How to Choose the best cots Cot Beds for Your Baby

If you're expecting a child it's crucial to select the right sale cot that is secure and safe for your little one. Choose a cot that has fixed sides, instead of drop-sides. This will be in line with UK safety standards.

Our top rated cots pick is this basic but elegant cot from John Lewis' Anyday range. It has three mattress positions, teething bars, and an storage drawer. It's also easy to set up with clear instructions.

Comfort

The best cot beds keep babies comfy and cosy. Look for a soft, comfortable fabric. Also, make sure that the mattress is fitted snugly to avoid any gaps, which could cause a suffocation risk. There are a variety of mattresses available - foam, coil springs and other natural materials suitable for allergy sufferers, so do your research and choose the right one for your baby's needs.

No matter if you select an ordinary or convertible cot, the primary factor to comfort is a mattress of high-quality that provides proper support and encourages healthy posture. The same applies to the slats, which should be securely attached and not sagging or bent. The slats should also be securely fixed to the frame, to ensure that your child does not get caught when they move during sleep.

If you're unsure of the 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 less likely to hold bacteria.

There are many styles to choose from such as traditional sleighs, with intricate details and sleek, modern designs. Some are even painted in bold primary colours which is perfect if you want your child to wake up feeling bright and content!

You'll find most cots have drawers underneath to store items, teething rails to protect 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 petite infants or those with health issues that make it difficult to bend over.

To ensure your security, opt for a cot that complies with the strict UK safety standards and can easily transform into a toddler bed when the time is appropriate. Look for this information in the description or in the key specifications.

Safety

A secure sleeping space is a must and a major factor when selecting a crib. The mattress should fit snugly and there should be no gaps between the mattress and the ends or sides of the cot or cot-bed (large gaps could trap the child's arms or head). Make sure it's firm and thin. Thicker mattresses aren't recommended as they may increase the risk of SIDS. There are many companies that offer mattresses made of a variety of materials from foam to natural materials that are great for allergy sufferers. Some even come with an anti-microbial treatment. If your mattress has an inclined side, make sure that it is in the up position and locked securely.

A drop side should be allowed to fall when an adult is present, this will prevent accidental release. If your coffin has a solid bottom do not place it against the wall since it will block airflow and could cause coffin death. Recent research suggests that slatted ends may be safer because they allow for more airflow.

If your crib has a fixed side you should choose this because it will be safest when your child begins to crawl and pull themselves up. Once your child is confidently standing and climbing, it is a sign they're ready to transition into a junior bed.

Some cots have an option where the base can be raised to three different levels in order to expand with your child - this is very convenient and an added security measure. Some cots come with footplates that can be adjusted to suit for toddlers who like to stand up.

When placing your child's cot be sure that there aren't any obvious dangers. It should be kept away from any heaters or power points. Also, keep it away from windows, curtains and blind cords. They all could pose a strangulation risk. If you're buying furniture from a secondhand store or an heirloom piece, check for hazards to choking such as stickers and transfer tapes that could peel off and present danger.

If you are unsure how to safely use your cot, consult other parents for help or take part in a local NCT New Baby class. If your cot comes with a guide, make sure you read it before using it and follow the instructions.

Style

With its stunning sleigh design This gorgeous Cot Bed (astrup-bredahl.mdwrite.Net) will look great in your nursery. Our panel was impressed by the mix of white and natural pine, as well as its innovative features, like under-bed storage drawers to keep all the baby necessities like bedding, nappies and a dazzling variety of baby outfits. It's also simple to put together with clear instructions and separate packs of screws for each section. What's more, it can be transformed into a toddler bed or desk as your baby gets older (see the product description for details).

The rails for teething are among our top features. They prevent your child from hitting their head against the crib's side or any protruding portion of the crib, such as the corner post or handle. They also prevent them from chewing on the wood, and prevent them from being suffocated. It also has a drop-side to allow easier access to your infant cot bed. We appreciate that it is able to be converted to a toddler bed, and it is sturdy enough to last up to four years. It also complies with strict UK safety standards. These are listed 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 which means you don't have to worry about buying another bed until they're ready for the transition. They are more expensive than a crib.

If your nursery is small, a crib could be the best option for you, as it's smaller and takes up less space. However, should your baby be expected to spend most of the time in their parents' bedroom or you're looking for a more durable bed, 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 mattress thicknesses, materials and other key elements of cot mattresses for baby. The slats should not be too far apart to stop your baby from falling off.

Storage

No matter if you're a first-time parent or a seasoned one the amount of items that a baby requires is overwhelming. It's crucial to think about storage when you choose a cot. A number of cots have additional storage solutions available like drawers under the bed or a coordinating cot top changer (available separately). Some cots are able to be converted into toddler beds or a smaller single bed to extend their usage.

Some cot beds can be further adapted into a day bed, as seen here on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is a great option for those who prefer an unstructured design since the conversion process is easy and only requires the removal of a side panel. This will allow parents to save on the cost of an additional bed.

A variety of cot beds feature hanging rails that can be used to store muslins dolls and other small objects. This keeps everything tidy, neat and organized. It also looks beautiful. These items are easily accessible to parents, making it easier for them to feed their baby.

Another desirable feature to look for is a teething rail that comes with some cots. This can help to prevent your little one chewing on the wood that could cause them irritation. Some cots are designed with more traditional designs and have a huge drawer under the bed that is ideal for storing blankets, toys clothing, and other baby essentials.

This is a great solution for those who have limited space but you'll need to purchase a drawer separately. You may also have to buy a new mattress and bedding, as sheets and mattresses that are oval are not typically included with the cot.

This sleigh-style cot bed is stunning illustration of Scandi style at its best. It has a large under-bed storage compartment that's ideal to keep baby's essentials out-of-sight but within easy access. Our panel found it very easy to put together thanks to the alphabetically labeled parts and clear instructions. It's suitable for babies from birth and can be made into a toddler bed when your child is ready, meaning it's also a good value.