15 Reasons Why You Shouldn't Ignore Cot Beds

How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby

If you're expecting a child, it's important to choose the right cot that is secure and safe for your child. Choose a cot that has fixed sides rather than drop-sides. This will be in line with UK safety standards.

Our top pick is this basic but stylish coffin from John Lewis' Anyday range. It has three mattress height positions, teething rails and storage drawers. It is also easy to put together, and comes with clear instructions.

Comfort

The best cot bed will keep infants comfortable and warm. Look for a breathable, soft fabric. Make sure that the mattress fits snugly, to avoid any gaps that could cause the danger of being suffocated. There are many types of mattresses available, including 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 standard cot or a convertible cot the mattress is vital to your the comfort. It must provide the right support and encourage a healthy posture. The same applies to the slats, which should be securely attached and not sagging or bent. The slats should also be securely fixed to the frame, so that your child isn't caught in them when moving in their sleep.

Ask your family and friends for recommendations or browse online reviews. Choose mattresses that are breathable, as they can help regulate your body temperature and less likely to harbor bacteria.

There are a myriad of styles to pick from that include traditional sleighs with intricate details and sleek, modern designs. Some are painted in vibrant primary colors to make your child feel happy and cheerful as they awake.

Most cheap cots come with an under-bed storage drawer and teething rails that stop your child from chewing the sides of the cot, and height bases that can be adjusted to accommodate the growth of your baby. You can also purchase drop sides for small babies or those with medical conditions that make it difficult to bend over.

To ensure your peace of mind, search for a cot that meets the strict UK safety standards and can easily transform into a toddler bed when the time is right. This information can be found in the product description as well as key specifications.

Safety

When choosing a cot the safety of your child's sleep is a must. Make sure the mattress is snug and has no gaps between it and the cot/cot bed's sides or ends (big gaps could trap your child's head or arms). Verify that the mattress is firm and thin. Thick mattresses could increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies sell mattresses in various materials, from foam to natural materials that are good for allergy sufferers. Some even come with an anti-microbial treatment. If your cot features drop-sides, ensure that it is locked and in the upward position.

A drop side should be allowed to drop only when an adult is present; this prevents accidental release. If your cot has a solid end do not place it against the wall as this will restrict airflow and may contribute to death in the coffin. According to the latest research, slatted end cots may be safer because they allow for greater airflow.

If your crib has a fixed side you should choose this because it is the most secure option when your baby cots online starts to crawl and then pull themselves up. If your child is climbing with confidence and standing, it's the time to upgrade to a junior bed.

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

When you put your child in their cot, check whether there is no obvious danger - it should be away from heaters or power points, windows, curtains and blind cords (these can be strangulation hazards). If you are buying second-hand furniture or heirlooms, make sure to check for choking hazards such as stickers and transfers. They can come off and cause danger.

If you're unsure about how to use your cot safely, ask other parents or Affordable Cots attend the local NCT New Baby course for assistance and guidance. If your cot has instructions, read them carefully before you start using it, and be sure to follow the safety guidelines closely.

Style

This gorgeous cot sets bed, with its sleigh style will look amazing in your nursery. The panel was impressed with the mix of white and natural wood and the clever features like under-bed storage drawers for everything needed by babies, such as bedding, nappy and a huge selection of baby clothes. It's also simple to build with clear instructions and screws for each section. It could also be transformed into a toddler desk and bed when your child gets older (see the product description for more details).

One of our most loved features are the teething rails which protect your little one from bumping their head against the side of the cot or any other protruding parts of the cot, like handles or a corner post, and which also help stop them chewing on the wood, which prevents them from becoming trapped. The cot also has a drop-side to allow easier access to your baby. We are thrilled that the cot can be transformed into a toddler bed, and that it's built to last for up to four years. It also met strict UK safety standards. These are listed in the specifications below for each product.

Cot beds are typically larger than cribs and can be turned into toddler beds once your child is ready and you can avoid purchasing a bed until they're ready to move on. They are more expensive than cribs.

If your nursery is small, a crib could be the best crib for newborn choice for you since it is smaller and occupies less space, but if your child is likely to spend a lot of time in their parents' room or you want a longer-lasting bed, you should consider a cot.

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

Storage

If you're a new parent or an experienced one the amount of things a baby needs is staggering. This is why it's crucial to think about storage options when selecting a cot bed. Some cots come with additional storage options, including drawers beneath the bed or a coordinating top changer (available separately). Some cots can be converted into an infant bed or a small single beds to expand their use.

Some cot beds can be further transformed into a daybed like this one 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 also allows parents to save money on a bed purchase.

A variety of cot beds feature a hanging rail which can be used to store muslins dummies and other small items. This allows you to keep everything organized tidy and neat and also looks great. These items are easily accessible to parents and make it easier for them 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 wooden cot which can cause irritation. Some cots come with an older style and include a large storage drawer beneath the bed that is ideal for clothes, toys, blankets and other baby essentials.

While this is a great option if you're in a tight space, it's important to keep in mind that you'll require a separate additional drawer. You may also have to buy a new mattress and bedding since sheets and mattresses that are oval aren't typically included in the cot.

This sleigh cot bed by Stokke is a lovely example of Scandi-style in its finest and has a huge under-bed storage drawer that's ideal to keep baby necessities out of sight but within easy reach. Our panel of experts found it easy to put together due to the alphabetically-labelled parts and clear instructions. It's suitable for babies from birth and can be converted into a toddler's crib when your child's ready.