20 Resources To Make You Better At Cot Beds

How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby

When you are expecting a child, it is important to choose a cot that will ensure safety and security for your baby. Look for a cot that has fixed sides rather than drop-sides. This will comply with UK safety standards.

This minimalist, elegant cot is our top choice from the Anyday range by John Lewis. It has three mattress positions, teething bars, and an storage drawer. It's also easy to assemble with clear instructions.

Comfort

The best cot beds will keep babies comfy and cosy. Choose a breathable, soft fabric. Make sure the mattress is snug to eliminate any gaps that could cause the danger of being suffocated. There are a range of mattresses available on the market including coil springs, foam, natural materials for allergy sufferers - so do your research and select the one that is suitable for your baby's needs.

If you choose a convertible or standard cot, the key to comfort is a good-quality mattress that is supportive and promotes healthy posture. The same applies to the slats, which should be securely attached and not bent or sagging. The slats must also be securely fixed to the frame, so your child doesn't get stuck in them while they move in their sleep.

Ask your friends and family for recommendations or browse online reviews. Choose breathable mattresses, as they will help regulate your body temperature, and are less likely to be a breeding ground for bacteria.

When it comes to style there's a variety of styles, from traditional sleigh styles with intricate details to sleek, contemporary designs. Some are even painted with bold primary colours which is great for those who want their little one to wake up bright and happy!

Most cots come with an under-bed storage drawer teething rails to prevent your child from chewing the sides of the cot, and height bases that can be adjusted to accommodate the growth of your baby.  best cots for newborns  can also buy a drop-side for babies who aren't big or suffer from medical conditions that make it difficult to bend over.

Choose a cot that is in compliance with the strict UK safety standard and can easily be transformed into a toddler's cot when it is time. Look for this information in the description or key specs.

Safety

A secure sleeping space is essential and a big consideration when choosing a cot. The mattress should be snugly fitted and there should be no gaps between the mattress and the sides or ends of the cot or cot-bed (large gaps could hold the child's arms and head). Verify that the mattress is firm and thin - thicker mattresses aren't recommended because they can increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies offer mattresses in various materials including foam and natural materials that are great for those suffering from allergies. Some even come with an anti-microbial treatment. If your crib has drop sides, make sure it is in the up position and locked securely.

A drop side should be allowed to fall when an adult is present, to prevent accidental releases. If your coffin has a solid edge, avoid placing it against the wall as it will block airflow and may contribute to death in the coffin. According to the most recent research, cots with slatted edges could be safer as they allow for greater airflow.

If your crib has a fixed edge choose this option as it is the most secure option when your child starts to crawl and climb up. When your child is standing and climbing, this is a sign that they are ready to transition into the junior bed.

Some cots come with a feature 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 the child. Some cots feature adjustable footplates that are ideal for toddlers who want to stand up.

When putting your child's cot in the crib, make sure there aren't any visible dangers. It should be put away from heaters and power points. Also, keep it away from windows, curtains, and blind cords. They all could create strangulation risks. If you're buying furniture from a secondhand store or an heirloom piece Be sure to check for potential hazards to choking such as stickers and transfer tapes that could be removed and create danger.

If you are unsure how to safely use your cot, consult other parents for advice or attend an local NCT New Baby class. If your cot comes with a guide, make sure you go through it prior to using it and follow all the instructions.

Style

With its beautiful sleigh design This stunning cot bed will look amazing in your nursery. The panel was awed by the combination of white and natural wood, as well as the clever features such as under-bed storage drawers for everything needed by babies, such as bedding, nappies, and a huge selection of baby clothes. It's also easy to assemble, with concise instructions and separate packs of screws for each section. It can also be converted into a toddler's desk and bed as your child grows older (see the product description for more details).

One of our favourite features is the teething rails that protect your little one from bumping their head on the cot's side or any protruding part of the cot, like handles or a corner post, and which also help stop them chewing on the wood, preventing them from being in danger of being suffocated. The cot also has a drop-side to allow easier access to your baby. We love that the cot can be transformed into a toddler bed, and that it's sturdy enough to last up to four years. It also complies with strict UK safety standards. You can find these in the key specs below each product.

Cot beds can be turned into toddler beds when your child is old enough. This lets you not have to buy a new crib when your child is ready to go up. However, they can be more expensive than the crib that is standard.

If your nursery is very small, a crib may be the best option for you as it is smaller and takes up less space, but should your baby be expected to spend much of their time in their parents' room or you're looking for a more durable bed, opt for a crib.

If a cot does not meet the UK safety standards as defined by BS EN 716 or BS 8509 (which refers to the thickness of mattresses, the materials used, and other important elements in baby cot mattresses) it is not safe for babies to sleep. The slats must not be too close together to ensure that your baby won't fall out.

Storage

No matter if you're a first-time parent or an experienced one, the amount of stuff a baby needs is staggering. It is important to think about storage when you choose a cot. A number of cots have additional storage options, like drawers under the bed or a coordinating cot top changer (available separately). Some can be transformed into a toddler bed or a single bed, increasing their use for a longer time.

Some cot beds can be further converted into a daybed as shown on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is a great option for those who prefer an edgier design. The conversion is simple and only requires the removal of a single side panel. It also lets parents save money on a bed purchase.

A few cot beds have hanging rails that can be used to store muslins Dummies, and other small items. This keeps everything tidy, neat and organized. It also looks beautiful. Having easy access to these items makes it easier for parents when feeding their child.

Another feature worth looking out for is a teething rail that is available in a few cots. This will prevent your child from chewing on the cot's wooden structure, which can cause irritation. Some cots are designed in an older style and include a large drawer under the bed that is ideal for storing blankets, toys clothing, and other baby necessities.

While this is a great option if you're running out of space, it's important to remember that you will have to purchase an extra for the drawer. It is also possible to purchase a different mattress and bedding as sheets and mattresses that are oval aren't usually included in the cot itself.

This sleigh cot bed from Stokke is a stunning example of the Scandi-style at its finest and comes with a massive under-bed storage drawer that's perfect to keep all the baby's essentials out of view but within easy reach. The alphabetically labeled parts and clear instructions made it easy to assemble our panel. It's suitable for infants from birth and can be transformed into a toddler bed once your child is ready, which means it's also a good value.