15 Reasons You Shouldn t Ignore Cot Beds

How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby

If you're expecting a baby it is essential to select the right cot that is safe and secure for your baby. Find a cot which has fixed sides instead of drop-sides. This will comply with UK safety standards.

This simple but elegant cot is our top choice from the Anyday collection by John Lewis. It comes with three mattress positions, teething bars and a storage drawer. It's also easy to set up with clear instructions.

Comfort

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

No matter if you select a convertible or standard cot, the key to comfort is a good-quality mattress that provides proper support and promotes a healthy posture. The slats should also be securely attached and not sliding. The slats must be securely fixed to the frame, so that your little one doesn't get stuck in them while they move in their sleep.

If you're unsure of the mattress to purchase, talk to your family and friends or consult online reviews for suggestions. Select mattresses that are breathable, since they will help regulate your body temperature, and are less likely to hold bacteria.

When it comes to fashion, there's a wide choice, from traditional sleigh styles with elaborate details to sleek, contemporary designs. Some are even painted in vibrant primary colours which is great if you want your little one to wake up feeling bright and happy!

You'll find most cots have a drawer underneath for storage as well as teething rails that protect your baby from chewing on the sides of the cot and adjustable height bases for infant growth. You can even buy drop sides for small babies or those with medical conditions that make it difficult for them to bend over.

To ensure your security, opt for a cot that meets the stringent UK safety standards and can easily convert into a toddler bed when the time is right. This information is found in the description of the product and the key specifications.

Safety

When selecting a cot, the safety of your child's sleep should be the top priority. Make sure that the mattress fits snugly, with no gap between it and the cot/cot beds edges or sides (big gaps can keep your child's head from being caught in the arms). Check that it's solid and thin - more thick mattresses aren't advised because they can increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies sell mattresses in different materials from foam to natural materials that are good cribs for allergy sufferers. Some even have an anti-microbial treatment. If your crib has an inclined side, make sure that it is in the up position and secured.

Drop sides should only be allowed to go down when an adult is in the room. This prevents accidental releases. Do not place your cot against walls if it has a solid end. This can restrict airflow, which can cause death in the coffin. The latest research suggests that slatted ends could be safer since they allow for more airflow.

If your cot is set on one side, choose it. It's the safest option for your baby when they begin to crawl and then pull themselves upwards. Once your child is confidently standing and climbing, it is a sign that they are ready to move into a junior bed.

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

If you are putting your child in their cot, make sure that there is no obvious danger - it should be away from heaters, power points, windows, blind cords and curtains (these are a strangulation hazard). When purchasing second-hand furniture, or heirlooms 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 safely use your cot, ask other parents for advice or attend an local NCT New Baby class. If your cot comes with a guide, make sure you read it before using it and follow all the directions.

Style

This stunning cot bed with its sleigh style will look amazing in your nursery. The panel was impressed with the combination of natural and white wood as well as the clever features such as drawers under the bed for everything essential for babies, including bedding, nappies and a wide selection of baby clothes. It's also easy to assemble with clear instructions and separate sets of screws for each section. It can also be transformed into a toddler bed and desk as your baby gets older (see the product description for more details).

The teething rails are one of our favorite features. They keep your child from hitting their head on the side of the crib or any protruding part of the crib, like the corner post or handle. They also stop them from chewing the wood and also preventing them from suffocating. The cot also has a drop-side for easier access to your 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 met the strict UK safety standards. You can find these in the main specifications below each product.

Cot beds can be converted into toddler beds when your child is old enough. This allows you to avoid purchasing a new bed when your child's ready to make the leap. However, they can be more expensive than a standard crib.

If your nursery is very small cot beds, a crib might be the best choice for you as it is smaller and occupies less space, but if your baby is likely to spend a lot of time in their parents' room or you'd like a more long-lasting bed, opt for a crib.

A cot isn't suitable for babies to sleep in if it does not meet the strict UK safety standards outlined in BS EN 716 and BS 8509, which covers mattress thicknesses, materials and other important elements of baby cot mattresses. The slats must not be too far apart to stop your child from falling out.

Stores

The amount of baby gear 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 consider the storage options when you choose the cot bed. Some cots come with additional storage options, such as drawers underneath 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 usage.

Some cot beds can be further transformed into a daybed like this one on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is an excellent option for those who prefer an edgier design. The conversion is easy and only requires the removal of ONE side panel. This also allows parents to save money on a separate bed.

Some cot beds come with hanging rails that can be used to hang muslins and Dummies, as well as other small items. This allows you to keep everything organized, neat and Best cot for newborn tidy and also looks amazing. These items are easily accessible to parents, making it easier for them to feed their baby.

Another feature worth looking out for is a teething rail that comes with cheap cots. This can prevent your little one chewing on the wood that can cause irritation. Some cots are designed in more traditional designs and include a large under-bed storage drawer that is ideal for storing blankets, toys clothing, and other baby essentials.

While this is a great idea for when you're running out of space, you must be aware that you'll need to buy a separate additional drawer. You may have to purchase bedding and a mattress separately since oval sheets and mattresses don't come with the cot.

This sleigh-style cot bed is a beautiful example of Scandi style at its best. It has a spacious under-bed storage compartment that's ideal to keep baby's essentials out of sight but still easily accessible. Our panel of experts found it straightforward to put together, thanks to the alphabetically labeled parts and clear instructions. It's suitable for infants from birth and can be made into a toddler bed when your child is ready, meaning it's also a good value.