The Most Significant Issue With Cot Beds, And How You Can Repair It
How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby
When you are expecting a child it is crucial to choose a cot that can provide security and safety for your baby. Look for a cot with fixed sides (rather than drop-sides) that are in line with strict UK safety standards.
Our top choice is this simple but elegant cot from John Lewis' Anyday range. It has three mattress positions, teething bars and a storage drawer. It's also simple to put together with clear instructions.
Comfort
The most comfortable cot beds keep babies comfy and cosy. Look for a soft and comfortable fabric. Also, make sure that the mattress is fitted snugly to prevent any gaps which could cause an suffocation threat. There are many mattresses on the market that include coil springs, foam, natural materials for allergy sufferers. So do your research and select the one that is suitable for your baby's needs.
If you choose an ordinary or convertible cot, the key to comfort is a mattress of high-quality that is supportive and promotes a healthy posture. The same applies to the slats. They should be secured and not bent or sagging. The slats should also be securely connected to the frame to ensure that your child does not become caught in the movement in their sleep.
If crib sets of the mattress to purchase, talk to your family and friends or consult online reviews for suggestions. Look for ones that are air-conditioned, as they'll help to regulate temperature and are less likely to harbour bacteria.
There are many styles to pick from, including traditional sleighs with ornate details and modern, sleek designs. Some are painted in bright primary colours to make your child feel joyful and cheerful when they wake up.
There are a lot of cots that have drawers underneath to store items, teething rails to protect your baby from chewing on the side of the cot and adjustable height bases for baby growth. You can even buy a drop side for smaller babies or those who have health issues that make it difficult 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 product description or in the specifications.
Safety
When selecting a cot, an environment that is safe for sleeping should be a priority. Make sure the mattress is snug and has no gaps between it and the cot's bed sides or ends (big gaps can trap your child's head or arms). Check that the mattress is firm and thin. Mattresses that are too thick could increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies offer a range of mattresses, from simple foam to natural materials suitable for allergy sufferers and some even come with anti-microbial treatment. If your cot has drop-sides, ensure that it is locked and in the up position.
Drop sides should only be allowed to go down when an adult is in the room. This will prevent accidental release. If your cot has a solid end, avoid placing it against the wall because it will block airflow and may contribute to death in the coffin. Recent research suggests that slatted ends could be safer because they allow more airflow.
If your cot is fixed to one side, you should choose it. It's the safest option for your baby when they begin to crawl and pull themselves upward. Once your child is standing and climbing, this is a sign that they are ready to move into a junior bed.
Some cots have an option where the base can be raised to three different heights, so that it will expand with your child This is extremely practical and a great security measure. Some cots also have footplates that are adjustable, which is ideal for toddlers wanting to sit up in their beds.
When placing your child's cot be sure that there aren't any visible dangers. It should be put away from heaters and power points. Also be sure to keep it away from windows, curtains and blind cords. These can all create strangulation risks. When buying second-hand furniture or heirlooms, make sure to check for dangers to your child's health such as stickers and transfers. They can come off and pose a danger.
If you're unsure of about how to use your cot, consult other parents for advice or attend a local NCT New Baby class. If your cot comes with a guide, make sure you go through it prior to using it and follow the instructions.
Style
With its stunning sleigh design This stunning cot bed will look great in your nursery. The panel was impressed by the combination of white and natural wood as well as the innovative features like under-bed storage drawers for everything needed by babies, such as bedding, nappies and a wide selection of baby clothes. It's also easy to construct with clear instructions and screws for each section. Additionally, it can be transformed into a bed for toddlers and a desk when your child gets older (see the product description for details).
One of our favorite features are the teething rails which protect 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, and which can also stop them from chewing on the wood, preventing them from being in danger of being suffocated. It also has a drop-side to allow easier access to your baby. We appreciate that the cot could be transformed into a toddler bed and that it's strong enough to last for 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 allows you to not have to buy an entirely new bed when your child is ready to move up. However, they can be more expensive upfront than a crib that is standard.
If your nursery is small, you may think about the possibility of a crib. It is smaller and requires less space. However it is recommended to consider a cot if you are planning to spend a lot of your baby's time in your room, or if you need a bed that lasts longer, you should choose a crib.
If a cot does not meet the UK safety standards set by BS EN 716 or BS 8509 (which covers the thickness of mattresses, the materials used, and other essential elements of baby mattress cots) It is unsafe for babies to sleep. The slats should not be too wide apart to prevent your baby from falling off.
Storage
Whether you're a first-time parent or an experienced 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 crib bed. There are hop over to these guys of cots that have additional storage options such as under-bed drawers or a 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 are able to be converted into day beds, like the one shown on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is an ideal option for those who prefer an unstructured design since the conversion process is fairly simple and requires just the removal of a side panel. This allows parents to save money on a separate bed.
Some cot beds are equipped with a hanging rail that can be used to hang muslins, dolls along with other small items. This keeps everything tidy, neat and organized. It also looks fantastic. Being able to access these items will make it much easier for parents to feed their infant.
Another feature worth looking for is a teething rail which is included with cots. This will prevent your child from chewing on the wooden cot which can cause irritation. Some cots are designed with more traditional designs and have a huge under-bed storage drawer that is perfect for storing blankets, toys clothes, and other baby necessities.
While this is a great idea if you're short on space, you must remember that you will need to buy a separate additional drawer. You may need to buy a separate mattress and bedding, as oval sheets and mattresses don't come with the cot.
This sleigh-style cot bed an exquisite example of Scandi style at its finest. It has a spacious under-bed storage area that is ideal to keep all baby necessities out-of-sight but within easy access. Our panel found it very easy to put together thanks to the alphabetically labeled parts and clear instructions. It's suitable for babies as young as birth and can be made into a toddler bed when your child is ready, meaning it's good value too.