7 Things About Cot Beds You'll Kick Yourself For Not Knowing

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

If you're expecting a child it's crucial to select the right cot that is secure and safe for your little one. Choose a cot that has fixed sides rather than drop-sides. This will meet UK safety standards.

Our top choice is this simple but stylish cot from John Lewis' Anyday range. It has three mattress positions, teething bars, and storage drawers. It's also easy to assemble with clear instructions.

Comfort

The best cot beds keep babies comfy and cosy. Look for a soft, airy fabric, and ensure that the mattress is fitted snugly to avoid any gaps, which could create an suffocation threat. There are a range of mattresses on the market that include coil springs, foam and other natural materials suitable for allergy sufferers - so do your research and choose the right one for your baby's requirements.

No matter if you select a standard or convertible cot, the key to comfort is a good-quality mattress that is supportive and promotes a healthy posture. The slats need to be firmly attached, and not sliding. The slats must be securely fixed to the frame, so that your little one doesn't get trapped in them while moving in their sleep.

Ask your family and friends for recommendations or browse online reviews. Choose breathable mattresses, as they aid in regulating your body temperature and less likely to harbor bacteria.

When it comes to fashion there's a broad selection from classic sleigh styles with intricate details to sleek, contemporary designs. Some are even painted with bright primary colors which is perfect for those who want their little one to wake up feeling bright and happy!

Most cots come with drawers underneath to store items and teething rails to guard your child from chewing on the side of the cot, and adjustable height bases to accommodate baby's growth. You can also purchase a drop-side for infants who aren't big or suffer from health issues that make it difficult to bend over.

For extra peace of mind, search for a cot that is compliant with the stringent UK safety standards and can easily convert into an infant bed when the time is appropriate. Find this information in the product description or in the key specifications.

Safety

A safe and secure sleeping environment is an essential aspect to consider when choosing a bed. The mattress should fit snugly and there should be no gaps between the mattress and the edges or sides of the cot or cot-bed (large gaps could restrict the child's arms or head). Check that the mattress is not too firm and thin. Thick mattresses can increase the risk of SIDS. There are many companies that offer a variety of mattresses, from simple foam to natural substances for allergy sufferers. Some contain anti-microbial treatments. If your cot has a drop side, ensure it is in the up position and secured.

A drop side should only be allowed to fall when an adult is present, this prevents accidental release. Avoid placing your cot on walls if it has a solid end. This could restrict airflow, which can cause death in the coffin. Recent research suggests that slatted ends could be safer since they permit more airflow.

If your cot is fixed to one side, you should choose it. It's the most secure option for your baby when they start to crawl and pull themselves up. Once your child is confidently standing and climbing, this is a sign they're ready to transition into the junior bed.

Some cots are equipped with an option that allows the base to be raised to three different levels. This is a great security feature that allows your child's cot to grow with the child. Some cots have footplates that can be adjusted, which are ideal for toddlers who wish to stand up in their bed.

When you place your child's cot be sure that there aren't any obvious dangers. It should be kept away from power and heater points. Also make sure it is away from windows, curtains and blind cords. All of these could create strangulation risks. If you're buying furniture from a secondhand store or an heirloom piece be sure to look for best cot bed any choking hazards like stickers and transfers that can be removed and create danger.

If you're unsure about how to use your cot safely you can ask other parents or visit a local NCT New Baby course for assistance and guidance. If your cot comes with a guide ensure that you go through it prior to using it and follow the instructions.

Style

This gorgeous cot bed with its sleigh design will look stunning in your nursery. The panel was impressed by the combination of white and natural wood, as well as the clever features like drawers under the bed for everything needed by babies, such as bedding, nappies, and a huge selection of baby clothes. It is also easy to construct with clear instructions and screws for each section. Additionally, it can be transformed into a toddler bed or desk as your cheap baby cots for sale gets older (see the product description for details).

One of our favorite features is the teething rails that protect your baby from bumping their head on the cot's side or any protruding parts of the cot, like the handle or corner post, and which will also stop them from chewing on the wood, which prevents them from becoming in danger of being suffocated. There's also a drop-side to allow easier access to your newborn. We appreciate that it is able to be converted to an infant bed, and that it's built to last up to four years. It also met the strict UK safety standards, which you'll find in the main specifications beneath each product.

Cot beds are usually larger than cribs and can be transformed into toddler beds once your child is ready, allowing you to avoid buying another bed when they're ready to transition. However, they are more expensive upfront than the standard crib.

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

A cot isn't safe for babies to sleep in if it doesn't meet the strict UK safety standards set out in BS EN 716 and BS 8509, which covers mattress thicknesses, materials and other key elements of baby sale cot mattresses. The slats must not be too wide apart to stop your baby from falling 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. It's crucial to think about storage when you choose a cot. A number of cots have additional storage options such as under-bed drawers or a coordinating top changer (available separately). Some cots are able to be converted into an infant bed or a small single beds to expand their use.

Some cot beds can be further converted into a daybed, as seen here on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is a great choice for those who like an edgier design. The conversion is simple and requires only the removal of one side panel. It also lets parents save money on a bed purchase.

Some cot beds come with a hanging rail that can be used to hang muslins and dolls along with other small things. This helps to keep everything organised, neat and tidy - and it also looks fantastic. These items are easily accessible to parents, making it easier for them to feed their baby.

Another feature worth looking out for is a teething rail that comes with some cots. This will stop your child from chewing on the wooden cot, which can cause irritation. Some cots are designed in an older style and include a large drawer under the bed that is perfect to store blankets, toys, clothes and other baby essentials.

This is a great choice if space is an issue however, you will need to purchase a drawer separately. You may have to purchase an additional mattress and bedding since oval mattresses and sheets do not come with the cot.

This sleigh-style cot bed is an exquisite example of Scandi style at its best cots. It has a spacious under-bed storage compartment that's ideal to keep all baby necessities out of sight but still easily accessible. The alphabetically labeled components 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.