20 Things You Need To Know About Cot Beds

How to Choose the Best cot bed Cot Beds for Your Baby Cot

If you are expecting your first child it is crucial to select a cot which can provide security and safety for your baby. Choose a cot that has fixed sides (rather than drop-sides) that meet 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 and storage drawer. It's also simple to put together 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 fits snugly, to eliminate any gaps that could create a risk of suffocation. There are a range of mattresses available on the market including coil springs, foam and natural materials for allergy sufferers - so do your research and select the right one for your baby's needs.

Whatever you decide to use, whether a conventional cot or a convertible, a good mattress is crucial to ensure your the comfort. It should provide adequate support and encourage an upright posture. The slats need to be secured and not sagging. The slats must be secured to the frame, so your child isn't trapped in them while moving in their sleep.

Ask your family and friends for recommendations, or read online reviews. Choose mattresses that are breathable, as they help you regulate your body temperature and are less likely to be a breeding ground for bacteria.

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

There are a lot of cheap cots that have drawers underneath to store items as well as teething rails that protect your baby from chewing on the side of the cot, as well as adjustable height bases for infant growth. You can even buy drop sides for small babies or those who have health issues that make it difficult to bend over.

Find a cot that is compliant with the strict UK safety standards and is easily transformed into a toddler's bed when it's time. This information can be found in the product description as well as the specifications.

Safety

A safe and secure sleeping environment is an essential consideration when choosing a bed. The mattress should be snugly fitted and there shouldn't be gaps between the mattress and the ends or sides of the cot or cot-bed (large gaps could restrict the child's arms or head). Verify that the mattress is firm and thin. Mattresses that are too thick can increase the risk of SIDS. There are many companies that offer mattresses made of a variety of materials from foam to natural materials that are great for those suffering from allergies. Some even come with an anti-microbial treatment. If your crib has an inclined side, make sure it is in the up position and locked securely.

Drop sides should only be allowed down when an adult is present in the room. This will prevent accidental releases. If your coffin has a solid bottom do not place it against the wall since it can block airflow and can cause coffin death. According to the latest research, slatted end cots may be safer because they permit more airflow.

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

Some cots have an option where the base can be raised to three different heights, so that it will grow with your child which is extremely convenient and an added security measure. Some cots feature footplates that can be adjusted to suit for toddlers who want to stand up.

Whenever you place your child in their cot, ensure that there isn't any visible danger - it must be away from heat sources and windows, power points and curtains and blind cords (these can be strangulation hazards). If you are buying second-hand furniture or heirlooms to check for potential hazards to your child's safety such as labels and transfers. They may peel off and create a risk.

If you're unsure of about how to use your cot, ask other parents for advice or go to a local NCT New Baby class. If your cot comes with instructions, read them carefully before using it, and follow the safety guidelines closely.

Style

With its gorgeous sleigh style This gorgeous crib will look stunning in your nursery. The panel was impressed with the mix of white and natural wood as well as the clever features such as under-bed storage drawers for everything needed by babies, such as bedding, nappies, and an impressive array of baby clothes. It's also simple to put together, with clear instructions and screws for each section. Additionally, it can be converted into a bed for toddlers and a desk as your baby gets older (see the product description for more details).

The teething rails are among our most loved features. They keep your baby from hitting their head on the side of the crib or any protruding portion of the crib, such as the corner post or handle. They also stop them from chewing the wood, and prevent them from getting suffocated. It also has an opening that can be dropped to make it easier for access to your newborn. We love that the cot can be transformed into a toddler bed and that it's built to last 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 can be converted into toddler beds when your child is old enough. This lets you avoid purchasing an entirely new bed as your child gets ready to make the leap. However, they may be more expensive than a standard crib.

If your nursery is small, a crib might be the best option for you since it is smaller and takes up less space, but should your baby be expected to spend most of the time in their parents' rooms or you're looking for a more durable bed, you should consider a cot.

A crib isn't safe for babies to sleep in if it doesn't meet the strict UK safety standards as outlined in BS EN 716 and BS 8509, which deals with mattresses' thicknesses, materials, and other essential elements of cot mattresses for baby. The slats shouldn't be too far apart, to ensure that your child doesn't get tossed out.

Stores

The amount of baby gear you'll need is overwhelming regardless of whether you're a new mom or a seasoned one. It's important to consider storage when you choose a cot. Many cots come with additional storage options, such as under-bed drawers or a coordinating cot top changer (available separately). Some can even be adapted to a toddler or a small single bed, which can extend their usability for longer.

Some cots are able to be converted into day beds, as seen here on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is a great choice for those who prefer the flexibility of a design. The conversion is easy and only requires the removal of a single side panel. This will allow parents to save on the cost of a separate bed.

Some cot beds have a hanging rail that can be used to hang muslins and Dummies along with other small things. This helps keep everything tidy, neat and organized. It also looks fantastic. Having easy access to these items makes it much easier for parents to feed their Baby Crib.

A teething rail is a desirable feature that is included in some cots. This can prevent your little one chewing on the wood, which could cause irritation. Some cots are designed with more traditional designs and have a huge under-bed storage drawer which is perfect to store blankets, toys, clothes and other Baby Cot essentials.

While this is a great option if you're short on space, you must keep in mind that you'll have to purchase an additional drawer. You might need to purchase bedding and a mattress separately, as oval mattresses and sheets do not come with the cot.

This sleigh cot bed from Stokke is a beautiful example of Scandi-style at its best and comes with a massive under-bed storage drawer that's ideal to keep baby essentials out of sight but still within reach. Our panel was able to find it easy to put together, thanks to the alphabetically labeled parts and clear instructions. It's suitable for babies from birth and can be converted into a toddler bed when your child is ready, which means it's also a good value.