15 Reasons To Not Ignore Cot Beds How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby

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

affordable cots but elegant coffin is our top choice from the Anyday range of John Lewis. 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 best cot bed will keep children comfortable and warm. Choose a soft, airy fabric, and ensure that the mattress is snug to prevent any gaps which could cause a suffocation risk. There are a variety of mattresses available on the market - foam, coil springs, natural materials for allergy sufferers. So do your research and select the one that is suitable for your baby's requirements.

If you choose a standard or convertible cot, the most important thing to ensure comfort is a good-quality mattress that is supportive and promotes a healthy posture. The slats need to be firmly attached, and not sagging. The slats need to be securely fixed to the frame, to ensure that your child will not become caught in the movement in their sleep.

If you're unsure of the mattress to buy, ask your family and friends or consult online reviews for recommendations. Look for ones that are air-conditioned, as they'll help to regulate temperature and are less likely to harbour bacteria.

There are many styles to pick from that include traditional sleighs with intricate details and sleek, modern designs. Some are even painted in bold primary colours which is great when you want your child to wake up feeling bright and content!

There are a lot of cots that have drawers underneath to store items, teething rails to protect your child from chewing on the sides of the cot, and adjustable height bases to accommodate baby's growth. You can also buy a drop-side for babies who aren't tall enough or suffer from medical conditions that make it difficult for them to bend over.

Find a cot that is in compliance with the strict UK safety standards and is able to be easily transformed into a toddler's bed when it is time. Look for this information in the description or in the specifications.

Safety

A safe and secure sleeping environment is an essential factor when selecting a crib. Make sure the mattress fits snugly, with no gaps between it and the cot's bed's sides or ends (big gaps could trap your child's head or arms). Make sure it's solid and thin - more thick mattresses aren't recommended, since they could increase the risk of SIDS. There are many companies that offer mattresses made of different materials, from foam to natural materials that are great for allergy sufferers. Some even come with an anti-microbial treatment. If your cot has a drop side, ensure it is in the upward position and locked securely.

Drop sides should only be allowed to fall when an adult is present in the room. This will prevent accidental releases. If your coffin has a solid edge be sure to avoid placing it against the wall as it can block airflow and may contribute to coffin death. According to the most recent research, cots with slatted ends are safer since they permit more airflow.

If your cot is fixed on one side, then you can 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 climbing and standing, it's time to move to a junior bed.

Some cots have an option where the base can be raised to three different levels, so that it will increase with your child's growth - this is very convenient and an added security measure. Some cots feature adjustable footplates that are perfect for toddlers who love to stand up.

When you put your child in their cot, ensure that there is no obvious danger - it must be kept away from heaters, power points, windows, curtains and blind cords (these can be strangulation hazards). If you're purchasing furniture from a secondhand store or an heirloom piece Be sure to check for potential choking hazards like stickers and transfers that may be removed and create danger.

If you are unsure about how to use your cot, ask other parents for help or go to an local NCT New Baby class. If your cot has a manual, read it carefully before using it, and then follow the safe-use instructions closely.


Style

This stunning cot bed with its sleigh design will look stunning in your nursery. Our panel was impressed by the combination of natural and white pine, as well as its smart features, including under-bed storage drawers to keep all the baby necessities like bedding, nappies and a stunning array of baby outfits. It's also a breeze to put together with clear instructions and separate packs of screws for each section. It could also be transformed into a toddler desk or bed as your child gets older (see the product description for more details).

The rails for teething are among our top features. They stop your baby from hitting their head against the side of the crib or any protruding portion of the crib, such as the corner post or handle. They also prevent them from chewing the wood and also preventing them from suffocating. There's also drop-sides to allow parents to reach their newborn. We are thrilled that the cot can be converted into a toddler bed and that it's strong enough to last for up to four years. It also complies with the stringent UK safety standards, which you'll find in the specifications that are listed under 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 new bed when they're ready to move on. However, they are more expensive upfront than the crib that is standard.

If your nursery is very small, a crib may be the best option for you, as it's smaller and takes up less space. However, if your child is likely to spend a lot of time in their parents' bedroom or you'd like a more long-lasting bed, consider a crib.

If the cot you are using does not meet the UK safety standards outlined by BS EN 716 or BS 8509 (which covers mattress thicknesses, materials, and other essential elements in baby cot mattresses) It is unsafe for babies to sleep. The slats must not be too wide apart to prevent your baby from falling out.

Storage

No matter if you're a first-time parent or an experienced one the amount of items the baby will require is immense. It's crucial to think about storage when selecting a cot. A number of cots have additional storage options such as under-bed drawers or a top changer (available separately). Some cots can be converted into a toddler bed or small single beds to expand their usage.

Some cot beds can be converted into a daybed as shown on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is a great choice for those who prefer the flexibility of a design. The conversion is simple and requires only the removal of ONE side panel. This lets parents reduce the expense of the purchase of a separate bed.

A few cot beds feature 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 also looks amazing. Being able to access these items makes it much easier for parents when feeding their infant.

Another feature worth looking for is a teething rail that is available with cots. This can stop your child from chewing on the wood, which can cause irritation. Some cots come with a more traditional design and have a huge storage drawer underneath the bed. It is perfect for clothes, toys blankets, and other baby essentials.

This is a great choice for those who have limited space, but you will have to purchase a drawer separately. You may need to buy bedding and a mattress separately, as oval sheets and mattresses do not come with the cot.

This sleigh cot from Stokke is a stunning example of Scandi-style at its best and comes with a massive under-bed storage drawer that's ideal for keeping all those baby necessities out of sight but within easy reach. The alphabetically labeled components and clear instructions made it simple to assemble for our panel. It's suitable for babies from birth and can be transformed into a toddler bed when your child is ready, meaning it's also a good value.