How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby

If you are expecting your first child it is essential to select a cot which can provide security and safety for your baby. Look for a cot that has fixed sides rather than drop-sides. This will be in line with UK safety standards.

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

Comfort

The best cot bed keeps infants comfortable and warm. Look for a soft, airy fabric, and ensure that the mattress is snug to prevent any gaps which could pose an suffocation threat. There are a range of mattresses available on the market - foam, coil springs, natural materials for allergy sufferers - so do your research and choose the right one for your baby's requirements.

It doesn't matter if you pick a conventional cot or a convertible the mattress is essential to the comfort. It must provide the right support and promote an ideal posture. The same applies to the slats. They should be securely attached and not sagging or bent. The slats must also be firmly connected to the frame so that your child does not become caught in the movement during sleep.

If you're not sure what mattress to purchase, talk to friends and family or check online reviews for recommendations. Select mattresses that are breathable, since they help regulate your body temperature, and are less likely to harbor bacteria.

There are a myriad of styles to pick from such as traditional sleighs, with ornate details and modern, sleek designs. Some are even painted with bright primary colors which is perfect when you want your baby cot online (Shp.kurgan-Med.ru) to wake up feeling bright and content!

Most cots come with a drawer for storage underneath teething rails to prevent your child from chewing 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 aren't tall enough or have medical conditions that make it difficult to bend over.

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

Safety

When choosing a cot the safety of your child's sleep should be the top priority. The mattress should be able to fit snugly and there should be no gaps between the mattress and the sides or ends of the cot/cot-bed (large gaps could restrict the child's arms or head). Check that the mattress is firm and thin. Thick mattresses could increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies offer a range of mattresses, ranging from basic foam to natural substances for allergy sufferers. Some even contain anti-microbial treatments. If your mattress has an inclined side, make sure it is in the up position and locked securely.

A drop side should be allowed to go down only when an adult is present, this prevents accidental release. Avoid placing your cot against walls if it has a solid end. This can limit airflow, which could cause death in the coffin. The latest research suggests that slatted ends could be safer since they permit more airflow.

If your crib has a fixed edge, opt for this as it is the most secure option when your baby starts to crawl and pull themselves up. When your child is standing and climbing, this is a sign that they are ready to move into a junior bed.

Some cots feature a feature where the base can be raised to three different heights to allow it to expand with your child which is extremely convenient and an added safety measure. Some cots and tots also have footplates that can be adjusted, which are ideal for toddlers wanting to sit up in their beds.

If you are putting your child in their cot, make sure that there is no visible danger - it must be away from heat sources, windows, power points and curtains and blind cords (these pose a strangulation risk). When purchasing second-hand furniture, or heirlooms to look for any potential hazards to your child's safety such as labels and transfers. They may peel off and pose a danger.

If you are unsure about how to use your cot, ask other parents for help or attend an local NCT New Baby class. If your cot comes with a manual be sure to go through it prior to using it and adhere to the instructions.

Style

This stunning cot bed with its sleigh design will look fantastic in your nursery. Our panel loved the mix of natural and white pine, as well as its clever features, such as drawers under the bed to store all those baby essentials like bedding, nappies and a stunning array of baby outfits. It's also simple to put together, with concise instructions and separate sets of screws for each section. Additionally, it can be converted into a toddler bed and desk as your baby gets older (see the product description for details).

The teething rails are among our most loved features. They stop your child from hitting their head against the side of the crib or any other protruding part of the crib, such as the handle or corner post. They also stop them from chewing the wood, and prevent them from suffocating. It also features drop-sides to make it easier for you to get access to your baby. We appreciate that the cot could be converted into a toddler bed and that it's strong enough to last for four years. It also complies with the stringent UK safety standards, which can be found in the specifications that are listed under each product.

Cot beds are generally bigger than cribs and can be transformed into toddler beds when your child is ready, allowing you to avoid purchasing a bed when they're ready to transition. They may cost more than cribs.

If your nursery is small, a crib might be the best choice for you, as it's smaller and takes up less space. However, if your baby is likely to spend a lot of time in their parents' room or you're looking for a more durable bed, consider a cot.

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

Stores

The amount of baby gear you need is overwhelming, regardless of whether you're a new mom or a seasoned one. It's important to consider storage when selecting a cot. There are a variety of cots that have additional storage solutions available like drawers under the bed or a coordinating cot top changer (available separately). Some can be transformed into a toddler bed or a single bed, which can extend their usefulness for a longer period of time.

Some cot beds can be further converted into a daybed, as seen here on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is an ideal option for those who prefer a less rigid design as the conversion process is simple and requires just the removal of a side panel. It also lets parents save money on a separate bed.

A number of cot beds have a hanging rail which can be used to store muslins, Dummies, and other small items. This keeps everything neat, tidy and organised. It also looks fantastic. These items are easily accessible to parents which makes it easier for them to feed their baby.

A teething rail is a important feature that's included in some cots. This will prevent your child from chewing on the cot sales's wooden structure, which could cause irritation. Some cots are designed with more traditional designs and come with a large drawer under the bed that is ideal for storing toys, blankets clothing, and other baby essentials.

While this is a great option if you're short on space, you must remember that you will require a separate extra drawer. You may have to purchase bedding and a mattress separately because oval mattresses and sheets do not come with the cot.

This sleigh-style cot bed is a beautiful example of Scandi style at its best. It features a huge under-bed storage space that is perfect for keeping all baby essentials out of sight but still easily accessible. Our panel found it very straightforward to put together, thanks to alphabetically labelled parts and clear instructions. It's suitable for babies as young as birth and can be transformed into a toddler bed once your child is ready. This means it's a good investment too.