15 Weird Hobbies That Will Make You Smarter At Cot Beds

How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby

If you are expecting a child it is crucial to choose a cot that will provide 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 pick is this basic but stylish cot from John Lewis' Anyday range. It has three mattress positions, teething bars, and a storage drawer. It's also easy to set up with clear instructions.

Comfort

The best cot beds will keep children warm and cozy. Choose a breathable soft and comfortable fabric. Make sure the mattress is fitted snugly to eliminate any gaps that could pose the risk of the mattress becoming suffocated. There are a variety of mattresses available including coil springs, foam and other natural materials suitable for allergy sufferers. So do your research before deciding on the right one for your baby's requirements.

No matter if you choose a conventional cot or a convertible cot one, a comfortable mattress is crucial to ensure your ease of use. It must provide the right support and encourage an upright posture. The same is true for the slats, which should be firmly attached and not sagging or bent. The slats should also be firmly attached to the frame to ensure that your child does not get caught when they move in their sleep.

If you're unsure of the mattress to buy, consult your family members or friends or look up online reviews for recommendations. Make sure you choose a mattress that's 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 that include traditional sleighs with elaborate details and modern, sleek designs. Some are even painted with bright primary colors which is perfect for those who want their baby to wake up feeling bright and happy!

You'll find most cots have drawers underneath to store items, teething rails to protect your child from chewing on the side of the cot, as well as adjustable height bases for baby growth. You can also buy an extra drop-side for babies that are small or suffer from health issues that make it hard to bend over.

Look for a cot which is in compliance with the strict UK safety standard and is easily transformed into a toddler's bed when it is time. Look for this information in the product description or in the specifications.

Safety

When selecting a cot, an environment that is safe for sleeping is a must. Make sure that the mattress is snug and has no gap between it and the cot's beds edges or sides (big gaps could trap your child's head or arms). Make sure it's solid and thin - more thick mattresses aren't advised as they may increase the risk of SIDS. There are many companies that offer a variety of mattresses, ranging from basic foam to natural substances for allergy sufferers. Some come with anti-microbial treatment. If your mattress has drop sides, make sure that it is in the up position and locked securely.

Drop sides should only be permitted down when an adult is present in the room. This will prevent accidental release. Do not place your cot against a wall if it has an end that is solid. This could hinder airflow and could cause death in the coffin. According to the most recent research, cots with slatted ends could be safer as they permit more airflow.

If your cot is set to one side, you should choose it. It will be the safest option for your child when they start to crawl and pull themselves upward. When your child is climbing with confidence and standing, it's time to upgrade to a junior bed.

Some cots are equipped with an option that allows the base to be raised up to three different levels. This is a wonderful safety measure and enables the cot of your child to grow with them. Some cots have adjustable footplates, which are ideal for toddlers who wish to sit up in their bed.

If you are putting your child in their cot, ensure that there is no visible danger. It should be away from heaters and power points, windows and blind cords and curtains (these can be strangulation hazards). If you are buying second-hand furniture or heirlooms, make sure to look out for dangers to your child's health such as stickers and transfers. These can peel off and create a risk.

If you are unsure how to safely use your cot, ask other parents for advice or attend an local NCT New Baby class. If your cot comes with a manual, make sure you read it before using it and follow the directions.

Style

This stunning cot bed with its sleigh design will look amazing in your nursery. Our panel loved the combination of natural and white pine, as well as its innovative features, like drawers under the bed to store everything necessary for babies, including nappies, bedding and an enviable array of baby outfits. It's also simple to build with clear instructions and separate screws for each section. Additionally, it can be converted into a toddler bed or desk when your baby grows older (see the product description for more details).

One of our most loved features is the teething rails, which shield your baby from smacking their head against the cot's side or any protruding part of the cot like the handle or corner post, and which also help stop them chewing on the wood, which prevents them from getting trapped. The cot also has a drop-side to allow parents to reach their newborn. We appreciate that the cot could be transformed into a toddler bed, and that it's strong enough to last up to four years. It also complies with strict UK safety standards. You can find these in the key specs below each product.

Cot beds can be turned into toddler beds when your child is old enough. This allows you to avoid purchasing a new bed as your child gets ready to move up. They can be more expensive than cribs.

If your nursery isn't big enough, you might be considering a crib. 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 your bedroom, or if you need a bed that lasts longer, you should choose a crib.

If the cot you are using does not meet the UK safety standards as defined by BS EN 716 or BS 8509 (which covers the thickness of mattresses, the materials used, and other essential elements in baby mattress cots) It is unsafe for babies to sleep. The slats should not be too close together to ensure your baby doesn't fall out.

Stores

The amount of baby equipment you need is overwhelming, whether you're a new parent or a seasoned one. This is why it's crucial to consider storage options when choosing the cot bed. A number of cots have additional storage options such as drawers in the under-bed or a coordinating cot top changer (available separately). Some can be transformed to a toddler or a small single bed, extending their use for a longer time.

Some cot beds can be adapted into a day bed, as seen here on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is an ideal option for those who prefer more flexible designs as the conversion process is simple and requires just the removal of a side panel. This allows parents to reduce the expense of the purchase of a separate bed.

Some cot beds are equipped with hanging rails that can be used to hang muslins, dolls and other small objects. This allows you to keep everything organized tidy, neat and tidy - and it also looks amazing. Being  crib sets  to access these items makes it easier for parents when feeding their child.

A teething rail is an additional important feature that's included in some cots. This can keep your baby from chewing on the wood that can cause irritation. Some cots have more traditional designs and have a huge storage drawer underneath the bed, which is perfect for toys, clothes, blankets and other baby essentials.

This is a great solution if space is an issue but you'll need to purchase a drawer on your own. You might need to purchase a separate mattress and bedding, as oval mattresses and sheets do not come with the cot.

This sleigh cot bed by Stokke is a stunning example of Scandi-style in its finest and has a huge under-bed storage drawer that's perfect to keep all the baby's essentials out of view 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 babies from birth and can be converted into a toddler bed when your child is ready. This means it's a good investment too.