20 Things You Need To Know About Cot Beds

How to Choose the best cot beds (click the next page) for Your Baby

When you are expecting a child it is crucial to choose a cot that can provide security and safety for your baby. Look for a cot with fixed sides (rather than drop-sides) that are in line with strict UK safety standards.

This minimalist, elegant coffin is our top choice from the Anyday collection by John Lewis. It comes with three mattress height positions, teething rails as well as a storage drawer. It's also easy to assemble with clear instructions.

Comfort

The best cot beds keep children warm and cozy. Choose a soft, airy fabric, and ensure that the mattress is snug to prevent any gaps which could cause the risk of suffocation. There are a variety of mattresses available - foam, coils springs, and even natural materials for allergy sufferers. Do your research to find the most suitable one for your child.

Whatever you decide to use, whether a standard cot or a convertible cot the mattress is crucial to ensure your the comfort. It should provide proper support and encourage a healthy posture. This is also true for the slats, which should be firmly attached and not bent or sagging. The slats should also be securely fixed to the frame so that your little one doesn't get caught in them when moving during sleep.

Ask your family and friends for recommendations or browse online reviews. Choose a mattress that is ventilated, as they'll aid in maintain temperature and are less likely to harbour bacteria.

There are a variety of styles to pick from, including traditional sleighs with intricate details and sleek, modern designs. Some are painted in bright primary colours to make your child feel joyful and happy when they wake up.

Most cots to tots come with a drawer underneath for storage, teething rails to protect your baby from chewing on the sides of the cot and adjustable height bases for infant growth. You can also purchase a drop side for petite babies or those with health issues that make it difficult to bend over.

For added security, opt for a cot that complies with the stringent UK safety standards and will easily convert into an infant bed when the time is appropriate. Find this information in the product description or in the specifications.

Safety

A safe and secure sleeping environment is essential and a big consideration when choosing a crib. Make sure the mattress is snugly fitted, with no gaps between it and the cot/Cot Bed beds edges or sides (big gaps can restrict your child's head or arms). Verify that the mattress is not too firm and thin. Thick mattresses can increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies offer a choice of mattresses, ranging from basic foam to natural materials suitable for allergy sufferers. Some even have anti-microbial treatment. If your mattress has a drop side, ensure it is in the up position and secured.

Drop sides should only be allowed to go down only when an adult is present in the room. This can prevent accidental releases. If your coffin has a solid bottom do not place it against the wall as this will restrict airflow and may contribute to the death of a coffin. According to the latest research, cots to tots with slatted edges are safer since they permit more airflow.

If your crib has a fixed edge choose this option as it is the most secure option when your child begins to crawl and pull themselves up. Once your child is standing and climbing, it is a sign they're ready to transition into a junior bed.

Some cots come with an option where the base can be raised to three different levels in order to grow with your child - this is very practical and a great safety measure. Other cots come with adjustable footplates, which are ideal for toddlers wanting to sit up in their bed.

When putting your child's cot in the crib, make sure there aren't any obvious dangers. It should be kept away from any heaters or power points. Also be sure to keep it away from windows, curtains, and blind cords. They all could pose a strangulation risk. If you're purchasing second-hand or heirloom furniture, check for dangers to your child's health such as stickers and transfers that can be removed and pose the risk of.

If you're unsure of how to safely use your cot, consult other parents for advice or go to a local NCT New Baby class. If your cot has a manual, read it carefully before you start using it, and then follow the safe-use instructions closely.

Style

With its gorgeous sleigh style, this gorgeous crib will look stunning in your nursery. The panel was impressed with the combination of natural wood and white, as well as the clever features like under-bed storage drawers for everything essential for babies, including bedding, nappies, and a wide selection of baby clothes. It's also a breeze to put together with clear instructions and separate sets of screws for each section. It can also be converted into a toddler desk and bed as your child gets older (see the product description for more details).

The rails for teething are among our top features. They keep your baby from hitting their head on the side of the crib or any protruding portion of the crib, like the corner post or handle. They also prevent children from chewing on the wood and preventing them from suffocating. The cot also has a drop-side to allow easier access to your baby. We appreciate that the cot could be converted into a toddler bed, and that it's strong enough to last up to four years. It also met the strict UK safety standards, which are listed in the main specifications beneath each product.

Cot beds are generally bigger than cribs and can be transformed into toddler beds once your child is ready, allowing you to avoid purchasing a bed until they're ready to transition. They are more expensive than a crib.

If your nursery is small, you may be considering the possibility of a crib. It is smaller and occupies less space. However, if you plan to spend a lot of your baby's time in your room or you need an item that lasts longer, you should choose a cot.

A crib isn't safe 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 the thickness of mattresses, the materials used and other key elements of cot mattresses for baby. The slats shouldn't be too close together to ensure that your child doesn't get tossed out.

Storage

If you're a new parent or a seasoned one, the amount of stuff the baby will require is immense. This is why it's essential to consider storage options when choosing the crib bed. Some cots have additional storage options, such as drawers beneath 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 can be transformed into day beds, like the one shown on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is an excellent option for those who prefer the flexibility of a design. The conversion is easy and requires only the removal of ONE side panel. This lets parents reduce the expense of the purchase of a separate bed.

Some cot beds come with a hanging rail that can be used to hang muslins and dolls and other small items. This helps keep everything neat, tidy and organised. It also looks beautiful. These items are easily accessible to parents which makes it easier for parents to feed their child.

A teething rail is a desired feature that is found in some cots. This will stop your child from chewing on the wooden cot, which could cause irritation. Some cots are designed in a more traditional style and include a large under-bed storage drawer which is ideal for storing toys, blankets clothing, and other baby necessities.

While this is a great idea for when you're running out of space, you must keep in mind that you'll require a separate extra drawer. You may also have to purchase a different mattress and bedding, as oval mattresses and sheets aren't typically included in the cot itself.

This sleigh cot from Stokke is a stunning example of the Scandi-style at its finest and comes with a massive under-bed storage drawer that's great for keeping all those baby's essentials out of view but within easy reach. The alphabetically labeled parts and clear instructions made it easy to assemble for our panel. It is suitable for babies as young as birth, and can be transformed into a toddler's bed once your child's ready.