order to expand with your child which is extremely practical and a great safety measure. Some cots also have footplates that are adjustable, which is great for toddlers who want to sit up in their bed.

When you put your child in their cot, ensure that there is no visible danger - it should be away from heaters and power points, windows and curtains and blind cords (these can be strangulation hazards). If you're purchasing furniture that is second-hand or an heirloom Be sure to check for potential hazards to choking such as stickers and transfers that can be removed and pose a risk.

If you are unsure about how to use your cot, consult other parents for help or attend a local NCT New Baby class. If your crib comes with a manual ensure that you go through it prior to using it and follow the directions.

Style

With its stunning sleigh design This stunning cot bed will look amazing in your nursery. Our panel members loved the combination of natural and white pine, and its clever features, such as drawers under the bed to store all those baby essentials like nappies, bedding, and a dazzling variety of baby outfits. It's also easy to assemble with clear instructions and separate sets of screws for each section. Additionally, it can be transformed into a toddler bed or desk as your baby gets older (see the product description for details).

One of our favorite features is the teething rails that protect your baby from smacking their head against the side of the cot beds for sale or any protruding part of the cot like handles or a corner post, and which can also stop them from chewing on the wood, preventing them from being trapped. The cot also has drop-sides to allow you to get access to your baby. We love that it can be converted into a toddler bed, and it is sturdy enough to last for up to four years. It also met the strict UK safety standards, which can be found in the main specifications beneath each product.

Cot beds are usually larger than cribs and can be converted into toddler beds once your child is ready which means you don't have to worry about purchasing a bed when they're ready to transition. However, they may be pricier upfront than a crib that is standard.

If your nursery is small, you might want to consider 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 an item that lasts longer, you should consider a crib.

If a cot does not meet the UK safety standards as defined by BS EN 716 or BS 8509 (which refers to the thickness of mattresses, the materials used, and other key elements in baby cot mattresses) It is unsafe for babies to sleep. The slats shouldn't be too far apart to prevent your child from falling out.

Storage

If you're a new parent or a veteran the amount of items the baby will require is immense. It is important to think about storage when you choose a cot. Many cots come with additional storage options, such as drawers in the under-bed or a coordinating cot top changer (available separately). Some cots can be converted into toddler beds or a smaller single bed to extend their usage.

Some cots can be converted into day beds, as seen on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is an excellent option for those who prefer the flexibility of a 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.

A variety of cot beds come with a hanging rail which can be used to store muslins Dummies, and other small items. This makes everything tidy, neat and organized. It also looks great. These items are easily accessible to parents, making it easier for them to feed their baby.

Another desirable feature to look for is a teething rail that is available with some cots. This will stop your child from chewing on the wooden cot, which could cause irritation. Some cots have an older style and come with a large storage drawer beneath the bed that is ideal for clothes, toys blankets, and other baby necessities.

While this is a great option if you're in a tight space, you must remember that you will need to buy a separate extra drawer. You may also need to buy a new mattress and bedding since oval mattresses and sheets aren't usually included in the cot.

This sleigh cot from Stokke is a beautiful example of the Scandi-style at its finest and features a huge under-bed storage drawer that's perfect to keep all the baby's essentials out of view but within easy reach. The alphabetically labeled pieces 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. This means it's good value too.