How to Choose the best cot beds (Buzzingabout.com) for Your Baby

When you are expecting a baby it is essential to select a cot which can provide security and safety for your baby. Find a cot with fixed sides (rather than drop-sides), which comply with strict UK safety standards.

Our top pick is this simple yet elegant coffin from John Lewis' Anyday range. It has three mattress positions, teething bars and a storage drawer. It is also simple to put together, and comes with clear instructions.

Comfort

The best crib cot beds keep baby's warm and comfortable. Look for a soft and comfortable fabric. Also, make sure that the mattress is fitted snugly to prevent any gaps which could create an suffocation threat. There are many mattresses available - foam, coil springs and natural materials for allergy sufferers, so do your research and choose the right one for your baby's needs.

No matter if you select a convertible or standard cot, the most important thing to ensure comfort is a mattress of high-quality that provides proper support and encourages healthy posture. The same is true for the slats, which must be firmly attached and not sagging or bent. The slats should also be securely attached to the frame so that your child does not get caught when they move in their sleep.

If you're unsure of the mattress to purchase, talk to your family members or friends or look up online reviews for suggestions. Select mattresses that are breathable, since they will help you regulate your body temperature and are less likely to hold bacteria.

There are a variety of styles to pick from that include traditional sleighs with intricate details and sleek, modern designs. Some are painted in bright primary colours to make your child feel joyful and cheerful when they wake up.

The majority of cots have an under-bed storage drawer, teething rails that prevent your child from chewing the sides of the cot, and height bases that are adjustable to accommodate your child's growth. You can also buy a drop-side for babies who are small or suffer from health issues that make it difficult for them to bend over.

Look for a cot which is in compliance with the strict UK safety standards and is easily transformed into a toddler's bed when it is time. This information is found in the product description as well as key specifications.

Safety

A safe and secure sleeping environment is essential and a big aspect to consider when choosing a crib. The mattress should fit snugly and there shouldn't be gaps between the mattress and the ends or sides of the cot or cot-bed (large gaps could hold the child's arms and head). Check that it's firm and thin - thicker mattresses aren't advised as they may increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies offer a range of mattresses, from simple foam to natural materials for allergy sufferers. Some have anti-microbial treatment. If your crib has a drop side, ensure it is in the upward position and locked securely.

Drop sides should only be permitted down when an adult is present in the room. This will prevent accidental releases. If your coffin has a solid edge do not place it against the wall because this will restrict airflow and can cause death in the coffin. The latest research suggests that slatted ends may be safer because they allow for more airflow.

If your cot has a fixed side choose this option as it is the most secure option when your child begins to crawl and then pull themselves up. Once your child is confidently standing and climbing, it is a sign that they are ready to move into a junior bed.

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

If you are putting your child in their cot, check that there isn't any visible danger. It must be away from heat sources and power points, windows, curtains and blind cords (these are a strangulation hazard). If you're buying furniture that is second-hand or an heirloom Be sure to check for potential choking hazards like stickers and transfers that may peel off and present danger.

If you're unsure of how to safely use your cot, consult other parents for advice or take part in an local NCT New Baby class. If your cot comes with instructions, read them carefully before using it, and follow the safe-use instructions closely.

Style

This stunning cot bed with its sleigh-style design will look fantastic in your nursery. The panel was awed by the combination of natural wood and white and the clever features like under-bed storage drawers for everything essential for babies, including bedding, nappies, and a huge selection of baby clothes. It's also easy to construct, with clear instructions and separate 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 description for details).

One of our favorite features are the teething rails, which shield your little one from bumping their head against the cot's side or any protruding parts of the cot, like the handle or corner post, and which can also stop them from chewing on the wood, which prevents them from getting trapped. The cot also has drop-sides to make it easier for parents to reach their newborn. We are thrilled that it can be converted into a toddler bed, and it's sturdy enough to last for up to four years. It also met the strict UK safety standards. These are listed in the main specifications below each product.

Cot beds can be turned into toddler beds when your child is old enough. This lets you avoid buying an entirely new bed when your child's ready to move up. They may cost more than cribs.

If your nursery is very small cot beds, a crib could be the best choice for you, as it's smaller and takes up less space, but should your baby be expected to spend most of the time in their parents' room or you want a longer-lasting bed, consider a crib.

A cot isn't suitable for babies to sleep in if it doesn't meet the strict UK safety standards as outlined in BS EN 716 and BS 8509, which covers the thickness of mattresses, the materials used and other important elements of cot mattresses for babies. The slats shouldn't be too far apart to prevent your child from falling out.

Storage

The amount of baby stuff you need is overwhelming, regardless of whether you're a first-time parent or an experienced one. It is important to think about storage when selecting a cot. There are a variety of cots that have additional storage options, such as drawers in the under-bed or a coordinating cot top changer (available separately). Some can be transformed into a toddler or small single bed, which can extend their usefulness for a longer period of time.

Some cots can be transformed into day beds, like the one shown on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is a great crib choice for those who prefer a less rigid design as the conversion process is fairly simple and involves the removal of one side panel. This allows parents to save on the cost of the purchase of a separate bed.

Some cot beds are equipped with a hanging rail that can be used to hang muslins, dolls and other small objects. This helps to keep everything organized tidy, neat and tidy and also looks amazing. The ease of access to these items will make it easier for parents when feeding their baby.

A teething rail is a desirable feature that is included in some cots. This will stop your child from chewing on the cot's wooden structure, which could cause irritation. Some cots are designed in an older style and come with a large under-bed storage drawer which is ideal to store blankets, toys, clothes and other baby necessities.

While this is a great idea for when you're in a tight space, you should be aware that you'll require a separate additional drawer. You might need to purchase a separate mattress and bedding since oval mattresses and sheets do not come with the cot.

This sleigh cot bed by Stokke is a stunning example of the Scandi-style at its finest and has a huge under-bed storage drawer that's ideal to keep all the baby's essentials out of view but easily reachable. The alphabetically labeled parts and clear instructions made it simple to assemble for our panel. It is suitable for babies from birth and can be made into a toddler's bed when your child's ready.