10 Undeniable Reasons People Hate Cot Beds

How to Choose the best crib Cot Beds for Your Baby

If you're expecting a child it's crucial to select the right cot that is secure and safe for your baby. Choose a cot beds for sale that has fixed sides (rather than drop-sides) that are in line with strict UK safety standards.

This minimalist, elegant cot is our top choice from the Anyday range of John Lewis. It comes with three mattress positions, teething rails as well as a storage drawer. It's also easy to set up with clear instructions.

Comfort

The best cot beds keep baby's warm and comfortable. Choose a soft, breathable fabric and make sure the mattress is snug to prevent any gaps which could pose an suffocation threat. There are a range of mattresses available on the market that include coil springs, foam, natural materials for allergy sufferers - so do your research and choose the right one for your baby's requirements.

It doesn't matter if you pick a conventional cot or a convertible one, a comfortable mattress is vital to your ease of use. It should provide adequate support and promote a healthy posture. This is also true for the slats, which should be secured and not sagging or bent. The slats should also be securely attached to the frame, so your child doesn't get stuck in them while they move in their sleep.

If you're not sure which mattress to buy, ask your family and friends or consult online reviews for recommendations. Make sure you choose a mattress that's ventilated, as they'll aid in to regulate temperature and are less likely to harbor bacteria.

When it comes to fashion, there's a wide choice of styles, from traditional sleigh designs with intricate details to sleek, contemporary designs. Some are even painted in vibrant primary colours which is great when you want your child to wake up feeling fresh and content!

The majority of affordable cots have a drawer for storage underneath 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. You can also purchase drop sides for small babies or those with medical conditions that make it difficult to bend over.

To ensure your peace of mind, search for a cot that complies with the strict UK safety standards and can easily convert into an infant bed when the time is appropriate. This information is available in the description of the product and key specifications.

Safety

When choosing a cot, the safety of your child's sleep should be the top priority. Make sure that the mattress fits snugly, with no gaps between it and the cot's beds edges or sides (big gaps could restrict your child's head or arms). Verify that the mattress is solid and thin - more thick mattresses aren't recommended because they can increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies sell mattresses in different materials including foam and natural materials that are suitable for allergy sufferers. Some have anti-microbial treatment. If your mattress has a drop side, ensure it is in the upward position and secured.

A drop side should only be allowed to drop only when an adult is present - this prevents accidental release. If your coffin has a solid edge be sure to avoid placing it against the wall as it will block airflow and could cause death in the coffin. According to the most recent research, cots with slatted ends may be safer because they permit more airflow.

If your cot has a fixed side you should choose this because it is the most secure option when your child begins to crawl and pull themselves up. When your child is confidently standing and climbing, it is a sign they're ready to move into the junior bed.

Some cots have a feature where the base can be raised to three different levels to allow it to grow with your child - this is very useful and is a safety measure. Some cots also have footplates that can be adjusted, which are great for toddlers who want to sit up in their beds.

Whenever you place your child in their cot, check that there isn't any obvious danger - it must be away from heat sources and windows, power points and blind cords and curtains (these are a strangulation hazard). When purchasing second-hand furniture, or heirlooms to look for any choking hazards such as stickers and transfers. They may peel off and pose a danger.

If you're unsure about how to use your cot in a safe manner, ask other parents or attend a local NCT New Baby course for assistance and guidance. If your cot has a manual, read it carefully before you begin using it, and be sure to follow the safe-use instructions closely.

Style

With its gorgeous sleigh style, this gorgeous cot bed will look great in your nursery. Our panel loved the mix of natural and white pine, and its innovative features, like drawers under the bed to store everything necessary for babies, including bedding, nappies and a stunning variety of baby outfits. It's also easy to put together with clear instructions and screws for each section. What's more, it can be transformed into a bed for toddlers and a desk when your baby grows older (see the product description for details).

One of our favourite features is the teething rails which protect your little one from bumping their head on the side of the cot or any protruding parts of the cot like handles or a corner post, and which also help stop them chewing on the wood, preventing them from getting trapped. The cot also has a drop-side to allow easier access to your newborn. We appreciate that it is able to be converted to a toddler bed, and that it is sturdy enough to last for four years. It also met strict UK safety standards. You can find these in the specifications below for each product.

Cot beds can be converted into toddler beds when your child is old enough. This lets you avoid purchasing a new crib when your child's ready to move up. However, they are more expensive upfront than a crib that is standard.

If your nursery is very small, a crib sets may be the best choice for you as it is smaller and occupies less space. However, if your child is likely to spend much of their time in their parents' bedroom or you're looking for a more durable bed, opt for a cot.

If the cot you are using does not meet the UK safety standards outlined by BS EN 716 or BS 8509 (which cover mattress thicknesses, materials and other essential elements of baby mattress cots), it is unsafe for babies to sleep. The slats should not be too far apart to prevent your baby from falling off.

Storage

If you're a new parent or a seasoned one, the amount of stuff a cheap baby cots for sale needs is staggering. This is why it's essential to consider storage options when choosing the crib bed. Some cots come with additional storage options, such as drawers beneath the bed or a coordinating top changer (available separately). Some can be transformed into a toddler or small single bed, increasing their use for a longer time.

Some cot beds can be further adapted into a day bed like this one on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is an ideal option for those who prefer more flexible designs as the process of conversion is simple and involves the removal of a side panel. This allows parents to save money on a bed purchase.

A few cot beds have a hanging rail which can be used to store muslins, dolls and other small objects. This helps keep everything neat, tidy and organized. It also looks beautiful. These items are easily accessible to parents and make it easier for them to feed their baby.

A teething rail is another important feature that's included in some cots. This will stop your child from chewing on the cot's wooden structure, which could cause irritation. Some cots feature an older style and include a large storage drawer under the bed. It is perfect for toys, clothes blankets, baby essentials.

While this is a great idea for when you're running out of space, it's important to keep in mind that you'll require a separate extra drawer. It is also possible to purchase a different mattress and bedding, as oval mattresses and sheets aren't usually included in the cot itself.

This sleigh cot from Stokke is a lovely example of the Scandi-style at its finest and features a huge under-bed storage drawer that's ideal to keep all the baby necessities out of sight but easily reachable. Our panel of experts found it straightforward to put together, thanks to the alphabetically labeled parts and clear instructions. It's suitable for babies as young as birth and can be transformed into a toddler bed when your child is ready, which means it's good value too.