20 Fun Facts About Cot Beds

How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby

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

Our top pick is this basic but elegant cot from John Lewis' Anyday range. It comes with three mattress height positions, teething rails, and a storage drawers. It's also simple to put together with clear instructions.

Comfort

The best cot beds (Read Much more) keep baby's warm and comfortable. Look for a soft and breathable fabric and make sure the mattress is fitted snugly to prevent any gaps which could pose the risk of suffocation. There are a variety of mattresses available, including coils springs, foam, and natural materials for allergy-sufferers. Do your research to find the ideal mattress for your child.

No matter if you choose a standard cot or a convertible cot the mattress is vital to your comfort. It should provide proper support and encourage a healthy posture. This is also true for the slats, which should be secured and not bent or sagging. The slats need to be securely connected to the frame so that your child does not get caught when they move during sleep.

If you're not sure what mattress to buy, consult friends and family or check online cots reviews for recommendations. Select mattresses that are breathable, since they can help regulate your body temperature and are less likely to harbor bacteria.

In terms of style, there's a wide choice of styles, from traditional sleigh designs with intricate detailing to sleek, modern designs. Some are even painted in bright primary colors which is great for those who want their little one to wake up feeling bright and happy!

Most cots come with an under-bed drawer for storage and teething rails to guard your baby from chewing on the sides of the cot, as well as adjustable height bases for baby growth. You can also purchase a drop-side for infants who aren't big or have medical conditions that make it difficult to bend over.

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

Safety

When selecting a cot, the safety of your child's sleep should be a priority. Make sure the mattress is snug and has no gaps between it and the cot/cot beds edges or sides (big gaps can restrict your child's head or arms). Verify that the mattress is not too firm and thin. Mattresses that are thick could increase the risk of SIDS. There are many companies that offer a variety of mattresses, ranging from basic foam to natural substances for allergy sufferers and some even have anti-microbial treatment. If your cot features drop-sides, make sure it is secured and in the upward position.

Drop sides should only be permitted down only when an adult is in the room. This will prevent accidental release. If your coffin has a solid bottom do not place it against the wall as it will block airflow and could cause death in the coffin. According to the latest research, cots with slatted edges are safer since they permit more airflow.

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

Some cots have an option where the base can be raised to three different levels, so that it will expand with your child which is extremely convenient and an added security measure. Some cots have footplates that can be adjusted, which are ideal for toddlers wanting to sit up in their bed.

If you are putting your child in their cot, check that there isn't any obvious danger - it must be kept away from heaters, power points, windows and curtains and blind cords (these pose a strangulation risk). If you're purchasing furniture from a secondhand store or an heirloom piece be sure to look for any choking hazards like stickers and transfers that can be removed and create a risk.

If you're unsure of how to use your cot in a safe manner you can ask other parents or visit the local NCT New Baby course for assistance and guidance. If your crib comes with a manual, make sure you go through it prior to using it and adhere to the directions.

Style

With its stunning sleigh design This gorgeous cot bed will look great in your nursery. The panel was impressed by the combination of natural and white wood and the clever features like drawers under the bed for everything essential for babies, including bedding, nappies and a huge selection of baby clothes. It's also simple to put together, with concise instructions and separate packs of screws for each section. It can also be transformed into a toddler desk or bed when your child gets older (see product description for more details).

One of our most loved features is the teething rails which protect your baby from bumping their head on the cot's side or any other protruding parts of the cot like handles or a corner post. They also help stop them chewing on the wood, preventing them from becoming suffocated. The cot also has drop-sides to make it easier for you to get access to your baby. We love that the cot can be converted into a toddler bed and that it's built to last for up to four years. It also meets the strict UK safety standards, which you'll find in the key specs beneath each product.

Cot beds are generally bigger than cribs and can be transformed into toddler beds when your child is ready and you can avoid buying another bed until they're ready for the transition. They are more expensive than cribs.

If your nursery is very small, a crib could be the best choice for you since it is smaller and occupies less space, but should your baby be expected to spend much of their time in their parents' bedroom or you'd like a more long-lasting bed, opt for a crib.

A cot isn't suitable 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 deals with the thickness of mattresses, the materials used and other important elements of baby cot mattresses. The slats shouldn't be too wide apart to prevent your child from falling out.

Stores

The amount of baby stuff you need is overwhelming, regardless of whether you're a first-time parent or a seasoned one. This is the reason it's important to consider storage options when choosing the cot bed. A number of affordable cots have additional storage options, such as under-bed drawers or a coordinating cot top changer (available separately). Some cots are able to be converted into an infant bed or a small single beds to expand their usage.

Some cot beds can be adapted into a day bed like this one on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is an ideal option for those who prefer more flexible designs as the process of conversion is simple and requires just the removal of a side panel. This allows parents to save money on a separate bed.

A number of cot beds come with a hanging rail which can be used to store muslins Dummies, and other small items. This makes it easier to keep everything organized, neat and tidy and looks amazing. These items are easily accessible to parents, making it easier for them to feed their baby.

A teething rail is another 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 have more traditional designs and have a huge storage drawer under the bed, which is perfect for toys, clothes blankets, and other baby necessities.

While this is a great option if you're running out of space, it's important to keep in mind that you'll need to buy a separate additional drawer. You may also have to buy a new mattress and bedding since sheets and mattresses that are oval aren't typically included in the cot.

This sleigh-style cot bed stunning illustration of Scandi style at its best. It has a large under-bed storage space that is perfect to keep all baby necessities out-of-sight but within easy access. The alphabetically labeled parts and clear instructions made it simple to put together for our panel. It's suitable for babies from birth and can be transformed into a toddler bed once your child is ready. This means it's a good investment too.