10 Things Everyone Hates About Cot Beds

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

When you are expecting a baby, it is important to choose a cot that will provide safety and security for your baby. Choose a cot that has fixed sides (rather than drop-sides) that meet strict UK safety standards.

This simple but stylish crib is our top pick from the Anyday collection by John Lewis. It comes with three mattress positions, teething rails and storage drawers. It is also easy to put together, and comes with clear instructions.

Comfort

The best cot beds keep baby's warm and comfortable. Look for a soft and airy fabric, and ensure that the mattress fits snugly to avoid any gaps, which could create the risk of suffocation. There are a variety of mattresses available, including foam, coils springs, and even natural materials for allergy sufferers. Do your research to determine the most suitable one for your child.

Whether you opt for an ordinary or convertible cot, the most important thing to ensure satisfaction is a high-quality mattress that is supportive and encourages healthy posture. This is also true for the slats. They should be securely attached and not bent or sagging. The slats should also be securely attached to the frame so that your little one doesn't get trapped in them while moving in their sleep.

If you're unsure of the mattress to buy, ask your family members or friends or look up online reviews for recommendations. Look for ones that are air-conditioned, as they'll help regulate temperature and are less likely to be a home for bacteria.

When it comes to fashion there's a variety of styles of styles, from traditional sleigh designs with elaborate detailing to sleek, modern designs. Some are even painted in bright primary colors which is great for those who want their baby to wake up bright and cheerful!

Most cots come with an under-bed storage drawer and teething rails that stop your child from chewing the sides of the cot and height bases that are adjustable to accommodate baby's growth. You can also buy a drop-side for infants who are small or have medical conditions that make it difficult to bend over.

To ensure your peace of mind, look for a cot that complies with the stringent UK safety standards and will easily transform into a toddler bed when the time is right. This information is found in the description of the product and the specifications.

Safety

A secure sleeping space is an essential factor when selecting a bed. Make sure the mattress fits snugly, with no gaps between it and the cot/Mini Cot Bed beds edges or sides (big gaps could restrict your child's head or arms). Verify that the mattress is firm and thin. Thick mattresses can increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies sell mattresses in various materials from foam to natural materials that are good for those suffering from allergies. Some have anti-microbial treatment. If your mattress has drop sides, make sure that it is in the up position and secured.

A drop side should be allowed to drop only if an adult is present, to prevent accidental releases. Avoid placing your cot against the wall if it is a solid end. This can limit airflow, which could lead to coffin death. The latest research suggests that slatted ends could be safer since they allow for more airflow.

If your crib has a fixed side you should choose this because it is the most secure option when your baby starts to crawl and pull themselves up. Once your child is standing and climbing, it is a sign that they are ready to move into a junior bed.

Some cots come with an option where the base can be raised to three different heights to allow it to grow with your child - this is very convenient and an added safety measure. Some cots also have footplates that are adjustable, which is ideal for toddlers who wish to stand up in their bed.

When you put your child in their cot, check that there is no visible danger. It should be away from heaters, power points, windows and blind cords and curtains (these are a strangulation hazard). When buying second-hand furniture or heirlooms, be sure to check for potential hazards to your child's safety such as labels 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 parents around or go to an local NCT New Baby course for assistance and guidance. If your cot comes with a manual, make sure you read it before using it and follow the instructions.

Style

With its beautiful sleigh design, this gorgeous cot bed will look great in your nursery. The panel was impressed with the mix of natural and white wood as well as the innovative features like drawers under the bed for all baby essentials, like bedding, nappies and an impressive array of baby clothes. It's also easy to assemble with clear instructions and separate packs of screws for each section. What's more, it can be transformed into a toddler bed or desk when your baby grows older (see the product's description for more details).

One of our favourite features is the teething rails that protect your baby from bumping their head on the cot's side or any protruding part of the cot like the handle or corner post, and which will also stop them from chewing on the wood, which prevents them from becoming suffocated. It also features an opening that can be removed to allow you to get access to your baby. We appreciate that the cot could be transformed into a toddler bed and that it's built to last up to four years. It also met the strict UK safety standards. These are listed in the key specs below each product.

Cot beds are usually larger than cribs and can be converted into toddler beds once your child is ready and you can avoid purchasing a bed at an age when they're ready to move on. They may cost more than cribs.

If your nursery isn't big enough, you might think about a crib. It is smaller and takes less space. However should you be planning to spend a significant portion of your baby's time in the room, or if you need an item that lasts longer, you should choose a crib.

If a cot does not meet the UK safety standards outlined by BS EN 716 or BS 8509 (which covers the thickness of mattresses, the materials used, and other important elements in baby mattress cots) it is not safe for babies to sleep. The slats should not be too wide apart to prevent your baby from falling off.

Storage

The amount of baby stuff you'll need is overwhelming regardless of whether you're a first-time parent or a seasoned one. It is important to think about storage when selecting a cot. A number of cots 4 tots have additional storage solutions available such as under-bed drawers or a top changer (available separately). Some can even be adapted to a toddler or a small single bed, extending their use for a longer time.

Some cot beds can be converted into a daybed, as seen here on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is a great choice for those who prefer a more flexible design. The conversion is simple and only requires the removal of ONE side panel. This also 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 and other small items. This makes everything neat, tidy and organised. It also looks fantastic. These items are easily accessible to parents which makes it easier for them to feed their baby.

A teething rail is an additional 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 are designed with more traditional designs and have a huge under-bed storage drawer that is perfect for storing blankets, toys clothing, and other baby essentials.

This is a great solution when space is a problem however, you will need to purchase a drawer on your own. You might need to purchase an additional mattress and bedding because oval sheets and mattresses do not come with the cot.

This sleigh cot from Stokke is a lovely example of Scandi-style at its Best cot for newborn and comes with a massive under-bed storage drawer that's perfect to keep all the baby necessities out of sight but within easy reach. Our panel of experts found it easy to put together thanks to alphabetically labelled parts and clear instructions. It's suitable for babies from birth and can be converted into a toddler bed once your child is ready. This means it's good value too.