5 Things Everyone Gets Wrong About Cot Beds

How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Cheap Baby Cots

When you are expecting a baby, it is important to select a cot which will provide safety and security for your Baby Cot Bed. Find a cot which has fixed sides, instead of drop-sides. This will comply with UK safety standards.

This minimalist, elegant crib is our top choice from the Anyday range of John Lewis. It comes with three mattress positions, teething rails, and a storage drawer. It is also simple to put together, and comes with clear instructions.

Comfort

The best cot bed keeps children comfortable and warm. Look for a soft and breathable fabric and make sure the mattress is snug to prevent any gaps which could create the risk of suffocation. There are a range of mattresses available on the market that include coil springs, foam and natural materials for allergy sufferers - so do your research and choose the right one for your baby's requirements.

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

If you're not sure which mattress to purchase, talk to friends and family or check online reviews for recommendations. Make sure you choose a mattress that's air-conditioned, as they'll help regulate temperature and are less likely to be a home for bacteria.

There are a myriad of styles to pick from such as traditional sleighs, with intricate details and sleek, modern designs. Some are painted in vibrant primary colors to make your child feel joyful and happy when they awake.

There are a lot of cots that have an under-bed drawer for storage as well as teething rails that protect 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 smaller babies or those who have health issues that make it difficult for them to bend over.

Look for a cot which is in compliance with the strict UK safety standard and is easily transformed into a toddler's bed when it's time. Look for this information in the product description or in the key specifications.

Safety

When choosing a cot, a safe sleeping environment is a must. The mattress should be able to fit snugly and there should be no gaps between the mattress and the ends or sides of the cot/cot-bed (large gaps can hold the child's arms and 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 mattresses made of various materials including foam and natural materials that are great for allergy sufferers. Some even have an anti-microbial treatment. If your cot features drop-sides, make sure it is secured and in the upward position.

A drop side should be allowed to fall when an adult is present - to prevent accidental release. If your coffin has a solid edge be sure to avoid placing it against the wall because it can block airflow and may contribute to the death of a coffin. Recent research suggests that slatted edges could be safer as they permit more airflow.

If your crib sets has a fixed edge choose this option as it's safer when your child starts to crawl and pull themselves up. When your child is confidently standing and climbing, it is a sign they're ready to move into a junior bed.

Some cots feature features that allow the base can be raised to three different levels to allow it to increase with your child's growth 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.

When you put your child in their cot, ensure that there isn't any obvious danger - it should be away from heaters and power points, windows, curtains and blind cords (these can be strangulation hazards). When buying second-hand furniture or heirlooms, be sure to look out for choking hazards such as stickers and transfers. They can come off and cause danger.

If you're not sure how to use your cot safely you can ask parents around or go to an local NCT New Baby course for support and advice. If your crib comes with a manual ensure that you go through it before using it and adhere to the directions.

Style

With its gorgeous sleigh style This gorgeous cot bed will look great in your nursery. Our panel was impressed by the combination of natural and white pine, and its smart features, including drawers under the bed to store everything necessary for babies, including nappies, bedding and an enviable assortment of baby clothes. It's also easy to assemble, with concise instructions and separate sets 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 information).

The teething rails are one of our favorite features. They stop your child from hitting their head against the crib's side or any protruding part of the crib sets, such as the corner post or handle. They also prevent children from chewing on the wood and preventing them from getting suffocated. It also features a drop-side to allow parents to reach their newborn. We love that it can be converted into an infant bed, and that it's sturdy enough to last for four years. It also met strict UK safety standards. You can find these in the key specs below 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 move on. However, they are more expensive than the standard crib.

If your nursery is small, you might think about the possibility of a crib. It is smaller and occupies less space. However should you be planning to spend a significant portion of your baby's time in the room, or if you need an item that lasts longer, you should choose a cot.

If the cot you are using does not meet the UK safety standards as defined by BS EN 716 or BS 8509 (which covers mattress thicknesses, materials and other essential elements of baby mattresses for cots) It is unsafe for babies to sleep. The slats shouldn't be too far apart, to ensure your baby doesn't fall out.

Storage

The amount of baby stuff you'll need is a mess regardless of whether you're a first-time parent or a seasoned one. This is why it's essential to consider storage options when selecting the right crib bed. Many cots come with additional storage options, such as drawers in the under-bed or a top changer (available separately). Some can be transformed into a toddler or small single bed, increasing their usability for longer.

Some cot beds can be converted into a daybed like this one on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is a great 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 will allow parents to save on the cost of the purchase of a separate bed.

A few cot beds come with hanging rails that can be used to store muslins, dummies and other small items. This helps keep everything neat, tidy and organised. It also looks great. Having easy access to these items will make it easier for parents when feeding their child.

A teething rail is another desirable feature that is included in some cots. This will stop your child from chewing on the wooden cot which could cause irritation. Some cots are designed with more traditional designs and come with a large under-bed storage drawer which is perfect to store blankets, toys clothing, and other baby essentials.

This is a great choice if space is an issue however, you will need to purchase a drawer on your own. It is also possible to buy a new mattress and bedding, as sheets and mattresses that are oval aren't usually included in the cot itself.

This sleigh cot from Stokke is a stunning example of the Scandi-style at its finest and features a huge under-bed storage drawer that's great for keeping all those baby necessities out of sight but within easy reach. The alphabetically labeled components and clear instructions made it simple to assemble for our panel. It's suitable for babies as young as birth and can be transformed into a toddler bed when your child is ready, which means it's also a good value.