How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby

If you are expecting a child, it is important to choose a cot that will ensure safety and security for your baby. Find a cot with fixed sides (rather than drop-sides) that are in line with strict UK safety standards.

This simple but stylish crib is our top choice from the Anyday range by John Lewis. It comes with three mattress positions, teething rails, and a storage drawers. It is also easy to put together and comes with clear instructions.

Comfort

The best cot beds keep baby's warm and comfortable. Look for a breathable soft, soft fabric. Make sure the mattress is snug to eliminate any gaps that could pose the danger of suffocation. There are a range of mattresses on the market including coil springs, foam and natural materials for allergy sufferers. So do your research and select the best crib one for your baby's needs.

No matter if you select a standard or convertible cheap cot beds, the most important thing to ensure comfort is a mattress of high-quality that provides proper support and encourages healthy posture. The slats should also be firmly attached, and not sagging. The slats must be secured to the frame, so that your child isn't caught in them when moving in their sleep.

If you're not sure which mattress to buy, ask your family members or friends or look up online reviews for recommendations. Choose a mattress that is breathable, as they'll help maintain temperature and are less likely to harbor bacteria.

In terms of style, there's a wide choice of styles, from traditional sleigh designs with elaborate details to sleek, contemporary designs. Some are even painted with bold primary colours which is perfect if you want your baby to wake up feeling bright and content!

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 the growth of your baby. You can also purchase an extra drop-side for babies that are small or have health issues that make it difficult to bend over.

Look for a cot which meets the strict UK safety standard and is able to be easily converted into a toddler's bed when it is time. This information is found in the product description and the key specifications.

Safety

When choosing a cot, an environment that is safe for sleeping is a must. The mattress should be snugly fitted and there should be no gaps between the mattress and the sides or ends of the cot or cot-bed (large gaps can restrict the child's arms or head). Check that the mattress is firm and thin. Mattresses that are thick can increase the risk of SIDS. There are many companies that offer mattresses made of various materials, from foam to natural materials that are great for those suffering from allergies. Some even come with an anti-microbial treatment. If your cot has drop sides, make sure that it is in the up position and locked securely.

Drop sides should only be allowed down only when an adult is in the room. This prevents accidental releases. If your coffin has a solid edge do not place it against the wall since it will block airflow and may contribute to coffin death. According to the latest research, cots with slatted ends are safer since they allow for greater airflow.

If your cot is fixed to one side, you should choose it. It will be the most secure choice for your child when they start to crawl and then pull themselves upwards. When your child is confidently standing and climbing, it is a sign they're ready to transition into the junior bed.

Some cots have features that allow the base can be raised to three different levels in order to increase with your child's growth which is extremely useful and is a security measure. Some cots feature adjustable footplates that are perfect for toddlers who want to stand up.

When putting your child's cot in the crib, make sure there are no visible hazards. It should be kept away from power and heater points. Also make sure it is away from windows, curtains, and blind cords. These can all create strangulation risks. When buying second-hand furniture or heirlooms, be sure to look out for dangers to your child's health such as stickers and transfers. They can come off and pose a danger.

If you're not sure how to safely use your cot, ask other parents for help or go to a local NCT New Baby class. If your cot comes with an instruction manual, read it carefully before you start using it, and be sure to follow the safety-use guidelines carefully.

Style

With its stunning sleigh design This gorgeous cot bed will look great in your nursery. The panel was impressed by the mix of natural wood and white as well as the clever features like under-bed storage drawers for everything needed by babies, such as bedding, nappies and a wide selection of Baby Cot Bed clothes. It is also easy to build, with clear instructions and separate screws for each section. It can also be transformed into a toddler desk or bed when your child gets older (see product description for more information).

One of our favorite features is the teething rails that protect your little one from smacking their head against the cot's side or any protruding part of the cot like the handle or corner post. They will also stop them from chewing on the wood, preventing them from being in danger of being suffocated. The cot also has an opening that can be dropped to make it easier for access to your baby. We love that it can be converted to an infant bed, and it's sturdy enough to last for four years. It also complies with the stringent UK safety standards, which you'll find in the key specs beneath each product.

Cot beds can be turned into toddler beds in the event that your child is old enough. This lets you avoid purchasing a new crib when your child is ready to go up. However, they are more expensive upfront than the standard crib.

If your nursery is small, Top ranked cribs you may be considering the possibility of a crib. It is smaller and requires less space. However it is recommended cribs to consider a cot if you are planning on spending a lot of your baby's time in the room or you need a bed that lasts longer, you should choose a crib.

If a cot does not meet the UK safety standards as defined by BS EN 716 or BS 8509 (which refers to mattress thicknesses, materials and other essential elements of baby cot mattresses), it is unsafe for babies to sleep. The slats shouldn't be too close together to ensure that your child doesn't get tossed out.

Storage

Whether you're a first-time parent or a seasoned one the amount of items a baby needs is staggering. This is the reason it's important to think about storage options when selecting the cot bed. Many cots come with additional storage options, such as under-bed drawers or a coordinating top changer (available separately). Some cots can be converted into a toddler bed or small single bed to increase their usage.

Some cots can be transformed into day beds, like the one shown here on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is an excellent option for those who prefer the flexibility of a design. The conversion is simple and only requires the removal of a single side panel. This lets parents reduce the expense of a separate bed.

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 looks fantastic. 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 comes with some cots. This can stop your child from chewing on the wood that can cause irritation. Some cots are designed with more traditional designs and come with a large under-bed storage drawer that is ideal for storing toys, blankets clothes, and other baby essentials.

While this is a great idea if you're in a tight space, it's important to remember that you will have to purchase an extra drawer. You may also need to purchase a different mattress and bedding since sheets and mattresses that are oval aren't typically included in the cot.

This sleigh-style cot bed is a beautiful illustration of Scandi style at its finest. It features a huge under-bed storage compartment that's ideal for keeping all baby essentials out of sight but still easily accessible. 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 made into a toddler's crib when your child is ready.