Now That You've Purchased Cot Beds ... Now What?
How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby
If you're expecting a child, it's important to choose a cot that's secure and safe for your child. Choose a cot that has fixed sides instead of drop-sides.
best cots uk will meet UK safety standards.
Our top choice is this simple but elegant coffin from John Lewis' Anyday range. It has three mattress positions, teething bars, and a storage drawer. It is also easy to put together and comes with clear instructions.
Comfort
The most comfortable cot beds keep baby's warm and comfortable. Look for a breathable, soft fabric. Make sure the mattress is fitted snugly to eliminate any gaps that could create the danger of suffocation. There are a variety of mattresses available: coils springs, foam, and natural materials for allergy-sufferers. Do your research to determine the ideal mattress for your child.
No matter if you choose a conventional cot or a convertible, a good mattress is crucial to ensure your ease of use. It should provide proper support and promote an upright posture. The slats need to be secured and not sliding. The slats must also be secured to the frame, so that your child doesn't get caught in them when moving in their sleep.
Ask your friends and family for recommendations, or read online reviews. Choose mattresses that are breathable, as they can help regulate your body temperature and less likely to be a breeding ground for bacteria.
There are many styles to choose from that include traditional sleighs with elaborate details and modern, sleek designs. Some are even painted with bright primary colors, which is ideal for those who want their baby to wake up feeling fresh and happy!
Most cots come with drawers underneath to store items, teething rails to protect your child from chewing on the sides of the cot and adjustable height bases for infant growth. You can even buy a drop side for smaller babies or those who have health issues that make it difficult to bend over.
For extra peace of mind, look for a cot that meets the stringent UK safety standards and will easily convert into a toddler bed when the time is right. Find this information in the description or key specs.
Safety
When selecting a cot, a safe sleeping environment should be a priority. The mattress should fit snugly and there should be no gaps between the mattress and the edges or sides of the cot/cot-bed (large gaps could hold the child's arms and head). Make sure it's firm and thin - thicker mattresses aren't recommended, since they could increase the risk of SIDS. There are many companies that offer a variety of mattresses, ranging from basic foam to natural materials for allergy sufferers. Some even come with anti-microbial treatment. If your mattress has an inclined side, make sure it is in the upward position and secured.
nursery cots should only be allowed to go down only when an adult is present, this will prevent accidental releases. Avoid placing your cot on the wall if it is a solid end. This will limit airflow, which could result in death of the coffin. According to the most recent research, cots with slatted edges are safer since they permit more airflow.
If
nursery cots is fixed on one side, then you can choose it. It will be the most secure option for your baby as they start to crawl and pull themselves upward. Once your child is confidently standing and climbing, this is a sign that they are ready to move into a junior bed.
Some cots feature features that allow the base can be raised to three different heights to allow it to expand with your child - this is very useful and is a security measure. Other cots come with footplates that can be adjusted, which are great for toddlers who want to stand up in their bed.
If you are putting your child in their cot, make sure that there isn't any visible danger - it must be away from heat sources or power points, windows and blind cords and curtains (these can be strangulation hazards). When purchasing second-hand furniture, or heirlooms to check for choking hazards such as stickers and transfers. They may peel off and pose a danger.
If you're unsure of how to use your cot safely you can ask other parents or visit a local NCT New Baby course for assistance and guidance. If your crib comes with a manual be sure to read it before using it and adhere to the directions.
Style
With its stunning sleigh design This gorgeous crib will look stunning in your nursery. The panel was impressed by the mix of natural and white wood as well as the clever features like under-bed storage drawers that can hold everything needed by babies, such as bedding, nappies and a huge selection of baby clothes. It is also easy to construct, with clear instructions and separate screws for each section. It could also be transformed into a toddler's desk and bed as your child gets older (see product description for more information).
One of our favourite features are the teething rails, which shield your baby from bumping their head on the cot's side or any protruding part of the cot, like handles or a corner post. They can also stop them from chewing on the wood, which prevents them from getting suffocated. The cot also has an opening that can be dropped to make it easier for access to your baby. We love that it can be converted into a toddler bed, and that it's built to last for up to four years. It also met strict UK safety standards. You can find these in the specifications below for each product.
Cot beds are usually larger than cribs and can be turned into toddler beds once your child is ready, allowing you to avoid purchasing a bed when they're ready to transition. They are more expensive than a crib.
If your nursery is small, you may want to consider the possibility of a crib. It is smaller and takes less space. However it is recommended to consider a cot if you are planning on spending a lot of your baby's time in your bedroom or if you require an item that lasts longer, you should opt for a cot.
If the cot you are using does not meet the UK safety standards as defined by BS EN 716 or BS 8509 (which cover mattress thicknesses, materials and other key elements in baby mattress cots) it is not safe for babies to sleep. The slats must not be too wide apart to prevent your baby from falling off.
Storage
Whether you're a first-time parent or a veteran the amount of items that a baby requires is overwhelming. It is important to think about storage when selecting a cot. There are a variety of cots that have additional storage options like drawers under the bed or a top changer (available separately). Some can be transformed into a toddler bed or a single bed, extending their usefulness for a longer period of time.
Some cots can be converted into day beds, like the one shown here on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is an excellent option for those who prefer an edgier design. The conversion is simple and requires only the removal of ONE side panel. This will allow parents to save money on an additional bed.
A few cot beds feature hanging rails that can be used to store muslins, Dummies, and other small items. This helps keep everything neat, tidy and organised. It also looks great. Being able to access these items will make it much easier for parents when feeding their child.

Another desirable feature to look for is a toothing rail which is included with cots. This will stop your child from chewing on the cot's wooden structure, which could cause irritation. Some cots are designed in an older style and come with a large under-bed storage drawer that is ideal to store blankets, toys clothing, and other baby necessities.
While this is a great idea if you're in a tight space, you should keep in mind that you'll require a separate extra for the drawer. You may also need to buy a new mattress and bedding since oval mattresses and sheets aren't typically included in the cot itself.
This sleigh-style cot is an exquisite illustration of Scandi style at its best. It has a large under-bed storage space that is perfect to keep baby's essentials out of sight but still easily accessible. Our panel was able to find it easy to put together, thanks to alphabetically labelled parts and clear instructions. It's suitable for infants as young as birth, and can be made into a toddler's bed when your child's ready.