15 Reasons Why You Shouldn t Ignore Cot Beds

How to Choose the Best Cot Bed Cot Beds for Your Baby

If you're expecting a baby, it's important to choose the right cot that is safe and secure for your baby. Choose a cot that has fixed sides (rather than drop-sides) that are in line with strict UK safety standards.

Our top pick is this basic but elegant cot from John Lewis' Anyday range. It comes with three mattress positions, teething bars and storage drawers. It is also simple to put together and comes with clear instructions.

Comfort

The best cot beds keep baby's warm and comfortable. Look for a soft, airy fabric, and ensure that the mattress is snug to avoid any gaps, which could create the risk of suffocation. There are a range of mattresses on the market that include coil springs, foam and other natural materials suitable for allergy sufferers - so do your research before deciding on the one that is suitable for your baby's requirements.

If you choose a convertible or standard cot, the most important thing to ensure comfort is a mattress of high-quality that is supportive and encourages healthy posture. This is also true for the slats, which should be secured and not bent or sagging. The slats must also be securely attached to the frame so that your child does not become caught in the movement during sleep.

If you're not sure what mattress to buy, ask your family members or friends or look up online reviews for suggestions. Look for ones that are ventilated, as they'll aid in regulate temperature and are less likely to harbor bacteria.

When it comes to fashion, there's a wide choice, from traditional sleigh styles with ornate details to sleek, contemporary designs. Some are even painted in bright primary colors, which is ideal if you want your little one to wake up bright and happy!

The majority of cots have an under-bed storage drawer teething rails to prevent your child from chewing on the sides of the cot, and height bases that are adjustable to accommodate the growth of your baby. You can even buy a drop side for petite infants or those with health issues that make it difficult to bend over.

Choose a cot sales that is compliant with the strict UK safety standards and is able to be easily converted into a toddler's bed when it's time. This information is found in the product description as well as the key specifications.

Safety

When choosing a cot a safe sleeping environment is a must. The mattress should fit snugly and there should be no gaps between the mattress and the edges or sides of the cot or cot-bed (large gaps could trap the child's arms or head). Make sure the mattress is not too firm and thin. Mattresses that are too thick could increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies sell mattresses in different materials from foam to natural materials that are good for those suffering from allergies. Some even come with an anti-microbial treatment. If your cot features a drop-side, make sure it is secured and in the up position.

Drop sides should only be allowed down when an adult is present in the room. This will prevent accidental release. If your coffin has a solid bottom do not place it against the wall as it will block airflow and may contribute to death in the coffin. The latest research suggests that slatted ends may be safer because they permit more airflow.

If your cot has a fixed side, opt for this as it is the most secure option when your baby starts to crawl and pull themselves up. If your child is climbing with confidence and standing, it's the time to move to a junior bed.

Some cots feature a feature where the base can be raised to three different heights in order to increase with your child's growth - this is very practical and a great security measure. Some cots have footplates that are adjustable, which is ideal for toddlers who wish to sit up in their bed.

When you place your child's cot ensure there aren't any visible dangers. It should be placed away from heaters and power points. Also, keep it away from windows, curtains and blind cords. All of these could pose a strangulation risk. If you are buying second-hand furniture or heirlooms, make sure to look for any potential hazards to your child's safety such as labels and transfers. They can come off and cause danger.

If you're unsure of about how to use your cot, ask other parents for help or go to a local NCT New Baby class. If your cot comes with a guide be sure to go through it prior to using it and follow the instructions.

Style

This stunning cot bed with its sleigh style will look fantastic in your nursery. Our panel loved the combination of natural and white pine, as well as its clever features, such as under-bed storage drawers that can hold everything necessary for babies, including nappies, bedding and an enviable array of baby outfits. It's also easy to put together, with clear instructions and separate screws for each section. It can also be transformed into a toddler bed or desk when your baby grows older (see the product's 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 other protruding part of the crib, like the handle or corner post. They also stop them from chewing the wood and preventing them from getting suffocated. It also has a drop-side to allow easier access to your infant. We appreciate that it is able to be converted into an infant bed, and it is sturdy enough to last for up to four years. It also meets the strict UK safety standards, which are listed in the main specifications beneath each product.

Cot beds can be converted into toddler beds when your child is old enough. This lets you avoid buying a new bed when your child's ready to make the leap. However, they are more expensive upfront than the standard crib.

If your nursery is small, you may think about the possibility of a crib sets. It is smaller and occupies 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 a bed that lasts longer, you should opt for a cot.

A cot isn't suitable 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 the thickness of mattresses, the materials used and other essential elements of cot mattresses for baby. The slats must not be too close together, to ensure that your child doesn't get tossed out.

Stores

Whether you're a first-time parent or an experienced one, the amount of stuff a baby needs is staggering. This is why it's crucial to think about storage options when choosing the cot bed. Many cots come with additional storage options, such as under-bed drawers or a 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 cots can be transformed into day beds, as seen on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is an ideal option for those who prefer more flexible designs as the conversion process is fairly easy and only requires the removal of a side panel. This allows parents to save on the cost of an additional bed.

A few cot beds come with a hanging rail which can be used to store muslins, Dummies, and other small items. This makes it easier to keep everything organized tidy, neat and tidy and also looks amazing. These items are easily accessible to parents, making it easier for them to feed their baby.

Another desirable feature to look out for is a teething rail that is available in a few cots. This will prevent your child from chewing on the wooden cot which can cause irritation. Some affordable cots are designed with a more traditional style and have a huge under-bed storage drawer that is perfect for storing toys, blankets clothes, and other baby essentials.

While this is a great idea if you're running out of space, you must be aware that you'll need to buy a separate extra for the drawer. It is also possible to buy a new mattress and bedding as oval mattresses and sheets are not typically included with the cot itself.

This sleigh-style cot is a beautiful example of Scandi style at its finest. It has a spacious under-bed storage area that is ideal to keep all baby necessities out of sight but still 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.