15 Surprising Facts About Cot Beds

How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby

If you're expecting a child, it's important to choose a cot that will be safe and secure for your little one. Look for a cot with fixed sides (rather than drop-sides) that are in line with strict UK safety standards.

Our top pick is this basic but elegant cot from John Lewis' Anyday range. It comes with three mattress positions, teething bars, and an storage drawer. It is also simple to assemble, with clear instructions.

Comfort

The best cot beds keep children warm and cozy. Choose a breathable, soft fabric. Make sure the mattress is snug to eliminate any gaps that could create the risk of being suffocated. There are a range of mattresses on the market that include coil springs, foam and natural materials for allergy sufferers. So do your research and select the right one for your baby's requirements.

Whether you opt for a convertible or standard cot, the most important thing to ensure satisfaction is a high-quality mattress that is supportive and encourages healthy posture. The slats must be securely attached and not sagging. The slats need to be firmly fixed to the frame, so that your child does not be caught when they move in their sleep.

Ask your friends and family for recommendations or look at online reviews. Choose breathable mattresses, as they help you regulate your body temperature and are less likely to hold bacteria.

There are a variety of styles to pick from that include traditional sleighs with elaborate details and sleek, modern designs. Some are even painted in vibrant primary colours, which is ideal when you want your baby to wake up feeling bright and cheerful!

Most cots come with an under-bed storage drawer teething rails to prevent your child from chewing the sides of the cot and height bases that can be adjusted to accommodate baby's growth. You can even purchase a drop side for petite babies or those who have health issues that make it difficult for them to bend over.

Choose a cot that is in compliance with the strict UK safety standard and is able to be easily transformed into a toddler's cot when it is time. This information is found in the description of the product and the key specifications.

Safety

A secure sleeping space is an essential aspect to consider when choosing a bed. Make sure the mattress fits snugly, with no gap between it and the cot/cot bed sides or ends (big gaps can keep your child's head from being caught in the arms). Make sure it's firm and thin. Thicker mattresses aren't advised since they could increase the risk of SIDS. There are many companies that offer a variety of mattresses, ranging from basic foam to natural materials suitable for allergy sufferers. Some have anti-microbial treatment. If your crib has a drop side, ensure it is in the upward position and locked securely.

Drop sides should only be allowed down only when an adult is present in the room. This prevents accidental releases. If your cot has a solid end be sure to avoid placing it against the wall since it will block airflow and may contribute to the death of a coffin. Recent research suggests that slatted edges could be safer since they allow for more airflow.

If your cot is fixed on one side, choose it. It will be the most secure choice for your baby as they begin to crawl and then pull themselves upwards. When your child is confidently climbing and standing, it's time to upgrade to a junior bed.

Some cots have an option where the base can be raised to three different levels, so that it will increase with your child's growth which is extremely convenient and an added security measure. Some cots feature adjustable footplates that are ideal for toddlers who want to stand up.

When you put your child in their cot, ensure that there is no obvious danger - it must be kept away from heaters or windows, power points and blind cords and curtains (these pose a strangulation risk). When buying second-hand furniture or heirlooms to look out for dangers to your child's health such as stickers and transfers. They can come off and pose a danger.

If you're unsure of how to use your cot in a safe manner consult parents around or go to a local NCT New Baby course for assistance and guidance. If your crib comes with a manual ensure that you go through it prior to using it and adhere to the directions.

Style

This stunning cot bed with its sleigh design will look stunning 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 those baby essentials like nappies, bedding and a dazzling array of baby outfits. It's also a breeze to put together, with concise instructions and separate sets of screws for each section. It can also be transformed into a toddler bed and desk as your baby gets older (see the product description for details).

The teething rails are among our most loved features. They keep your child from hitting their head on the side of the crib or any protruding part of the crib, like the corner post or handle. They also stop children from chewing on the wood and also preventing them from suffocating. It also has a drop-side to allow easier access to your infant. We are thrilled that it can be converted to an infant bed, and that it's built to last up to four years. It also complies with strict UK safety standards. These are listed in the key specs below each product.

Cot beds can be converted into toddler beds in the event that your child is old enough. This lets you not have to buy a new bed when your child is ready to make the leap. They are more expensive than a crib.

If your nursery is small, a crib might be the best choice for you, as it's smaller and occupies less space. However, if your baby cots online is likely to spend most of the time in their parents' bedroom or you're looking for a more durable bed, you should consider a cot.

A cot isn't suitable 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 mattress thicknesses, materials and other essential elements of cot mattresses for babies. The slats should not be too close together, to ensure that your child doesn't fall off.

Stores

The amount of baby stuff you'll need is overwhelming regardless of whether you're a first-time parent or an experienced one. This is why it's essential to think about storage options when choosing the right cot bed. A number of cots have additional storage solutions available like drawers under the bed or a coordinating cot top changer (available separately). Some can even be adapted into a toddler bed or a single bed, increasing 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 prefer an edgier design. The conversion is simple and only requires the removal of one side panel. This will allow parents to reduce the expense of the purchase of a separate bed.

A variety of cot beds have hanging rails that can be used to store muslins, Dummies, and other small items. This keeps everything neat, tidy and organized. It also looks beautiful. These items are easily accessible to parents, making it easier for parents to feed their child.

A teething rail is another important feature that's included in some cots. This can help to prevent your little one chewing on the wood which could cause them irritation. Some cots come with an older style and include a large storage drawer beneath the bed. It is perfect for toys, clothes blankets, and other baby necessities.

This is a great solution for those who have limited space however, you will need to purchase a drawer separately. It is also possible to purchase a different mattress and bedding, as sheets and mattresses that are oval are not typically included with the cot itself.

This sleigh cheap cot bed bed from Stokke is a lovely example of Scandi-style at its best and comes with a massive under-bed storage drawer that's ideal to keep all the baby necessities out of sight but still within reach. Our panel of experts found it easy to put together due to the alphabetically-labelled parts and clear instructions. It's suitable for babies as young as birth and can be transformed into a toddler bed when your child is ready, which means it's a good investment too.