20 Fun Facts About Cot Beds

How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby

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

Our top pick is this simple yet stylish cot sets from John Lewis' Anyday range. It comes with three mattress positions, teething bars and a storage drawer. It is also simple to put together, and comes with clear instructions.

Comfort

The best cot beds keep children warm and cozy. Choose a soft, airy fabric, and ensure that the mattress is fitted snugly to prevent any gaps which could cause a suffocation risk. There are a range of mattresses available including coil springs, foam, natural materials for allergy sufferers. So do your research before deciding on the best rated cribs one for your baby's requirements.

If you choose a convertible or standard cot, the key to comfort is a mattress of high-quality that provides proper support and promotes healthy posture. The same is true for the slats, which must be secured and not sagging or bent. The slats should also be securely fixed to the frame, to ensure that your child does not get caught when they move during sleep.

Ask your friends and family for recommendations or browse online cots reviews. Select mattresses that are breathable, since they aid in regulating your body temperature and less likely to harbor bacteria.

When it comes to style, there's a wide choice, from traditional sleigh styles with ornate detailing to sleek, modern designs. Some are even painted in vibrant primary colours, which is ideal if you want your child to wake up feeling fresh and content!

There are a lot of cots that have drawers underneath to store items, teething rails to protect your child 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 petite infants or those with health issues that make it difficult for them to bend over.

Look for a cot which is compliant with the strict UK safety standard and can easily be transformed into a toddler's cot when it's time. This information can be found in the product description and the key specifications.

Safety

A safe sleeping environment is a must and a major aspect to consider when choosing a cot. Make sure the mattress is snugly fitted, with no gaps between it and the cot's bed's sides or ends (big gaps could keep your child's head from being caught in the arms). Check that it's firm and thin - thicker mattresses aren't advised as they may increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies offer a range of mattresses, ranging from basic foam to natural substances for allergy sufferers and some even have anti-microbial treatment. If your cot has a drop side, ensure it is in the upward position and locked securely.

A drop side should only be allowed to go down when an adult is present; this will prevent accidental releases. Do not place your cot against walls if it has an end that is solid. This could restrict airflow, which can lead to coffin death. According to the most recent research, slatted end cots could be safer as they allow for more airflow.

If your crib has a fixed side you should choose this because it will be safest when your child starts to crawl and then pull themselves up. When your child is standing and climbing, it is a sign they're ready to transition into the junior bed.

Some cots come with features that allow the base can be raised to three different levels in order to grow with your child - this is very practical and a great security measure. Some cots have adjustable footplates that are perfect for toddlers who want to stand up.

When you put your child in their cot, check whether there is no visible danger - it must be kept away from heaters or power points, windows and blind cords and curtains (these are a strangulation hazard). If you're purchasing furniture from a secondhand store or an heirloom piece, check for dangers to your child's health such as stickers and transfer tapes that could peel off and present the risk of.

If you're not sure about how to use your cot, consult other parents for advice or attend an local NCT New Baby class. If your cot comes with a manual, make sure you go through it prior to using it and adhere to the instructions.

Style

With its stunning sleigh design This stunning cot bed will look great in your nursery. Our panel was impressed by the mix of natural and white pine, and its innovative features, like under-bed storage drawers to keep all the baby necessities like nappies, bedding, and a stunning variety of baby outfits. It's also easy to assemble, with concise instructions and separate packs of screws for each section. It can also be converted into a bed for toddlers and a desk when your child gets older (see the product's description for more details).

The teething rails are one of our favorite features. They keep your baby from hitting their head against the side of the crib or any other protruding part of the crib, like the handle or corner post. They also prevent them from chewing on the wood and also preventing them from being suffocated. There's also an opening that can be dropped to make it easier for access to your infant. We love that the cot can be converted into a toddler bed and that it's strong enough to last for up to four years. It also complies with the stringent UK safety standards, which are listed in the key specs beneath each product.

Cot beds can be turned into toddler beds if your child is old enough. This lets you avoid buying an entirely new bed as your child gets ready to make the leap. However, they are more expensive upfront than a crib that is standard.

If your nursery is small, a crib could be the best option for you, as it's smaller and occupies less space. However, if your child is likely to spend most of the time in their parents' room or you'd like a more long-lasting bed, opt for a crib.

If a cot doesn't meet the UK safety standards set by BS EN 716 or BS 8509 (which covers the thickness of mattresses, the materials used, and other key elements of baby mattress cots), it is unsafe for babies to sleep. The slats must not be too close together, to ensure that your baby won't fall out.

Stores

The amount of baby equipment you need is overwhelming, regardless of whether you're a new mom or an experienced one. It is important to think about storage when selecting a cot. Some cots come with additional storage options, like drawers beneath the bed 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 usage.

Some cots can be converted into day beds, as shown here on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin mini cot beds. This is an ideal option for those who prefer a less rigid design as the process of conversion is simple and requires just the removal of a side panel. This lets parents save on the cost of the purchase of a separate bed.

A number of cot beds feature a hanging rail which can be used to store muslins Dummies, and other small items. This keeps everything neat, tidy and organized. It also looks fantastic. Being able to access these items makes it easier for parents when feeding their child.

A teething rail is an additional desirable feature that is included in some cots. This will help prevent your little one chewing on the wood which can cause irritation. Some cots feature a more traditional design and include a large storage drawer underneath the bed that is ideal for clothes, toys blankets, and other baby essentials.

This is a great solution when space is a problem but you'll need to purchase a drawer on your own. You might need to purchase an additional mattress and bedding because oval sheets and mattresses don't come with the cot.

This sleigh cot from Stokke is a beautiful example of Scandi-style at its best and comes with a massive under-bed storage drawer that's ideal to keep baby's essentials out of view but easily reachable. The alphabetically labeled pieces and clear instructions made it easy to assemble our panel. It's suitable for babies as young as birth and can be converted into a toddler bed once your child is ready, which means it's also a good value.