15 Surprising Stats About Cot Beds

How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby

If you are expecting a baby it is essential to choose a cot that will ensure safety and security for your baby. Look for a cot with fixed sides (rather than drop-sides), which comply with strict UK safety standards.

Our top choice is this simple but stylish cot from John Lewis' Anyday range. It comes with three mattress height positions, teething rails and storage drawer. It's also easy to assemble with clear instructions.

Comfort

The best cot beds will 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 a suffocation risk. There are many types of mattresses available: coils springs, foam, and even natural materials for allergy sufferers. Do your research to find the best one for your child.

No matter if you select a convertible or standard cot, the primary factor to satisfaction is a high-quality mattress that is supportive and promotes a healthy posture. The slats should also be secured and not sagging. The slats must be securely attached to the frame, so that your child doesn't get stuck in them while they move during sleep.

Ask your friends and family for recommendations or look at online reviews. Choose a mattress that is ventilated, as they'll aid in to regulate temperature and are less likely to be a home for bacteria.

There are many styles to pick from, including traditional sleighs with intricate details and sleek, modern designs. Some are even painted in vibrant primary colours which is perfect when you want your child to wake up feeling bright and happy!

There are a lot of cots that have drawers underneath to store items as well as teething rails that protect your baby from chewing on the sides of the cot and adjustable height bases to accommodate baby's growth. You can also purchase a drop side for smaller babies or those who have health issues that make it difficult for them to bend over.

For added peace of mind, search for a cot that meets the stringent UK safety standards and can easily transform into a toddler bed when the time is appropriate. Find this information in the description or in the key specifications.

Safety

A safe and secure sleeping environment is an essential factor when selecting a cot. Make sure the mattress fits snugly, with no gap between it and the cot/cot bed's sides or ends (big gaps can restrict your child's head or arms). Check that it's solid and thin - more thick mattresses aren't advised as they may increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies sell mattresses in a variety of materials including foam and natural materials that are great for those suffering from allergies. Some even come with an anti-microbial treatment. If your crib has drop sides, make sure it is in the up position and secured.

A drop side should only be allowed to drop only if an adult is present; this prevents accidental releases. Avoid placing your cot against a wall if it has an end that is solid. This will hinder airflow and could result in death of the coffin. The latest research suggests that slatted ends could be safer as they permit more airflow.

If your crib has a fixed edge, opt for this as it's safer when your child starts to crawl and climb up. When your child is confidently climbing and standing, it's time to move to a junior bed.

Some cots come with an option where the base can be raised to three different heights in order to expand with your child This is extremely practical and a great safety measure. Some cots feature adjustable footplates that are ideal for toddlers who like to stand up.

When you place your child's cot, make sure there aren't any visible dangers. It should be kept away from heaters and power points. Also, keep it away from windows, curtains, and blind cords. These can all create strangulation risks. When buying second-hand furniture or heirlooms, make sure to look for any dangers to your child's health such as stickers and transfers. They can come off and pose a danger.

If you're unsure about how to use your cot in a safe manner, ask other parents or attend a local NCT New Baby course for support and advice. If your cot comes with an instruction manual, read it carefully before you begin using it, and then follow the safe-use instructions closely.

Style

With its stunning sleigh design This gorgeous cot bed will look amazing 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 that can hold all baby essentials, like bedding, nappy and an impressive array of baby clothes. It's also easy to assemble with clear instructions and separate sets of screws for each section. It can also be transformed into a bed for toddlers and a desk when your baby grows older (see the product's description for more details).

One of our favourite features are the teething rails, which shield your little one from bumping their head against the side of the cot or any other protruding parts of the cot like a handle or a corner post, and which can also stop them from chewing on the wood, preventing them from becoming in danger of being suffocated. It also has an opening that can be dropped to make it easier for access to your newborn. We are thrilled that it can be converted to an infant bed, and it's built to last for up to four years. It also complies with the stringent UK safety standards, which can be found in the key specs beneath each product.

Cot beds can be converted into toddler beds if your child is old enough. This lets you avoid purchasing an entirely new bed when your child's ready to move up. However, they are pricier upfront than the crib that is standard.

If  affordable cots  is small, you might think about the possibility of a crib. It is smaller and requires less space. However, if you plan on spending a lot of your baby's time in the room or if you require a bed that will last longer, you should consider a cot.

If a cot does not meet the UK safety standards outlined by BS EN 716 or BS 8509 (which covers mattress thicknesses, materials and other important elements of baby mattress cots) it is not safe for babies to sleep. The slats shouldn't be too far apart to prevent your baby from falling off.

Stores

No matter if you're a first-time parent or a seasoned one the amount of things a baby needs is staggering. It's crucial to think about storage when choosing a cot-bed. Many cots come with additional storage solutions available like drawers under the bed or a coordinating cot top changer (available separately). Certain cots can be transformed into toddler beds or a smaller single beds to expand their use.

Some cots can be transformed into day beds, like the one 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 easy and only requires the removal of one side panel. This will allow parents to reduce the expense of a separate bed.

Some cot beds come with a hanging rail that can be used to hang muslins and Dummies and other small items. This makes it easier to keep everything organised, neat and tidy and looks fantastic. These items are easily accessible to parents and make it easier for parents to feed their child.

A teething rail is a desired feature that is found in some cots.  homepage  will stop your child from chewing on the cot's wooden structure, which could cause irritation. Some cots have an older style and include a large storage drawer underneath the bed. It is perfect for toys, clothes blankets, and other baby essentials.

While this is a great idea for when you're running out of space, you should keep in mind that you'll need to buy a separate extra drawer. It is also possible to purchase a different mattress and bedding as oval mattresses and sheets are not typically included with the cot itself.

This sleigh-style cot bed stunning example of Scandi style at its best. It has a spacious under-bed storage area that is ideal for keeping all baby essentials out of sight but still easily accessible. Our panel of experts found it easy to put together due to the alphabetically-labelled parts and clear instructions. It's suitable for infants from birth and can be transformed into a toddler bed once your child is ready, meaning it's also a good value.