10 Misconceptions Your Boss Holds Regarding Cot Beds

How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby

If you're expecting a child it is essential to select a cot that will be secure and safe for your little one. Choose a cot that has fixed sides (rather than drop-sides) that are in line with strict UK safety standards.

This minimalist, elegant cot is our top choice from the Anyday range by John Lewis. It comes with three mattress height positions, teething rails, and a storage drawer. It's also easy to assemble with clear instructions.

Comfort

The best cot bed keeps babies comfortable and cozy. Choose a soft, airy fabric, and ensure that the mattress fits snugly to avoid any gaps, which could create an suffocation threat. There are a variety of mattresses available, including foam, coils springs, and natural materials for allergy sufferers. Do your research to determine the best one for your child.

Whether you opt for a convertible or standard cot, the primary factor to comfort is a good-quality mattress that provides proper support and promotes a healthy posture. The same applies to the slats, which must be securely attached and not sagging or bent. The slats should also be securely attached to the frame so that your child does not be caught when they move during sleep.

Ask your friends and family for recommendations or look at online reviews. Select mattresses that are breathable, since they aid in regulating your body temperature and less likely to be a breeding ground for bacteria.

There are many styles to choose from such as traditional sleighs, with elaborate details and modern, sleek designs. Some are painted in vibrant primary colors to make your child feel joyful and cheerful when they wake up.

You'll find most cots have drawers underneath to store items and teething rails to guard your baby from chewing on the sides of the cot, and adjustable height bases to accommodate baby's growth. You can even purchase a drop side for smaller babies or those who have health issues that make it difficult for them to bend over.

Look for a cot which 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

A safe and secure sleeping environment is a must and a major aspect to consider when choosing a cot. The mattress should be snugly fitted and there shouldn't be gaps between the mattress and the ends or sides of the cot/cot-bed (large gaps can hold the child's arms tots and cots head). Verify that the mattress is not too firm and thin. Thick mattresses can increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies offer a choice of mattresses, ranging from basic foam to natural substances for allergy sufferers and some even come with 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 to fall when an adult is in the room. This will prevent accidental releases. Avoid placing your cot on the wall if it is an end that is solid. This can limit airflow, which could result in death of the coffin. Recent research suggests that slatted edges could be safer as they allow for more airflow.

If your cot is fixed on one side, then you can choose it. It's the most secure option for your baby when they start to crawl and pull themselves upward. When your child is confidently standing and climbing, this is a sign that they're ready to move into a junior bed.

Some cots have an option that allows the base to be raised to three different levels. This is a wonderful security feature that allows the cot of your child to grow with the child. Other cots come with footplates that are adjustable, which is ideal for toddlers who wish to stand up in their bed.

If you are putting your child in their cot, check whether there is no visible danger - it should be away from heaters, power points, windows and blind cords and curtains (these are a strangulation hazard). When buying second-hand furniture or heirlooms, be sure to look for any potential hazards to your child's safety such as labels and transfers. They may peel off and create a risk.

If you're unsure of how to use your cot safely you can ask other parents or visit a local NCT New Baby course for support and advice. If your cot comes with a guide be sure to read it before using it and follow the instructions.

Style

With its gorgeous sleigh style This gorgeous crib will look stunning in your nursery. The panel was impressed with the combination of natural wood and white, as well as the innovative features like drawers under the bed for all baby essentials, like bedding, nappies and a huge selection of baby clothes. It's also simple to put together with clear instructions and separate packs of screws for each section. Additionally, it can be transformed into a toddler bed and desk as your baby gets older (see the product's description for more details).

The teething rails are among our top features. They stop your child from hitting their head on the side of the crib or any protruding portion of the crib, such as the handle or corner post. They also stop them from chewing the wood, and prevent them from suffocating. The cot also has a drop-side for easier access to your baby. We love that it can be converted into an infant bed, and it's sturdy enough to last for up to four years. It also complies with strict UK safety standards. These are listed in the specifications below for each product.

Cot beds are typically larger than cribs beds and can be transformed into toddler beds when your child is ready, allowing you to avoid buying another bed when they're ready to move on. They are more expensive than cribs.

If your nursery is small, you might be considering a crib. It is smaller and occupies less space. However, if you plan to spend a significant portion of your baby's time in your bedroom or you need an item that lasts longer, you should consider a cot.

If the cot you are using does not meet the UK safety standards outlined by BS EN 716 or BS 8509 (which covers mattress thicknesses, materials and other key elements of baby mattress cots), it is unsafe for babies to sleep. The slats must not be too far apart to prevent your child from falling out.

Stores

No matter if you're a first-time parent or a seasoned one the amount of items that a baby requires is overwhelming. It is important to think about storage when selecting a cot. There are a variety of cots that have additional storage solutions available like drawers under the bed or a top changer (available separately). Certain cots can be transformed into an infant bed or a small single bed to extend their usage.

Some cots can be transformed into day beds, like the one shown on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is a great option for those who like an edgier design. The conversion is easy and only requires the removal of one side panel. This will allow parents to save money on the purchase of a separate bed.

Some cot beds come with a hanging rail that can be used to hang muslins and dolls, as well as other small objects. This helps to keep everything organized tidy, neat and tidy and also looks fantastic. These items are easily accessible to parents, making it easier for parents to feed their child.

A teething rail is another desired feature that is found in some cots. This will help keep your baby from chewing on the wood that could cause irritation. Some cots are designed in a more traditional style and include a large drawer under the bed that is ideal for storing blankets, toys clothes, and other baby essentials.

This is a great choice if space is an issue, but you will have to purchase a drawer separately. You may also need to purchase a different mattress and bedding as sheets and mattresses that are oval aren't typically included in the cot itself.

This sleigh cot bed by Stokke is a beautiful example of Scandi-style at its best crib newborn and has a huge under-bed storage drawer that's great to keep all the baby essentials out of sight but still within reach. Our panel of experts found it easy to put together, thanks to alphabetically labelled parts and clear instructions. It's suitable for infants as young as birth, and can be converted into a toddler's bed once your child is ready.