How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby

When you are expecting a baby it is crucial to select a cot which will ensure safety and security for your baby. Choose a cot that has fixed sides (rather than drop-sides), which comply with 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 bars and an storage drawer. It is also simple to put together, and comes with clear instructions.

Comfort

The best cots cot beds will keep babies comfy and cosy. Choose a breathable soft and comfortable fabric. Make sure that the mattress is fitted snugly to eliminate any gaps that could create the risk of being suffocated. There are many types of mattresses available - coils springs, foam, and even natural materials for allergy sufferers. Do your research to find the best one for your child.

If you choose a convertible or standard cot, the most important thing to ensure comfort is a good-quality mattress that is supportive and promotes a healthy posture. This is also true for the slats. They should be securely attached and not bent or sagging. The slats must also be securely fixed to the frame, so that your little one doesn't get trapped in them while moving in their sleep.

Ask your friends and family for recommendations or browse online reviews. Choose breathable mattresses, as they will aid in regulating your body temperature and are less likely to hold bacteria.

In terms of style there's a variety of styles from classic sleigh styles with elaborate details to sleek, contemporary designs. Some are painted in bright primary colours to make your child feel happy and cheerful as they awake.

There are a lot of cots that have drawers underneath to store items as well as teething rails that protect your child from chewing on the sides of the cot, and adjustable height bases for baby growth. You can also buy a drop-side for infants who aren't big or suffer from medical conditions that make it hard to bend over.

For extra security, opt for a cot that is compliant with the stringent UK safety standards and will easily transform into an infant bed when the time is right. This information can be found in the description of the product and the specifications.

Safety

When choosing a cot an environment that is safe for sleeping is a must. The mattress should fit snugly and there shouldn't be gaps between the mattress and the edges or sides of the cot/cot-bed (large gaps can hold the child's arms and head). Verify that the mattress is firm and thin - thicker mattresses aren't recommended because they can increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies offer a range of mattresses, from simple foam to natural materials for allergy sufferers. Some even come with anti-microbial treatment. If your crib has a drop side, ensure that it is in the up position and locked securely.

Drop sides should only be permitted down only when an adult is in the room. This prevents accidental releases. Do not place your cot against a wall if it has a solid end. This can limit airflow, which could cause death in the coffin. Recent research suggests that slatted ends could be safer as they allow more airflow.

If your cot is fixed on one side, choose it. It will be the most secure choice for your baby as they start to crawl and pull themselves upward. When your child is climbing with confidence and standing, it's the time to upgrade to a junior bed.

Some cots are equipped with an option that allows the base to be raised to three different levels. This is a fantastic security measure that allows your child's cot to grow with their needs. Some cots have footplates that can be adjusted to suit for toddlers who love to stand up.

When you put your child in their cot, make sure that there isn't any visible danger. It should be away from heaters and windows, power points and curtains and blind cords (these pose a strangulation risk). If you're purchasing furniture that is second-hand or an heirloom Be sure to check for potential dangers to your child's health such as stickers and transfers that can peel off and present a risk.

If you're not sure about how to use your cot, consult other parents for advice or take part in a local NCT New Baby class. If your cot comes with a manual, make sure you go through it prior to using it tots and cots follow the directions.

Style

With its stunning sleigh design This stunning crib will look stunning in your nursery. Our panel loved the mix of natural and white pine, and its clever features, such as under-bed storage drawers that can hold all the baby necessities like bedding, nappies and an enviable variety of baby outfits. It's also simple to put together with clear instructions and separate packs of screws for each section. It can also be converted into a toddler's desk and bed as your child gets older (see the product description for more information).

One of our favourite features are the teething rails which protect your little one from bumping their head against the side of the cot or any protruding parts of the cot, such as the handle or corner post. They can also stop them from chewing on the wood, which prevents them from getting in danger of being suffocated. The cot also has an opening that can be dropped to make it easier for access to your newborn. We appreciate that it is able to be converted to a toddler bed, and it is sturdy enough to last for up to four years. It also met strict UK safety standards. These are listed in the main specifications below each product.

Cot beds are typically larger than cribs and can be transformed into toddler beds when your child is ready and you can avoid purchasing a new bed at an age when they're ready to move on. They are more expensive than a crib.

If your nursery is very small, a crib could be the best choice for you since it is smaller and takes up less space, but should your baby be expected to spend most of the time in their parents' bedroom or you're looking for a more durable bed, you should consider a crib.

A cot isn't suitable for babies to sleep in if it does not meet the strict UK safety standards outlined in BS EN 716 and BS 8509, which covers mattress thicknesses, materials and other key elements of baby cot beds for sale (https://tupalo.Com/en/users/7584983) mattresses. The slats should not be too far apart to stop your baby from falling off.

Stores

The amount of baby stuff you'll need is overwhelming whether you're a new parent or an experienced one. This is why it's essential to think about storage options when choosing a cot bed. Some cots have additional storage options, like drawers beneath the bed or a coordinating top changer (available separately). Some cots can be converted into toddler beds or a smaller single bed to increase their usage.

Some cot beds can be further transformed into a daybed like this one on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is a great option for those who like a more flexible design. The conversion is easy and only requires the removal of a single side panel. This lets parents reduce the expense of a separate bed.

Some cot beds come with hanging rails that can be used to hang muslins, Dummies and other small objects. This makes it easier to keep everything organized tidy and neat and looks great. These items are easily accessible to parents which makes it easier for parents to feed their child.

A teething rail is another desired feature that is found in some cots. This can keep your baby from chewing on the wood, which could cause irritation. Some cots are designed with more traditional designs and have a huge under-bed storage drawer that is ideal for storing toys, blankets, clothes and other baby necessities.

This is a great option if space is an issue but you'll need to purchase a drawer separately. You may have to purchase an additional mattress and bedding, as oval sheets and mattresses do not come with the cot.

This sleigh-style cot bed is stunning example of Scandi style at its finest. It features a huge under-bed storage space that is perfect to keep all baby necessities out-of-sight but within easy access. Our panel of experts found it easy to put together, due to the alphabetically-labelled parts and clear instructions. It's suitable for infants from birth and can be made into a toddler bed once your child is ready, which means it's also a good value.