Are You Getting The Most Value From Your Cot Beds

How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby

When you are expecting a child, it is important to choose a cot that will ensure safety and security for your baby. Find a cot with fixed sides (rather than drop-sides), which comply with strict UK safety standards.

Our top pick is this simple yet stylish cot from John Lewis' Anyday range. 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 babies comfy and cosy. Look for a soft, breathable fabric and make sure the mattress is fitted snugly to avoid any gaps, which could pose the risk of suffocation. There are many types of mattresses available: coils springs, foam and natural materials for allergy sufferers. Do your research to find the best one for your child.

Whatever you decide to use, whether a conventional cot or a convertible, a good mattress is crucial to ensure your the comfort. It should provide proper support and encourage an upright posture. The same is true for the slats. They should be secured and not bent or sagging. The slats need to be securely fixed to the frame, to ensure that your child will not get caught when they move in their sleep.

If you're not sure which mattress to buy, consult your family members or friends or look up online cots reviews for recommendations. Make sure you choose a mattress that's breathable, as they'll help to regulate temperature and are less likely to harbour bacteria.

There are many styles to choose from such as traditional sleighs, with intricate details and modern, sleek designs. Some are even painted in bright primary colors which is perfect for those who want their little one to wake up feeling fresh and content!

The majority of cots have a drawer for storage underneath teething rails to prevent your child from chewing the sides of the cot and adjustable height bases to accommodate your child's growth. You can even buy drop sides for small babies or those who have medical conditions that make it difficult for them to bend over.

For added peace of mind, search for a cot that meets the stringent UK safety standards and can easily transform into a toddler bed when the time is right. This information can be found in the product description as well as key specifications.

Safety

When choosing a cot, a safe sleeping environment should be the top priority. Make sure the mattress is snugly fitted, with no gaps between it and the cot/cot beds edges or sides (big gaps can keep your child's head from being caught in the arms). Check that it's solid and thin - more thick mattresses aren't advised because they can increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies offer a choice of mattresses, ranging from basic foam to natural materials for allergy sufferers. Some even come with anti-microbial treatment. If your cot has drop sides, make sure that it is in the up position and locked securely.

A drop side should only be allowed to drop only when an adult is present - this will prevent accidental releases. Avoid placing your cot on the wall if it is an end that is solid. This could limit airflow, which could cause death in the coffin. According to the most recent research, cots with slatted edges could be safer as they allow for greater airflow.

If your cot is fixed to one side, you should choose it. It will be the most secure choice for your child when they begin to crawl and pull themselves up. Once your child is confidently standing and climbing, it is a sign that they are ready to move into a junior bed.

Some cots are equipped with a feature that allows the base to be raised up to three levels. This is a wonderful security measure that allows your child's cot to expand with the child. Some cots also have footplates that are adjustable, which is ideal for toddlers wanting to sit up in their bed.

When putting your child's cot in the crib, make sure there are no visible hazards. It should be put away from any heaters or power points. Also make sure it is away from windows, curtains, and blind cords. All of these could present a strangulation threat. If you're buying furniture that is second-hand or an heirloom Be sure to check for potential choking hazards like stickers and transfers that may peel off and present a risk.

If you're unsure about how to use your cot in a safe manner consult other parents or visit a local NCT New Baby course for support and advice. If your cot comes with a manual be sure to read it before using it and follow the instructions.

Style

This gorgeous cot bed, with its sleigh-style design will look fantastic in your nursery. Our panel loved the mix of white and natural pine, and best Cot bed its innovative features, like under-bed storage drawers that can hold all the baby necessities like nappies, bedding, and a stunning assortment 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 transformed into a toddler desk and bed when your child gets older (see the product description for more details).

The rails for teething are among our top features. They prevent your child from hitting their head against the side of the crib or any other protruding part of the crib, such as the corner post or handle. They also stop them from chewing the wood, and prevent them from being suffocated. The cot also has an opening that can be dropped to make it easier for access to your baby. We appreciate that it is able to be converted into an infant bed, and that it's sturdy enough to last up to four years. It also met 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 turned into toddler beds when your child is ready which means you don't have to worry about purchasing a bed when they're ready to move on. However, they are more expensive upfront than the standard crib.

If your nursery isn't big enough, you might think about the possibility of a crib. It is smaller and takes less space. However, if you plan to spend a lot of your baby's time in your room or you need a bed that lasts longer, you should choose a crib.

A cot bed sales isn't suitable 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 deals with mattress thicknesses, materials and other important elements of cot mattresses for baby. The slats must not be too close together, to ensure your baby doesn't get tossed out.

Storage

The amount of baby stuff you'll need is a mess whether you're a new parent or a seasoned one. This is the reason it's important to consider the storage options when you choose the crib bed. Some cots have additional storage options, such as drawers under the bed or a top changer (available separately). Some cots are able to be converted into an infant bed or a small single bed to increase their usage.

Some cots can be converted into day beds, like the one shown on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is a great option for those who prefer an unstructured design since the conversion process is simple and involves the removal of a side panel. It also lets parents save money on a separate bed.

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

Another desirable feature to look out for is a teething rail which is included in a few cots. This will stop your child from chewing on the wooden cot which can cause irritation. Some affordable cots feature more traditional designs and have a huge storage drawer beneath the bed, which is perfect for clothes, toys, blankets and other baby necessities.

While this is a great idea if you're running out of space, it's important to keep in mind that you'll have to purchase an additional drawer. You may also need to purchase a different mattress and bedding as oval mattresses and sheets aren't typically included in the cot itself.

This sleigh cot bed by Stokke is a beautiful example of the Scandi-style at its finest and features a huge under-bed storage drawer that's ideal to keep baby necessities out of sight but within easy reach. Our panel was able to find it easy to put together thanks to alphabetically labelled parts and clear instructions. It is suitable for babies as young as birth and can be converted into a toddler's bed when your child is ready.