How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby

When you are expecting a child, it is important to select a cot which will provide safety and security for your baby. Choose a cot that has fixed sides, rather than drop-sides. This will meet UK safety standards.

This simple but stylish cot is our top choice from the Anyday range of John Lewis. It has three mattress height positions, teething rails, and a storage drawers. It is also simple to assemble, with clear instructions.

Comfort

The best crib cot beds keep babies comfy and cosy. Look for a soft and airy fabric, and ensure that the mattress fits snugly to avoid any gaps, which could pose a suffocation risk. There are a variety of mattresses available: coils springs, foam and even natural materials for allergy sufferers. Do your research to find the most suitable one for your child.

If you choose a convertible or standard cot, the most important thing to ensure satisfaction is a high-quality mattress that is supportive and Cot Beds - Get Source - encourages healthy posture. The same applies to the slats. They should be securely attached and not sagging or bent. The slats must also be securely attached to the frame to ensure that your child will not be caught when they move in their sleep.

Ask your family and friends for recommendations or look at online reviews. Look for ones that are breathable, as they'll help maintain temperature and are less likely to harbor bacteria.

When it comes to style there's a variety of styles of styles, from traditional sleigh designs with elaborate detailing to sleek, modern designs. Some are even painted in bright primary colors which is perfect for those who want their child to wake up feeling fresh and happy!

There are a lot of cots that have drawers underneath to store items and teething rails to guard your child from chewing on the sides of the cot, as well as adjustable height bases to accommodate baby's growth. You can also buy an extra drop-side for babies that are small or have health issues that make it difficult for them to bend over.

For added peace of mind, look for a cot that meets the stringent UK safety standards and will easily transform into an infant bed when the time is appropriate. Look for this information in the description or in the key specifications.

Safety

When selecting a cot, an environment that is safe for sleeping should be a priority. Make sure that the mattress is snug and has no gap between it and the cot's bed sides or ends (big gaps can keep your child's head from being caught in the arms). Verify that the mattress is not too firm and thin. Mattresses that are too thick could increase the risk of SIDS. There are many companies that offer mattresses made of different materials from foam to natural materials that are suitable for allergy sufferers. Some even have an anti-microbial treatment. If your mattress has a drop side, ensure it is in the upward position and locked securely.

Drop sides should only be allowed to go down when an adult is in the room. This can prevent accidental release. If your coffin has a solid bottom be sure to avoid placing it against the wall because it can block airflow and may contribute to the death of a coffin. Recent research suggests that slatted ends could be safer as they permit more airflow.

If your cot is fixed on one side, then you can choose it. It's the most secure option for your baby as they start to crawl and then pull themselves upwards. If your child is climbing with confidence and standing, it's the time to upgrade to a junior bed.

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

Whenever you place your child in their cot, check whether there is no visible danger. It should be away from heaters, power points, windows and curtains and blind cords (these can be strangulation hazards). If you're purchasing furniture from a secondhand store or an heirloom piece Be sure to check for potential dangers to your child's health such as stickers and transfers that may be removed and pose danger.

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

Style

This gorgeous cot bed, with its sleigh style will look stunning in your nursery. The panel was impressed by the combination of natural wood and white, as well as the clever features like under-bed storage drawers that can hold all baby essentials, like bedding, nappies and an impressive array of baby clothes. It's also easy to put together, with clear instructions and separate screws for each section. What's more, it can be converted into a toddler bed and desk when your baby grows older (see the product description for details).

One of our favourite features are the teething rails that protect your baby from smacking their head against the side of the cot or any protruding part of the cot, like the handle or corner post. They can also stop them from chewing on the wood, preventing them from becoming trapped. The cot also has drop-sides to allow parents to reach their newborn. We love that it can be converted to a toddler bed, and that it is sturdy enough to last up to four years. It also complies with the stringent 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, allowing you to avoid purchasing a bed when they're ready to move on. They may cost more than a 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, if your child is likely to spend much of their time in their parents' bedroom or you'd like a more long-lasting bed, consider a cot.

A cot isn't safe for babies to sleep in if it doesn't meet the strict UK safety standards set out in BS EN 716 and BS 8509, which deals with mattress thicknesses, materials and other essential elements of cot mattresses for babies. The slats shouldn't be too close together to ensure that your baby won't fall off.

Stores

If you're a new parent or an experienced one the amount of items that a baby requires is overwhelming. This is why it's essential to consider storage options when choosing the crib bed. A number of cots have additional storage solutions available like drawers under the bed or a top changer (available separately). Certain cots can be transformed into toddler beds or a smaller single bed to increase their use.

Some cot beds can be transformed into a daybed as shown on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is a great option for those who prefer a less rigid design as the conversion process is fairly simple and requires just the removal of one side panel. This will allow parents to save on the cost of a separate bed.

Some cot beds come with hanging rails that can be used to hang muslins, dummies and other small items. This helps keep everything neat, tidy and organised. It also looks great. Having easy access to these items makes it much easier for parents when feeding their baby.

A teething rail is another important feature that's included in some cots. This will stop your child from chewing on the wooden cot which can cause irritation. Some cots come with a more traditional design and have a huge storage drawer underneath the bed that is ideal for toys, clothes blankets, 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 require a separate extra drawer. You may also have to purchase a different mattress and bedding since sheets and mattresses that are oval aren't typically included in the cot itself.

This sleigh-style cot bed is a beautiful example of Scandi style at its finest. It has a large under-bed storage area that is ideal to keep baby's essentials out of sight but still easily accessible. The alphabetically labeled parts and clear instructions made it simple to assemble for our panel. It's suitable for infants from birth and can be transformed into a toddler bed when your child is ready, which means it's good value too.