20 Resources That Will Make You More Efficient With Cot Beds How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby

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

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

Comfort

The best cot mattress keeps infants comfortable and warm. Find a comfortable soft, soft fabric. Make sure that the mattress is snug to prevent any gaps that could create the danger of the mattress becoming suffocated. There are a range of mattresses 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 needs.

No matter if you choose a standard cot or a convertible cot one, a comfortable mattress is crucial to ensure your comfort. It should provide adequate support and promote an ideal posture. The slats should also be firmly attached, and not sliding. The slats must be securely attached to the frame, so your child doesn't get stuck in them while they move during sleep.

If you're not sure which mattress to purchase, talk to your family members or friends or look up online reviews for recommendations. Select mattresses that are breathable, since they aid in regulating your body temperature and are less likely to harbor bacteria.

There are many styles to choose from such as traditional sleighs, with intricate details and modern, sleek designs. Some are even painted with bold primary colours, which is ideal for those who want their child to wake up feeling bright and happy!

Most cots come with a drawer for storage underneath, teething rails that prevent your child from chewing on the sides of the cot, and height bases that are adjustable to accommodate your child's growth. You can also purchase a drop side for petite babies or those who have medical conditions that make it difficult for them to bend over.

Find a cot that is compliant with the strict UK safety standards and is able to be easily converted into a toddler's bed when it is time. This information can be found in the description of the product and the specifications.

Safety

A secure sleeping space is essential and a big factor when selecting a bed. Make sure the mattress fits snugly, with no gap between it and the cot/cot beds edges or sides (big gaps can restrict your child's head or arms). Verify that the mattress is firm and thin. Thicker mattresses aren't recommended because they can 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 contain anti-microbial treatments. If your cot features a drop-side, make sure it is locked and in the upward position.

A drop side should only be allowed to fall only if an adult is present, this will prevent accidental releases. If your coffin has a solid bottom be sure to avoid placing it against the wall as this will restrict airflow and could cause the death of a coffin. The latest research suggests that slatted ends may be safer as they allow more airflow.

If your cot has a fixed side you should choose this because it's safer when your child starts to crawl and then pull themselves up. When your child is confidently standing and climbing, this is a sign that they're ready to transition into a junior bed.

Some cots have an option where the base can be raised to three different levels, so that it will grow with your child which is extremely practical and a great safety measure. Some cots have adjustable footplates that are perfect for toddlers who love to stand up.

If you are putting your child in their cot, ensure whether there is no visible danger. It must be away from heat sources or windows, power points and blind cords and curtains (these pose a strangulation risk). When purchasing second-hand furniture, or heirlooms to look out for potential hazards to your child's safety such as labels and transfers. They can come off and create a risk.

If you're not sure about how to use your cot, ask other parents for advice or attend a local NCT New Baby class. If your crib comes with a manual be sure to read it before using it and follow all the instructions.

Style

With its beautiful sleigh design This gorgeous cot bed will look great in your nursery. best crib newborn was impressed with the mix of white and natural wood and the clever features such as drawers under the bed for everything needed by babies, such as bedding, nappy and a huge selection of baby clothes. It's also simple to construct, with clear instructions and screws for each section. It can also be transformed into a toddler desk or bed when your child gets older (see product description for more details).


The teething rails are one of our favorite features. They keep your baby from hitting their head on the crib's side or any other protruding part of the crib, such as the handle or corner post. They also prevent them from chewing the wood, and prevent them from getting suffocated. The cot also has drop-sides to allow parents to reach their newborn. We are thrilled that the cot can be transformed into a toddler bed, and that it's built to last up to four years. It also meets the strict UK safety standards, which can be found in the key specs beneath each product.

Cot beds are generally bigger than cribs and can be turned into toddler beds when your child is ready, allowing you to avoid purchasing a new bed when they're ready to transition. They may cost more than a crib.

If your nursery is small, you might want to consider a crib. It is smaller and requires less space. However should you be planning on spending a lot of your baby's time in your room or you need a bed that lasts longer, you should opt for a crib.

A cot isn't safe for babies to sleep in if it does not meet the strict UK safety standards set out in BS EN 716 and BS 8509, which covers mattress thicknesses, materials and other important elements of cot mattresses for babies. The slats should not be too far apart, to ensure your baby doesn't get tossed out.

Storage

The amount of baby equipment you'll need is overwhelming regardless of whether you're a first-time parent or an experienced one. This is the reason it's important to think about storage options when choosing the right crib bed. A number of cots have additional storage options, such as drawers in the under-bed or a coordinating cot top changer (available separately). Some can be transformed into a toddler bed or a single bed, extending their usability for longer.

Some cots are able to be converted into day beds, as shown here on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is a great choice for those who prefer more flexible designs as the process of conversion is easy and only requires the removal of a side panel. It also lets parents save money on a separate bed.

Some cot beds are equipped with hanging rails that can be used to hang muslins and Dummies and other small items. This helps to keep everything organised tidy and neat and looks fantastic. These items are easily accessible to parents and make it easier for parents to feed their child.

Another desirable feature to look out for is a teething rail which is included with cots. This can help to prevent your little one chewing on the wood that could cause them irritation. Some cots are designed in more traditional designs and have a huge drawer under the bed that is ideal for storing blankets, toys clothes, and other baby essentials.

While this is a great idea if you're short on space, you must keep in mind that you'll require a separate additional drawer. You may also need to buy a new mattress and bedding, as oval mattresses and sheets are not typically included with the cot.

This sleigh cot bed by Stokke is a stunning example of Scandi-style at its best and comes with a massive under-bed storage drawer that's ideal to keep all the baby's essentials out of view but easily reachable. The alphabetically labeled pieces and clear instructions made it simple to assemble our panel. It's suitable for infants from birth and can be converted into a toddler bed when your child is ready. This means it's a good investment too.