10 Inspirational Graphics About Cot Beds

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

When you are expecting your first child it is essential to select a cot which will ensure safety and security for your baby. Choose a cot that has fixed sides (rather than drop-sides), which comply with strict UK safety standards.

This slick and stylish crib is our top choice from the Anyday range of John Lewis. It has three mattress height positions, teething rails, and a storage drawer. It's also simple to put together with clear instructions.

Comfort

The best cot bed keeps infants comfortable and warm. Choose a soft, comfortable fabric. Also, make sure that the mattress is fitted snugly to prevent any gaps which could pose a suffocation risk. There are a variety of mattresses available on the market - foam, coil springs and other natural materials suitable for allergy sufferers, so do your research and select the right one for your baby's requirements.

Whether you opt for an ordinary or convertible cot, the primary factor to comfort is a good-quality mattress that is supportive and promotes a healthy posture. The same applies to the slats, which should be securely attached and not sagging or bent. The slats must also be securely attached to the frame, so that your little one doesn't get caught in them when moving during sleep.

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

There are a myriad of styles to pick from that include traditional sleighs with ornate details and modern, sleek designs. Some are even painted with bold primary colours which is great if you want your little one to wake up feeling fresh and content!

Most cots come with an under-bed drawer for storage as well as teething rails that protect your Cheap Baby Cots from chewing on the side of the cot, as well as adjustable height bases for baby growth. You can even buy drop sides for small infants or those with medical conditions that make it difficult for them to bend over.

For added peace of mind, search for a cot that complies with the strict UK safety standards and can easily transform into an infant bed when the time is right. Find this information in the description or key specs.

Safety

A safe and secure sleeping environment is an essential aspect to consider when choosing a cot. Make sure the mattress fits snugly, with no gap between it and the cot/cot bed sides or ends (big gaps could restrict your child's head or arms). Check that the mattress is not too firm and thin. Thick mattresses could increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies offer a choice of mattresses, from simple foam to natural substances for allergy sufferers. Some even contain anti-microbial treatments. If your cot has drop-sides, make sure it is secured and in the up position.

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 walls if it has an end that is solid. This could restrict airflow, which can result in death of the coffin. According to the latest research, cheap cots with slatted ends could be safer as they allow for greater airflow.

If your cot is set to one side, you should choose it. It's the safest option for your child when they begin to crawl and then pull themselves upwards. Once your child is standing and climbing, this is a sign they're ready to transition into a junior bed.

Some cots come with a feature that allows the base to be raised up to three different levels. This is a great security measure that allows the cot of your child to grow with them. Other cots come with adjustable footplates, which are ideal for toddlers wanting to sit up in their beds.

Whenever you place your child in their cot, check that there isn't any visible danger. It must be away from heat sources, power points, windows, curtains and blind cords (these pose a strangulation risk). If you're purchasing furniture from a secondhand store or an heirloom piece, check for choking hazards like stickers and transfers that may peel off and present danger.

If you are unsure what you should do to use your cot, consult other parents for help or take part in a local NCT New Baby class. If your cot comes with a guide ensure that you go through it prior to using it and follow the instructions.

Style

This stunning cot bed with its sleigh-style design will look amazing in your nursery. Our panel was impressed by the mix of white and natural pine, as well as its smart features, including drawers under the bed to store all those baby essentials like bedding, nappies and a dazzling array of baby outfits. It's also easy to put together with clear instructions and separate screws for each section. It can also be transformed into a toddler's desk and bed as your child grows older (see product description for more details).

One of our favorite features are the teething rails, which shield your little one from smacking their head against the side of the cot or any other protruding parts of the cot, like handles or a corner post. They will also stop them from chewing on the wood, preventing them from being suffocated. There's also an opening that can be dropped to make it easier for access to your newborn. We love that it can be converted into an infant bed, and that it is sturdy enough to last for up to four years. It also complies with strict UK safety standards. You can find these in the main specifications below each product.

Cot beds are usually larger than cribs and can be transformed into toddler beds when your child is ready which means you don't have to worry about purchasing a bed at an age when they're ready to transition. They are more expensive than a crib.

If your nursery is small, you might be considering a crib. It is smaller and occupies less space. However should you be planning on spending a lot of your baby's time in your bedroom or you need an item that lasts longer, you should consider a crib.

If a cot does not meet the UK safety standards as defined by BS EN 716 or BS 8509 (which covers mattress thicknesses, materials and other essential elements in baby mattress cots) it is not safe for babies to sleep. The slats shouldn't be too close together, to ensure that your child doesn't get tossed out.

Stores

No matter if you're a first-time parent or a veteran, the amount of stuff the baby will require is immense. It's important to consider storage when selecting a cot. Certain cots offer additional storage options, such as drawers under the bed or a coordinating top changer (available separately). Some can even be adapted into a toddler bed or a single bed, increasing their use for a longer time.

Some cots can be transformed into day beds, like the one shown here on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is a great choice for those who prefer an unstructured design since the process of conversion is simple and requires just the removal of a side panel. This also allows parents to save money on a separate bed.

A variety of cot beds feature hanging rails that can be used to store muslins, dummies and other small items. This allows you to keep everything organised tidy, neat and tidy - and it also looks fantastic. These items are easily accessible to parents and make it easier for parents to feed their child.

A teething rail is another important feature that's included in some cots. This will help stop your child from chewing on the wood that can cause irritation. Some cots are designed in an older style and come with a large drawer under the bed that is perfect for storing blankets, toys clothes, and other baby essentials.

This is a great solution when space is a problem but you'll need to purchase a drawer separately. You may have to purchase a separate mattress and bedding, as oval mattresses and sheets do not come with the cot sales.

This sleigh-style cot bed is an exquisite example of Scandi style at its finest. It has a spacious under-bed storage compartment that's ideal to keep all baby necessities away from view but easily accessible. Our panel of experts found it straightforward to put together, due to the alphabetically-labelled parts and clear instructions. It's suitable for infants as young as birth, and can be made into a toddler's bed once your child's ready.