How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby

If you're expecting a child, it's important to choose a cot that will be safe and secure for your baby. Find a cot which has fixed sides instead of drop-sides. This will be in line with UK safety standards.

This slick and elegant cot is our top choice from the Anyday collection by John Lewis. It comes with three mattress positions, teething rails, and a storage drawer. It is also simple to put together, and comes with clear instructions.

Comfort

The best cot beds keep children warm and cozy. Choose a breathable soft and comfortable fabric. Make sure the mattress is fitted snugly to avoid any gaps that could cause a risk of the mattress becoming suffocated. There are many mattresses available on the market - foam, coil springs, natural materials for allergy sufferers. So do your research before deciding on the right one for your baby's needs.

It doesn't matter if you pick a conventional cot or a convertible cot, a good mattress is vital to your comfort. It should provide adequate support and encourage an ideal posture. The slats should also be firmly attached, and not sliding. The slats should also be securely fixed to the frame so that your little one doesn't get trapped in them while moving during sleep.

Ask your family and friends for recommendations or look at online reviews. Choose mattresses that are breathable, as they can help you regulate your body temperature and Best Cot Beds less likely to be a breeding ground for bacteria.

When it comes to fashion, there's a wide choice from classic sleigh styles with ornate details to sleek, contemporary designs. Some are painted in vibrant primary colors to make your child feel cheerful and happy when they awake.

Most cots come with a drawer for storage underneath teething rails to prevent your child from chewing on the sides of the cot, and adjustable height bases to accommodate your child's growth. You can even purchase a drop side for petite babies or those with health issues that make it difficult for them to bend over.

For added peace of mind, look for a cot that complies with the stringent UK safety standards and will easily transform into an infant bed when the time is appropriate. Look for this information in the product description or in the key specifications.

Safety

When selecting a cot, a safe sleeping environment should be the top priority. The mattress should be able to fit snugly and there shouldn't be gaps between the mattress and the sides or ends of the cot or cot-bed (large gaps can trap the child's arms or head). Make sure the mattress is not too firm and thin. Thick mattresses could increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies sell mattresses in a variety of materials including foam and natural materials that are good for allergy sufferers. Some even come with an anti-microbial treatment. If your cot has drop sides, make sure it is in the upward position and secured.

A drop side should be allowed to drop when an adult is present, this prevents accidental releases. Avoid placing your cot against a wall if it has an end that is solid. This could hinder airflow and could result in death of the coffin. The latest research suggests that slatted ends may be safer as they allow for more airflow.

If your cot is fixed on one side, then you can choose it. It's the safest option for your child when they begin to crawl and pull themselves upward. Once your child is standing and climbing, this is a sign that they're ready to transition into the junior bed.

Some cots come with an option that allows the base to be raised to three levels. This is a wonderful security measure that allows your child's cot to grow with their needs. Other cots come with adjustable footplates, which are ideal for toddlers wanting to sit up in their bed.

When placing your child's cot, make sure there aren't any visible dangers. It should be put away from heaters and power points. Also make sure it is away from windows, curtains and blind cords. They all could pose a strangulation risk. If you're purchasing furniture that is second-hand or an heirloom Be sure to check for potential hazards to choking such as stickers and transfers that can be removed and pose the risk of.

If you're unsure of how to use your cot in a safe manner, ask other parents or visit 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 safe-use instructions closely.

Style

This gorgeous cot bed with its sleigh style will look stunning in your nursery. The panel was impressed with the mix of white and natural wood as well as the clever features like drawers under the bed for everything needed by babies, such as bedding, nappies and a wide selection of baby clothes. It's also easy to construct with clear instructions and screws for each section. Additionally, it can be converted into a bed for toddlers and a desk when your baby grows older (see the product description for details).

The teething rails are one of our favorite features. They keep your child from hitting their head against the crib's side or any other protruding part of the crib, like the handle or corner post. They also stop them from chewing the wood, and prevent them from getting suffocated. The Mini Cot Bed also has an opening that can be dropped to make it easier for access to your newborn. We love that the cot can be transformed into a toddler bed and that it's sturdy enough to last for up to four years. It also met strict UK safety standards. These are listed in the key specs below each product.

Cot beds can be transformed into toddler beds if your child is old enough. This lets you avoid purchasing an entirely new bed as your child gets ready to make the leap. However, they may be pricier upfront than a crib that is standard.

If your nursery is small, a crib could be the best choice for you since it is smaller and takes up less space. However, if your baby is likely to spend most of the time in their parents' bedroom or you're looking for a more durable bed, 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 cover mattress thicknesses, materials, and other important elements of baby mattresses for cots), it is unsafe for babies to sleep. The slats should not be too wide apart to prevent your baby from falling out.

Stores

No matter if you're a first-time parent or a veteran the amount of items that a baby requires is overwhelming. This is why it's crucial to think about the storage options when you choose the right cot bed. Many cots come with additional storage options such as drawers in the under-bed or a coordinating top ranked cribs changer (available separately). Some can be transformed into a toddler or small single bed, increasing their usability for longer.

Some cot beds can be converted into a daybed like this one on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is a great option for those who prefer a less rigid design as the process of conversion is simple and requires just the removal of a side panel. This also allows parents to save money on a bed purchase.

Some cot beds are equipped with a hanging rail that can be used to hang muslins, Dummies and other small objects. This helps to keep everything organised tidy and neat and also looks amazing. Being able to access these items will make it easier for parents to feed their baby.

Another feature worth looking out for is a teething rail that comes with cots. This will stop your child from chewing on the wooden cot, which could cause irritation. Some cots offers are designed in more traditional designs and come with a large under-bed storage drawer which is perfect for storing blankets, toys clothes, and other baby necessities.

While this is a great idea if you're short on space, it's important to remember that you will require a separate extra 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 itself.

This sleigh-style cot is an exquisite illustration of Scandi style at its best. It has a large under-bed storage space that is perfect for keeping all baby essentials out of sight but still easily accessible. The alphabetically labeled pieces and clear instructions made it simple to put together for our panel. It's suitable for babies as young as birth and can be converted into a toddler bed once your child is ready, which means it's good value too.