How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby

If you are expecting a baby, it is important to choose a cot that can provide security and safety for your baby. Find a cot which has fixed sides, rather than drop-sides. This will comply with 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 storage drawer. It is also easy to put together, and comes with clear instructions.

Comfort

The best cot beds will keep baby's warm and comfortable. Choose a soft, breathable fabric and make sure the mattress is fitted snugly to prevent any gaps which could pose the risk of suffocation. There are many mattresses on the market - foam, coil springs and other natural materials suitable for allergy sufferers. So do your research and select the right one for your baby cots online's needs.

No matter if you choose a standard cot or a convertible cot one, a comfortable mattress is crucial to ensure your comfort. It must provide the right support and promote an upright posture. The same is true for the slats, which should be secured and not sagging or bent. The slats must also be securely attached to the frame, so that your child doesn't get caught in them when moving in their sleep.

If you're unsure of the mattress to buy, consult your family members or friends or look up online reviews for suggestions. Choose a mattress that is breathable, as they'll help regulate temperature and are less likely to harbor bacteria.

In terms of style there's a broad selection from classic sleigh styles with ornate details to sleek, contemporary designs. Some are even painted with bright primary colors, which is ideal if you want your little one to wake up feeling bright and content!

Most cots come with an under-bed storage drawer, teething rails that prevent your child from chewing on the sides of the cot, and adjustable height bases to accommodate baby's growth. You can even buy a drop side for smaller babies or those with medical conditions that make it difficult to bend over.

For added peace of mind, search for a cot that complies with the strict UK safety standards and will easily convert into an infant bed when the time is appropriate. Find this information in the product description or in the specifications.

Safety

When choosing a cot, an environment that is safe for sleeping should be the top priority. Make sure that the mattress is snug and has no gaps between it and the cot's bed sides or ends (big gaps could keep your child's head from being caught in the arms). Verify that the mattress is firm and thin - thicker mattresses aren't recommended as they may increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies offer a range of mattresses, from simple foam to natural materials for allergy sufferers. Some even contain anti-microbial treatments. If your cot features a drop-side, make sure it is secured and in the upward position.

Drop sides should only be permitted to fall when an adult is present in the room. This can prevent accidental release. Avoid placing your cot sale against the wall if it is an end that is solid. This can restrict airflow, which can result in death of the coffin. The latest research suggests that slatted edges could be safer because they permit more airflow.

If your cot is fixed to one side, you should choose it. It will be the safest option for your baby as they start to crawl and pull themselves up. When your child is standing and climbing, this is a sign that they're ready to move into a junior bed.

Some cots feature an option where the base can be raised to three different levels to allow it to expand with your child - this is very useful and is a security measure. Some cots also have footplates that are adjustable, which is great for toddlers who want to sit up in their beds.

When putting your child's cot in the crib, make sure there aren't any obvious dangers. It should be put away from heaters and power points. Also make sure it is away from windows, curtains and blind cords. These can all pose a strangulation risk. If you are buying second-hand furniture or heirlooms, make sure to look out for potential hazards to your child's safety such as labels and transfers. These can peel off and create a risk.

If you're unsure of how to safely use your cot, consult other parents for help or go to an local NCT New Baby class. If your cot has a manual, read it carefully before using it, and be sure to follow the safety-use guidelines carefully.

Style

This gorgeous cot bed with its sleigh-style design will look fantastic in your nursery. Our panel members loved the mix of white and natural pine, and its innovative features, like drawers under the bed to store all the baby necessities like bedding, nappies and a dazzling variety of baby outfits. 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 toddler desk and bed as your child gets older (see product description for more information).

One of our most loved features is the teething rails that protect your baby from bumping their head on the cot's side or any protruding parts of the cot like a handle or a corner post. They can also stop them from chewing on the wood, preventing them from getting trapped. The cot also has a drop-side for easier access to your newborn. We are thrilled that it can be converted into a toddler bed, and that it's built to last up to four years. It also met strict UK safety standards. You can find these in the specifications below for each product.

Cot beds are usually larger than cribs beds and can be transformed into toddler beds when your child is ready, allowing you to avoid buying another bed until they're ready to move on. They may cost more than a crib.

If your nursery is small, you may think about a crib. It is smaller and requires less space. However should you be planning to spend a significant portion of your baby's time in your room, or if you need an item that lasts longer, you should consider a cot.

A cot isn't safe for babies to sleep in if it does not meet the strict UK safety standards set out in BS EN 716 and BS 8509, which covers mattresses' thicknesses, materials, and other essential elements of baby cot mattresses. The slats must not be too close together, to ensure that your child doesn't get tossed out.

Storage

The amount of baby gear you'll need is overwhelming whether you're a new parent or an experienced one. This is why it's crucial to consider storage options when choosing a crib bed. There are a variety of cots 4 tots that have additional storage options such as drawers in the under-bed or a coordinating top changer (available separately). Some cots can be converted into toddler beds or a smaller single bed to extend their use.

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

Some cot beds come with hanging rails that can be used to hang muslins and Dummies, as well as other small objects. This makes it easier to keep everything organised tidy and neat and looks great. The ease of access to these items makes it easier for parents when feeding their baby.

Another desirable feature to look out for is a teething rail that is available with some cots. This will help keep your baby from chewing on the wood which can cause irritation. Some cots feature a more traditional design and have a huge storage drawer underneath the bed that is ideal for toys, clothes, blankets and other baby necessities.

This is a great choice when space is a problem but you'll need to purchase a drawer on your own. You might need 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 illustration of Scandi style at its finest. It has a large under-bed storage area that is ideal to keep all baby necessities out-of-sight but within easy access. The alphabetically labeled pieces and clear instructions made it easy to put together for our panel. It's suitable for babies as young as birth and can be made into a toddler bed when your child is ready, meaning it's good value too.