How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby

If you are expecting a baby it is crucial to select a cot which will ensure safety and security for your baby. Look for a cot with fixed sides (rather than drop-sides) that are in line with strict UK safety standards.

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

Comfort

The best cot beds keep baby's warm and comfortable. Find a comfortable soft and comfortable fabric. Make sure the mattress is fitted snugly to eliminate any gaps that could cause the danger of suffocation. There are many types of mattresses available - coils springs, foam and natural materials for allergy sufferers. Do your research to find the most suitable one for your child.

No matter if you choose a conventional cot or a convertible, a good mattress is essential to comfort. It must provide the right support and encourage an upright posture. The same applies to the slats, which should be secured and not bent or sagging. The slats should also be firmly connected to the frame to ensure that your child does not become caught in the movement during sleep.

If you're not sure what mattress to purchase, talk to your family members or friends or look up online reviews for suggestions. Choose breathable mattresses, as they help you regulate your body temperature, and are less likely to be a breeding ground for bacteria.

When it comes to fashion there's a broad selection, from traditional sleigh styles with elaborate details to sleek, contemporary designs. Some are even painted with bold primary colours which is perfect if you want your little one to wake up bright and content!

The majority of cots have a drawer for storage underneath and teething rails that stop your child from chewing on 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 infants who aren't big or have medical conditions that make it difficult to bend over.

For added security, opt for a cot that is compliant with the stringent UK safety standards and can easily convert into a toddler bed when the time is appropriate. This information can be found in the product description as well as the key specifications.

Safety

When choosing a cot the safety of your child's sleep should be a priority. Make sure the mattress is snug and has no gaps between it and the cot bed sales's bed's sides or ends (big gaps could trap your child's head or arms). Make sure the mattress is not too firm and thin. Thick mattresses could increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies sell mattresses in different materials from foam to natural materials that are good for those suffering from allergies. Some even come with an anti-microbial treatment. If your crib has drop sides, make sure that it is in the up position and secured.

A drop side should only be allowed to fall when an adult is present; this will prevent accidental release. If your cot has a solid end do not place it against the wall since it will block airflow and may contribute to death in the coffin. According to the most recent research, slatted end cots could be safer as they allow for greater airflow.

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

Some cots come with a feature that allows the base to be raised up to three different levels. This is a wonderful safety measure and enables your child's cot to grow with the child. Some cots come with adjustable footplates that are ideal for toddlers who want to stand up.

When you put your child in their cot, check that there is no obvious danger - it must be kept away from heaters and power points, windows and curtains and blind cords (these can be strangulation hazards). If you're buying second-hand or heirloom furniture Be sure to check for potential hazards to choking such as stickers and transfer tapes that could be removed and pose the risk of.

If you are unsure how to safely use your cot, ask other parents for help or attend an local NCT New Baby class. If your cot has an instruction manual, read it carefully before you start using it, and be sure to follow the safety guidelines closely.

Style

With its gorgeous sleigh style This stunning crib will look stunning in your nursery. The panel was impressed by the mix of natural and white wood as well as the innovative features like drawers under the bed for all baby essentials, like bedding, nappy and a wide selection of baby clothes. It's also simple to put together with clear instructions and separate sets of screws for each section. What's more, it can be transformed into a toddler bed or desk when your child gets 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 against the crib's side or any protruding portion of the crib, like the corner post or handle. They also prevent them from chewing on the wood and also preventing them from being suffocated. The cot also has a drop-side to allow easier access to your infant cot bed. We appreciate that it is able to be converted into a toddler bed, and it's built to last up to four years. It also met strict UK safety standards. You can find these in the main specifications below each product.

Cot beds are typically larger than cribs and can be converted into toddler beds when your child is ready and you can avoid buying another bed until they're ready to move on. However, they are more expensive than a crib that is standard.

If your nursery is small, you might want to consider the possibility of a crib. It is smaller and occupies less space. However it is recommended to consider a cot if you are planning to spend a lot of your baby's time in the room or you need a bed that lasts longer, you should opt for a crib.

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

Stores

Whether you're a first-time parent or a veteran, the amount of stuff a baby needs is staggering. This is why it's essential to think about storage options when choosing the crib 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 usefulness for a longer period of time.

Some cots can be converted into day beds, as seen here on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is a great choice for those who like an edgier design. The conversion is simple and only requires the removal of ONE side panel. It also lets parents save money on a bed purchase.

Some cot beds come with a hanging rail that can be used to hang muslins, Dummies and other small cot beds things. This helps to keep everything organized tidy, neat and tidy - and it also looks fantastic. These items are easily accessible to parents and make it easier for them to feed their baby.

Another thing to look for is a teething rail that is available with some cots. This will stop your child from chewing on the cot's wooden structure, which can cause irritation. Some cots have a more traditional design and have a huge storage drawer underneath the bed that is ideal for clothes, toys, blankets and other baby essentials.

This is a great option when space is a problem, but you will have to purchase a drawer separately. You may have to purchase a separate mattress and bedding since oval mattresses and sheets do not come with the cot.

This sleigh-style cot is a beautiful illustration of Scandi style at its best. It has a spacious under-bed storage space that is perfect to keep all baby necessities out-of-sight but within easy access. Our panel found it very easy to put together, thanks to alphabetically labelled parts and clear instructions. It is suitable for babies as young as birth and can be converted into a toddler's bed when your child is ready.