How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby

If you're expecting a child it is essential to select a cot that will be secure and safe for your Baby beds. Look for a cot with fixed sides (rather than drop-sides) that meet strict UK safety standards.

Our top choice is this simple but stylish cot from John Lewis' Anyday range. It comes with three mattress positions, teething rails, and a storage drawer. It is also easy to put together and comes with clear instructions.

Comfort

The best cot bed keeps infants comfortable and warm. Look for a soft and comfortable fabric. Also, make sure that the mattress is fitted snugly to avoid any gaps, which could create the risk of suffocation. There are a range of mattresses available on the market including coil springs, foam and natural materials for allergy sufferers. So do your research and choose the best one for your baby's requirements.

Whatever you decide to use, whether a conventional cot bed sales or a convertible cot, a good mattress is vital to your ease of use. It should provide adequate support and encourage an upright posture. This is also true for the slats, which should be firmly attached and not sagging or bent. The slats should also be securely attached to the frame so that your child doesn't get stuck in them while they move during sleep.

If you're unsure of the mattress to purchase, talk to your family and friends or consult online reviews for recommendations. Choose mattresses that are breathable, as they help you regulate your body temperature, and are less likely to harbor bacteria.

When it comes to fashion there's a broad selection from classic sleigh styles with intricate details to sleek, contemporary designs. Some are decorated with bright primary colors to make your child feel cheerful and cheerful as they awake.

Most cots come with an under-bed storage drawer and teething rails that stop your child from chewing on the sides of the cot and adjustable height bases to accommodate your child's growth. You can also purchase a drop-side for infants who are small or have health issues that make it hard to bend over.

Choose a cot that is in compliance with the strict UK safety standards and can easily be converted into a toddler's bed when it's time. Look for this information in the description or in the specifications.

Safety

A safe and secure sleeping environment is essential and a big consideration when choosing a crib. The mattress should be snugly fitted and there shouldn't be gaps between the mattress and the edges or sides of the cot or cot-bed (large gaps can restrict the child's arms or head). Verify that the mattress is not too firm and thin. Mattresses that are thick can increase the risk of SIDS. There are many companies that offer mattresses made of various materials including foam and natural materials that are good for allergy sufferers. Some even come with an anti-microbial treatment. If your mattress has drop sides, make sure it is in the upward position and locked securely.

A drop side should only be allowed to drop when an adult is present - to prevent accidental release. Do not place your cot against the wall if it is an end that is solid. This will restrict airflow, which can lead to coffin death. Recent research suggests that slatted ends may be safer because they allow more airflow.

If your cot is fixed on one side, then you can choose it. It's the safest option for your child when they begin to crawl and pull themselves upward. If your child is climbing with confidence and standing, it's time to upgrade to a junior bed.

Some cots have features that allow the base can be raised to three different levels, so that it will expand with your child - this is very practical and a great safety measure. Some cots also have footplates that are adjustable, which is great for toddlers who want to stand up in their bed.

When you put your child in their cot, make sure that there is no visible danger. It must be kept away from heaters and power points, windows, blind cords and curtains (these pose a strangulation risk). If you are buying second-hand furniture or heirlooms, make sure to check for cribs 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 you can ask other parents or visit a local NCT New Baby course for assistance and guidance. If your cot comes with an instruction manual, read it carefully before you start using it, and be sure to follow the safety guidelines closely.

Style

This gorgeous cot bed, with its sleigh design will look stunning in your nursery. The panel was impressed with the mix of white and natural wood and the clever features such as under-bed storage drawers that can hold all baby essentials, like bedding, nappies, and a huge selection of baby clothes. It's also simple to put together, with concise instructions and separate sets of screws for each section. It could also be transformed into a toddler desk or bed as your child gets older (see product description for more information).

One of our most loved 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 a handle or a corner post. They will also stop them from chewing on the wood, which prevents them from getting suffocated. There's also drop-sides to allow parents to reach their newborn. We are thrilled that it can be converted to a toddler bed, and that it is sturdy enough to last for up to four years. It also complies with strict UK safety standards. You can find these in the main specifications below each product.

Cot beds are usually larger than cribs and can be transformed into toddler beds when your child is ready, cribs allowing you to avoid purchasing a bed at an age when they're ready for the transition. They may cost more than cribs [Telekon.ru].

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

A cot isn't suitable for babies to sleep in if it does not meet the strict UK safety standards as outlined in BS EN 716 and BS 8509, which deals with mattress thicknesses, materials and other important elements of baby cot mattresses. The slats should not be too wide apart to stop your baby from falling out.

Storage

The amount of baby gear you need is overwhelming, regardless of whether you're a first-time parent or a seasoned one. It's crucial to think about storage when you choose a cot. Many cots come with additional storage options, like drawers under the bed or a top changer (available separately). Certain cots can be transformed into a toddler bed or small single bed to extend their usage.

Some cots can be transformed into day beds, like the one shown here on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is a great choice for those who prefer more flexible designs as the conversion process is simple and involves the removal of one side panel. This allows parents to 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 to keep everything organized tidy, neat and tidy and also looks amazing. These items are easily accessible to parents, making 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 are designed in more traditional designs and include a large under-bed storage drawer that is perfect for storing blankets, toys clothes, and other baby necessities.

While this is a great idea for when you're short on space, you should be aware that you'll need to buy a separate extra drawer. You might need to purchase bedding and a mattress separately because oval sheets and mattresses do not come with the cot.

This sleigh cot bed from Stokke is a stunning example of the Scandi-style at its finest and features a huge under-bed storage drawer that's great to keep baby's essentials out of view but easily reachable. Our panel found it very easy to put together, thanks to the alphabetically labeled parts and clear instructions. It's suitable for babies as young as birth and can be transformed into a toddler bed when your child is ready. This means it's good value too.