How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby

If you're expecting a baby it's crucial to select a cot that will be secure and safe for your baby. Find a cot which has fixed sides instead of drop-sides. This will comply with UK safety standards.

This slick and stylish cot is our top choice from the Anyday range of John Lewis. It comes with three mattress positions, teething bars and storage drawers. It is also simple to put together, and comes with clear instructions.

Comfort

The best cot beds keep children warm and cozy. Look for a soft and airy fabric, and ensure that the mattress fits snugly to prevent any gaps which could pose a suffocation risk. There are many types of mattresses available - coils springs, foam and even natural materials for allergy sufferers. Do your research to find the ideal mattress for your child.

It doesn't matter if you pick a conventional cot or a convertible the mattress is vital to your the comfort. It must provide the right support and encourage a healthy posture. The same is true for the slats, which must be secured and not sagging or bent. The slats must also be securely fixed to the frame, so that your child does not get caught when they move in their sleep.

If you're not sure which mattress to buy, consult your family and friends or consult online reviews for recommendations. Make sure you choose a mattress that's breathable, as they'll help to regulate temperature and are less likely to harbor bacteria.

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

The majority of cots have a drawer for storage underneath and teething rails that stop your child from chewing on the sides of the cot, and height bases that are adjustable to accommodate Baby Cot Bed's growth. You can also purchase a drop-side for infants who are small or have health issues that make it difficult to bend over.

For extra peace of mind, search for a cot that complies with the stringent UK safety standards and can easily transform into a toddler bed when the time is appropriate. This information is available in the product description as well as key specifications.

Safety

A secure sleeping space is essential and a big factor when selecting a crib. The mattress should be able to fit snugly and there should be no gaps between the mattress and the sides or ends of the cot or cot-bed (large gaps could restrict the child's arms or head). Verify that the mattress is firm and thin - thicker mattresses aren't recommended cribs since they could increase the risk of SIDS. There are many companies that offer mattresses made of a variety of materials, from foam to natural materials that are great for those suffering from allergies. Some even have an anti-microbial treatment. If your cot has drop sides, make sure that it is in the up position and secured.

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 a solid end. This could restrict airflow, which can cause death in the coffin. The latest research suggests that slatted ends may be safer since they allow for Cot beds more airflow.

If your crib has a fixed side you should choose this because it will be safest when your child begins to crawl and then pull themselves up. When your child is climbing with confidence and standing, it's time to move to a junior bed.

Some cots come with a feature that allows the base to be raised up to three levels. This is a fantastic safety measure and enables your child's cot to expand with their needs. Some cots have footplates that can be adjusted to suit for toddlers who want to stand up.

Whenever you place your child in their cot, cot beds check that there isn't any visible danger. It must be away from heat sources and power points, windows and curtains and blind cords (these pose a strangulation risk). When buying second-hand furniture or heirlooms, make sure to check for choking hazards such as stickers and transfers. They may peel off and pose a danger.

If you're not sure about how to use your cot, ask other parents for advice or go to a local NCT New Baby class. If your cot comes with a guide, make sure you go through it before using it and adhere to the instructions.

Style

With its stunning sleigh design This stunning crib will look stunning in your nursery. The panel was awed by the mix of white and natural wood as well as the clever features such as under-bed storage drawers that can hold all baby essentials, like bedding, nappies and an impressive array of baby clothes. It's also simple to construct, with clear instructions and screws for each section. Additionally, it can be transformed into a bed for toddlers and a desk as your baby gets older (see the product's description for more details).

The teething rails are one of our favorite features. They stop your child from hitting their head against the side of the crib sets or any protruding portion of the crib, like the corner post or handle. They also stop them from chewing on the wood, and prevent them from being suffocated. There's also a drop-side to allow parents to reach their newborn. We are thrilled that the cot can be converted into a toddler bed and that it's built to last for four years. It also met strict UK safety standards. These are listed in the main specifications below each product.

Cot beds are usually larger than cribs and can be converted into toddler beds when your child is ready which means you don't have to worry about purchasing a new bed until they're ready for the transition. However, they may be more expensive upfront than the standard crib.

If your nursery is small, a crib might be the best option for you as it is smaller and takes up less space. However, should your baby be expected to spend most of the time in their parents' bedroom or you want a longer-lasting bed, opt for a crib.

A cot isn't safe 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 deals with the thickness of mattresses, the materials used and other important elements of cot mattresses for babies. The slats should not be too far apart to stop your child from falling out.

Storage

The amount of baby gear you need is overwhelming, regardless of whether you're a new mom or a seasoned one. This is why it's essential to think about the storage options when you choose the cot bed. Many cots come with additional storage options, like drawers under the bed or a coordinating cot top ranked cribs changer (available separately). Certain cots can be transformed into toddler beds or a smaller single bed to extend their use.

Some cot beds can be further adapted into a day bed like this one on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is an excellent option for those who prefer an edgier design. The conversion is simple and only requires the removal of a single side panel. It also lets parents save money on a separate bed purchase.

A few cot beds have a hanging rail which can be used to store muslins, dummies and other small items. This helps keep everything tidy, neat and organized. It also looks beautiful. Having easy access to these items will make it easier for parents to feed their baby.

A teething rail is a desired feature that is found in some cots. This can help to stop your child from chewing on the wood which could cause them irritation. Some cots are designed in more traditional designs and include a large drawer under the bed that is perfect for storing blankets, toys, clothes and other baby necessities.

This is a great option for those who have limited space however, you will need to purchase a drawer separately. You might need to purchase a separate mattress and bedding, as oval sheets and mattresses don't come with the cot.

This sleigh-style cot bed an exquisite example of Scandi style at its best crib newborn. It features a huge under-bed storage area that is ideal to keep all baby necessities out-of-sight but within easy access. The alphabetically labeled pieces and clear instructions made it easy to assemble for our panel. It's suitable for babies as young as birth and can be converted into a toddler bed once your child is ready. This means it's good value too.