20 Things You Need To Be Educated About Cot Beds

How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby

If you're expecting a baby it's crucial to select a cot that's safe and secure for your little one. Find a cot which has fixed sides instead of drop-sides. This will comply with UK safety standards.

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

Comfort

The best cot beds keep children warm and cozy. Look for a soft and comfortable fabric. Also, make sure that the mattress fits snugly to avoid any gaps, which could pose an suffocation threat. There are many mattresses on the market that include coil springs, foam, natural materials for allergy sufferers. So do your research before deciding on the one that is suitable for your baby's needs.

If you choose a standard or convertible cot, the primary factor to satisfaction is a high-quality mattress that provides proper support and promotes healthy posture. The same is true for the slats, which should be firmly attached and not bent or sagging. The slats must also be securely fixed to the frame so that your child isn't stuck in them while they move during sleep.

If you're not sure which mattress to purchase, talk to your family members or friends or look up online reviews for suggestions. Choose breathable mattresses, as they can help you regulate your body temperature and are less likely to hold bacteria.

There are a myriad of styles to pick from that include traditional sleighs with elaborate details and sleek, modern designs. Some are painted in vibrant primary colors to make your child feel happy and cheerful as they wake up.

The majority of cots to tots have a drawer for storage underneath and teething rails that stop your child from chewing the sides of the cot, and height bases that can be adjusted to accommodate the growth of your baby. You can also buy a drop-side for babies who aren't big or suffer from medical conditions that make it hard to bend over.

Look for a cot which meets the strict UK safety standard and is able to be easily transformed into a toddler's cot when it's time. This information is available in the product description as well as the key specifications.

Safety

When choosing a cot an environment that is safe for sleeping is a must. The mattress should be snugly fitted and there shouldn't be gaps between the mattress and the ends or sides of the cot/cot-bed (large gaps could hold the child's arms and head). Make sure the mattress is not too firm and thin. Thick mattresses could increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies offer a range of mattresses, from simple foam to natural substances for allergy sufferers and some even have anti-microbial treatment. If your cot has drop-sides, ensure that it is locked and in the upward position.

A drop side should only be allowed to drop only if an adult is present - this will prevent accidental release. Avoid placing your cot on walls if it has a solid end. This can hinder airflow and could lead to coffin death. Recent research suggests that slatted edges could be safer since they permit more airflow.

If your cot has a fixed side choose this option as it's safer when your child starts to crawl and climb up. Once your child is confidently standing and climbing, it is a sign they're ready to transition into a junior bed.

Some cots come with features that allow the base can be raised to three different levels to allow it to 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 like to stand up.

Whenever you place your child in their cot, check that there is no visible danger - it should be away from heaters, power points, windows and curtains and blind cords (these pose a strangulation risk). 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 are unsure how to safely use your cot, ask other parents for help or take part in a local NCT New Baby class. If your cot comes with a manual, make sure you go through it prior to using it and follow the directions.

Style

With its gorgeous sleigh style, this gorgeous crib will look stunning in your nursery. Our panel members loved the combination of natural and white pine, as well as its clever features, such as under-bed storage drawers to keep all the Baby Cot Bed necessities like nappies, bedding and a stunning variety of baby outfits. It's also simple to put together with clear instructions and separate packs of screws for each section. It can also be transformed into a toddler's desk and bed as your child gets older (see product description for more details).

The teething rails are among our most loved features. They keep your baby from hitting their head on the crib's side or any protruding part of the crib, such as the corner post or handle. They also stop children from chewing on the wood, and prevent them from suffocating. It also has an opening that can be dropped to make it easier for access to your baby. We love that it can be converted into a toddler bed, and that it's built to last up to four years. It also complies with strict UK safety standards. You can find these in the specifications below for each product.

Cot beds can be converted into toddler beds when your child is old enough. This allows you to avoid buying a new bed when your child's ready to move up. However, they are pricier upfront than a crib that is standard.

If your nursery is small, a crib may be the best choice for you as it is smaller and occupies less space, but if your baby is likely to spend a lot of time in their parents' room or you'd like a more long-lasting bed, consider a cot.

If a cot doesn't meet the UK safety standards set by BS EN 716 or BS 8509 (which covers mattress thicknesses, materials, and other key elements of baby mattresses for cots) It is unsafe for babies to sleep. The slats shouldn't be too close together, to ensure that your baby won't get tossed out.

Storage

The amount of baby stuff you'll need is overwhelming whether you're a new parent or a seasoned one. This is why it's crucial to think about the storage options when you choose a cot bed. A number of cots have additional storage options like drawers under the bed or a coordinating cot top changer (available separately). Some cots can be converted into an infant bed or a small 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 an edgier design. The conversion is easy and requires only the removal of one side panel. This also allows parents to save money on a separate bed purchase.

A number of cot beds feature hanging rails that can be used to store muslins Dummies, and other small items. This helps to keep everything organized tidy and neat and also looks amazing. Having easy access to these items will make it much easier for parents to feed their infant.

Another desirable feature to look for is a teething rail that is available in a few cots. This will help stop your child from chewing on the wood which could cause irritation. Some cots are designed with a more traditional style and include a large under-bed storage drawer which is perfect to store blankets, toys clothes, and other baby essentials.

This is a great solution if space is an issue, but you will have to purchase a drawer separately. You may have to purchase a separate mattress and bedding since oval sheets and mattresses don't come with the cot.

This sleigh cot from Stokke is a beautiful example of Scandi-style in its finest and features a huge under-bed storage drawer that's great for keeping all those baby necessities 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 as young as birth, and can be made into a toddler's bed when your child is ready.