The Reasons To Focus On Improving Cot Beds How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby

If you're expecting a child, it's important to choose the right cot that is safe and secure for your baby. Look for a cot with fixed sides (rather than drop-sides), which comply with strict UK safety standards.


Our top choice is this simple but elegant cot from John Lewis' Anyday range. It has three mattress positions, teething bars, and a storage drawer. It is also easy to assemble, with clear instructions.

Comfort

The best cot beds will keep children warm and cozy. Choose see page , soft fabric. Make sure that the mattress is snug to prevent any gaps that could create the risk of suffocation. There are many mattresses available on the market that include coil springs, foam, natural materials for allergy sufferers, so do your research before deciding on the right one for your baby's needs.

It doesn't matter if you pick a standard cot or a convertible cot one, a comfortable mattress is essential to the comfort. It should provide adequate support and promote a healthy posture. great crib to the slats, which must be firmly attached and not sagging or bent. The slats should also be securely connected to the frame to ensure that your child does not become caught in the movement in their sleep.

If you're unsure of the mattress to buy, ask friends and family or check online reviews for recommendations. Select mattresses that are breathable, since they will help you regulate your body temperature, and are less likely to hold bacteria.

When it comes to style there's a variety of styles of styles, from traditional sleigh designs with intricate details to sleek, contemporary designs. Some are even painted with vibrant primary colours which is perfect if you want your baby to wake up feeling fresh and content!

The majority of cots have a drawer for storage underneath and teething rails that stop your child from chewing on the sides of the cot, and height bases that can be adjusted to accommodate the growth of your baby. You can also purchase drop sides for small babies or those who have medical conditions that make it difficult for them to bend over.

To ensure your peace of mind, look for a cot that is compliant with the stringent UK safety standards and can easily transform into a toddler bed when the time is appropriate. Find this information in the product description or in the key specifications.

Safety

A safe sleeping environment is essential and a big factor when selecting a crib. Make sure that the mattress fits snugly, with no gap between it and the cot's beds edges or sides (big gaps can trap your child's head or arms). Verify that the mattress is solid and thin - more thick mattresses aren't recommended, because they can increase the risk of SIDS. There are many companies that offer a variety of mattresses, from simple foam to natural materials 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 if an adult is present, to prevent accidental releases. If your cot has a solid end be sure to avoid placing it against the wall as this will restrict airflow and may contribute to death in the coffin. According to the most recent research, cots with slatted edges are safer since they allow for greater airflow.

If your cot is set on one side, choose it. It will be the safest option for your baby when they start to crawl and pull themselves upward. When your child is confidently standing and climbing, it is a sign that they are ready to transition into a junior bed.

Some cots come with a feature that allows the base to be raised up to three levels. This is a great security measure that allows the cot of your child to grow with the child. Some cots have adjustable footplates that are ideal for toddlers who love to stand up.

When putting your child's cot in the crib be sure that there are no visible hazards. It should be put away from heaters and power points. Also, keep it away from windows, curtains, and blind cords. They all could create strangulation risks. If you are buying second-hand furniture or heirlooms, make sure to look out for choking hazards such as stickers and transfers. They can come off and pose a danger.

If you're not sure how to use your cot in a safe manner you can ask other parents or attend a local NCT New Baby course for assistance and guidance. If your cot comes with a guide ensure that you go through it before using it and follow all the instructions.

Style

With its stunning sleigh design This gorgeous cot bed will look great in your nursery. Our panel loved the mix of natural and white pine, as well as its innovative features, like under-bed storage drawers to keep all those baby essentials like bedding, nappies and a stunning assortment of baby clothes. It is also easy to construct, with clear instructions and screws for each section. Additionally, it can be transformed into a toddler bed and desk when your child gets older (see the product description for more details).

One of our favourite features are the teething rails that protect your baby from bumping their head against the side of the cot or any protruding parts of the cot like the handle or corner post, and which also help stop them chewing on the wood, preventing them from getting trapped. There's also drop-sides to allow parents to reach their newborn. We appreciate that it is able to be converted into a toddler bed, and it's sturdy enough to last for up to four years. It also met the strict UK safety standards. You can find these in the specifications below for each product.

Cot beds are generally bigger than cribs and can be transformed into toddler beds once your child is ready which means you don't have to worry about purchasing a bed when they're ready to transition. They can be more expensive than a crib.

If your nursery is small, you may want to consider the possibility of a crib. It is smaller and requires less space. However, if you plan to spend a significant portion of your baby's time in the room or if you require an item that lasts 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 essential elements of baby cot mattresses) It is unsafe for babies to sleep. The slats shouldn't be too far apart to stop your baby from falling off.

Storage

No matter if you're a first-time parent or a seasoned one the amount of items the baby will require is immense. It's important to consider storage when you choose a cot. Many cots come with additional storage solutions available such as drawers in the under-bed or a coordinating top changer (available separately). Some can even be adapted into a toddler bed or a single bed, increasing their usability for longer.

Some cot beds can be further transformed into a daybed like this one on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is a great choice for those who prefer a less rigid design as the conversion process is fairly simple and requires just the removal of a side panel. It also lets parents save money on a bed purchase.

Some cot beds are equipped with hanging rails that can be used to hang muslins, dummies, as well as other small things. This makes it easier to keep everything organised, neat and tidy - and it also looks fantastic. Being able to access these items will make it easier for parents to feed their child.

A teething rail is a important feature that's included in some cots. This will prevent your child from chewing on the wooden cot which could cause irritation. Some cots are designed in more traditional designs and come with a large drawer under the bed that is perfect to store blankets, toys, clothes and other baby necessities.

While this is a great idea for when you're in a tight space, you must be aware that you'll have to purchase an additional drawer. You may also need to buy a new mattress and bedding, as oval mattresses and sheets aren't usually included in the cot itself.

This sleigh cot bed by Stokke is a lovely example of Scandi-style at its best and has a huge under-bed storage drawer that's ideal to keep all the baby essentials out of sight but within easy reach. Our panel of experts found it easy to put together, thanks to the alphabetically labeled parts and clear instructions. It's suitable for babies as young as birth and can be transformed into a toddler bed once your child is ready, which means it's also a good value.