How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby

If you are expecting your first child, it is important to choose a cot that will provide safety and security for your baby. Find a cot which has fixed sides, rather than drop-sides. This will comply with UK safety standards.

This simple but elegant crib is our top choice from the Anyday collection by John Lewis. It has three mattress height positions, teething rails as well as a storage drawers. It is also easy 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 is snug to avoid any gaps, which could pose the risk of suffocation. There are a variety of mattresses available on the market including coil springs, foam and natural materials for allergy sufferers - so do your research and best cot bed select the right one for your baby's needs.

If you choose a convertible or standard cot, the most important thing to ensure comfort is a good-quality mattress that provides proper support and promotes a healthy posture. The slats must be firmly attached, and not sliding. The slats must also be firmly attached to the frame so that your child does not be caught when they move in their sleep.

Ask your friends and family for recommendations or browse online cots reviews. Choose breathable mattresses, as they can help you regulate your body temperature, and are less likely to be a breeding ground for bacteria.

When it comes to style there's a broad selection, from traditional sleigh styles with intricate detailing to sleek, modern designs. Some are even painted with bright primary colors which is great for those who want their little one to wake up feeling fresh and happy!

Most cots come with a drawer for storage underneath and teething rails that stop your child from chewing on the sides of the cot and height bases that can be adjusted to accommodate baby'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.

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

Safety

A safe and secure sleeping environment is essential and a big consideration when choosing a bed. The mattress should be snugly fitted and there should be no gaps between the mattress and the sides or ends of the cot/cot-bed (large gaps could hold the child's arms and head). Verify that the mattress is firm and thin - thicker mattresses aren't recommended, since they could increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies offer mattresses in different materials including foam and natural materials that are suitable for allergy sufferers. Some have anti-microbial treatment. If your cot has drop sides, make sure it is in the upward position and secured.

Drop sides should only be allowed to go to fall when an adult is in the room. This prevents accidental releases. Avoid placing your cot against walls if it has an end that is solid. This could restrict airflow, which can lead to coffin death. The latest research suggests that slatted ends could be safer since they allow more airflow.

If your crib has a fixed side choose this option as it's safer when your child starts to crawl and climb up. When your child is confidently climbing and standing, it's time to move to a junior bed.

Some cots have an option that allows the base to be raised up to three levels. This is a wonderful security feature that allows your child's cot to grow with their needs. Some cots also have footplates that are adjustable, which is ideal for toddlers wanting to stand up in their bed.

When putting your child's cot in the crib be sure that there aren't any obvious dangers. It should be put away from heaters and power points. Also make sure it is away from windows, curtains and blind cords. They all could pose a strangulation risk. If you're buying furniture from a secondhand store or an heirloom piece Be sure to check for potential hazards to choking such as stickers and Best Cot bed transfers that may peel off and present danger.

If you're unsure about how to use your cot safely, ask parents around or go to an local NCT New Baby course for support and advice. If your cot comes with a manual, read it carefully before using it, and then follow the safe-use instructions closely.

Style

This gorgeous cot bed with its sleigh-style design will look stunning in your nursery. Our panel was impressed by the combination of natural and white pine, as well as its innovative features, like under-bed storage drawers to keep all those baby essentials like nappies, bedding, and a stunning assortment of baby clothes. It's also easy to assemble, with concise instructions and separate packs of screws for each section. It can also be transformed into a toddler bed and desk as your baby gets older (see the product's description for more details).

One of our most loved features is the teething rails which protect your baby from bumping their head on the side of the cot or any other protruding parts of the cot like the handle or corner post, and which can also stop them from chewing on the wood, preventing them from being suffocated. The cot also has an opening that can be removed to allow you to access your newborn. We appreciate that it is able to be converted to a toddler bed, and that it is sturdy enough to last up to four years. It also meets the strict UK safety standards, which are listed in the specifications that are listed under each product.

Cot beds are usually larger than cribs and can be converted into toddler beds when your child is ready and you can avoid purchasing a bed at an age when they're ready for the transition. However, they may be more expensive than a crib that is standard.

If your nursery isn't big enough, you might think about a crib. It is smaller and requires less space. However, if you plan on spending a lot of your baby's time in the room or if you require a bed that will last longer, you should choose a cot.

If a cot doesn't meet the UK safety standards set by BS EN 716 or BS 8509 (which refers to the thickness of mattresses, the materials used, and other important elements in baby cot mattresses) it is not safe for babies to sleep. The slats must not be too far apart to prevent your child from falling out.

Storage

If you're a new parent or a veteran the amount of items the baby will require is immense. It's crucial to think about storage when you choose a cot. Some cots come with additional storage options, like drawers beneath the bed or a top changer (available separately). Certain cots can be transformed into toddler beds or a smaller single bed to extend their use.

Some cots can be converted into day beds, as seen here on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is a great option for those who prefer an unstructured design since the conversion process is fairly simple and involves the removal of one side panel. It also lets parents save money on a bed purchase.

A few cot beds come with hanging rails that can be used to store muslins Dummies, and other small items. This allows you to keep everything organised tidy and neat and also looks amazing. These items are easily accessible to parents which makes it easier for them to feed their baby.

Another feature worth looking for is a teething rail that is available with some cots. This can help to prevent your little one chewing on the wood that could cause irritation. Some cots are designed with more traditional designs and have a huge under-bed storage drawer which is ideal for storing blankets, toys clothing, and other baby essentials.

While this is a great idea if you're running out of space, it's important to keep in mind that you'll have to purchase an extra drawer. You might need to purchase a separate mattress and bedding since oval mattresses and sheets do not come with the infant cot bed.

This sleigh-style cot is a beautiful illustration of Scandi style at its best cot newborn Cot Bed (Emseyi.Com). It has a spacious under-bed storage area that is ideal to keep all baby necessities out-of-sight but within easy access. The alphabetically labeled components and clear instructions made it easy to put together for our panel. It's suitable for infants as young as birth, and can be transformed into a toddler's bed when your child's ready.