How to Paint a Baby Cot

Spread out a drop cloth on the ground outside and place the cot directly on top of the cloth. Make sure the cloth extends around all four sides of the cot to protect the ground during sanding and painting. Painting outside will allow the paint fumes to dissipate without affecting your breathing.

Remove the mattress from the crib and set it aside while you work. Keep the mattress inside to make sure it stays free of dust and dirt. The rest of the cot will stay intact the entire time.

Scuff the entire cot using sandpaper until the surface is smooth and soft. If there is a thick layer of paint on the cot, use coarse grit paper. For stained or raw cots opt for finishing sandpaper which is finer.

Wipe the sanded cot with a tack cloth to remove all of the sanding grit. Give the cot a final rub with a damp wash cloth and let the wood dry completely.

Use a small paintbrush with your chosen color of paint in order to reach even the smallest parts of the cot. Test a small, inconspicuous area to practice your brush strokes and to make sure you like the color of the paint on the cot.

Apply the paint in long, even strokes until you have one, thin layer of paint covering every surface. Leave the paint to set until the cot is dry to the touch.

Apply more coats of paint to the cot in the same way until you get the desired color. Let each coat dry completely before applying the next one. Replace the mattress in the cot once the final coat has dried.