What You Should Be Focusing On Enhancing Cot Beds 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. Look for a cot that has fixed sides instead of drop-sides. This will meet UK safety standards.

This simple but elegant crib is our top choice from the Anyday collection by John Lewis. It has three mattress positions, teething bars, and an storage drawer. It is also simple to put together and comes with clear instructions.

Comfort

The best cot beds will keep babies comfy and cosy. Look for a soft, comfortable fabric. Also, make sure that the mattress fits snugly to prevent any gaps which could create an suffocation threat. There are a variety of mattresses available on the market that include coil springs, foam and other natural materials suitable for allergy sufferers - so do your research and select the best one for your baby's requirements.

Whatever you decide to use, whether a conventional cot or a convertible cot the mattress is essential to the comfort. It must provide the right support and encourage an upright posture. The slats must be securely attached and not sliding. The slats should also be securely fixed to the frame, to ensure that your child will not be caught when they move in their sleep.

If you're not sure what mattress to buy, ask friends and family or check online reviews for recommendations. Choose breathable mattresses, as they will aid in regulating your body temperature and less likely to be a breeding ground for bacteria.

When it comes to fashion there's a variety of styles from classic sleigh styles with elaborate detailing to sleek, modern designs. Some are painted in vibrant primary colors to make your child feel happy and cheerful when they awake.

Most cots come with drawers underneath to store items and teething rails to guard your child from chewing on the side of the cot and adjustable height bases to accommodate baby's growth. You can even buy drop sides for small infants or those with medical conditions that make it difficult for them 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 appropriate. This information is available in the product description as well as the specifications.

Safety

When selecting a cot, a safe sleeping environment should be the top priority. The mattress should be snugly fitted and there shouldn't be gaps between the mattress and the edges or sides of the cot or cot-bed (large gaps can hold the child's arms and head). Check that it's firm and thin. Thicker mattresses aren't recommended, as they may increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies offer mattresses in a variety of materials, from foam to natural materials that are good for those suffering from allergies. Some even have an anti-microbial treatment. If your mattress has an inclined side, make sure it is in the up position and locked securely.

Drop sides should only be allowed to go to fall when an adult is in the room. This can prevent accidental release. Avoid placing your cot against walls if it has a solid end. This could limit airflow, which could lead to coffin death. Recent research suggests that slatted ends may be safer as they allow more airflow.

If your cot is fixed to one side, you should choose it. It will be the most secure option for your baby when they begin to crawl and pull themselves up. When your child is confidently climbing and standing, it's time to move to a junior bed.


Some cots have an option that allows the base to be raised up to three different levels. This is a wonderful security measure that allows the cot of your child to grow with their needs. Some cots come with adjustable footplates that are perfect for toddlers who like to stand up.

When placing your child's cot ensure there aren't any visible dangers. It should be kept away from power and heater points. Also, keep it away from windows, curtains, and blind cords. They all could pose a strangulation risk. If you're purchasing furniture from a secondhand store or an heirloom piece Be sure to check for potential hazards to choking such as stickers and transfer tapes that could peel off and present the risk of.

If you're unsure of how to use your cot in a safe manner you can ask other parents or visit an local NCT New Baby course for assistance and guidance. If your cot comes with instructions, read them carefully before using it, and be sure to follow the safety-use guidelines carefully.

Style

With its gorgeous sleigh style This gorgeous cot bed will look great in your nursery. Our panel was impressed by the mix of white and natural pine, as well as its smart features, including drawers under the bed to store everything necessary for babies, including bedding, nappies and a dazzling assortment of baby clothes. 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 and bed as your child gets older (see product description for more information).

The teething rails are among our top features. They prevent your child from hitting their head against the side of the crib or any protruding part of the crib, such as the corner post or handle. They also stop children from chewing on the wood, and prevent them from getting suffocated. The cot also has drop-sides to make it easier for you to access your newborn. We are thrilled that it can be converted to a toddler bed, and it is sturdy enough to last for four years. It also met strict UK safety standards. These are listed in the main specifications below each product.

Cot beds are typically larger than cribs and can be transformed into toddler beds when your child is ready, allowing you to avoid purchasing a bed until they're ready for the transition. They can be more expensive than a 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 lot of your baby's time in your bedroom or you need a bed that lasts longer, you should consider a cot.

best cots isn't safe for babies to sleep in if it doesn't meet the strict UK safety standards set out in BS EN 716 and BS 8509, which deals with mattress thicknesses, materials and other key elements of cot mattresses for baby. The slats should not be too close together to ensure that your baby won't fall off.

Storage

No matter if you're a first-time parent or a seasoned one, the amount of stuff the baby will require is immense. It is important to think about storage when choosing a cot-bed. Certain cots offer additional storage options, like drawers beneath the bed or a top changer (available separately). Some can be transformed to a toddler or a small single bed, which can extend their usability for longer.

Some cots can be converted into day beds, like the one shown on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is an excellent option for those who prefer an edgier design. The conversion is simple and only requires the removal of ONE side panel. This also allows parents to save money on a separate bed purchase.

A variety of cot beds feature a hanging rail which can be used to store muslins, Dummies, and other small items. This helps to keep everything organised tidy and neat - and it also looks great. These items are easily accessible to parents which makes it easier for parents to feed their child.

A teething rail is another desirable feature that is included in some cots. This will prevent your child from chewing on the wooden cot, which can cause irritation. Some cots have a more traditional design and have a huge storage drawer beneath the bed. It is perfect for toys, clothes blankets, baby essentials.

While this is a great option if you're short on space, you must keep in mind that you'll need to buy a separate extra drawer. You may need to buy a separate mattress and bedding, as oval mattresses and sheets do not come with the cot.

This sleigh cot bed by Stokke is a lovely example of Scandi-style at its best and features a huge under-bed storage drawer that's great for keeping all those baby's essentials out of view but easily reachable. Our panel of experts found it straightforward to put together, due to the alphabetically-labelled parts and clear instructions. It's suitable for babies as young as birth and can be transformed into a toddler bed when your child is ready, meaning it's a good investment too.