How to Choose the best cots Cot Beds for Your Baby

If you are expecting a child 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 meet UK safety standards.

This simple but elegant crib is our top pick from the Anyday collection by John Lewis. It comes with three mattress positions, teething rails and storage drawers. It's also simple to put together with clear instructions.

Comfort

The best cot beds cot beds keep children warm and cozy. Look for a breathable, soft fabric. Make sure that the mattress is snug to eliminate any gaps that could cause a risk of being suffocated. There are many mattresses on the market - foam, coil springs and natural materials for allergy sufferers, so do your research and choose the one that is suitable for your baby's requirements.

If you choose a convertible or standard cot, the primary factor to comfort is a good-quality mattress that is supportive and encourages healthy posture. The same is true for the slats, which must be firmly attached and not bent or sagging. The slats should also be securely attached to the frame so that your child isn't stuck in them while they move in their sleep.

If you're not sure what mattress to purchase, talk to friends and family or check online cots reviews for suggestions. Look for ones that are breathable, as they'll help to regulate temperature and are less likely to harbour bacteria.

When it comes to style, there's a wide choice from classic sleigh styles with ornate detailing to sleek, modern designs. Some are painted in bright primary colours to make your child feel joyful and cheerful as they awake.

Most cots come with a drawer underneath for storage, teething rails to protect your child from chewing on the sides of the cot and adjustable height bases to accommodate baby's growth. You can also purchase an extra drop-side for babies that are small or have health issues that make it difficult to bend over.

Choose a cot that is compliant with the strict UK safety standards and can easily be transformed into a toddler's bed when it's time. Look for this information in the product description or in the key specifications.

Safety

When choosing a cot an environment that is safe for sleeping is a must. Make sure the mattress is snug and has no gaps between it and the cot's bed's sides or ends (big gaps could restrict your child's head or arms). Check that the mattress is firm and thin. Mattresses that are thick can increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies offer a choice of mattresses, ranging from basic foam to natural materials suitable for allergy sufferers. Some come with anti-microbial treatment. If your cot has drop sides, make sure it is in the upward position and locked securely.

Drop sides should only be allowed down only when an adult is present in the room. This prevents accidental releases. If your coffin has a solid edge do not place it against the wall since this will restrict airflow and can cause the death of a coffin. Recent research suggests that slatted ends could be safer since they allow more airflow.

If your cot is fixed on one side, choose it. It's the most secure option for your baby as they begin to crawl and pull themselves upward. Once your child is standing and climbing, this is a sign that they are ready to transition into the junior bed.

Some cots come with an option that allows the base to be raised to three different levels. This is a great security feature that allows your child's cot to expand with them. Some cots have footplates that can be adjusted, which are ideal for toddlers wanting to stand up in their bed.

When you place your child's cot, make sure there aren't any visible dangers. It should be kept away from power and heater points. Also be sure to keep it away from windows, curtains, and blind cords. All of these could present a strangulation threat. If you are buying second-hand furniture or heirlooms, be sure to check for dangers to your child's health such as stickers and transfers. These can peel off and create a risk.

If you're unsure of how to use your cot in a safe manner you can ask other parents or visit a local NCT New Baby course for assistance and guidance. If your cot comes with a manual ensure that you read it before using it and adhere to the instructions.

Style

With its gorgeous sleigh style This stunning cot bed will look amazing in your nursery. The panel was awed by the combination of white and natural wood as well as the innovative features like under-bed storage drawers that can hold everything essential for babies, including bedding, nappy and a wide selection of Baby Crib clothes. It's also easy to assemble with clear instructions and separate sets of screws for each section. It can also be converted into a toddler bed and desk when your child gets older (see the product description for more details).

One of our favorite features are the teething rails which protect your little one from bumping their head against the cot's side or any protruding part of the cot like handles or a corner post, and which also help stop them chewing on the wood, preventing them from getting trapped. It also has an opening that can be dropped to make it easier for access to your newborn. We are thrilled that it can be converted to a toddler bed, and that it's sturdy enough to last for up to four years. It also met the strict UK safety standards. These are listed in the specifications below for each product.

Cot beds are usually larger than cribs and can be converted into toddler beds when your child is ready and you can avoid purchasing a bed when they're ready to transition. They may cost more than cribs.

If your nursery isn't big enough, you might think about a crib. It is smaller and requires less space. However should you be planning on spending a lot of your baby's time in the room or if you require an item that lasts longer, you should consider a crib.

If the cot you are using does not meet the UK safety standards set by BS EN 716 or BS 8509 (which refers to mattress thicknesses, materials, and other important elements of baby mattress cots) it is not safe for babies to sleep. The slats shouldn't be too wide apart to prevent your baby from falling out.

Storage

If you're a new parent or a veteran, the amount of stuff that a baby requires is overwhelming. This is why it's essential to consider storage options when choosing the right cot bed. A number of cots have additional storage options such as under-bed drawers or a coordinating cot top changer (available separately). Some are even able to be converted into a toddler bed or a single bed, which can extend their use for a longer time.

Some cot beds can be adapted into a day bed, as seen 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 allows parents to save money on a separate bed.

A variety of cot beds have hanging rails that can be used to store muslins, dummies and other small items. This helps keep everything tidy, neat and organized. It also looks great. Having easy access to these items makes it easier for parents when feeding their baby.

Another thing to look for is a toothing rail which is included with cots. This will stop your child from chewing on the cot's wooden structure, which can cause irritation. Some cots are designed in a more traditional style and have a huge drawer under the bed that is perfect for storing toys, blankets clothing, and other baby essentials.

While this is a great idea if you're running out of space, you should keep in mind that you'll have to purchase an extra for the drawer. You may also need to purchase a different mattress and bedding as oval mattresses and sheets aren't usually included in the cot itself.

This sleigh cot bed from Stokke is a lovely example of Scandi-style in 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. Our panel was able to find it straightforward to put together, thanks to the alphabetically labeled parts and clear instructions. It's suitable for infants from birth and can be transformed into a toddler bed when your child is ready, meaning it's a good investment too.