How to Choose the best cot bed Cot Beds for Your Baby

If you're expecting a baby it is essential to select the right cot that is secure and safe for your little one. Look for a cot with fixed sides (rather than drop-sides) that meet strict UK safety standards.

This slick and elegant coffin is our top choice from the Anyday collection by John Lewis. It comes with three mattress height positions, teething rails and storage drawer. It's also easy to assemble with clear instructions.

Comfort

The best cot beds keep cheap baby cots's warm and comfortable. Choose a soft, airy fabric, Best Cot Beds and ensure that the mattress is fitted snugly to prevent any gaps which could cause a suffocation risk. There are a range of mattresses available on the market - foam, coil springs and natural materials for allergy sufferers. So do your research before deciding on the best one for your baby's needs.

Whatever you decide to use, whether a conventional cot or a convertible, a good mattress is vital to your ease of use. It should provide adequate support and promote an ideal posture. The slats must be firmly attached, and not sagging. The slats should also be securely fixed to the frame so that your little one doesn't get caught in them when moving during sleep.

If you're unsure of the mattress to buy, ask your family and friends or consult online reviews for suggestions. Make sure you choose a mattress that's air-conditioned, as they'll help to regulate temperature and are less likely to harbor bacteria.

When it comes to fashion there's a variety of styles, from traditional sleigh styles with intricate detailing to sleek, modern designs. Some are painted in vibrant primary colors to make your child feel cheerful and cheerful as they wake up.

Most cots come with a drawer for storage underneath, teething rails that prevent your child from chewing the sides of the cot and height bases that can be adjusted to accommodate your child's growth. You can even buy a drop side for smaller babies or those who have medical conditions that make it difficult for them to bend over.

For added peace of mind, look for a cot that is compliant with the stringent UK safety standards and can easily convert into a toddler bed when the time is appropriate. This information is available in the product description and the specifications.

Safety

When selecting a cot, a safe sleeping environment should be the top priority. Make sure the mattress is snug and has no gap between it and the cot/cot bed sides or ends (big gaps could trap your child's head or arms). Verify that the mattress is firm and thin. Mattresses that are too thick could increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies offer a choice of mattresses, ranging from basic foam to natural substances for allergy sufferers. Some contain anti-microbial treatments. If your cot features drop-sides, ensure that it is locked and in the upward position.

Drop sides should only be allowed down when an adult is present in the room. This can prevent accidental releases. Avoid placing your cot against a wall if it has a solid end. This can hinder airflow and could result in death of the coffin. According to the most recent research, cots with slatted ends may be safer because they allow for more airflow.

If your crib has a fixed side choose this option as it's safer when your child starts to crawl and then pull themselves up. Once your child is standing and climbing, it is a sign that they are ready to move into a junior bed.

Some cots have a feature that allows the base to be raised to three different levels. This is a fantastic safety measure and enables the cot of your child to grow with the child. Some cots feature adjustable footplates that are perfect for toddlers who love to stand up.

When placing your child's cot, make sure there aren't any obvious dangers. It should be placed away from power and heater points. Also make sure it is away from windows, curtains and blind cords. All of these could pose a strangulation risk. When purchasing second-hand furniture, or heirlooms to look out for dangers to your child's health such as stickers and transfers. They can come off and cause danger.

If you're unsure of how to use your cot in a safe manner you can ask other parents or attend an local NCT New Baby course for assistance and guidance. If your cot comes with an instruction manual, read it carefully before you begin using it, and be sure to follow the safety guidelines closely.

Style

With its stunning sleigh design This stunning cot bed will look great in your nursery cots. Our panel was impressed by the mix of white and natural pine, as well as its smart features, including under-bed storage drawers to keep all the baby necessities like nappies, bedding, tots and cots a dazzling variety of baby outfits. It's also easy to put together, with clear instructions and separate screws for each section. It can also be converted into a toddler desk or bed as your child gets older (see the product description for more information).

One of our most loved features is the teething rails, which shield your baby from bumping their head on the cot's side or any protruding part of the cot, such as handles or a corner post, and which will also stop them from chewing on the wood, which prevents them from becoming suffocated. The cot also has an opening that can be removed to allow you to get access to your baby. We love that the cot can be converted into a toddler bed and that it's sturdy enough to last up to four years. It also complies with strict UK safety standards. These are listed in the key specs below each product.

Cot beds are typically larger than cribs and can be turned into toddler beds once your child is ready and you can avoid purchasing a bed when they're ready to move on. However, they can be pricier upfront than a standard crib.

If your nursery is small, you might be considering the possibility of a crib. It is smaller and requires less space. However, if you plan to spend a significant portion of your baby's time in your bedroom or you need an item that lasts longer, you should choose a crib.

A crib isn't safe for babies to sleep in if it does not meet the strict UK safety standards outlined in BS EN 716 and BS 8509, which deals with mattresses' thicknesses, materials, and other essential elements of cot mattresses for babies. The slats must not be too far apart, to ensure your baby doesn't fall off.

Stores

The amount of baby equipment you'll need is a mess regardless of whether you're a first-time parent or a seasoned one. It is important to think about storage when selecting a cot. A number of cots have additional storage options, such as under-bed drawers or a coordinating top changer (available separately). Some cots can be converted into toddler beds or a smaller single bed to extend their usage.

Some cots can be converted into day beds, as 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 fairly simple and requires just the removal of one side panel. This lets parents save money on a separate bed.

A few cot beds have hanging rails that can be used to store muslins dolls and other small objects. This helps keep everything tidy, neat and organized. It also looks fantastic. These items are easily accessible to parents which makes it easier for them to feed their baby.

A teething rail is another important feature that's 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 with more traditional designs and come with a large under-bed storage drawer that is perfect for storing blankets, toys clothes, and other baby necessities.

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

This sleigh-style cot is an exquisite example of Scandi style at its best. It has a large under-bed storage compartment that's ideal to keep baby's essentials out-of-sight but within easy access. The alphabetically labeled pieces and clear instructions made it simple to assemble for our panel. It's suitable for babies as young as birth and can be converted into a toddler's crib when your child's ready.