How to Choose the Best Cot Bed s for Your Baby
When you are expecting a child it is crucial to choose a cot that can provide security and safety for your baby. Look for a cot that has fixed sides, rather than drop-sides. This will comply with UK safety standards.

This slick and elegant coffin is our top choice from the Anyday range of John Lewis. It comes with three mattress height positions, teething rails as well as a storage drawers. It is also easy to put together and comes with clear instructions.
Comfort
The best cot bed keeps infants comfortable and warm. Choose a breathable soft, soft fabric. Make sure the mattress fits snugly, to eliminate any gaps that could pose the risk of the mattress becoming suffocated. There are many mattresses available - foam, coil springs and other natural materials suitable for allergy sufferers - so do your research and select the right one for your baby's needs.
If you choose an ordinary or convertible cot, the key to comfort is a good-quality mattress that is supportive and promotes healthy posture. The slats must be secured and not sliding. The slats must also be secured to the frame, so your little one doesn't get trapped in them while moving in their sleep.
If you're not sure what mattress to purchase, talk to friends and family or check online reviews for recommendations. Choose breathable mattresses, as they will help regulate your body temperature and less likely to hold bacteria.
There are many styles to choose from, including traditional sleighs with intricate details and sleek, modern designs. Some are even painted with vibrant primary colours, which is ideal if you want your child to wake up feeling fresh and content!
Most cots come with an under-bed drawer for storage and teething rails to guard your child from chewing on the side of the cot, and adjustable height bases to accommodate baby's growth. You can also purchase a drop-side for infants who are small or have medical conditions that make it difficult to bend over.
Find a cot that is in compliance with the strict UK safety standard and is easily transformed into a toddler's cot when it is time. This information can be found in the description of the product and the key specifications.
Safety
A secure sleeping space is a must and a major consideration when choosing a bed. The mattress should be snugly fitted and there should be no gaps between the mattress and the sides or ends of the cot/cot-bed (large gaps can restrict the child's arms or head). Verify that the mattress is firm and thin. Thicker mattresses aren't recommended, since they could increase the risk of SIDS. There are many companies that offer mattresses made of a variety of materials from foam to natural materials that are good for those suffering from allergies. Some even have an anti-microbial treatment. If your cot has a drop-side, make sure it is secured and in the up position.
A drop side should be allowed to drop only if an adult is present, this will prevent accidental release. Avoid placing your cot on a wall if it has an end that is solid. This can limit airflow, which could result in death of the coffin. Recent research suggests that slatted ends may be safer as they allow more airflow.
If your cot is fixed to one side, you should choose it. It's the most secure option for your baby when they begin to crawl and then pull themselves upwards. When your child is confidently standing and climbing, this is a sign that they're ready to move into the junior bed.
Some cots have an option where the base can be raised to three different heights, so that it will expand with your child which is extremely convenient and an added security measure. Other cots come with footplates that are adjustable, which is ideal for toddlers wanting to sit up in their bed.
When you put your child in their cot, make sure that there isn't any visible danger - it must be kept away from heaters or power points, windows, blind cords and curtains (these can be strangulation hazards). If you're purchasing furniture from a secondhand store or an heirloom piece be sure to look for any hazards to choking such as stickers and transfer tapes that could peel off and present danger.
If you're not sure what you should do to use your cot, consult other parents for help or take part in 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 instructions.
Style
With its gorgeous sleigh style This stunning cot bed will look great in your nursery. Our panel was impressed by the mix of natural and white pine, as well as its smart features, including under-bed storage drawers to keep everything necessary for babies, including nappies, bedding, and an enviable assortment of baby clothes. It's also simple to build with clear instructions and separate screws for each section. What's more, it can be transformed into a bed for toddlers and a desk when your child gets older (see the product description for more details).
The teething rails are among our most loved features. They keep your baby from hitting their head on the crib's side or any protruding part of the crib, such as the handle or corner post. They also stop them from chewing on the wood, and prevent them from being suffocated. The cot also has a drop-side for easier access to your infant. browse around here appreciate that it is able to be converted to an infant bed, and it's sturdy enough to last for up to four years. It also meets the strict UK safety standards, which can be found in the main specifications beneath each product.
Cot beds are generally bigger than cribs and can be converted into toddler beds once your child is ready, allowing you to avoid purchasing a new bed at an age when they're ready to transition. However, they are more expensive than a crib that is standard.
If your nursery is small, you may want to consider a crib. It is smaller and takes less space. However it is recommended to consider a cot if you are planning on spending a lot of your baby's time in your room or you need a bed that will last longer, you should opt for a cot.
A cot isn't safe for babies to sleep in if it does not meet the strict UK safety standards outlined in BS EN 716 and BS 8509, which deals with mattresses' thicknesses, materials, and other key elements of cot mattresses for babies. The slats shouldn't be too close together to ensure that your child doesn't get tossed out.
Stores
If you're a new parent or an experienced one, the amount of stuff the baby will require is immense. This is the reason it's important to think about storage options when selecting the cot bed. There are a variety of cots that have additional storage options such as drawers in the under-bed or a coordinating cot top changer (available separately). Some cots can be converted into a toddler bed or small single bed to extend their use.
Some cots can be converted into day beds, as shown on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is a great choice for those who prefer a more flexible design. The conversion is simple and only requires the removal of a single side panel. This allows parents to save on the cost of a separate bed.
A few cot beds feature hanging rails that can be used to store muslins, dummies and other small items. This helps keep everything neat, tidy and organised. It also looks great. Having easy access to these items makes it easier for parents to feed their baby.
Another thing to look out for is a teething rail that comes in a few cots. This will stop your child from chewing on the wooden cot which could cause irritation. Some cots are designed with an older style and include a large under-bed storage drawer that is perfect for storing toys, blankets clothes, and other baby essentials.
While this is a great idea for when you're in a tight space, it's important to keep in mind that you'll need to buy a separate extra drawer. You may need to buy bedding and a mattress separately, as oval sheets and mattresses do not come with the cot.
This sleigh-style cot bed is an exquisite example of Scandi style at its best. It has a spacious under-bed storage space that is perfect to keep all baby necessities out of sight but still easily accessible. Our panel was able to find it easy to put together due to the alphabetically-labelled parts and clear instructions. It's suitable for babies as young as birth, and can be transformed into a toddler's bed when your child's ready.