15 Reasons To Not Ignore Cot Beds

How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby

When you are expecting a baby it is crucial to select a cot which will provide safety and security for your baby. Look for a cot with fixed sides (rather than drop-sides), which comply with strict UK safety standards.

This simple but stylish crib is our top choice from the Anyday range by John Lewis. It has three mattress positions, teething bars, and storage drawers. It's also simple to put together with clear instructions.

Comfort

The best cot sets bed will keep infants comfortable and warm. Choose a soft, airy fabric, and ensure that the mattress fits snugly to avoid any gaps, which could create the risk of suffocation. There are a variety of mattresses available, including foam, coils springs, and natural materials for allergy sufferers. Do your research to determine the best cots for newborns one for your child.

Whatever you decide to use, whether a standard cot or a convertible cot the mattress is vital to your comfort. It should provide adequate support and encourage an ideal posture. The same is true for the slats. They should be firmly attached and not sagging or bent. The slats must be securely fixed to the frame, so your child isn't caught in them when moving in their sleep.

Ask your friends and family for recommendations or look at online reviews. Choose mattresses that are breathable, as they will aid in regulating your body temperature, and are less likely to be a breeding ground for bacteria.

There are a variety of styles to pick from, including traditional sleighs with ornate details and modern, sleek designs. Some are even painted with bright primary colors, which is ideal if you want your baby to wake up feeling fresh and content!

There are a lot of cots that have an under-bed drawer for storage, teething rails to protect your child from chewing on the side of the cot, and adjustable height bases for baby growth. You can even purchase a drop side for smaller infants or those with health issues that make it difficult for them to bend over.

For extra peace of mind, search for a cot that is compliant with the strict UK safety standards and will easily transform into an infant bed when the time is appropriate. This information is found in the description of the product and the key specifications.

Safety

A safe sleeping environment is a must and a major aspect to consider when choosing a bed. The mattress should be snugly fitted and there should be no gaps between the mattress and the ends or sides of the cot or cot-bed (large gaps could trap the child's arms or head). Verify that the mattress is firm and thin. Thick mattresses can increase the risk of SIDS. There are many companies that offer mattresses made of a variety of materials including foam and natural materials that are suitable for allergy sufferers. Some even come with an anti-microbial treatment. If your cot features drop-sides, ensure that it is secured and in the upward position.

Drop sides should only be permitted down only when an adult is in the room. This will prevent accidental release. If your coffin has a solid edge, avoid placing it against the wall as this will restrict airflow and may contribute to coffin death. The latest research suggests that slatted edges could be safer since they allow for more airflow.

If your cot is fixed on one side, choose it. It's the most secure option for your child when they start to crawl and then pull themselves upwards. When your child is climbing with confidence and standing, it's time to move to a junior bed.

Some cots have an option that allows the base to be raised to three levels. This is a fantastic security measure that allows your child's cot to expand with the child. Some cots feature footplates that can be adjusted to suit for toddlers who like to stand up.

When you put your child in their cot, check that there isn't any visible danger. It must be kept away from heaters, windows, power points and blind cords and curtains (these are a strangulation hazard). If you are buying second-hand furniture or heirlooms to look for any potential hazards to your child's safety such as labels and transfers. They can come off and pose a danger.

If you are unsure about how to use your cot, ask other parents for help or take part in an local NCT New Baby class. If your cot has instructions, read them carefully before you start using it, and follow the safety guidelines closely.

Style

With its beautiful sleigh design This gorgeous cot bed will look amazing in your nursery. Our panel members loved the mix of white and natural pine, and its smart features, including drawers under the bed to store everything necessary for babies, including bedding, nappies and a stunning assortment of baby clothes. It's also simple to put together, with concise instructions and separate packs of screws for each section. Additionally, it can be converted into a toddler bed or desk when your child gets older (see the product description for details).

One of our favourite features is the teething rails, which shield your little one from smacking their head against the side of the cot or any protruding part of the cot, like a handle or a corner post, and which will also stop them from chewing on the wood, preventing them from becoming trapped. The cot also has drop-sides to make it easier for you to access your newborn. We appreciate that the cot could be converted into a toddler bed and that it's sturdy enough to last for up to four years. It also complies with the stringent UK safety standards, which can be found in the key specs beneath each product.

Cot beds can be turned into toddler beds when your child is old enough. This allows you to avoid purchasing an entirely new bed as your child gets ready to make the leap. They can be more expensive than cribs.

If your nursery is small, a crib may be the best choice for you, as it's smaller and occupies less space. However, if your baby is likely to spend much of their time in their parents' rooms or you're looking for a more durable bed, you should consider a crib.

A cot isn't suitable for babies to sleep in if it doesn't meet the strict UK safety standards set out in BS EN 716 and BS 8509, which deals with mattresses' thicknesses, materials, and other important elements of baby cot mattresses. The slats should not be too close together, to ensure that your child doesn't fall out.

Stores

The amount of baby equipment you'll need is a mess regardless of whether you're a new mom or an experienced one. This is why it's crucial to consider the storage options when you choose a crib bed. Many cots to tots come with additional storage solutions available such as drawers in the under-bed or a coordinating cot top changer (available separately). Certain cots can be transformed into toddler beds or a smaller 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 a great option for those who prefer a less rigid design as the process of conversion is easy and only requires the removal of a side panel. This allows parents to save money on a separate bed purchase.

Some cot beds are equipped with a hanging rail that can be used to hang muslins and dummies and other small objects. This makes it easier to keep everything organised tidy and neat and also looks amazing. The ease of access to these items will make it much easier for parents when feeding their child.

Another desirable feature to look for is a toothing rail which is included with cots. This will stop your child from chewing on the wooden cot, which can cause 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 baby necessities.

This is a great option if space is an issue but you'll need to purchase a drawer separately. You may also need to buy a new mattress and bedding since oval mattresses and sheets are not typically included with the cot itself.

This sleigh cot from Stokke is a stunning example of the Scandi-style at its finest and has a huge under-bed storage drawer that's perfect for keeping all those baby's essentials out of view but easily reachable. Our panel found it very 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 converted into a toddler bed once your child is ready, meaning it's a good investment too.