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 provide safety and security for your baby. Choose a cot that has fixed sides, instead of drop-sides. This will comply with UK safety standards.

Our top choice is this simple but elegant coffin from John Lewis' Anyday range. It comes with three mattress height positions, teething rails as well as a storage drawer. It is also simple to put together and comes with clear instructions.

Comfort

The best cots cot mattress keeps babies comfortable and cozy. Choose a breathable soft, soft fabric. Make sure the mattress is fitted snugly to eliminate any gaps that could pose the danger of suffocation. There are many mattresses available that include coil springs, foam and other natural materials suitable for allergy sufferers, so do your research before deciding on the one that is suitable for your baby's needs.

Whether you opt for a convertible or standard cot, the primary factor to comfort is a mattress of high-quality that provides proper support and promotes a healthy posture. The slats need to be firmly attached, and not sliding. The slats should also be securely fixed to the frame, so that your child doesn't get trapped in them while moving during sleep.

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

There are a myriad of styles to choose from, including traditional sleighs with ornate details and sleek, modern designs. Some are even painted with bold primary colours, which is ideal if you want your child to wake up feeling fresh and content!

Most cots come with an under-bed storage drawer teething rails to prevent your child from chewing 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 babies who aren't big or suffer from medical conditions that make it hard to bend over.

For extra security, opt for a cot that complies with the strict UK safety standards and will easily convert into an infant bed when the time is appropriate. Look for this information in the description or in the specifications.

Safety

When choosing a cot an environment that is safe for sleeping is a must. Make sure the mattress is snugly fitted, with no gaps between it and the cot/cot beds edges or sides (big gaps can trap your child's head or arms). Make sure the mattress is firm and thin. Mattresses that are too thick could increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies offer mattresses in a variety of materials, from foam to natural materials that are great for allergy sufferers. Some even come with an anti-microbial treatment. If your cot features drop-sides, make sure it is secured and in the up position.

Drop sides should only be permitted down only when an adult is in the room. This will prevent accidental release. Avoid placing your cot on walls if it has an end that is solid. This can hinder airflow and could cause death in the coffin. The latest research suggests that slatted ends could be safer because they permit more airflow.

If your cot is set on one side, choose it. It will be the most secure choice for your child when they begin to crawl and pull themselves up. When your child is confidently climbing and standing, it's the time to upgrade to a junior bed.

Some cots feature an option where the base can be raised to three different levels to allow it to expand with your child - this is very practical and a great safety measure. Some cots also have footplates that are adjustable, which is great for toddlers who want to sit up in their bed.

If you are putting your child in their cot, check that there isn't any visible danger - it must be kept away from heaters, windows, power points and blind cords and curtains (these pose a strangulation risk). If you're purchasing furniture from a secondhand store or an heirloom piece be sure to look for any choking hazards like stickers and transfer tapes that could peel off and present danger.

If you're unsure about how to use your cot in a safe manner consult other parents or attend the local NCT New Baby course for support and advice. If your cot comes with an instruction manual, read it carefully before using it, and be sure to follow the safety-use guidelines carefully.

Style

This stunning cot bed with its sleigh design will look fantastic in your nursery. The panel was impressed with the mix of natural wood and white, as well as the clever features such as under-bed storage drawers that can hold everything essential for babies, including bedding, nappy and an impressive array of baby clothes. It's also a breeze to put together, with concise instructions and separate sets of screws for each section. It could also be transformed into a toddler's desk and bed as your child gets older (see the product description for more information).

The rails for teething are one of our favorite features. They prevent your baby from hitting their head on the crib's side or any protruding part of the crib, such as the corner post or handle. They also stop them from chewing on the wood, and prevent them from getting suffocated. There's also an opening that can be dropped to make it easier for access to your Baby Crib. We love that it can be converted to an infant bed, and that it's built to last for four years. It also met the strict UK safety standards. These are listed in the key specs below each product.

Cot beds can be turned into toddler beds if your child is old enough. This allows you to avoid purchasing an entirely new bed as your child gets ready to go up. They are more expensive than good cribs.

If your nursery is small, you may want to consider a crib. It is smaller and takes less space. However should you be planning to spend a significant portion of your baby's time in your bedroom, or if you need a bed that lasts longer, you should opt for a crib.

A crib 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 covers mattresses' thicknesses, materials, and other important elements of Baby Crib Cot; Posteezy.Com, mattresses. The slats must not be too wide apart to stop your child from falling out.

Storage

The amount of baby gear you'll need is a mess whether you're a new parent or an experienced one. It's crucial to think about storage when choosing a cot-bed. Many cots come with additional storage options such as drawers in the under-bed or a top changer (available separately). Certain cots can be transformed into a toddler bed or small single bed to extend their use.

Some cots can be transformed into day beds, as seen here on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is an excellent option for those who like an edgier design. The conversion is simple and only requires the removal of one side panel. This allows parents to save on the cost of the purchase of a separate bed.

Some cot beds have hanging rails that can be used to hang muslins and Dummies, as well as other small things. This allows you to keep everything organised tidy, neat and tidy and looks amazing. Having easy access to these items will make it easier for parents when feeding their infant.

Another thing to look for is a teething rail that is available with cots. This will help keep your baby from chewing on the wood which can cause irritation. Some cots feature an older style and come with a large storage drawer underneath the bed, which is perfect for toys, clothes, blankets and other baby necessities.

While this is a great idea for when you're short on space, you should remember that you will require a separate extra for the drawer. You may have to purchase an additional mattress and bedding because oval sheets and mattresses don't come with the cot.

This sleigh-style cot bed an exquisite example of Scandi style at its finest. It features a huge under-bed storage space that is perfect for keeping all baby essentials out-of-sight but within easy access. Our panel of experts found it straightforward to put together, thanks to alphabetically labelled parts and clear instructions. It's suitable for babies as young as birth and can be made into a toddler's bed once your child's ready.