How to Choose the best cot newborn Cot Beds for Your Baby

If you're expecting a child it's crucial to select the right cot that is safe and secure for your child. Choose a cot that has fixed sides, rather than drop-sides. This will be in line with UK safety standards.

Our top pick is this basic but elegant coffin from John Lewis' Anyday range. It comes with three mattress positions, teething rails as well as a storage drawer. It is also simple to put together and comes with clear instructions.

Comfort

The best cot beds keep children warm and cozy. Look for a breathable soft and comfortable fabric. Make sure the mattress is fitted snugly to avoid any gaps that could create the risk of being suffocated. There are a variety of mattresses available - foam, coils springs, and natural materials for allergy sufferers. Do your research to find the best one for your child.

No matter if you choose a standard cot or a convertible one, a comfortable mattress is vital to your comfort. It must provide the right support and encourage a healthy posture. The same is true for the slats. They should be secured and not bent or sagging. The slats need to be securely fixed to the frame, so that your child does not become caught in the movement in their sleep.

If you're not sure what mattress to purchase, talk to your family and friends or consult online reviews for recommendations. Make sure you choose a mattress that's breathable, as they'll help to regulate temperature and are less likely to harbour bacteria.

When it comes to fashion there's a variety of styles, from traditional sleigh styles with elaborate detailing to sleek, modern designs. Some are even painted with bright primary colors which is perfect when you want your baby to wake up feeling bright and content!

You'll find most cots 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 also purchase a drop-side for infants who are small or suffer from health issues that make it hard to bend over.

Look for a cot which is in compliance with the strict UK safety standards and is easily transformed into a toddler's cot when it's time. This information can be found in the product description and the key specifications.

Safety

When choosing a cot, the safety of your child's sleep should be the top priority. Make sure that the mattress is snugly fitted, with no gaps between it and the cot's bed sides or ends (big gaps can trap your child's head or arms). Make sure the mattress is firm and thin. Mattresses that are thick could increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies offer mattresses in different materials including foam and natural materials that are good for allergy sufferers. Some even come with an anti-microbial treatment. If your mattress has a drop side, ensure it is in the up position and locked securely.

Drop sides should only be allowed down only when an adult is present in the room. This prevents accidental release. Do not place your cot against the wall if it is an end that is solid. This will limit airflow, which could result in death of the coffin. According to the most recent research, cots with slatted ends could be safer as they allow for more airflow.

If your cot is fixed on one side, then you can choose it. It will be the most secure choice for your child when they start to crawl and pull themselves up. When your child is standing and climbing, this is a sign they're ready to transition into a junior bed.

Some cots feature features that allow the base can be raised to three different heights in order to grow with your child which is extremely convenient and an added safety measure. Some cots feature adjustable footplates that are ideal for toddlers who love to stand up.

Whenever you place your child in their cot, ensure that there is no obvious danger - it must be kept away from heaters and windows, power points and blind cords and curtains (these pose a strangulation risk). If you're buying second-hand or heirloom furniture be sure to look for any hazards to choking such as stickers and transfers that can peel off and present the risk of.

If you are unsure about how to use your cot, consult other parents for advice or take part in a local NCT New cheap baby cots for sale class. If your crib comes with a manual be sure to read it before using it and follow the instructions.

Style

This gorgeous cot bed with its sleigh design will look stunning in your nursery. The panel was awed by the mix of white and natural wood and the clever features like under-bed storage drawers that can hold everything essential for babies, including bedding, nappy and a wide selection of baby clothes. It's also easy to put together, with clear instructions and screws for each section. It can also be converted into a toddler bed or desk when your baby grows older (see the product's description for more details).

The teething rails are among our most loved features. They prevent your child from hitting their head against the crib's side or any protruding portion of the crib, like the corner post or handle. They also stop them from chewing on the wood and preventing them from getting suffocated. It also features an opening that can be removed to allow you to get access to your baby. We appreciate that it is able to be converted to an infant cot bed bed, and that it's sturdy enough to last for up to four years. It also met the strict UK safety standards, which you'll find in the specifications that are listed under each product.

Cot beds can be converted into toddler beds in the event that your child is old enough. This lets you not have to buy a new bed as your child gets ready to go up. They are more expensive than cribs.

If your nursery is small, you might think about a crib. It is smaller and requires less space. However, if you plan to spend a significant portion of your baby's time in the room or if you require a bed that will last longer, you should consider a cot.

A crib isn't safe for babies to sleep in if it does not meet the strict UK safety standards set out in BS EN 716 and BS 8509, which deals with mattress thicknesses, materials and other key elements of Baby Cot (you could try these out) mattresses. The slats shouldn't be too close together to ensure your baby doesn't get tossed out.

Stores

Whether you're a first-time parent or a seasoned one, the amount of stuff the baby will require is immense. This is why it's essential to think about storage options when selecting the cot bed. A number of cots have additional storage options, such as under-bed drawers or a coordinating top changer (available separately). Some can be transformed to a toddler or a small single bed, which can extend their usability for longer.

Some cots can be transformed into day beds, as shown here on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is a great option for those who prefer the flexibility of a design. The conversion is simple and only requires the removal of a single side panel. This will allow parents to save money on an additional bed.

Some cot beds have a hanging rail that can be used to hang muslins, dolls and other small objects. This makes it easier to keep everything organized, neat and tidy and also looks amazing. Having easy access to these items makes it easier for parents when feeding their child.

Another feature worth looking for is a teething rail that comes with cots. This can help to stop your child from chewing on the wood which could cause them irritation. Some cots are designed in more traditional designs and come with a large drawer under the bed that is ideal to store blankets, toys, clothes and other baby essentials.

This is a great choice when space is a problem, but you will have to purchase a drawer on your own. You may also need to buy a new mattress and bedding, as sheets and mattresses that are oval aren't typically included in the cot itself.

This sleigh-style cot bed is a beautiful illustration of Scandi style at its finest. It has a large under-bed storage area that is ideal for keeping all baby essentials out-of-sight but within easy access. Our panel of experts found it straightforward 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. This means it's a good investment too.