15 Surprising Facts About Cot Beds

How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby

If you are expecting a baby, it is important to select a cot which will ensure safety and security for your baby. Look for a cot that has fixed sides instead of drop-sides. This will be in line with UK safety standards.

This slick and elegant cot is our top choice from the Anyday range of John Lewis. It comes with three mattress positions, teething rails, and a storage drawers. It's also easy to set up with clear instructions.

Comfort

The best cot mattress keeps children comfortable and warm. Look for a soft, comfortable fabric. Also, make sure that the mattress is fitted snugly to prevent any gaps which could cause a suffocation risk. There are many types of mattresses available, including foam, coils springs, and natural materials for allergy-sufferers. Do your research to determine the ideal mattress for your child.

Whether you opt for an ordinary or convertible cot, the key to comfort is a good-quality mattress that is supportive and promotes healthy posture. This is also true for the slats. They should be firmly attached and not sagging or bent. The slats must also be secured to the frame, so your child isn't trapped in them while moving during sleep.

If you're not sure which mattress to purchase, talk to friends and family or check online reviews for suggestions. Look for ones that are ventilated, as they'll aid in regulate temperature and are less likely to be a home for bacteria.

There are a myriad of styles to pick from that include traditional sleighs with elaborate details and modern, sleek designs. Some are even painted with bold primary colours, which is ideal if you want your baby to wake up bright and content!

There are a lot of cots that have drawers underneath to store items and teething rails to guard your baby from chewing on the side of the cot, and adjustable height bases to accommodate baby's growth. You can also purchase an extra drop-side for babies that are small or have health issues that make it difficult to bend over.

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

Safety

When selecting a cot, the safety of your child's sleep should be the top priority. The mattress should fit snugly and there shouldn't be gaps between the mattress and the sides or ends of the cot or cot-bed (large gaps can hold the child's arms and head). Check that it's firm and thin. Thicker mattresses aren't advised because they can increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies offer a range of mattresses, from simple foam to natural materials suitable for allergy sufferers. Some come with anti-microbial treatment. If your crib has drop sides, make sure it is in the up position and locked securely.

A drop side should be allowed to go down only if an adult is present, this prevents accidental releases. If your cot has a solid end be sure to avoid placing it against the wall because it will block airflow and may contribute to coffin death. Recent research suggests that slatted edges could be safer because they permit more airflow.

If your cot is set to one side, you should choose it. It's the most secure option for your child when they begin to crawl and pull themselves upward. Once your child is standing and climbing, this is a sign that they are ready to move into the junior bed.

Some cots come with an option where the base can be raised to three different heights in order to increase with your child's growth This is extremely practical and a great security measure. Some cots have adjustable footplates that are perfect for toddlers who like to stand up.

When you place your child's cot ensure there are no visible hazards. It should be placed away from heaters and power points. Also be sure to keep it away from windows, curtains and blind cords. They all could present a strangulation threat. If you're buying furniture that is second-hand or an heirloom be sure to look for any choking hazards like stickers and transfer tapes that could be removed and create danger.

If you are unsure about how to use your cot, ask other parents for help or take part in an local NCT New Baby class. If  best infant cribs  comes with a manual, make sure you go through it prior to using it and follow all the instructions.

Style

This stunning cot bed with its sleigh design will look stunning in your nursery. The panel was impressed with the mix of white and natural wood, as well as the clever features like drawers under the bed for all baby essentials, like bedding, nappies, and a huge selection of baby clothes. It's also a breeze to put together, with concise instructions and separate sets 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 favourite features is the teething rails that 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 can also stop them from chewing on the wood, preventing them from getting trapped. It also features an opening that can be removed to make it easier for parents to reach their newborn. We love that it can be converted into a toddler bed, and that it's sturdy enough to last for up to four years. It also met the strict UK safety standards. These are listed in the main specifications below each product.

Cot beds are usually larger than cribs and can be transformed into toddler beds when your child is ready and you can avoid purchasing a new bed when they're ready to transition. They may cost more than cribs.

If your nursery is very small, a crib may be the best option for you, as it's smaller and occupies less space. However, if your child is likely to spend much of their time in their parents' rooms or you want a longer-lasting bed, opt for a crib.

If a cot does not meet the UK safety standards as defined by BS EN 716 or BS 8509 (which covers mattress thicknesses, materials and other important elements of baby mattresses for cots), it is unsafe for babies to sleep. The slats shouldn't be too far apart to stop your baby from falling out.

Storage

Whether you're a first-time parent or an experienced one, the amount of stuff the baby will require is immense. It's crucial to think about storage when choosing a cot-bed. Certain cots offer additional storage options, like drawers under the bed or a coordinating top changer (available separately). Some are even able to be converted into a toddler or small single bed, which can extend their usefulness for a longer period of time.

Some cot beds can be adapted into a day bed as shown on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is a great choice for those who like the flexibility of a design. The conversion is easy and requires only the removal of ONE side panel. It also lets parents save money on a bed purchase.

A few cot beds come with hanging rails that can be used to store muslins dolls and other small objects. This helps keep everything neat, tidy and organized. It also looks great. Being able to access these items makes it much easier for parents to feed their child.

Another feature worth looking for is a toothing rail that is available in a few cots. This will help keep your baby from chewing on the wood, which could cause irritation. Some cots are designed in a more traditional style and include a large drawer under the bed that is ideal for storing blankets, toys, clothes and other baby essentials.

This is a great solution when space is a problem however, you will need to purchase a drawer separately. You might need to purchase a separate mattress and bedding, as oval sheets and mattresses don't come with the cot.

This sleigh-style cot bed is an exquisite example of Scandi style at its best. It has a large under-bed storage compartment that's ideal for keeping all baby essentials out of sight but still easily accessible. Our panel found it very easy to put together, due to the alphabetically-labelled parts and clear instructions. It's suitable for babies as young as birth and can be transformed into a toddler's bed once your child's ready.