20 Resources That Will Make You More Effective At Cot Beds

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

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

Our top pick is this basic but elegant coffin from John Lewis' Anyday range. 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 keep babies comfy and cosy. Find a comfortable soft and comfortable fabric. Make sure that the mattress fits snugly, to avoid any gaps that could pose a risk 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 choose the best one for your baby's needs.

Whatever you decide to use, whether a conventional cot or a convertible cot one, a comfortable mattress is essential to the comfort. It must provide the right support and promote an upright posture. The same is true for the slats, which must be secured and not sagging or bent. The slats must also be firmly fixed to the frame, so that your child does not get caught when they move in their sleep.

If you're not sure what mattress to buy, consult your family members or friends or look up online reviews for suggestions. Choose breathable mattresses, as they aid in regulating your body temperature, and are less likely to be a breeding ground for bacteria.

In terms of style there's a broad selection, from traditional sleigh styles with elaborate detailing to sleek, modern designs. Some are decorated with bright primary colors to make your child feel cheerful and happy when they wake up.

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 petite infants or those with health issues that make it difficult for them to bend over.

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

Safety

When selecting a cot, a safe sleeping environment should be a priority. 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 hold the child's arms and head). Make sure the mattress is not too firm and thin. Mattresses that are too thick could increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies offer mattresses in a variety of materials, from foam to natural materials that are good for allergy sufferers. Some even come with an anti-microbial treatment. If your cot has a drop-side, make sure it is locked and in the up position.

Drop sides should only be allowed to go down when an adult is present in the room. This prevents accidental releases. Do not place your cot against walls if it has a solid end. This can limit airflow, which could lead to coffin death. According to the most recent research, cots with slatted ends are safer since they allow for greater airflow.

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

Some cots come with features that allow the base can be raised to three different levels in order to grow with your child - this is very practical and a great safety measure. Some cheap 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 any heaters or power points. Also make sure it is away from windows, curtains and blind cords. All of these could create strangulation risks. If you're purchasing furniture that is second-hand or an heirloom Be sure to check for potential choking hazards like stickers and transfers that can be removed and pose the risk of.

If you're unsure of what you should do to use your cot, ask other parents for advice or attend an local NCT New Baby class. If your crib comes with a manual be sure to go through it before using it and follow all the directions.

Style

This gorgeous cot bed with its sleigh style will look fantastic in your nursery. Our panel loved the mix of white and natural pine, and its clever features, such as under-bed storage drawers to keep all the baby necessities like bedding, nappies and a stunning array of baby outfits. It is also easy to construct, with clear instructions and separate screws for each section. It can also be converted into a toddler's desk and bed as your child gets older (see product description for more information).

The rails for teething are among our most loved features. They keep your baby from hitting their head against the crib's side or any protruding portion of the crib, like the corner post or handle. They also prevent them from chewing the wood, and prevent them from being suffocated. There's also a drop-side to allow easier access to your newborn. We love that it can be converted into an infant bed, and it is sturdy enough to last for up to four years. It also met the strict UK safety standards. You can find these in the main specifications below each product.

Cot beds are usually larger than cribs beds and can be transformed into toddler beds once your child is ready, allowing you to avoid purchasing a bed at an age when they're ready for the transition. They may cost more than a crib.

If your nursery is small, a crib might be the best option for you as it is smaller and takes up less space, but if your child is likely to spend most of the time in their parents' room or you want a longer-lasting bed, you should consider a cot.

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 of baby mattress cots) it is not safe for babies to sleep. The slats shouldn't be too close together to ensure that your baby won't get tossed out.

Storage

The amount of baby stuff you'll need is a mess regardless of whether you're a new mom or a seasoned one. This is why it's crucial to think about storage options when choosing the right cot bed. Certain cots offer additional storage options, like drawers beneath the bed or a top changer (available separately). Some cots are able to be converted into a toddler bed or small single bed to extend their usage.

Some cots can be transformed into day beds, like the one shown here on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is a great option for those who prefer an edgier design. The conversion is easy and requires only the removal of a single side panel. This lets parents save on the cost of the purchase of a separate bed.

A few cot beds come with hanging rails that can be used to store muslins, dummies and other small items. This helps to keep everything organized, neat and tidy - and it also looks great. These items are easily accessible to parents and make it easier for parents to feed their child.

Another feature worth looking for is a teething rail which is included in a few cots. This will prevent your child from chewing on the wooden cot which can cause irritation. Some cots are designed in an older style and have a huge drawer under the bed that is ideal for storing toys, blankets clothes, and other baby essentials.

This is a great choice when space is a problem, but you will have to purchase a drawer separately. You might need to purchase a separate mattress and bedding because oval mattresses and sheets do not come with the cot.

This sleigh-style cot bed is a beautiful example of Scandi style at its finest. It features a huge under-bed storage area that is ideal to keep baby's essentials away from view but easily accessible. The alphabetically labeled components and clear instructions made it easy to put together for our panel. It's suitable for babies as young as birth and can be converted into a toddler's crib when your child is ready.