20 Fun Facts About Cot Beds

How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby

If you're expecting a child it's crucial to select a cot that will be secure and safe for your Baby Cot Bed. Look for a cot that has fixed sides, rather than drop-sides. This will meet UK safety standards.

Our top choice is this simple but elegant coffin from John Lewis' Anyday range. It comes with three mattress positions, teething bars, and an storage drawer. It's also easy to set up with clear instructions.

Comfort

The best cot bed keeps children comfortable and warm. Look for a breathable, soft fabric. Make sure the mattress is snug to eliminate any gaps that could cause the danger of being suffocated. There are a variety of mattresses on the market - foam, coil springs and natural materials for allergy sufferers - so do your research and choose the best one for your baby's needs.

Whatever you decide to use, whether a standard cot or a convertible cot the mattress is essential to comfort. It must provide the right support and promote a healthy posture. The same is true for the slats, which should be firmly attached and not sagging or bent. The slats must also be securely attached to the frame, so that your little one doesn't get stuck in them while they move during sleep.

Ask your friends and family for recommendations or browse online reviews. Look for ones that are breathable, as they'll help regulate temperature and are less likely to harbour bacteria.

There are a variety of styles to pick from, including traditional sleighs with ornate details and sleek, modern designs. Some are painted in bright primary colours to make your child feel happy and cheerful when they wake up.

Most cots come with an under-bed drawer for storage, teething rails to protect your child from chewing on the side of the cot, and adjustable height bases for baby growth. You can also buy a drop-side for babies who aren't tall enough or suffer from health issues that make it difficult for them to bend over.

For extra peace of mind, look for a sale cot that is compliant with the strict UK safety standards and can easily convert into a toddler bed when the time is appropriate. Look for this information in the description or in the key specifications.

Safety

A secure sleeping space is essential and a big consideration when choosing a crib. The mattress should be snugly fitted and there should be no gaps between the mattress and the sides or ends of the cot or cot-bed (large gaps could trap the child's arms or head). Check that the mattress is firm and thin. Mattresses that are too thick could 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 even come with anti-microbial treatment. If your crib has an inclined side, make sure it is in the upward position and secured.

Drop sides should only be allowed down only when an adult is present in the room. This prevents accidental releases. Avoid placing your cot on a wall if it has a solid end. This can restrict airflow, which can cause death in the coffin. The latest research suggests that slatted edges could be safer as they allow more airflow.

If your crib has a fixed edge choose this option as it will be safest when your child starts to crawl and pull themselves up. If your child is confidently climbing and standing, it's time to upgrade to a junior bed.

Some cots come with a feature that allows the base to be raised up to three levels. This is a wonderful security feature that allows your child's cot to expand with them. Some cots also 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 visible dangers. It should be placed away from heaters and power points. Also make sure it is away from windows, curtains, and blind cords. These can all present a strangulation threat. If you are buying second-hand furniture or heirlooms, make sure to check for dangers to your child's health such as stickers and transfers. They may peel off and cause danger.

If you're unsure about how to use your cot safely, ask other parents or visit a local NCT New Baby course for support and advice. If your cot comes with instructions, read them carefully before you begin using it, and be sure to follow the safety guidelines closely.

Style

This gorgeous cot bed, with its sleigh-style design will look stunning in your nursery. The panel was impressed by the mix of white and natural wood and the clever features like under-bed storage drawers that can hold all baby essentials, like bedding, nappy and a huge selection of baby clothes. It's also easy to assemble, with concise instructions and separate sets of screws for each section. What's more, it can be transformed into a toddler bed and desk as your baby gets older (see the product description for more details).

The teething rails are among our most loved features. They stop your child from hitting their head against the side of the crib or any protruding portion of the crib, such as the corner post or handle. They also stop them from chewing on the wood, and prevent them from suffocating. The cot also has drop-sides to allow you to access your newborn. We appreciate that the cot could be converted into a toddler bed, and that it's built to last for four years. It also met strict UK safety standards. You can find these in the main specifications below each product.

Cot beds are typically larger than good cribs and can be transformed into toddler beds when your child is ready which means you don't have to worry about buying another bed until they're ready to move on. They are more expensive than cribs.

If your nursery isn't big enough, you might think about a crib. It is smaller and requires less space. However it is recommended to consider a cot if you are planning to spend a significant portion of your baby's time in the room or if you require an item that lasts longer, you should opt for a cot.

A cot isn't safe for babies to sleep in if it does not meet the strict UK safety standards as outlined in BS EN 716 and BS 8509, which deals with the thickness of mattresses, the materials used and other essential elements of cot mattresses for babies. The slats should not be too close together, to ensure your baby doesn't fall off.

Stores

The amount of baby stuff you need is overwhelming, whether you're a new parent or a seasoned one. It is important to think about storage when choosing a cot-bed. There are a variety of cots that have additional storage options, such as drawers in the under-bed or a top changer (available separately). Some can be transformed into a toddler bed or a single bed, which can extend their usability for longer.

Some cots can be converted into day beds, as shown here 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 involves the removal of a side panel. This will allow parents to reduce the expense of a separate bed.

Some cot beds come with a hanging rail that can be used to hang muslins and dummies and other small items. This makes everything tidy, neat and organized. It also looks beautiful. Being able to access these items will make it easier for parents to feed their baby.

A teething rail is another 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 come with a more traditional design and have a huge storage drawer under the bed that is ideal for toys, clothes blankets, and other baby necessities.

This is a great solution if space is an issue however, you will need to purchase a drawer separately. You might need to purchase a separate mattress and bedding, as oval sheets and mattresses do not come with the cot.

This sleigh-style cot is a beautiful illustration of Scandi style at its best rated cribs. It has a spacious under-bed storage space that is perfect to keep Cheap baby cots's essentials away from view but easily accessible. Our panel of experts found it straightforward to put together, thanks to alphabetically labelled parts and clear instructions. It's suitable for babies from birth and can be made into a toddler's crib when your child's ready.