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 child. Choose a cot that has fixed sides (rather than drop-sides) that meet strict UK safety standards.
This simple but elegant coffin is our top pick from the Anyday range of John Lewis. It comes with three mattress positions, teething rails and storage drawer. It is also easy to put together, and comes with clear instructions.
Comfort

The most comfortable cot beds keep children warm and cozy. Choose a soft, airy fabric, and ensure that the mattress is fitted snugly to prevent any gaps which could pose a suffocation risk. There are a range of mattresses available on the market including coil springs, foam, natural materials for allergy sufferers - so do your research before deciding on the best 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 vital to your the comfort. It should provide proper support and encourage an ideal posture. The slats need to be secured and not sagging. The slats need to be securely fixed to the frame, so that your child does not become caught in the movement in their sleep.
Ask your family and friends for recommendations or look at online reviews. Choose breathable mattresses, as they aid in regulating your body temperature and are less likely to harbor bacteria.
There are a variety of styles to choose from that include traditional sleighs with elaborate details and modern, sleek designs. Some are decorated with bright primary colors to make your child feel happy and cheerful as they awake.
recommended you read come with an under-bed drawer for storage as well as teething rails that protect your child from chewing on the side of the cot, as well as adjustable height bases to accommodate baby's growth. You can even buy drop sides for small infants or those with health issues that make it difficult to bend over.
For added peace of mind, search for a cot that complies with the strict UK safety standards and can easily convert into an infant bed when the time is appropriate. This information is available in the product description as well as the key specifications.
Safety
When selecting a cot, a safe sleeping environment should be a priority. Make sure that the mattress fits snugly, with no gaps between it and the cot's bed sides or ends (big gaps could trap your child's head or arms). Make sure the mattress is firm and thin. Thick mattresses could increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies offer a range of mattresses, from simple foam to natural materials for allergy sufferers and some even come with anti-microbial treatment. If your cot has an inclined side, make sure it is in the up position and locked securely.
A drop side should only be allowed to go down only if an adult is present, this prevents accidental releases. Avoid placing your cot on a wall if it has a solid end. This will hinder airflow and could lead to coffin death. According to the most recent research, cots with slatted ends could be safer as they allow for more airflow.
If your cot is set on one side, then you can choose it. It's the most secure option for your child when they begin to crawl and then pull themselves upwards. Once your child is standing and climbing, it is a sign that they're ready to move into a junior bed.
Some cots are equipped with a feature that allows the base to be raised up to three different levels. This is a fantastic safety measure and enables your child's cot to grow with their needs. Other cots come with footplates that can be adjusted, which are ideal for toddlers wanting to sit up in their bed.
When you put your child in their cot, check whether there is no visible danger. It must be kept away from heaters, windows, power points and 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 pose the risk of.
If you're unsure of what you should do to use your cot, consult other parents for help or attend an local NCT New Baby class. If your cot comes with a guide, make sure you go through it before using it and follow the instructions.
Style
With its gorgeous sleigh style This stunning cot bed will look amazing in your nursery. The panel was impressed with the combination of natural and white wood and the innovative features like drawers under the bed for everything essential for babies, including bedding, nappy and an impressive array of baby clothes. It's also simple to put together, with concise instructions and separate sets of screws for each section. What's more, it can be transformed into a toddler bed or desk as your baby gets older (see the product's description for more details).
The rails for teething are one of our favorite features. They stop your child from hitting their head on the crib's side or any protruding portion of the crib, such as the corner post or handle. They also prevent children from chewing on the wood, and prevent them from suffocating. It also features a drop-side to allow you to get access to your baby. We love that it can be converted to an infant bed, and that it's sturdy enough to last up to four years. It also complies with strict UK safety standards. You can find these in the specifications below for each product.
Cot beds can be transformed into toddler beds if your child is old enough. This lets you not have to buy a new bed as your child gets ready to make the leap. They are more expensive than cribs.
If your nursery is very small, a crib could be the best choice for you, as it's smaller and takes up less space. However, if your baby is likely to spend a lot of time in their parents' room or you're looking for a more durable bed, consider a cot.
A cot isn't suitable 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 deals with mattress thicknesses, materials and other key elements of baby cot mattresses. The slats shouldn't be too wide apart to stop your baby from falling off.
Stores
Whether you're a first-time parent or a veteran the amount of things a baby needs is staggering. It is important to think about storage when choosing a cot-bed. Some cots come with additional storage options, like drawers beneath the bed or a coordinating top changer (available separately). Some cots are able to be converted into an infant bed or a small single bed to increase their use.
Some cots can be converted into day beds, as seen here on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is a great choice for those who prefer a less rigid design as the process of conversion is simple and involves the removal of a side panel. This allows parents to save money on a bed purchase.
cot sets come with hanging rails that can be used to hang muslins, dolls along with other small things. This makes it easier to keep everything organized tidy and neat - and it also looks great. These items are easily accessible to parents and make it easier for them to feed their baby.
A teething rail is an additional desirable feature that is included in some cots. This can help to prevent your little one chewing on the wood, which could cause them irritation. Some cots come with a more traditional design and have a huge storage drawer underneath the bed, which is perfect for clothes, toys blankets, and other baby necessities.
This is a great solution when space is a problem, but you will have to purchase a drawer on your own. It is also possible to purchase a different mattress and bedding as sheets and mattresses that are oval aren't typically included in the cot itself.
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 to keep baby's essentials out of view but easily reachable. Our panel of experts found it straightforward to put together, thanks to the alphabetically labeled parts and clear instructions. It is suitable for babies as young as birth and can be transformed into a toddler's bed when your child's ready.