How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby

(Image: [[https://cdn.freshstore.cloud/offer/images/7098/1563/uuoeebb-4-in-1-bedside-crib-bassinet-baby-crib-with-changing-table-baby-bassinet-with-wheels-travel-cot-with-mattress-included-five-level-height-adjustable-baby-cribs-for-newborn-black-1563.jpg|https://cdn.freshstore.cloud/offer/images/7098/1563/uuoeebb-4-in-1-bedside-crib-bassinet-baby-crib-with-changing-table-baby-bassinet-with-wheels-travel-cot-with-mattress-included-five-level-height-adjustable-baby-cribs-for-newborn-black-1563.jpg]])If you are expecting a baby it is essential to select a cot which will provide safety and security for your baby. Find a cot which has fixed sides instead of drop-sides. This will comply with UK safety standards.

This minimalist, elegant crib is our top pick from the Anyday collection by John Lewis. It comes with three mattress height positions, teething rails and storage drawers. It is also easy to put together and comes with clear instructions.

Comfort

The best cot beds keep babies comfy and cosy. Look for a soft, airy fabric, and ensure that the mattress fits snugly to prevent any gaps which could pose an suffocation threat. There are many types of mattresses available - coils springs, foam and even natural materials for allergy sufferers. Do your research to determine the most suitable one for your child.

It doesn't matter if you pick a conventional cot or a convertible, a good mattress is vital to your ease of use. It should provide proper support and encourage an ideal posture. The same applies to the slats, which must be secured and not sagging or bent. The slats must also be securely fixed to the frame, so that your little one doesn't get caught in them when moving in their sleep.

Ask your friends and family for recommendations or browse online reviews. Make sure you choose a mattress that's breathable, as they'll help regulate temperature and are less likely to harbour bacteria.

When it comes to style there's a broad selection, from traditional sleigh styles with intricate details to sleek, contemporary designs. Some are painted in bright primary colours to make your child feel happy and cheerful as they wake up.

You'll find most cots have drawers underneath to store items as well as teething rails that protect your baby from chewing on the sides of the cot, and adjustable height bases to accommodate baby's growth. You can also buy an extra drop-side for babies that are small or have medical conditions that make it difficult for them to bend over.

To ensure your peace of mind, look for a cot that is compliant with the strict UK safety standards and can easily convert into an infant bed when the time is right. Look for this information in the description or in the key specifications.

Safety

When selecting a cot, a safe sleeping environment should be a priority. The mattress should be able to fit snugly and there shouldn't be gaps between the mattress and the edges or sides of the cot/cot-bed (large gaps can trap the child's arms or head). Verify that the mattress is firm and thin. Thick mattresses could increase the risk of SIDS. There are many companies that offer mattresses made of different materials, from foam to natural materials that are suitable for those suffering from allergies. Some even come with an 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 prevents accidental release. If your coffin has a solid bottom do not place it against the wall because it can block airflow and may contribute to the death of a coffin. According to the latest research, cots with slatted ends could be safer as they permit more airflow.

If your crib has a fixed edge choose this option as it's safer when your child begins to crawl and pull themselves up. When your child is standing and climbing, this is a sign that they're ready to move into the junior bed.

Some cots are equipped with an option that allows the base to be raised to three levels. This is a fantastic safety measure and enables your child's cot to expand with them. Some cots have adjustable footplates that are perfect for toddlers who love to stand up.

When you put your child in their cot, make sure that there isn't any obvious danger - it must be away from heat sources, power points, windows and blind cords and curtains (these pose a strangulation risk). If you're buying second-hand or heirloom furniture Be sure to check for potential choking hazards like stickers and transfers that can be removed and create a risk.

If you're unsure of what you should do to use your cot, ask other parents for advice or take part in an local NCT New Baby class. If your cot comes with a manual, read it carefully before you begin using it, and follow the safe-use instructions closely.

Style

With its gorgeous sleigh style, this gorgeous cot bed will look great in your nursery. Our panel loved the mix of natural and white pine, as well as its innovative features, like under-bed storage drawers to keep everything necessary for babies, including bedding, nappies and a stunning array of baby outfits. It is also easy to build with clear instructions and separate screws for each section. Additionally, it can be transformed into a toddler bed or desk when your child gets older (see the product description for details).

One of our favourite features are the teething rails that protect your little one from bumping their head on the cot's side or any other protruding parts of the cot like the handle or corner post, and which will also stop them from chewing on the wood, preventing them from getting in danger of being suffocated. It also features an opening that can be removed to make it easier for parents to reach their newborn. We love that the cot can be transformed into a toddler bed and that it's built to last for up to four years. It also met the strict UK safety standards, which can be found in the specifications that are listed under each product.

[[https://rial-soft.ru/bitrix/redirect.php?goto=https://www.cots4tots.co.uk/|cheap cot beds]] beds are generally bigger than cribs and can be transformed into toddler beds once your child is ready which means you don't have to worry about buying another bed at an age when they're ready to transition. However, they are pricier upfront than the standard crib.

If your nursery is very small, a crib might be the best choice for you since it is smaller and takes up less space, but if your baby is likely to spend much of their time in their parents' bedroom or you're looking for a more durable bed, you should consider a crib.

A cot isn't safe for babies to sleep in if it doesn't meet the strict UK safety standards outlined in BS EN 716 and BS 8509, which covers the thickness of mattresses, the materials used and other key elements of cot mattresses for babies. The slats shouldn't be too far apart to stop your baby from falling off.

Storage

No matter if you're a first-time parent or a seasoned one, the amount of stuff that a baby requires is overwhelming. This is the reason it's important to consider storage options when selecting the cot bed. A number of cots have additional storage options, such as drawers in the under-bed or a coordinating [[https://dammicaffe.com:443/bitrix/redirect.php?goto=https://www.cots4tots.co.uk/|top ranked cribs]] changer (available separately). Some cots are able to be converted into a toddler bed or small single beds to expand their usage.

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

(Image: [[https://cdn.freshstore.cloud/offer/images/7098/659/babylo-deluxe-drop-side-co-sleeper-bedside-travel-cot-grey-melange-pack-of-1-659.jpg|https://cdn.freshstore.cloud/offer/images/7098/659/babylo-deluxe-drop-side-co-sleeper-bedside-travel-cot-grey-melange-pack-of-1-659.jpg]])A variety of cot beds feature a hanging rail which can be used to store muslins, dummies and other small items. This allows you to keep everything organized tidy, neat and tidy and also looks amazing. The ease of access to these items will make it easier for parents when feeding their infant.

A teething rail is an additional desirable feature that is included in some cots. This can prevent your little one chewing on the wood which could cause them irritation. Some cots feature an older style and have a huge storage drawer underneath the bed, which is perfect for toys, clothes blankets, and other [[https://formula-holoda.ru/bitrix/redirect.php?event1=click_to_call&event2=&event3=&goto=https://www.cots4tots.co.uk/|Baby Crib]] necessities.

This is a great solution for those who have limited space however, you will need to purchase a drawer separately. You might need to purchase bedding and a mattress separately, as oval sheets and mattresses do not come with the cot.

This sleigh-style cot bed, [[https://www.xn--o39aw8vdll.com/member/login.html?noMemberOrder=&returnUrl=https%3a%2f%2fcots4tots.co.uk|https://www.o39aw8Vdll.Com]], stunning illustration of Scandi style at its finest. It features a huge under-bed storage compartment that's ideal to keep all baby necessities away from view but easily accessible. Our panel was able to find it straightforward to put together, thanks to the alphabetically labeled parts and clear instructions. It's suitable for babies from birth and can be made into a toddler bed once your child is ready. This means it's also a good value.