How to Choose the best cots Cot Beds for Your Baby

If you're expecting a child it is essential to select a cot that's secure and safe for your child. Look for a cot with fixed sides (rather than drop-sides) that meet strict UK safety standards.

Our top pick is this basic but elegant coffin from John Lewis' Anyday range. It has three mattress height positions, teething rails, and a storage drawer. It's also simple to put together with clear instructions.

Comfort

The best cot bed (navigate to this site) cot beds keep children warm and cozy. Look for a soft and airy fabric, and ensure that the mattress is fitted snugly to avoid any gaps, which could cause an suffocation threat. There are many mattresses available including coil springs, foam and natural materials for allergy sufferers. So do your research and select the one that is suitable for your baby's needs.

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

If you're unsure of the mattress to buy, ask your family members or friends or look up online reviews for recommendations. Look for ones that are ventilated, as they'll aid in regulate temperature and are less likely to harbor bacteria.

There are a myriad of styles to pick from, including traditional sleighs with elaborate details and modern, sleek designs. Some are painted in vibrant primary colors to make your child feel happy and happy when they wake up.

You'll find most cots have an under-bed drawer for storage as well as teething rails that protect your child from chewing on the side of the cot and adjustable height bases for baby growth. You can also purchase drop sides for small infants or those with health issues that make it difficult for them to bend over.

Look for a cot which is compliant with the strict UK safety standard and is able to be easily transformed into a toddler's cot when it's time. This information is found in the product description as well as the specifications.

Safety

When choosing a cot, a safe sleeping environment should be the top priority. The mattress should fit snugly and there should be no gaps between the mattress and the sides or ends of the cot or cot-bed (large gaps could restrict the child's arms or head). Check that the mattress is firm and thin. Mattresses that are too thick could increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies offer a range of mattresses, ranging from basic foam to natural substances for allergy sufferers and some even have anti-microbial treatment. If your cot has a drop-side, make sure it is secured and in the up position.

A drop side should be allowed to go down only when an adult is present, this prevents accidental release. If your coffin has a solid bottom do not place it against the wall since it can block airflow and could cause death in the coffin. According to the latest research, cots with slatted ends are safer since they allow for greater airflow.

If your cot is set to one side, you should choose it. It will be the most secure option for your child when they begin to crawl and then pull themselves upwards. When your child is confidently standing and climbing, this is a sign they're ready to transition into the junior bed.

Some cots are equipped with an option that allows the base to be raised up to three different levels. This is a great security feature that allows your child's cot to expand with the child. Other cots come with footplates that are adjustable, which is great for toddlers who want to sit up in their beds.

When you place your child's cot be sure that there aren't any visible dangers. It should be put away from heaters and power points. Also be sure to keep it away from windows, curtains and blind cords. All of these could create strangulation risks. If you're buying furniture that is second-hand or an heirloom, check for dangers to your child's health such as stickers and transfers that can be removed and pose a risk.

If you're not sure what you should do to use your cot, consult other parents for advice or take part in a local NCT New Baby class. If your cot has a manual, read it carefully before you begin using it, and then follow the safety guidelines closely.

Style

This gorgeous cot bed with its sleigh design will look amazing in your nursery. The panel was impressed with the mix of white and natural wood and the clever features such as drawers under the bed for everything essential for babies, including bedding, nappies and an impressive array of baby clothes. It's also simple to put together, with concise instructions and separate sets of screws for each section. It can also be converted into a toddler desk and bed as your child gets older (see the product description for more information).

The rails for teething are one of our favorite features. They keep your child from hitting their head against the crib's side or any protruding portion of the crib, like the corner post or handle. They also stop children from chewing on the wood, and prevent them from suffocating. It also has a drop-side for easier access to your newborn. We are thrilled that the cot can be transformed into a toddler bed, and that it's built to last for up to four years. It also met the strict UK safety standards. These are listed in the main specifications below each product.

Cot beds are generally bigger than best rated cribs and can be converted into toddler beds once your child is ready, allowing you to avoid buying another bed until they're ready to move on. However, they can be more expensive upfront than the standard crib.

If your nursery isn't big enough, you might be considering the possibility of a crib. It is smaller and occupies less space. However it is recommended to consider a cot if you are planning to spend a significant portion of your baby's time in the room or you need a bed that will last longer, you should opt for a cot.

If a cot doesn't meet the UK safety standards outlined by BS EN 716 or BS 8509 (which cover mattress thicknesses, materials and other important elements in baby mattress cots), it is unsafe for babies to sleep. The slats should not be too wide apart to prevent your child from falling out.

Stores

No matter if you're a first-time parent or a seasoned one the amount of things a baby needs is staggering. It's important to consider 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 can be transformed into a toddler or small single bed, increasing their usefulness for a longer period of time.

Some cots can be transformed into day beds, like the one shown here on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is an excellent option for those who prefer the flexibility of a design. The conversion is easy and only requires the removal of one side panel. This lets parents reduce the expense of an additional bed.

Some cot beds have hanging rails that can be used to hang muslins, Dummies and other small things. This helps to keep everything organised, neat and tidy and also looks great. Being able to access these items will make it easier for parents when feeding their child.

A teething rail is a important feature that's included in some cots. This will stop your child from chewing on the wooden cot which could cause irritation. Some cots feature a more traditional design and have a huge storage drawer under the bed, which is perfect for toys, clothes blankets, and other baby necessities.

While this is a great idea if you're running out of space, you must remember that you will have to purchase an extra drawer. You may also need to purchase a different mattress and bedding, as sheets and mattresses that are oval aren't typically included in the cot itself.

This sleigh-style cot bed an exquisite illustration of Scandi style at its finest. It features a huge under-bed storage compartment that's ideal for keeping all baby essentials out of sight but still easily accessible. Our panel of experts found it easy to put together thanks to alphabetically labelled parts and clear instructions. It's suitable for babies from birth and can be made into a toddler bed once your child is ready, which means it's also a good value.