How to Choose the best cot beds (best site) for Your Baby

When you are expecting a baby it is crucial to choose a cot that can provide security and safety for your baby. Look for a cot that has fixed sides instead of 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 has three mattress positions, teething bars, and storage drawers. It is also simple to put together and comes with clear instructions.

Comfort

The best cot beds keep children warm and cozy. Find a comfortable, soft fabric. Make sure the mattress fits snugly, to prevent any gaps that could create a risk of the mattress becoming suffocated. There are a variety of mattresses available, including coils springs, foam and natural materials for allergy-sufferers. Do your research to determine the ideal mattress for your child.

If you choose a standard or convertible cot, the most important thing to ensure comfort is a good-quality mattress that provides proper support and promotes healthy posture. The slats need to be firmly attached, and not sagging. The slats should also be secured to the frame, so that your child doesn't get trapped in them while moving during sleep.

If you're not sure what mattress to purchase, talk to friends and family or check online reviews for recommendations. Choose a mattress that is ventilated, as they'll aid in maintain temperature and are less likely to harbour bacteria.

There are a myriad of styles to choose from, including traditional sleighs with ornate details and sleek, modern designs. Some are even painted with bold primary colours which is perfect for those who want their baby to wake up feeling fresh and cheerful!

The majority of cots have an under-bed storage drawer teething rails to prevent your child from chewing on the sides of the cot and height bases that can be adjusted to accommodate your child's growth. You can also purchase drop sides for small infants or those with health issues that make it difficult for them to bend over.

To ensure your peace of mind, look for a cot that meets the stringent UK safety standards and can easily transform into a toddler bed when the time is appropriate. This information can be found in the description of the product and the specifications.

Safety

When selecting a cot, an environment that is safe for sleeping should be a priority. Make sure that the mattress is snug and has no gap between it and the cot's bed's sides or ends (big gaps can trap your child's head or arms). Check that the mattress is firm and thin. Thick mattresses can increase the risk of SIDS. There are many companies that offer mattresses made of various materials from foam to natural materials that are great for allergy sufferers. Some even have an anti-microbial treatment. 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 when an adult is present, this will prevent accidental releases. Avoid placing your cot on the wall if it is a solid end. This will restrict airflow, which can cause death in the coffin. The latest research suggests that slatted edges could be safer since they allow for more airflow.

If your cot has a fixed side you should choose this because it's safer when your child begins to crawl and climb up. Once your child is confidently standing and climbing, it is a sign that they are ready to move into the junior bed.

Some cots are equipped with an option that allows the base to be raised to three different levels. This is a great security feature that allows your child's cot to grow with them. Some cots also have footplates that can be adjusted, which are great for toddlers who want to stand up in their bed.

When you place your child's cot be sure that there aren't any visible dangers. It should be kept away from any heaters or power points. Also be sure to keep it away from windows, curtains and blind cords. They all could create strangulation risks. If you're buying furniture that is second-hand or an heirloom be sure to look for any hazards to choking such as stickers and transfers that may be removed and create a risk.

If you're unsure of what you should do to use your cot, consult other parents for help or go to an local NCT New Baby class. If your crib comes with a manual, make sure you go through it before using it and follow all the directions.

Style

With its beautiful sleigh design, this gorgeous cot bed will look great in your nursery cots. 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 needed by babies, such as bedding, nappy and an impressive array of baby clothes. It's also easy to assemble with clear instructions and separate packs of screws for each section. It can also be transformed into a toddler desk or bed as your child gets older (see product description for more details).

One of our favourite features is the teething rails which protect your baby from smacking their head against the side of the cot or any 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 being trapped. It also features a drop-side to make it easier for you to get access to your cheap baby cots. We are thrilled that it can be converted to an infant bed, and that it's built to last 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 turned into toddler beds if your child is old enough. This lets you avoid purchasing a new bed as your child gets ready to go up. They can be more expensive than recommended cribs.

If your nursery is small, you might want to consider a crib. It is smaller and takes less space. However, if you plan to spend a lot of your baby's time in your room or you need a bed that will last longer, you should opt for a crib.

If a cot doesn't meet the UK safety standards outlined by BS EN 716 or BS 8509 (which covers the thickness of mattresses, the materials used, and other important elements in baby mattress cots), it is unsafe for babies to sleep. The slats should not be too close together to ensure that your baby won't fall off.

Storage

If you're a new parent or a veteran the amount of things a baby needs is staggering. This is why it's crucial to think about storage options when choosing the right crib bed. Some cots come with additional storage options, like drawers beneath the bed or a top changer (available separately). Some cots are able to be converted into a toddler bed or small single bed to increase their usage.

Some cot beds can be adapted into a day bed, as seen here on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is an ideal option for those who prefer more flexible designs as the conversion process is simple and involves the removal of one side panel. This will allow parents to save on the cost of a separate bed.

A number of cot beds feature a hanging rail which can be used to store muslins dummies and other small items. This makes everything neat, tidy and organized. It also looks great. The ease of access to these items makes it easier for parents when feeding their baby.

Another thing to look out for is a teething rail that is available in a few cots. This will stop your child from chewing on the wooden cot which could cause irritation. Some cots are designed in a more traditional style and include a large drawer under the bed that is ideal for storing toys, blankets clothes, and other baby essentials.

This is a great choice if space is an issue however, you will need to purchase a drawer on your own. You may have to purchase an additional mattress and bedding, as 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 large under-bed storage compartment that's ideal to keep Baby Cot Bed's essentials out-of-sight but within easy access. The alphabetically labeled parts and clear instructions made it easy to assemble for our panel. It's suitable for babies from birth and can be converted into a toddler bed once your child is ready. This means it's also a good value.