14 Misconceptions Common To Cot Beds

How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby

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

Our top choice is this simple but stylish cot from John Lewis' Anyday range. It comes with three mattress positions, teething rails and storage drawers. It is also simple to assemble, with clear instructions.

Comfort

The best cot beds keep babies comfy and cosy. Look for a breathable, soft fabric. Make sure the mattress is fitted snugly to eliminate any gaps that could pose the risk of suffocation. 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.

It doesn't matter if you pick a standard cot or a convertible, a good mattress is essential to the comfort. It should provide proper support and encourage an upright posture. The slats need to be securely attached and not sliding. The slats should also be secured to the frame, so your little one doesn't get caught in them when moving in their sleep.

If you're not sure which mattress to buy, consult your family and friends or consult online reviews for recommendations. Look for ones that are breathable, as they'll help regulate temperature and are less likely to be a home for bacteria.

When it comes to style there's a broad selection from classic sleigh styles with intricate detailing to sleek, modern designs. Some are even painted in bold primary colours, which is ideal when you want your baby 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 side of the cot, as well as adjustable height bases to accommodate baby's growth. You can even buy a drop side for smaller babies or those with health issues that make it difficult for them to bend over.

For added security, opt for a cot that is compliant with the stringent UK safety standards and will easily convert into a toddler bed when the time is appropriate. This information can be found in the product description as well as key specifications.

Safety

A secure sleeping space is essential and a big aspect to consider when choosing a bed. Make sure that the mattress fits snugly, with no gap between it and the cot/cot beds edges or sides (big gaps could trap your child's head or arms). Check that it's firm and thin. Thicker mattresses aren't advised as they may increase the risk of SIDS. There are many companies that offer a variety of mattresses, from simple foam to natural materials for allergy sufferers. Some contain anti-microbial treatments. If your mattress has drop sides, make sure it is in the upward position and locked securely.

A drop side should only be allowed to fall only if an adult is present, to prevent accidental release. Avoid placing your cot on the wall if it is an end that is solid. This can limit airflow, which could lead to coffin death. Recent research suggests that slatted ends could be safer as they allow for more airflow.

If your crib has a fixed edge, opt for this as it is the most secure option when your child starts to crawl and then pull themselves up. Once your child is confidently standing and climbing, it is a sign that they are ready to transition into a junior bed.

Some cots have an option where the base can be raised to three different levels to allow it to grow with your child This is extremely convenient and an added security measure. Other cots come with footplates that can be adjusted, which are ideal for toddlers who wish to sit up in their beds.

When placing your child's cot be sure that there aren't any obvious dangers. It should be placed away from power and heater points. Also make sure it is away from windows, curtains and blind cords. They all could create strangulation risks. When purchasing second-hand furniture, or heirlooms, be sure to look for any choking hazards such as stickers and transfers. They may peel off and create a risk.

If you're unsure of what you should do to use your cot, consult other parents for advice or take part in an local NCT New Baby class. If your cot has an instruction manual, read it carefully before using it, and then follow the safety-use guidelines carefully.

Style

With its stunning sleigh design This gorgeous cot bed will look great in your nursery. The panel was awed by the combination of natural and white wood and the innovative features like drawers under the bed for everything needed by babies, such as bedding, nappies and a wide selection of baby clothes. It's also easy to put together, with clear instructions and separate screws for each section. It can also be converted into a toddler desk and bed when your child gets older (see product description for more details).

The teething rails are among our top features. They keep your baby from hitting their head against the side of the crib or any protruding portion of the crib, like the corner post or handle. They also prevent them from chewing the wood and also preventing them from suffocating. There's also drop-sides to allow you to get access to your baby. We love that the cot can be transformed into a toddler bed and that it's strong enough to last for Best crib newborn four years. It also met the strict UK safety standards. These are listed in the main specifications below each product.

Cot beds can be transformed into toddler beds in the event that your child is old enough. This allows you to avoid buying a new crib when your child is ready to go up. However, they can be more expensive upfront than the standard crib.

If your nursery is small, a crib could be the Best cot for newborn choice for you, as it's smaller and takes up less space. However, if your baby is likely to spend most of the time in their parents' bedroom or you'd like a more long-lasting bed, opt for a cot.

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

Storage

If you're a new parent or a seasoned one the amount of things the baby will require is immense. This is the reason it's important to think about storage options when selecting the right crib bed. Some cots have additional storage options, including drawers under the bed or a coordinating top changer (available separately). Some can even be adapted into a toddler or small single bed, increasing their usability for longer.

Some cot beds can be converted into a daybed, as seen here on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is a great choice for those who prefer an unstructured design since the process of conversion is simple and involves the removal of a side panel. This allows 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 makes everything neat, tidy and organized. It also looks fantastic. These items are easily accessible to parents and make it easier for them to feed their baby.

Another desirable feature to look for is a teething rail that comes in a few cots. This will prevent 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, clothes and other baby necessities.

While this is a great idea for when you're short on space, you must remember that you will have to purchase an additional drawer. You may also need to buy a new mattress and bedding since oval mattresses and sheets are not typically included with the cot itself.

This sleigh-style cot bed is a beautiful illustration of Scandi style at its finest. It has a spacious under-bed storage space that is perfect for keeping all baby essentials away from view but easily accessible. The alphabetically labeled components and clear instructions made it easy to assemble for our panel. It's suitable for babies as young as birth and can be converted into a toddler's bed once your child is ready.