20 Tools That Will Make You More Successful At Cot Beds

How to Choose the best cots uk Cot Beds for Your Baby

If you are expecting your first child, it is important to select a cot which can provide security and safety for your baby. Look for a cheap cot bed with fixed sides (rather than drop-sides) that are in line with strict UK safety standards.

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

Comfort

The best cot beds will keep children warm and cozy. Look for a soft and breathable fabric and make sure the mattress fits snugly to avoid any gaps, which could create a suffocation risk. There are many types of mattresses available - coils springs, foam and natural materials for allergy sufferers. Do your research to find the best one for your child.

No matter if you choose a standard cot or a convertible cot, a good mattress is essential to the comfort. It should provide adequate support and encourage an ideal posture. The slats must be securely attached and not sagging. The slats must be secured to the frame so that your child isn't trapped in them while moving in their sleep.

Ask your friends and family for recommendations or look at online reviews. Make sure you choose a mattress that's breathable, as they'll help to regulate temperature and are less likely to harbour bacteria.

In terms of style there's a variety of styles of styles, from traditional sleigh designs with ornate detailing to sleek, modern designs. Some are even painted in bold primary colours, which is ideal if you want your baby to wake up feeling fresh and content!

The majority of cots have a drawer for storage underneath and teething rails that stop your child from chewing the sides of the cot, and adjustable height bases to accommodate the growth of your baby. You can even purchase a drop side for smaller babies or those who have health issues that make it difficult to bend over.

Find a cot that is in compliance with the strict UK safety standard and is able to be easily converted into a toddler's bed when it's time. Look for this information in the product description or key specs.

Safety

A safe sleeping environment is an essential factor when selecting a bed. Make sure the mattress fits snugly, with no gaps between it and the cot/cot bed sides or ends (big gaps could trap your child's head or arms). Check that it's firm and thin - thicker mattresses aren't recommended cribs because they can increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies offer a range of mattresses, ranging from basic foam to natural materials for allergy sufferers. Some have anti-microbial treatment. If your cot has drop-sides, ensure that it is locked and in the up position.

A drop side should be allowed to drop only when an adult is present; this prevents accidental releases. If your coffin has a solid bottom, avoid placing it against the wall as it will block airflow and can cause death in the coffin. Recent research suggests that slatted ends may be safer because they allow for more airflow.

If your cot is set on one side, then you can choose it. It will be the safest option for your baby as they begin to crawl and then pull themselves upwards. If your child is confidently climbing and standing, it's the time to upgrade to a junior bed.

Some cots are equipped with an option that allows the base to be raised to three different levels. This is a fantastic security measure that allows the cot of your child to grow with them. Some cots feature footplates that can be adjusted to suit for toddlers who want to stand up.

When putting your child's cot in the crib ensure there aren't any obvious dangers. It should be placed away from any heaters or power points. Also make sure it is away from windows, curtains and blind cords. They all could pose a strangulation risk. When buying second-hand furniture or heirlooms, be sure to look out for dangers to your child's health such as stickers and transfers. They may peel off and create a risk.

If you're unsure of how to safely use your cot, ask other parents for advice or attend an local NCT New Baby class. If your cot comes with instructions, read them carefully before you begin using it, and be sure to follow the safe-use instructions closely.

Style

This gorgeous cot bed with its sleigh design will look fantastic in your nursery. Our panel was impressed by the mix of white and natural pine, and its clever features, such as under-bed storage drawers that can hold all those baby essentials like bedding, nappies and a stunning assortment of baby clothes. It's also simple to put together with clear instructions and separate screws for each section. It can also be converted into a toddler desk or bed as your child grows older (see product description for more details).

One of our most loved features is the teething rails, which shield your baby from bumping their head against the cot's side or any other protruding parts of the cot, like the handle or corner post, and which will also stop them from chewing on the wood, preventing them from being in danger of being suffocated. It also features an opening that can be removed to make it easier for you to get access to your baby. 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 met strict UK safety standards. These are listed in the key specs below each product.

Cot beds are usually larger than cribs and can be converted into toddler beds when your child is ready and you can avoid purchasing a bed until they're ready for the transition. However, they are more expensive upfront than the crib that is standard.

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

A cot isn't suitable for babies to sleep in if it does not meet the strict UK safety standards outlined in BS EN 716 and BS 8509, which covers mattresses' thicknesses, materials, and other important elements of baby cot mattresses. The slats shouldn't be too far apart to stop your baby from falling off.

Stores

The amount of baby stuff you need is overwhelming, regardless of whether you're a first-time parent or an experienced one. It's crucial to think about storage when choosing a cot-bed. A number of cots have additional storage solutions available such as drawers in the under-bed or a coordinating top changer (available separately). Some affordable cots are able to be converted into a toddler bed or small single beds to expand their usage.

Some cots are able to be converted into day beds, as shown here on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is an ideal option for those who prefer an unstructured design since the conversion process is fairly simple and involves the removal of one side panel. This also allows parents to save money on a bed purchase.

A few cot beds feature a hanging rail which can be used to store muslins, dolls and other small objects. This makes everything neat, tidy and organized. It also looks fantastic. The ease of access to these items makes it much easier for parents when feeding their child.

A teething rail is a important feature that's included in some cots. This can help to prevent your little one chewing on the wood which can cause irritation. Some cots come with more traditional designs and include a large storage drawer underneath the bed, which is perfect for toys, clothes, blankets and other baby essentials.

This is a great solution for those who have limited space but you'll need to purchase a drawer separately. You may need to buy an additional mattress and bedding because oval sheets and mattresses don't come with the cot.

This sleigh-style cot bed stunning illustration of Scandi style at its finest. It features a huge under-bed storage space that is perfect to keep baby's essentials out of sight but still easily accessible. Our panel of experts found it easy to put together thanks to alphabetically labelled parts and clear instructions. It's suitable for infants from birth and can be made into a toddler bed when your child is ready. This means it's good value too.