How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby
If you are expecting a child it is crucial to choose a cot that will ensure safety and security for your baby. Find a cot with fixed sides (rather than drop-sides) that are in line with strict UK safety standards.
This slick and stylish cot is our top choice from the Anyday collection by John Lewis. It comes with three mattress positions, teething bars, and storage drawers. It's also simple to put together with clear instructions.
Comfort
The best cot beds keep baby's warm and comfortable. Choose a breathable soft, soft fabric. Make sure that the mattress is fitted snugly to eliminate any gaps that could create a risk of suffocation. There are many mattresses on the market including coil springs, foam, natural materials for allergy sufferers, so do your research and choose the one that is suitable for your baby's requirements.
Whatever you decide to use, whether a standard cot or a convertible cot the mattress is vital to your comfort. please click the following page must provide the right support and promote an ideal posture. The same is true for the slats. They should be securely attached and not bent or sagging. The slats should also be firmly connected to the frame to ensure that your child will not be caught when they move during sleep.
Ask your family and friends for recommendations or look at online reviews. Make sure you choose a mattress that's breathable, as they'll help regulate temperature and are less likely to harbor bacteria.
In terms of style there's a broad selection, from traditional sleigh styles with ornate details to sleek, contemporary designs. Some are painted in vibrant primary colors to make your child feel cheerful and cheerful when they wake up.
Most cots come with a drawer for storage underneath, teething rails that prevent your child from chewing the sides of the cot and height bases that are adjustable to accommodate the growth of your baby. You can also buy a drop-side for infants who aren't big or have health issues that make it difficult to bend over.
For extra security, opt for a cot that complies with the stringent UK safety standards and can easily convert into an infant bed when the time is right. This information is available in the product description as well as key specifications.
Safety
When choosing a cot the safety of your child's sleep should be the top priority. The mattress should fit snugly and there should be no gaps between the mattress and the edges or sides of the cot/cot-bed (large gaps could hold the child's arms and head). Check that the mattress is not too firm and thin. Mattresses that are thick could increase the risk of SIDS. There are many companies that offer a variety of mattresses, ranging from basic foam to natural materials suitable for allergy sufferers. Some have anti-microbial treatment. If your cot features drop-sides, ensure that it is secured and in the upward position.
Drop sides should only be allowed to go down only when an adult is in the room. This prevents accidental release. If your coffin has a solid bottom be sure to avoid placing it against the wall because this will restrict airflow and could cause death in the coffin. The latest research suggests that slatted ends could be safer since they allow for more airflow.
If your crib has a fixed edge you should choose this because it is the most secure option when your child begins to crawl and then pull themselves up. If your child is confidently climbing and standing, it's the time to move to a junior bed.
mini cotbed feature a feature where the base can be raised to three different heights to allow it to expand with your child This is extremely convenient and an added security measure. Some cots have footplates that can be adjusted, which are great for toddlers who want to stand up in their bed.
When you put your child in their cot, check that there isn't any visible danger - it must be kept away from heaters and windows, power points and curtains and blind cords (these pose a strangulation risk). If you're buying furniture from a secondhand store or an heirloom piece be sure to look for any choking hazards like stickers and transfers that may peel off and present danger.
If you're unsure of how to use your cot safely, ask other parents or attend an local NCT New Baby course for assistance and guidance. If your cot has an instruction manual, read it carefully before you begin using it, and follow the safe-use instructions closely.
Style
This gorgeous cot bed with its sleigh style will look fantastic in your nursery. The panel was impressed with the combination of natural wood and white, as well as the clever features such as drawers under the bed for all baby essentials, like bedding, nappies and a huge selection of baby clothes. It's also simple to put together, with clear instructions and separate screws for each section. It can also be converted into a toddler bed or desk when your child gets older (see the product description for more details).
The teething rails are one of our favorite features. They prevent your child from hitting their head on the side of the crib or any protruding portion of the crib, like the handle or corner post. They also prevent them from chewing the wood, and prevent them from getting suffocated. There's also a drop-side to allow easier access to your baby. We appreciate that the cot could be transformed into a toddler bed, and that it's built to last for four years. It also met the strict UK safety standards, which can be found in the key specs beneath each product.
Cot beds are typically larger than cribs and can be converted into toddler beds when your child is ready, allowing you to avoid purchasing a bed until they're ready to transition. However, they can be more expensive than a crib that is standard.
If your nursery is very small, a crib might be the best choice 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' rooms or you want a longer-lasting bed, opt for a crib.
A cot isn't safe for babies to sleep in if it does not meet the strict UK safety standards as outlined in BS EN 716 and BS 8509, which covers mattresses' thicknesses, materials, and other important elements of cot mattresses for babies. The slats must not be too close together, to ensure your baby doesn't get tossed out.
Storage
The amount of baby equipment you'll need is a mess regardless of whether you're a first-time parent or an experienced one. This is the reason it's important to consider storage options when choosing the right cot bed. Some cots come with additional storage options, including drawers underneath the bed or a coordinating top changer (available separately). Some can be transformed into a toddler or small single bed, which can extend their use for a longer time.
Some cots can be transformed into day beds, as shown here on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is a great option for those who prefer the flexibility of a design. The conversion is simple and requires only the removal of ONE side panel. This allows parents to save on the cost of a separate bed.

A number of cot beds come with a hanging rail which can be used to store muslins Dummies, and other small items. This allows you to keep everything organized tidy and neat and also looks amazing. These items are easily accessible to parents and make it easier for parents to feed their child.
Another desirable feature to look for is a toothing rail that is available with some cots. This can stop your child from chewing on the wood that could cause irritation. Some cots are designed in more traditional designs and include a large drawer under the bed that is perfect for storing blankets, toys clothing, and other baby necessities.
This is a great solution if space is an issue but you'll need to purchase a drawer on your own. You might need to purchase a separate mattress and bedding, as oval sheets and mattresses don't come with the cot.
Baby Cot Bed -style cot bed is stunning example of Scandi style at its best. It features a huge under-bed storage compartment that's ideal to keep all baby necessities out-of-sight but within easy access. The alphabetically labeled pieces and clear instructions made it easy to assemble our panel. It is suitable for babies from birth and can be made into a toddler's bed once your child's ready.