An Easy-To-Follow Guide To Cot Beds

How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby

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

This simple but stylish coffin is our top pick from the Anyday range by John Lewis. It comes with three mattress positions, teething bars, and storage drawers. It is also simple to put together, and comes with clear instructions.

Comfort

The Best cot for newborn cot beds keep baby's warm and comfortable. Look for a soft and airy fabric, and ensure that the mattress fits snugly to avoid any gaps, which could create a suffocation risk. There are many types of mattresses available: coils springs, foam and natural materials for allergy sufferers. Do your research to determine the most suitable one for your child.

It doesn't matter if you pick a conventional cot sales or a convertible the mattress is vital to your the comfort. It should provide adequate support and encourage an ideal posture. The slats must be firmly attached, and not sliding. The slats must be secured to the frame so that your child isn't stuck in them while they move during sleep.

Ask your friends and family for recommendations or browse online reviews. Choose mattresses that are breathable, as they will aid in regulating your body temperature and are less likely to be a breeding ground for bacteria.

There are many styles to pick from such as traditional sleighs, with intricate details and sleek, modern designs. Some are even painted with vibrant primary colours which is perfect for those who want their child to wake up bright and content!

Most cots come with a drawer underneath for storage as well as teething rails that protect your baby from chewing on the side of the cot, and adjustable height bases for infant growth. You can also purchase a drop-side for infants who aren't tall enough or suffer from medical conditions that make it difficult to bend over.

For extra security, opt for a cot that is compliant with the stringent UK safety standards and can easily transform into an infant bed when the time is appropriate. Find this information in the description or in the specifications.

Safety

When selecting a cot, the safety of your child's sleep should be the top priority. The mattress should be able to fit snugly and there should be no gaps between the mattress and the edges or sides of the cot or cot-bed (large gaps can restrict the child's arms or head). Verify that the mattress is firm and thin - thicker mattresses aren't recommended, since they could increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies offer a range of mattresses, from simple foam to natural substances for allergy sufferers. Some come with anti-microbial treatment. If your cot has drop-sides, ensure that it is secured and in the up position.

A drop side should be allowed to go down only when an adult is present, this prevents accidental release. If your coffin has a solid edge, avoid placing it against the wall because it will block airflow and may contribute to coffin death. According to the most recent research, cots with slatted edges could be safer as they allow for greater airflow.

If your cot is set on one side, choose it. It will be the most secure choice for your child when they start to crawl and then pull themselves upwards. When your child is climbing with confidence and standing, it's time to upgrade to a junior bed.

Some cheap cots have an option that allows the base to be raised up to three levels. This is a fantastic security feature that allows the cot of your child to grow with them. Some cots come with footplates that can be adjusted to suit for toddlers who love to stand up.

Whenever you place your child in their cot, ensure that there isn't any visible danger - it must be kept away from heaters or power points, windows, blind cords and curtains (these pose a strangulation risk). If you're buying furniture that is second-hand or an heirloom be sure to look for any hazards to choking such as stickers and transfers that may peel off and present danger.

If you are unsure how to safely use your cot, consult other parents for advice or go to an local NCT New Baby class. If your crib sets comes with a manual, make sure you read it before using it and follow all the directions.

Style

This gorgeous cot bed, with its sleigh-style design will look fantastic in your nursery. Our panel was impressed by the combination of natural and white pine, and its innovative features, like drawers under the bed to store all the baby necessities like nappies, bedding, and a stunning array of baby outfits. It's also easy to assemble with clear instructions and separate sets of screws for each section. It could also be transformed into a toddler's desk and bed when your child gets older (see product description for more details).

One of our most loved features is the teething rails that protect your baby from bumping their head against the side of the cot or any other protruding parts of the cot like the handle or corner post. They also help stop them chewing on the wood, which prevents them from being in danger of being suffocated. The cot also has an opening that can be dropped to make it easier for access to your newborn. We are thrilled that the cot can be transformed into a toddler bed and that it's sturdy enough to last for four years. It also meets the strict UK safety standards, which are listed in the key specs beneath each product.

Cot beds can be transformed into toddler beds if your child is old enough. This lets you avoid purchasing an entirely new bed when your child is ready to move up. However, they may be pricier upfront than the standard crib.

If your nursery is small, a crib may be the best option for you as it is smaller and takes up less space. However, should your baby be expected to spend much of their time in their parents' bedroom or you're looking for a more durable bed, opt for a cot.

A cot isn't suitable 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 mattress thicknesses, materials and other key elements of Baby Cot (you can find out more) mattresses. The slats should not be too far apart to stop your baby from falling off.

Storage

If you're a new parent or a veteran the amount of things a baby needs is staggering. It is important to think about storage when selecting a cot. A number of cots have additional storage options, like drawers under the bed or a coordinating cot top changer (available separately). Some cots are able to be converted into toddler beds or a smaller single bed to increase their usage.

Some cot cribs beds can be further transformed into a daybed, as seen here on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is an ideal option for those who prefer a less rigid design as the process of conversion is simple and involves the removal of a side panel. This lets parents save money on an additional bed.

A few cot beds feature a hanging rail which can be used to store muslins dolls and other small objects. This helps to keep everything organized tidy and neat - and it also looks fantastic. These items are easily accessible to parents and make it easier for them to feed their baby.

A teething rail is a desired feature that is found in some cots. This can help to prevent your little one chewing on the wood, which could cause irritation. Some cots are designed in more traditional designs and come with a large under-bed storage drawer which is ideal for storing toys, blankets clothing, and other baby necessities.

This is a great choice if space is an issue, but you will have to purchase a drawer on your own. You may need to buy an additional mattress and bedding, as oval mattresses and sheets do not come with the cot.

This sleigh cot bed from Stokke is a lovely example of Scandi-style at its best and features a huge under-bed storage drawer that's great to keep baby's essentials out of view but within easy reach. Our panel found it very easy to put together, thanks to alphabetically labelled parts and clear instructions. It's suitable for babies as young as birth, and can be transformed into a toddler's bed when your child's ready.