How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby

If you are expecting your first child it is essential to select a cot for sale 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.

This minimalist, stylish cot is our top pick from the Anyday collection by John Lewis. It comes with three mattress positions, teething bars and an storage drawer. It's also easy to set up with clear instructions.

Comfort

The best infant cribs cot beds keep babies comfy and cosy. Find a comfortable, soft fabric. Make sure that the mattress fits snugly, to prevent any gaps that could cause the danger of suffocation. There are a variety of mattresses available including coil springs, foam and other natural materials suitable for allergy sufferers - so do your research and choose the right one for your baby's requirements.

Whatever you decide to use, whether a standard cot or a convertible the mattress is essential to the comfort. It should provide adequate support and promote a healthy posture. The slats should also be secured and not sagging. The slats should also be securely attached to the frame so that your child does not become caught in the movement during sleep.

If you're not sure what mattress to buy, consult friends and family or check online reviews for suggestions. Choose a mattress that is ventilated, as they'll aid in maintain temperature and are less likely to be a home for bacteria.

There are many styles to choose from, including traditional sleighs with ornate details and modern, sleek designs. Some are even painted in bright primary colors which is great when you want your little one to wake up feeling fresh and content!

There are a lot of cots that have an under-bed drawer for storage and teething rails to guard your baby from chewing on the sides of the cot, as well as adjustable height bases for baby growth. You can also purchase a drop-side for babies who are small or have health issues that make it difficult to bend over.

Choose a cot that meets the strict UK safety standard and is easily converted into a toddler's bed when it's time. Look for this information in the product description or in the specifications.

Safety

A safe sleeping environment is essential and a big factor when selecting a cot. The mattress should be snugly fitted and there should be no gaps between the mattress and the edges or sides of the cot/cot-bed (large gaps could trap the child's arms or head). Verify that the mattress is not too firm and thin. Mattresses that are thick could increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies sell mattresses in various materials, from foam to natural materials that are great for allergy sufferers. Some have anti-microbial treatment. If your crib has drop sides, make sure it is in the up position and secured.

A drop side should be allowed to go down when an adult is present, this prevents accidental releases. If your cot has a solid end be sure to avoid placing it against the wall since this will restrict airflow and could cause the death of a coffin. Recent research suggests that slatted edges could be safer because they allow more airflow.

If your cot is set to one side, you should choose it. It's the safest option for your child when they start to crawl and pull themselves up. Once your child is confidently standing and climbing, it is a sign that they are ready to transition into a junior bed.

Some cots feature features that allow the base can be raised to three different levels to allow it to expand with your child - this is very convenient and an added security measure. Some cots feature adjustable footplates that are ideal for toddlers who want to stand up.

When placing your child's cot be sure that there aren't any visible dangers. It should be kept away from heaters and power points. Also, keep it away from windows, curtains and blind cords. All of these could create strangulation risks. When purchasing second-hand furniture, or heirlooms, make sure to look out for dangers to your child's health such as stickers and transfers. They may peel off and cause danger.

If you are unsure about how to use your cot, ask other parents for advice or attend an local NCT New Baby class. If your crib comes with a manual ensure that you go through it prior to using it and follow the directions.

Style

With its stunning sleigh design This gorgeous cot bed will look amazing in your nursery. The panel was awed by the combination of natural and white wood and the innovative 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 simple to put together, with concise instructions and separate packs of screws for each section. It can also be converted into a bed for toddlers and a desk as your baby gets older (see the product's description for more details).

One of our most loved features are the teething rails, which shield your baby from smacking their head against the cot's side or any protruding part of the cot, such as the handle or corner post, and which will also stop them from chewing on the wood, preventing them from getting trapped. It also features an opening that can be removed to allow parents to reach their newborn. We are thrilled that the cot can be transformed into a toddler bed, and that it's strong enough to last for up to four years. It also meets the strict UK safety standards, which you'll find in the main specifications beneath each product.

Cot beds are usually larger than cribs and can be transformed into toddler beds once your child is ready, allowing you to avoid purchasing a bed at an age when they're ready to transition. They can be more expensive than cribs.

If your nursery is very small, a crib might be the best crib newborn option for you as it is smaller and occupies less space. However, if your child is likely to spend a lot of time in their parents' bedroom or you want a longer-lasting bed, consider a cot.

A crib isn't safe for babies to sleep in if it doesn't meet the strict UK safety standards outlined in BS EN 716 and BS 8509, which covers mattresses' thicknesses, materials, and other key elements of cot mattresses for baby. The slats shouldn't be too far apart, to ensure that your baby won't fall out.

Stores

No matter if you're a first-time parent or a veteran the amount of things a baby needs is staggering. It's crucial to think about storage when selecting a cot. Many cots come with additional storage solutions available such as drawers in the under-bed or a top changer (available separately). Certain cots to tots can be transformed into a toddler bed or small single bed to extend their use.

Some cot beds can be further converted into a daybed, as seen here on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is a great choice for those who prefer a less rigid design as the conversion process is simple and involves the removal of one side panel. This also allows parents to save money on a separate bed.

A number of cot beds feature hanging rails that can be used to store muslins dummies and other small items. This helps to keep everything organized tidy, neat and tidy and looks fantastic. These items are easily accessible to parents and make it easier for them to feed their baby.

A teething rail is an additional important feature that's included in some cots. This can help to keep your baby from chewing on the wood, which can cause irritation. Some cots have an older style and include a large storage drawer underneath the bed that is ideal for clothes, toys blankets, and other baby essentials.

While this is a great idea if you're in a tight space, you should be aware that you'll have to purchase an additional drawer. You may also need to purchase a different mattress and bedding as sheets and mattresses that are oval are not typically included with the cot itself.

This sleigh-style cot bed stunning illustration of Scandi style at its finest. It has a large under-bed storage space that is perfect to keep baby's essentials away from view but easily accessible. The alphabetically labeled components and clear instructions made it easy to assemble our panel. It's suitable for infants from birth and can be converted into a toddler bed once your child is ready, meaning it's a good investment too.