How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby

If you're expecting a baby it's crucial to select a cot sets that will be safe and secure for your child. Find a cot which has fixed sides, rather than drop-sides. This will comply with UK safety standards.

Our top pick is this simple yet stylish coffin from John Lewis' Anyday range. It has three mattress positions, teething bars, and an storage drawer. It's also easy to assemble with clear instructions.

Comfort

The best cot beds will keep baby's warm and comfortable. Look for a breathable soft and comfortable fabric. Make sure the mattress fits snugly, to prevent any gaps that could create the danger of the mattress becoming suffocated. There are a variety of mattresses available, including foam, coils springs, and even natural materials for allergy sufferers. Do your research to find the ideal mattress for your child.

It doesn't matter if you pick a standard cot or a convertible the mattress is vital to your the comfort. It must provide the right support and encourage an ideal posture. The slats need to be securely attached and not sliding. The slats must be secured to the frame so that your child doesn't get stuck in them while they move during sleep.

If you're not sure what mattress to purchase, talk to friends and family or check online reviews for suggestions. Choose a mattress that is air-conditioned, as they'll help regulate temperature and are less likely to harbour bacteria.

When it comes to style there's a broad selection of styles, from traditional sleigh designs with ornate details to sleek, contemporary designs. Some are even painted in bright primary colors which is perfect when you want your baby to wake up bright and cheerful!

The majority of cots have a drawer for storage underneath and teething rails that stop your child from chewing the sides of the cot and height bases that can be adjusted to accommodate your child's growth. You can also buy a drop-side for babies who aren't tall enough or have health issues that make it difficult to bend over.

To ensure your security, opt for a cot that complies with the stringent UK safety standards and will easily transform into an infant bed when the time is appropriate. This information is available in the description of the product and the key specifications.

Safety

When selecting a cot, a safe sleeping environment is a must. The mattress should be able to fit snugly and there shouldn't be gaps between the mattress and the ends or sides of the cot or cot-bed (large gaps could trap the child's arms or head). Verify that the mattress is solid and thin - more thick mattresses aren't recommended, because they can increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies offer a range of mattresses, ranging from basic foam to natural materials for allergy sufferers and some even have anti-microbial treatment. If your cot has drop-sides, make sure it is locked and in the up position.

Drop sides should only be permitted to fall when an adult is in the room. This can prevent accidental release. If your coffin has a solid edge be sure to avoid placing it against the wall as it can block airflow and may contribute to coffin death. According to the most recent research, slatted end cots may be safer because they allow for greater airflow.

If your cot is set to one side, you should choose it. It's the most secure option for your baby when they begin to crawl and pull themselves upward. When your child is confidently climbing and standing, it's the time to upgrade to a junior bed.

Some cots are equipped with a feature that allows the base to be raised to three different levels. This is a wonderful security feature that allows your child's cot to expand with them. Some cots also have footplates that can be adjusted, which are great for toddlers who want to sit up in their beds.

Whenever you place your child in their cot, check that there isn't any visible danger - it must be kept away from heaters, power points, windows and curtains and blind cords (these can be strangulation hazards). If you're purchasing second-hand or heirloom furniture Be sure to check for potential hazards to choking such as stickers and transfers that can peel off and present the risk of.

If you're unsure of about how to use your cot, consult other parents for help or go to a local NCT New Baby class. If your cot comes with a guide ensure that you go through it prior to using it and follow the directions.

Style

With its stunning sleigh design, this gorgeous crib will look stunning in your nursery. The panel was impressed by the mix of natural wood and white as well as the innovative features like under-bed storage drawers for everything essential for babies, including bedding, nappy and a wide selection of baby clothes. It's also simple to put together, with concise instructions and separate packs of screws for each section. It can also be transformed into a bed for toddlers and a desk when your baby grows older (see the product description for more details).

The rails for teething are among our top features. They stop your baby from hitting their head on the crib's side or any protruding portion of the crib, like the corner post or handle. They also stop them from chewing the wood and preventing them from suffocating. The cot also has a drop-side for easier access to your baby. We love that the cot can be transformed into a toddler bed, and that it's sturdy enough to last for four years. It also complies with strict UK safety standards. You can find these in the specifications below for each product.

Cot beds are typically larger than cribs and can be converted into toddler beds once your child is ready and you can avoid buying another bed when they're ready to move on. They can be more expensive than cribs.

If your nursery is very small, a crib could be the best option for you as it is smaller and takes up less space. However, if your child is likely to spend a lot of time in their parents' rooms or you'd like a more long-lasting bed, you should consider a cot.

A cot isn't suitable for babies to sleep in if it doesn't meet the strict UK safety standards outlined in BS EN 716 and BS 8509, which deals with the thickness of mattresses, the materials used and other key elements of Baby Cot (telegra.ph) mattresses. The slats should not be too close together, to ensure that your child doesn't get tossed out.

Stores

The amount of baby stuff you'll need is overwhelming regardless of whether you're a new mom or a seasoned one. This is why it's essential to think about storage options when selecting the cot bed. There are a variety of cots that have additional storage options, such as drawers in the under-bed or a coordinating Mini Cot Bed top changer (available separately). Some are even able to be converted into a toddler or small single bed, which can extend their usefulness for a longer period of time.

Some affordable cots are able to be converted into day beds, as shown here on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is a great choice for those who like a more flexible design. The conversion is easy and requires only the removal of one side panel. This will allow parents to save money on an additional bed.

Some cot beds are equipped with a hanging rail that can be used to hang muslins, dolls along with other small items. This helps keep everything neat, tidy and organised. It also looks beautiful. 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 prevent your child from chewing on the wooden cot, which could cause irritation. Some cots are designed with an older style and include a large under-bed storage drawer that is perfect for storing blankets, toys, clothes and other baby necessities.

While this is a great idea for when you're in a tight space, you must be aware that you'll require a separate extra for the drawer. You may also have to purchase a different mattress and bedding as sheets and mattresses that are oval aren't typically included in the cot.

This sleigh cot bed by Stokke is a stunning example of the Scandi-style at its finest and has a huge under-bed storage drawer that's perfect for keeping all those baby necessities out of sight but easily reachable. The alphabetically labeled components and clear instructions made it simple to assemble our panel. It's suitable for babies from birth and can be transformed into a toddler bed when your child is ready, meaning it's also a good cribs value.