20 Fun Informational Facts About Cot Beds

How to Choose the best cot beds (visit the site) for Your Baby

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

This slick and stylish coffin is our top pick from the Anyday collection by John Lewis. It comes with three mattress positions, teething rails, and a storage drawers. It is also simple to assemble, with clear instructions.

Comfort

The best cot beds keep babies comfy and cosy. Choose a breathable, soft fabric. Make sure the mattress is snug to avoid any gaps that could create a risk of the mattress becoming suffocated. There are a variety of mattresses on the market - foam, coil springs and other natural materials suitable for allergy sufferers - so do your research before deciding on the best rated cribs 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 proper support and promote an ideal posture. This is also true for the slats, which should be secured and not bent or sagging. The slats should also be securely fixed to the frame, to ensure that your child does not become caught in the movement during sleep.

If you're not sure which mattress to buy, ask your family and friends or consult online reviews for recommendations. Choose a mattress that is ventilated, as they'll aid in to regulate temperature and are less likely to harbour bacteria.

In terms of style there's a broad selection of styles, from traditional sleigh designs with ornate detailing to sleek, modern designs. Some are even painted with bold primary colours, which is ideal for those who want their child to wake up bright and happy!

The majority of cots have a drawer for storage underneath, teething rails that prevent your child from chewing on the sides of the cot and adjustable height bases to accommodate the growth of your baby. You can also purchase a drop-side for infants who aren't big or have medical conditions that make it difficult for them to bend over.

For extra peace of mind, search for a cot that complies with the strict UK safety standards and can easily convert into an infant cot bed bed when the time is appropriate. This information can be found in the product description as well as the specifications.

Safety

When choosing a cot a safe sleeping environment is a must. The mattress should be snugly fitted and there should be no gaps between the mattress and the ends or sides of the cot or cot-bed (large gaps can trap the child's arms or head). Check that it's solid and thin - more thick mattresses aren't recommended as they may increase the risk of SIDS. There are many companies that offer a variety of mattresses, from simple foam to natural substances for allergy sufferers and some even come with anti-microbial treatment. If your cot has an inclined side, make sure that it is in the up position and locked securely.

A drop side should only be allowed to drop only if an adult is present, to prevent accidental release. If your coffin has a solid bottom be sure to avoid placing it against the wall as this will restrict airflow and may contribute to the death of a coffin. Recent research suggests that slatted edges could be safer as they allow more airflow.

If your cot is fixed to one side, you should choose it. It's the most secure option for your baby as they start to crawl and pull themselves upward. If your child is confidently climbing and standing, it's time to move to a junior bed.

Some cots feature an option where the base can be raised to three different heights in order to expand with your child which is extremely useful and is a security measure. Some cots have adjustable footplates that are ideal for toddlers who want to stand up.

When you put your child in their cot, ensure whether there is no obvious danger - it must be kept away from heaters or power points, windows and blind cords and curtains (these pose a strangulation risk). If you are buying second-hand furniture or heirlooms to look for any potential hazards to your child's safety such as labels and transfers. They can come off and pose a danger.

If you're unsure of what you should do to use your cot, ask other parents for help or attend an local NCT New Baby class. If your crib comes with a manual be sure to read it before using it and follow all the instructions.

Style

This stunning cot bed with its sleigh style will look fantastic in your nursery. The panel was awed by the combination of white and natural wood, as well as the clever features such as under-bed storage drawers for everything needed by babies, such as bedding, nappies, and a wide selection of baby clothes. It's also easy to assemble, with concise instructions and separate packs 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 rails for teething are one of our favorite features. They keep your child from hitting their head against the crib's side or any protruding portion of the crib, like the corner post or handle. They also stop them from chewing the wood and also preventing them from getting suffocated. It also features an opening that can be removed to allow you to get access to your baby. We love that it can be converted to an infant bed, and that it's sturdy enough to last for up to four years. It also complies with strict UK safety standards. You can find these in the specifications below for each product.

Cot beds can be transformed into toddler beds in the event that your child is old enough. This lets you avoid buying a new crib as your child gets ready to make the leap. However, they can be more expensive than the crib that is standard.

If your nursery isn't big enough, you might be considering a crib. It is smaller and takes less space. However it is recommended to consider a cot if you are planning on spending a lot of your baby's time in your bedroom, or if you need a bed that will last longer, you should choose a crib.

If a cot doesn't meet the UK safety standards outlined by BS EN 716 or BS 8509 (which cover mattress thicknesses, materials, and other essential elements in baby cot mattresses) it is not safe for babies to sleep. The slats shouldn't be too far apart, to ensure that your child doesn't get tossed out.

Storage

The amount of baby stuff you'll need is overwhelming regardless of whether you're a new mom or an experienced one. This is the reason it's important to consider storage options when choosing the right cot bed. Many cots come with additional storage options, like drawers under the bed or a top changer (available separately). Some can even be adapted to a toddler or a small single bed, extending their usability for longer.

Some cots to tots can be converted into day beds, like the one shown here on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is a great option for those who prefer the flexibility of a design. The conversion is easy and only requires the removal of ONE side panel. This also allows parents to save money on a separate bed purchase.

Some cot beds are equipped with hanging rails that can be used to hang muslins, dummies, as well as other small items. This makes it easier to keep everything organised tidy, neat and tidy and looks amazing. These items are easily accessible to parents which makes it easier for parents to feed their child.

Another feature worth looking out for is a teething rail which is included with some cots. This will stop your child from chewing on the cot's wooden structure, which could cause irritation. Some affordable cots come with a more traditional design and include a large storage drawer underneath the bed that is ideal for clothes, toys blankets, and other baby essentials.

While this is a great idea if you're in a tight space, you must keep in mind that you'll have to purchase an extra drawer. You may have to purchase an additional mattress and bedding, as oval sheets and mattresses don't come with the cot.

This sleigh cot bed from Stokke is a beautiful example of the Scandi-style at its finest and comes with a massive under-bed storage drawer that's perfect to keep baby necessities out of sight but easily reachable. Our panel was able to find it straightforward to put together, due to the alphabetically-labelled parts and clear instructions. It is suitable for babies from birth and can be converted into a toddler's bed when your child's ready.