
john lewis cot bed instructions
John Lewis Cot Bed Instructions: A Comprehensive Guide
This guide details assembly, operation, and safety for John Lewis cot beds, ensuring a secure environment․
It covers features like drop-sides and mattress adjustments,
complying with EEN 716-1:2017AC:2019 & EN 8509:2008A1:2011 standards․
A 140x70cm mattress (max 12cm thick) is required, and
the cot bed is suitable for toddlers aged 18 months to 4 years․
Understanding Your John Lewis Cot Bed
John Lewis cot beds are designed with versatility in mind, transitioning from a safe infant cot to a convenient toddler bed․ Understanding the components and features is crucial for correct assembly and safe usage․ These cot beds adhere to stringent European safety standards, specifically EEN 716-1:2017AC:2019 & EN 8509:2008A1:2011, guaranteeing quality and peace of mind․
Before beginning, familiarize yourself with the parts list and identify each component․ Proper assembly ensures stability and prevents potential hazards․ Remember, a correctly assembled cot bed provides a secure sleep environment for your child, and a standard 140 x 70cm mattress is required․
Cot Bed Types & Identifying Your Model
John Lewis offers various cot bed models, including the Alfie, Deco, and Elizabeth, each with potentially unique assembly instructions․ Identifying your specific model is the first step towards correct setup․ Check the original packaging, product label, or any accompanying documentation for the model name․
Referencing the correct instruction manual – available via links such as http://www․johnlewis․com/jl_assets/pdf/230443638․pdf or http://www․johnlewis․com/jl_assets/pdf/Deco Cotbed Instructions v2․pdf – is vital․ Different models may have variations in parts and assembly sequences, ensuring a safe and stable structure for your child․
Safety Standards & Compliance (EEN 716-1:2017AC:2019 & EN 8509:2008A1:2011)
John Lewis cot beds are designed to meet stringent safety regulations, specifically EEN 716-1:2017AC:2019 and EN 8509:2008A1:2011․ These standards cover structural integrity, material quality, and overall design to minimize risks for infants and young children․ Compliance ensures the cot bed has undergone rigorous testing for stability, strength, and the absence of hazardous parts․
Adhering to these standards is paramount; always follow the provided instructions carefully during assembly and operation․ Regular checks for loose fixings are crucial to maintain compliance and guarantee a safe sleeping environment for your child․
Preparing for Assembly
Before starting, gather the essential tools – an M4 Allen key is vital․ Identify all parts (bed ends, sides, base) and fixtures (bolts, nuts, dowels), referencing the parts list for a smooth build․

Essential Tools Required (Allen Key M4, etc․)
Successful assembly hinges on having the correct tools readily available․ The primary tool needed is an Allen key, specifically an M4 size, crucial for tightening the majority of the bolts․ While often included, verifying its presence is essential․
Beyond the Allen key, a Phillips head screwdriver might be useful for minor adjustments, though not strictly required․ A soft mallet can assist with gently joining wooden dowels without causing damage․ Avoid using power tools, as they can easily overtighten and strip the screw threads․
Finally, a clean, soft cloth is recommended to protect the cot bed’s finish during assembly and prevent scratches․ Having these tools prepared beforehand streamlines the process and ensures a secure, stable cot bed․
Parts List Overview (Bed Ends 1a/1b, Sides, Base)
Carefully inventory all components before beginning assembly․ The core parts include two Bed Ends, designated 1a and 1b – these often differ slightly in design․ You’ll also find two Side panels, forming the length of the cot․ The Base provides the mattress support and is crucial for stability․
Additional components, though smaller, are equally important․ These include wooden dowels for alignment and reinforcement, and various bolts and nuts (M6x70mm, M6x45mm, M8x15mm, M8x40mm) for secure fastening․ Refer to the diagrams in the instructions to correctly identify each part․
Fixtures & Fittings Identification (Bolts M6x70mm, M6x45mm, Barrel Nuts M8x15mm, M8x40mm, Wooden Dowels)
Accurate identification of fixtures is vital for correct assembly․ You’ll encounter Bolts M6x70mm and M6x45mm, differing in length for specific connections․ Barrel Nuts M8x15mm and M8x40mm provide secure, concealed fastening points․ Don’t confuse these; using the wrong size can compromise stability․
Wooden Dowels are essential for aligning panels before bolting, ensuring a flush and strong joint․ An Allen Key M4 is the primary tool for tightening these fixings․ Refer to the parts list diagram to visually confirm each component before proceeding with assembly․

Cot Assembly – Step-by-Step
Begin by attaching bed ends to sides, using wooden dowels for alignment․ Initially tighten bolts (D x 4), avoiding full tightening until the base is secured․
Attaching Bed Ends to Sides
Carefully align the bed ends (1a/1b) with the corresponding sides of the cot bed frame․ Utilize the provided wooden dowels to ensure a precise and stable connection․ Insert the dowels into the pre-drilled holes on both the bed ends and sides, gently pressing them together․
Once aligned, begin securing the bed ends to the sides using the M6x70mm bolts․ Insert the bolts through the designated holes and loosely fasten them with the Allen key M4․ Do not fully tighten the bolts at this stage; maintaining some flexibility is crucial for subsequent assembly steps․ This allows for adjustments and ensures proper alignment of all components․
Double-check the alignment before proceeding, ensuring a flush and secure fit between the bed ends and sides․
Securing the Base – Initial Bolt Tightening (D x 4)
Position the cot bed base within the assembled frame, ensuring it sits flush against the inner sides and bed ends․ Locate the pre-drilled holes on the base and align them with the corresponding holes on the frame․
Using the M6x45mm bolts (identified as ‘D x 4’ in the parts list), begin securing the base to the frame․ Insert the bolts through the holes and loosely tighten them with the Allen key M4․ Remember not to fully tighten at this stage; this allows for adjustments during the overall assembly process․
Ensure even distribution of pressure by tightening each bolt incrementally, moving around the base to maintain stability․
Adjusting Mattress Base Positions
John Lewis cot beds often feature adjustable mattress base heights, accommodating your growing child’s developmental stages․ To adjust, first loosen the bolts securing the base – those initially tightened in the previous step․
Carefully lift the base and reposition it to the desired height level, utilizing the pre-drilled holes provided within the cot bed frame․ Ensure the base is securely seated on all four corners at the new height․
Re-tighten all bolts firmly, checking for stability and ensuring the base is level before placing a mattress inside․

Cot Bed Features & Operation
John Lewis cot beds include features like drop-sides for easy access․ Always follow safety guidelines when using the drop-side mechanism,
and never exceed the 120mm maximum mattress height for safe operation․
Drop-Side Mechanism – Usage & Safety
The drop-side feature offers convenient access to your baby, but requires careful operation and adherence to safety protocols․ Always ensure the drop-side is fully locked into both the up and down positions before use․
Never leave the drop-side partially lowered, as this presents a serious hazard․ Regularly check the locking mechanism for smooth and secure function․
Do not modify or attempt to repair the drop-side mechanism yourself; contact John Lewis customer service for assistance․
Supervision is crucial when the drop-side is in use․
Incorrect usage can lead to falls or entrapment, so prioritize safety at all times․ Familiarize yourself with the specific instructions for your model․
Maximum Mattress Height – 120mm Warning
Maintaining the correct mattress height is critical for your child’s safety․ Never exceed a maximum mattress height of 120mm (approximately 4․7 inches)․ A higher mattress poses a significant risk of your baby rolling over the side and potentially falling, leading to serious injury․
Regularly check the mattress position as the base is adjustable․ Ensure it’s lowered as your child begins to sit or pull themselves up; Using a thicker mattress than recommended voids safety compliance․ Prioritize a secure sleep environment by adhering to this crucial height restriction․
Transition to Toddler Bed
Converting the cot bed allows use from 18 months to 4 years․ This transition provides a safe, lower sleeping space for growing toddlers,
promoting independence and continued restful sleep․
Toddler Bed Suitability (18 Months to 4 Years)
Transitioning to the toddler bed configuration is ideal once your child reaches 18 months of age, and it remains safely suitable until they reach approximately 4 years old․ This conversion provides a lower, more accessible sleeping environment, fostering a sense of independence as they grow․
Carefully assess your child’s developmental stage; they should be able to climb in and out of the bed independently and demonstrate a readiness for this change․ Always prioritize safety by ensuring the surrounding area is clear of hazards and a suitable mattress is in place․
Regularly check the stability of the toddler bed and ensure all fixings remain tight․ This phase supports your child’s developing motor skills and encourages a smooth transition towards more independent sleep habits․
Converting from Cot to Toddler Bed
The John Lewis cot bed’s adaptable design allows for a seamless transition to a toddler bed․ This typically involves removing one or both sides of the cot, creating a lower sleeping position․ Refer to your specific model’s instructions (Alfie, Deco, or Elizabeth) for detailed guidance, as the process may vary slightly․
Ensure all remaining fixings are securely tightened after the conversion․ A floor-level mattress is crucial for safety, preventing falls․ Always supervise your child during the initial transition period, helping them adjust to the new bed configuration․
Retain any removed parts for potential future use or re-conversion․

Mattress Selection & Care
A 140 x 70cm mattress is recommended, with a maximum thickness of 12cm․ Ensure a firm, well-fitting mattress for optimal safety and support for your child․
Recommended Mattress Size (140 x 70cm)
Selecting the correct mattress size is crucial for both safety and comfort․ John Lewis cot beds are specifically designed to accommodate a standard mattress measuring 140cm in length and 70cm in width․ Using a mattress of this precise dimension ensures a snug and secure fit within the cot bed frame, minimizing any potential gaps where a child could become trapped․
Deviating from this recommended size can compromise safety․ A mattress that is too small may create dangerous spaces, while one that is too large may be difficult to fit and could pose a risk of instability․ Always prioritize a mattress that aligns perfectly with the cot bed’s specifications․
Maximum Mattress Thickness (12cm)
Maintaining a safe mattress height is paramount, and John Lewis cot beds have a specified maximum mattress thickness of 12cm․ Exceeding this limit can create a hazardous situation, particularly concerning the drop-side mechanism, if your model features one․ A thicker mattress may interfere with the proper functioning of the drop-side,
potentially compromising its locking mechanism․
Adhering to the 12cm limit ensures sufficient clearance between the mattress top and the cot bed’s upper rails, reducing the risk of a child climbing or falling․ Always verify the mattress thickness before use to guarantee a safe sleep environment․

Maintenance & Care
Regular cleaning and checks for loose fixings are crucial for sustained safety․
Inspect bolts and ensure they remain tightened, maintaining the cot bed’s stability and integrity over time․
Cleaning Instructions
To maintain hygiene and prolong the life of your John Lewis cot bed, regular cleaning is recommended․ Use a damp cloth with mild soap to wipe down all surfaces, including the bed ends, sides, and base․ Avoid abrasive cleaners or harsh chemicals, as these can damage the finish․
Ensure the cot bed is completely dry before reassembling or allowing a child to use it․ For stubborn stains, a slightly stronger, child-safe cleaning solution can be used sparingly․ Always test in an inconspicuous area first․ Regularly vacuum around and under the cot bed to remove dust and debris, contributing to a cleaner and healthier sleep environment for your child․
Regular Checks for Loose Fixings
Maintaining the structural integrity of your John Lewis cot bed is paramount for safety․ Regularly – at least monthly – inspect all bolts, screws, and fittings to ensure they remain securely tightened․ Pay particular attention to the fixings connecting the bed ends to the sides and those securing the mattress base․
Use the provided Allen key (M4) to tighten any loose fixings․ Do not overtighten, as this could damage the wood․ A wobbly cot bed is a clear indication of loose fixings and requires immediate attention․ Consistent checks prevent instability and ensure a safe sleep environment for your child․

Troubleshooting Common Issues
Address wobbling by tightening all fixings․ If parts are missing, contact John Lewis customer service immediately․ Prioritize safety and
do not use the cot bed if unstable․
Addressing Wobbling or Instability
If your John Lewis cot bed exhibits wobbling or instability, the first step is a comprehensive check of all fixings․ Systematically tighten every bolt – M6x70mm, M6x45mm, and those secured with M8x15mm or M8x40mm barrel nuts․ Ensure the Allen key (M4) is properly engaged to avoid stripping the bolt heads․
Pay close attention to the bed ends (1a/1b) and their connection to the sides․ Confirm wooden dowels are fully inserted and aligned․ If wobbling persists after tightening, gently rock the cot bed to identify the source of the movement․ Do not use the cot bed if instability remains; contact John Lewis customer service for assistance․
Dealing with Missing Parts
Discovering missing parts during John Lewis cot bed assembly is frustrating, but resolvable․ Immediately halt assembly and carefully review the parts list overview – referencing bed ends (1a/1b), sides, and the base․ Confirm the absence of bolts (M6x70mm, M6x45mm), barrel nuts (M8x15mm, M8x40mm), wooden dowels, or the Allen key (M4)․
Contact John Lewis customer service, providing your cot bed model (Alfie, Deco, or Elizabeth) and a detailed list of the missing components․ Do not attempt to substitute parts, as this could compromise safety․ John Lewis will arrange for replacements to be sent, ensuring correct assembly and compliance with EEN 716-1:2017AC:2019 & EN 8509:2008A1:2011 standards․
Important Safety Warnings
Always supervise your child within the cot bed․ Ensure the drop-side mechanism is securely locked․ Never exceed the 120mm maximum mattress height for safety,
and retain these instructions for future reference․
General Safety Precautions
Prioritize your child’s safety by meticulously following all assembly instructions․ Regularly inspect the cot bed for loose bolts, screws, or any structural weaknesses․ Ensure all fixtures are tightened securely before each use․ Avoid placing the cot bed near windows, radiators, or any potential hazards․
Do not use the cot bed if any parts are missing or damaged; Never attempt to modify the cot bed in any way․ Be mindful of the maximum mattress height of 120mm to prevent falls․ Keep the surrounding area clear of soft toys, pillows, or loose bedding that could pose a suffocation risk․ Your child’s well-being is paramount․
Supervision Requirements
Constant adult supervision is crucial, especially when utilizing the drop-side mechanism․ Always ensure the drop-side is securely locked in both the up and down positions․ Never leave a baby unattended in the cot bed, even for a short period․ Regularly check that the mattress fits snugly within the cot bed frame, leaving no gaps․
Teach older siblings the importance of not climbing or playing around the cot bed․ Be vigilant about potential hazards in the surrounding environment․ Supervision is key to preventing accidents and ensuring a safe sleep environment for your child․ Your attentiveness is their protection․
Resources & Support
John Lewis customer service offers assistance with queries or replacement parts․ Official manuals are available at link 1 and link 2․
John Lewis Customer Service Contact Information
For any questions regarding your John Lewis cot bed, or if you require replacement parts, contacting their customer service is recommended․ While specific contact details weren’t explicitly provided in the source material, John Lewis generally offers support through their website, phone, and in-store assistance․
Visit the John Lewis website (www․johnlewis․com) to locate the ‘Help & Contact’ section․ Here, you’ll find options for online chat, FAQs, and a contact form․ Alternatively, you can call their customer service helpline; the number is typically available on their website․ Remember to have your product details ready when contacting them, ensuring a swift resolution to your query․
Links to Official Instruction Manuals (http://www․johnlewis․com/jl_assets/pdf/230443638․pdf, http://www․johnlewis․com/jl_assets/pdf/Deco Cotbed Instructions v2․pdf)
Accessing the official John Lewis instruction manuals is crucial for safe and correct assembly of your cot bed․ These documents provide detailed diagrams and step-by-step guidance, ensuring all components are properly secured․
The first link, http://www․johnlewis․com/jl_assets/pdf/230443638․pdf, offers a general guide․ The second, http://www․johnlewis․com/jl_assets/pdf/Deco Cotbed Instructions v2․pdf, is specifically for the ‘Deco’ model․ Download and carefully review the manual relevant to your cot bed model before beginning assembly․
Retaining Instructions for Future Reference
It is vitally important to retain these John Lewis cot bed instructions for future use․ Disassembly and reassembly may be required for cleaning, relocation, or transitioning to the toddler bed configuration․
Keeping the manual readily available ensures you can accurately follow the steps, maintaining the cot bed’s structural integrity and safety features․ Refer back to the instructions when making adjustments, such as altering the mattress base height․ Your child’s safety is your responsibility, and these instructions are a key component of that․

Specific Model Instructions (Alfie, Deco, Elizabeth ⸺ if applicable)
Detailed assembly specifics vary by model (Alfie, Deco, Elizabeth)․ Consult the appropriate linked manual for your John Lewis cot bed to ensure correct setup․
Alfie Cot Bed Assembly Details
Assembling the Alfie cot bed requires careful attention to the provided instructions․ Begin by attaching the bed ends (1a & 1b) to the sides, utilizing the M6x70mm bolts and wooden dowels for initial stability․ Remember not to fully tighten these bolts at this stage, allowing for adjustments during base installation․
Secure the base using the M6x45mm bolts (D x 4), ensuring it’s level before proceeding․ The Alfie model features adjustable mattress base positions, offering flexibility as your child grows․ Always adhere to the maximum mattress height of 120mm for safety․ Refer to the official John Lewis manual (http://www․johnlewis․com/jl_assets/pdf/230443638;pdf) for detailed diagrams and specific torque recommendations․
Deco Cot Bed Assembly Details
The Deco cot bed assembly follows a similar process to other John Lewis models, beginning with attaching the bed ends to the sides using M6x70mm bolts and wooden dowels․ Initial bolt tightening is crucial, but avoid full tightening until the base is secured․
Utilize the M6x45mm bolts (D x 4) to fix the base, ensuring a level and stable foundation․ The Deco model also offers adjustable mattress base positions, catering to your child’s developmental stages․ Remember the 120mm maximum mattress height․ Consult the dedicated Deco instructions (http://www․johnlewis․com/jl_assets/pdf/Deco Cotbed Instructions v2․pdf) for precise guidance and diagrams․
Elizabeth Cot Bed Assembly Details
Assembling the Elizabeth cot bed requires careful attention to the parts list, utilizing M6x70mm bolts for connecting the bed ends to the sides, alongside wooden dowels for added stability․ Initial base attachment uses M6x45mm bolts (D x 4), but avoid over-tightening at this stage․
Ensure the mattress base is correctly positioned, taking advantage of any adjustable height options․ Always adhere to the 120mm maximum mattress height for safety․ Specific diagrams and detailed instructions for the Elizabeth model are currently unavailable in the provided links; consult John Lewis customer service for assistance․