11 Ways To Fully Redesign Your Cot Beds

How to Choose the Best 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 child. Choose a cot that has fixed sides (rather than drop-sides), which comply with strict UK safety standards.

Our top choice is this simple but elegant coffin from John Lewis' Anyday range. It comes with three mattress height positions, teething rails and storage drawer. It is also simple to put together and comes with clear instructions.

Comfort

The best infant cribs cot beds will keep baby's warm and comfortable. Look for a breathable soft, soft fabric. Make sure that the mattress is snug to prevent any gaps that could cause a risk of suffocation. There are many types of mattresses available - foam, coils springs, and natural materials for allergy sufferers. Do your research to find the best one for your child.

No matter if you choose a conventional cot or a convertible one, a comfortable mattress is essential to comfort. It must provide the right support and promote a healthy posture. The slats should also be securely attached and not sagging. The slats must be securely fixed to the frame, so that your child isn't trapped in them while moving during sleep.

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

When it comes to fashion there's a broad selection of styles, from traditional sleigh designs with elaborate detailing to sleek, modern designs. Some are even painted with bright primary colors which is great for those who want their baby to wake up bright and cheerful!

There are a lot of cots that have an under-bed drawer for storage, teething rails to protect your child from chewing on the side of the cot and adjustable height bases to accommodate baby's growth. You can also purchase a drop-side for infants who aren't tall enough or suffer from health issues that make it difficult for them to bend over.

Look for a cot which is in compliance with the strict UK safety standard and is able to be easily converted into a toddler's bed when it is time. This information is found in the description of the product and the specifications.

Safety

A safe sleeping environment is essential and a big aspect to consider when choosing a cot. The mattress should be able to fit snugly and there shouldn't be gaps between the mattress and the edges or sides of the cot or cot-bed (large gaps could restrict the child's arms or head). Verify that the mattress is solid and thin - more thick mattresses aren't advised because they can increase the risk of SIDS. There are many companies that offer mattresses made of various materials including foam and natural materials that are great for those suffering from allergies. Some even have an anti-microbial treatment. If your cot has drop sides, make sure it is in the up position and locked securely.

Drop sides should only be allowed down only when an adult is in the room. This prevents accidental releases. Avoid placing your cot against walls if it has an end that is solid. This can restrict airflow, which can result in death of the coffin. The latest research suggests that slatted ends could be safer because they allow more airflow.

If your cot is fixed to one side, you should choose it. It will be the most secure option for your child when they begin to crawl and pull themselves upward. If your child is climbing with confidence and standing, it's time to move to a junior bed.

Some cots come with a feature where the base can be raised to three different heights, so that it will expand with your child which is extremely practical and a great safety measure. Some cots have footplates that can be adjusted to suit for toddlers who love to stand up.

When placing your child's cot ensure there are no visible hazards. It should be put away from power and heater points. Also be sure to keep it away from windows, curtains and blind cords. They all could pose a strangulation risk. If you're purchasing furniture that is second-hand or an heirloom be sure to look for any hazards to choking such as stickers and transfer tapes that could be removed and create danger.

If you are unsure about how to use your cot, consult other parents for advice or attend an local NCT New Baby class. If your cot comes with instructions, read them carefully before you start using it, and then follow the safety guidelines closely.

Style

With its gorgeous sleigh style This stunning cot bed will look amazing in your nursery. Our panel was impressed by the mix of white and natural pine, and its smart features, including under-bed storage drawers to keep all the baby necessities like nappies, bedding, and a stunning array of baby outfits. It's also simple to put together, with concise instructions and separate packs of screws for each section. It can also be transformed into a toddler desk or bed as your child gets older (see product description for more information).

The rails for teething are among our top features. They prevent your child from hitting their head on the crib's side or any other protruding part of the crib, like the handle or corner post. They also stop them from chewing on the wood and also preventing them from being suffocated. It also features a drop-side to allow parents to reach their newborn. We love that it can be converted into an infant bed, and that it's built to last up to four years. It also met strict UK safety standards. These are listed in the main specifications below each product.

Cot cribs beds can be converted into toddler beds when your child is old enough. This allows you to avoid buying an entirely new bed as your child gets ready to move up. However, they are pricier upfront than a crib that is standard.

If your nursery cots is very small, a crib could be the best option for you, as it's smaller and takes up less space, but should your baby be expected to spend much of their time in their parents' bedroom or you want a longer-lasting bed, opt for a cot.

A cot isn't safe for babies to sleep in if it does not meet the strict UK safety standards outlined in BS EN 716 and BS 8509, which deals with the thickness of mattresses, the materials used and other key elements of Baby Cot (resources) mattresses. The slats shouldn't be too wide apart to prevent your baby from falling off.

Storage

The amount of baby equipment you'll need is overwhelming regardless of whether you're a new mom or a seasoned one. It is important to think about storage when selecting a cot. Many cots come with additional storage options like drawers under the bed or a coordinating cot top changer (available separately). Some can even be adapted to a toddler or a small single bed, extending their usefulness for a longer period of time.

Some cots are able to be converted into day beds, as shown on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is an excellent option for those who prefer the flexibility of a design. The conversion is easy and requires only the removal of ONE side panel. This allows parents to save money on a separate bed.

A number of cot beds feature hanging rails that can be used to store muslins, dummies and other small items. This helps keep everything neat, tidy and organised. It also looks beautiful. The ease of access to these items will make it easier for parents to feed their baby.

A teething rail is another important feature that's included in some cots. This will prevent your child from chewing on the cot's wooden structure, which can cause irritation. Some cots come with more traditional designs and come with a large storage drawer underneath the bed. It is perfect for clothes, toys, blankets and other baby necessities.

This is a great option if space is an issue, but you will have to purchase a drawer on your own. You may also need to buy a new mattress and bedding, as sheets and mattresses that are oval aren't usually included in the cot itself.

This sleigh cot from Stokke is a lovely example of the Scandi-style at its finest and has a huge under-bed storage drawer that's great to keep all the baby necessities out of sight but within easy reach. The alphabetically labeled components and clear instructions made it simple to assemble for our panel. It's suitable for infants from birth and can be converted into a toddler bed when your child is ready. This means it's also a good value.