How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby

If you're expecting a child it's crucial to select a cot that will be safe and secure for your little one. Choose a cot that has fixed sides (rather than drop-sides) that meet strict UK safety standards.

This simple but elegant coffin is our top pick from the Anyday range of John Lewis. It comes with three mattress positions, teething rails and storage drawers. It's also easy to set up with clear instructions.

Comfort

The Best cot Bed cot beds keep children warm and cozy. Look for a soft, breathable fabric and make sure the mattress is fitted snugly to prevent any gaps which could pose a suffocation risk. There are a range of mattresses available on the market - foam, coil springs, natural materials 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, a good mattress is essential to ease of use. It must provide the right support and promote an ideal posture. The slats need to be secured and not sagging. The slats should also be firmly connected to the frame so that your child does not become caught in the movement in their sleep.

If you're unsure of the mattress to buy, consult your family and friends or consult online reviews for recommendations. Choose a mattress that is air-conditioned, as they'll help regulate temperature and are less likely to harbour bacteria.

When it comes to style there's a variety of styles of styles, from traditional sleigh designs with elaborate details to sleek, contemporary designs. Some are painted in bright primary colours to make your child feel happy and cheerful when they wake up.

The majority of cots have an under-bed storage drawer and teething rails that stop your child from chewing the sides of the cot, and height bases that are adjustable to accommodate baby's growth. You can also buy a drop-side for infants who are small or have medical conditions that make it difficult to bend over.

To ensure your security, opt for a cot that is compliant with the stringent UK safety standards and will easily convert into a toddler bed when the time is right. This information can be found in the product description and the specifications.

Safety

When selecting a cot, an environment that is safe for sleeping should be a priority. The mattress should fit snugly and there shouldn't be gaps between the mattress and the ends or sides of the cot or cot beds for sale-bed (large gaps can restrict the child's arms or head). Make sure the mattress is not too firm and thin. Thick mattresses can increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies offer a choice of mattresses, from simple foam to natural substances for allergy sufferers. Some even contain anti-microbial treatments. If your cot has drop-sides, ensure that it is locked 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 releases. If your cot has a solid end be sure to avoid placing it against the wall because this will restrict airflow and may contribute to the death of a coffin. The latest research suggests that slatted ends may be safer since they permit more airflow.

If your cot is set on one side, then you can choose it. It's the most secure choice for your child when they begin to crawl and pull themselves upward. If your child is confidently climbing and standing, it's the time to upgrade to a junior bed.

Some cots 4 tots feature a feature where the base can be raised to three different heights to allow it to grow with your child which is extremely useful and is a safety measure. Some cots have footplates that are adjustable, which is ideal for toddlers wanting to stand up in their bed.

Whenever you place your child in their cot, ensure that there isn't any visible danger. It must be away from heat sources or power points, windows and blind cords and curtains (these pose a strangulation risk). If you're buying second-hand or heirloom furniture Be sure to check for potential hazards to choking such as stickers and transfers that can peel off and present a risk.

If you're not sure how to use your cot in a safe manner, ask other parents or visit a local NCT New Baby course for support and advice. If your crib comes with a manual, make sure you read it before using it and adhere to the instructions.

Style

With its beautiful sleigh design, this gorgeous cot bed will look great in your nursery. Our panel members loved the mix of white and natural pine, as well as its smart features, including under-bed storage drawers that can hold all those baby essentials like nappies, bedding, and a dazzling array of baby outfits. It's also easy to construct, with clear instructions and separate screws for each section. It could also be transformed into a toddler desk and bed as your child gets older (see the product description for more details).

The rails for teething are among our most loved features. They keep your child from hitting their head on the crib's side or any protruding part of the crib, like the corner post or handle. They also prevent them from chewing on the wood and preventing them from getting suffocated. It also has an opening that can be dropped to make it easier for access to your infant. We love that it can be converted into an infant bed, and it is sturdy enough to last for up to four years. It also met the strict UK safety standards, which are listed in the main specifications beneath each product.

Cot beds can be turned into toddler beds in the event that your child is old enough. This allows you to not have to buy an entirely new bed when your child is ready to move up. However, they are more expensive upfront than the standard crib.

If your nursery cots is small, you may think about the possibility of a crib. It is smaller and takes less space. However, if you plan on spending a lot of your baby's time in the room or if you require an item that lasts longer, you should choose a crib.

A crib isn't safe for babies to sleep in if it doesn't meet the strict UK safety standards set out in BS EN 716 and BS 8509, which covers the thickness of mattresses, the materials used and other key elements of baby cot mattresses. The slats shouldn't be too wide apart to prevent your baby from falling off.

Storage

No matter if you're a first-time parent or a seasoned one the amount of items a baby needs is staggering. It is important to think about storage when choosing a cot-bed. A number of cots have additional storage options such as drawers in the under-bed or a top changer (available separately). Certain cots can be transformed into toddler beds or a smaller single beds to expand their usage.

Some cots can be transformed into day beds, as seen on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is an ideal option for those who prefer a less rigid design as the process of conversion is simple and requires just the removal of a side panel. This also allows parents to save money on a separate bed purchase.

A number of cot beds have 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 looks fantastic. Being able to access these items makes it much easier for parents to feed their child.

A teething rail is another desirable feature that is included in some cots. This will stop your child from chewing on the wooden cot, which could cause irritation. Some cots are designed with more traditional designs and come with a large drawer under the bed that is ideal for storing toys, blankets clothes, and other baby essentials.

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

This sleigh cot sales bed by Stokke is a beautiful example of Scandi-style at its best and comes with a massive under-bed storage drawer that's perfect for keeping all those baby's essentials out of view but within easy reach. Our panel of experts found it straightforward to put together, thanks to the alphabetically labeled parts and clear instructions. It's suitable for babies as young as birth and can be converted into a toddler bed when your child is ready. This means it's also a good value.