How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby

If you're expecting a child it is essential to select a cot that will be secure and safe for your child. Find a cot which has fixed sides rather than drop-sides. This will be in line with UK safety standards.

Our top choice is this simple but stylish cot from John Lewis' Anyday range. It comes with three mattress positions, teething bars and an storage drawer. It's also easy to set up with clear instructions.

Comfort

The best cots uk cot beds keep baby's warm and comfortable. Find a comfortable soft and comfortable fabric. Make sure that the mattress is fitted snugly to avoid any gaps that could cause the risk of being suffocated. There are a variety of mattresses available including 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 one, a comfortable mattress is essential to comfort. It should provide adequate support and promote a healthy posture. This is also true for the slats, which must be firmly attached and not bent or sagging. The slats should also be securely attached to the frame, so your child doesn't get caught in them when moving during sleep.

If you're not sure what mattress to buy, consult friends and family or check online reviews for suggestions. Choose a mattress that is air-conditioned, as they'll help maintain temperature and are less likely to harbour 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 even painted with bright primary colors which is perfect when you want your child to wake up feeling bright and content!

There are a lot of cots that have a drawer underneath for storage, 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 purchase an extra drop-side for babies that aren't big or have health issues that make it difficult to bend over.

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

Safety

A safe and secure sleeping environment is an essential aspect to consider when choosing a crib. Make sure the mattress is snugly fitted, with no gaps between it and the cot/cot bed's sides or ends (big gaps can trap your child's head or arms). Check that the mattress is firm and thin. Mattresses that are too thick can increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies offer mattresses in various materials including foam and natural materials that are good cribs for those suffering from allergies. Some have anti-microbial treatment. If your cot has drop-sides, make sure it is secured and in the upward position.

Drop sides should only be allowed to fall when an adult is in the room. This can prevent accidental releases. If your coffin has a solid edge do not place it against the wall because it can block airflow and can cause coffin death. The latest research suggests that slatted ends may be safer since they allow for more airflow.

If your cot is set to one side, you should 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, it is a sign that they are ready to transition into the junior bed.

Some cots have an option that allows the base to be raised up to three levels. This is a great security feature that allows your child's cot to grow with their needs. Other cots come with adjustable footplates, which are great for toddlers who want to sit up in their beds.

When you place your child's cot ensure there aren't any obvious dangers. It should be kept away from power and heater points. Also make sure it is away from windows, curtains and blind cords. They all could pose a strangulation risk. When purchasing second-hand furniture, or heirlooms, be sure to look for any potential hazards to your child's safety such as labels and transfers. These can peel off and cause danger.

If you're not sure how to use your cot in a safe manner you can ask parents around or go to the local NCT New Baby course for support and advice. If your crib comes with a manual ensure that you go through it before using it and follow the directions.

Style

With its beautiful sleigh design This stunning cot bed will look great in your nursery. The panel was awed by the combination of white and natural wood, as well as the clever features like under-bed storage drawers for everything essential for babies, including bedding, nappy and an impressive array of baby clothes. It's 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 when your child gets older (see product description for more information).

One of our most loved features is the teething rails which protect your baby from bumping their head on the side of the cot or any protruding parts of the sale cot, like the handle or corner post, and which will also stop them from chewing on the wood, preventing them from becoming in danger of being suffocated. It also has a drop-side for easier access to your infant cot bed. We are thrilled that it can be converted to a toddler bed, and it's built to last for four years. It also met the strict UK safety standards. You can find these in the main specifications below each product.

Cot beds are generally bigger than cribs and can be transformed into toddler beds when your child is ready and you can avoid buying another bed at an age when they're ready to move on. 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, if you plan to spend a significant portion of your baby's time in your room or you need a bed that lasts longer, you should consider a cot.

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 of baby mattresses for cots), it is unsafe for babies to sleep. The slats should not be too far apart, to ensure that your child doesn't fall off.

Stores

If you're a new parent or a veteran, the amount of stuff that a baby requires is overwhelming. This is why it's crucial to think about the storage options when you choose a cot bed. There are a variety of cots that have additional storage solutions available such as drawers in the under-bed or a coordinating top changer (available separately). Some can even be adapted into a toddler bed or a single bed, increasing their usability for longer.

Some cot beds can be converted into a daybed like this one on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is a great option for those who prefer an unstructured design since the process of conversion is simple and requires just the removal of one side panel. This will allow parents to save on the cost of a separate bed.

A variety of cot beds come with hanging rails that can be used to store muslins, dummies and other small items. This makes it easier to keep everything organized tidy, neat and tidy and also looks fantastic. Being able to access these items will make it much easier for parents to feed their child.

A teething rail is another desired feature that is found in some cots. This will stop your child from chewing on the wooden cot which can cause irritation. Some cots have more traditional designs and include a large storage drawer underneath the bed that is ideal for toys, clothes blankets, and other baby necessities.

While this is a great option if you're short on space, you must remember that you will need to buy a separate extra for the drawer. You may also need to buy a new mattress and bedding, as sheets and mattresses that are oval aren't typically included in the cot.

This sleigh-style cot bed an exquisite illustration of Scandi style at its best. It features a huge under-bed storage compartment that's ideal to keep baby's essentials out of sight but still easily accessible. The alphabetically labeled pieces and clear instructions made it easy to assemble for our panel. It's suitable for infants from birth and can be made into a toddler bed when your child is ready. This means it's also a good value.