How to Choose the best cot bed Cot Beds for Your Baby

When you are expecting your first child it is crucial to select a cot which will ensure safety and security for your baby. Look for a cot that has fixed sides, rather than drop-sides. This will comply with UK safety standards.

This slick and stylish crib is our top choice from the Anyday collection by John Lewis. It comes with three mattress positions, teething bars, and storage drawers. It is also easy to assemble, with clear instructions.

Comfort

The best rated cribs cot beds keep children warm and cozy. Look for a soft, airy fabric, and ensure that the mattress is fitted snugly to avoid any gaps, which could pose an suffocation threat. There are a variety of mattresses available - foam, coil springs, natural materials for allergy sufferers. So do your research before deciding on the right one for your baby's requirements.

No matter if you select a standard or convertible cot, the primary factor to comfort is a good-quality mattress that provides proper support and promotes a healthy posture. This is also true for the slats, which must be secured tots and cots not bent or sagging. The slats must also be firmly connected to the frame to ensure that your child does not become caught in the movement in their sleep.

Ask your family and friends for recommendations or browse online reviews. Choose breathable mattresses, as they aid in regulating your body temperature and are less likely to harbor bacteria.

There are a myriad of styles to choose from such as traditional sleighs, with ornate details and modern, sleek designs. Some are even painted with bright primary colors which is perfect when you want your little one to wake up bright and happy!

Most cots come with an under-bed storage drawer, teething rails that prevent your child from chewing the sides of the cot, and height bases that can be adjusted to accommodate your child's growth. You can also buy a drop-side for infants who aren't tall enough or have health issues that make it difficult for them to bend over.

Choose a cot that is in compliance with the strict UK safety standard and can easily be transformed into a toddler's cot when it is time. Find this information in the product description or key specs.

Safety

When choosing a cot, a safe sleeping environment should be a priority. Make sure the mattress fits snugly, with no gap between it and the cot's beds edges or sides (big gaps could restrict your child's head or arms). Check that it's firm and thin - thicker mattresses aren't recommended, since they could increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies offer a choice of mattresses, ranging from basic foam to natural substances for allergy sufferers and some even come with anti-microbial treatment. If your cot has an inclined side, make sure that it is in the up position and locked securely.

Drop sides should only be allowed down only when an adult is present in the room. This can prevent accidental release. If your cot has a solid end do not place it against the wall as this will restrict airflow and may contribute to coffin death. Recent research suggests that slatted edges could be safer because they allow more airflow.

If your crib has a fixed side choose this option as it will be safest when your child starts to crawl and then pull themselves up. When your child is confidently climbing and standing, it's time to move to a junior bed.

Some cots are equipped with an option that allows the base to be raised to three levels. This is a great security measure that allows your child's cot to grow with their needs. Other cots come with footplates that are adjustable, which is ideal for toddlers who wish to stand up in their bed.

When you place your child's cot ensure there aren't any visible dangers. It should be put away from any heaters or power points. Also, keep it away from windows, curtains and blind cords. All of these could pose a strangulation risk. If you are buying second-hand furniture or heirlooms, make sure to look out for dangers to your child's health such as stickers and transfers. They can come off and create a risk.

If you're not sure how to use your cot safely consult parents around or go to an local NCT New Baby course for support and advice. If your cot comes with a manual ensure that you go through it prior to using it and follow all the instructions.

Style

With its stunning sleigh design, this gorgeous crib will look stunning in your nursery. Our panel loved the mix of natural and white pine, and its smart features, including drawers under the bed to store all the baby necessities like nappies, bedding and a stunning assortment of baby clothes. It's also simple to build with clear instructions and separate screws for each section. Additionally, it can be converted into a bed for toddlers and a desk when your child gets older (see the product's description for more details).

One of our favorite features are the teething rails that protect your baby from smacking their head against the side of the cot or any other protruding parts of the cot like the handle or corner post. They will also stop them from chewing on the wood, preventing them from getting suffocated. There's also a drop-side to allow you to get access to your baby. We are thrilled that it can be converted to an infant bed, and that it is sturdy enough to last up to four years. It also complies with the stringent UK safety standards, which are listed in the key specs beneath each product.

Cot beds are generally bigger than cribs and can be transformed into toddler beds when your child is ready, allowing you to avoid purchasing a new bed until they're ready to move on. They may cost more than best rated cribs.

If your nursery is small, a crib might be the best crib for newborn option for you since it is smaller and takes up less space. However, if your baby is likely to spend most of the time in their parents' rooms or you're looking for a more durable bed, Best cot Bed you should consider a cot.

A cot isn't suitable for babies to sleep in if it does not meet the strict UK safety standards outlined in BS EN 716 and BS 8509, which covers mattresses' thicknesses, materials, and other key elements of cot mattresses for babies. The slats shouldn't be too wide apart to stop your baby from falling off.

Storage

The amount of baby equipment you'll need is overwhelming regardless of whether you're a new mom or an experienced one. It is important to think about storage when selecting a cot. There are a variety of cots that have additional storage options, such as drawers in the under-bed or a top changer (available separately). Some can even be adapted to a toddler or a small single bed, increasing their usability for longer.

Some cot beds can be further adapted into a day bed like this one on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is a great option for those who prefer a less rigid design as the process of conversion is easy and only requires the removal of one side panel. This also allows parents to save money on a bed purchase.

Some cot beds have hanging rails that can be used to hang muslins, dolls, as well as other small things. This keeps everything neat, tidy and organised. It also looks fantastic. Being able to access these items makes it easier for parents when feeding their baby.

Another feature worth looking for is a teething rail which is included in a few cots. This will prevent your child from chewing on the wooden cot, which can cause irritation. Some cots are designed with an older style and come with a large under-bed storage drawer which is ideal to store blankets, toys, clothes and other baby essentials.

This is a great choice when space is a problem however, you will need to purchase a drawer on your own. You may also have to buy a new mattress and bedding as oval mattresses and sheets are not typically included with the cot itself.

This sleigh cot from Stokke is a stunning example of the Scandi-style at its finest and features a huge under-bed storage drawer that's perfect to keep baby's essentials out of view but easily reachable. The alphabetically labeled components and clear instructions made it simple to put together for our panel. It's suitable for infants from birth and can be converted into a toddler bed when your child is ready, which means it's also a good value.