10 Top Mobile Apps For Cot Beds

How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby

If you are expecting a child it is crucial to select a cot which can provide security and safety for your baby. Find a cot which has fixed sides rather than drop-sides. This will be in line with UK safety standards.

This simple but stylish cot is our top pick from the Anyday collection by John Lewis. It has three mattress height positions, teething rails as well as a storage drawers. It's also simple to put together with clear instructions.

Comfort

The best cot beds (Check Out King Bookmark) keep babies comfy and cosy. Choose a soft, airy fabric, and ensure that the mattress is fitted snugly to avoid any gaps, which could create the risk of suffocation. There are a variety of mattresses available - foam, coils springs, and natural materials for allergy-sufferers. Do your research to find the most suitable one for your child.

It doesn't matter if you pick a standard cot or a convertible cot the mattress is essential to ease of use. It should provide adequate support and encourage an upright posture. The same applies to the slats, which must be securely attached and not bent or sagging. The slats must also be secured to the frame so that your child isn't caught in them when moving in their sleep.

If you're not sure which mattress to buy, ask friends and family or check online reviews for suggestions. Choose mattresses that are breathable, as they can aid in regulating your body temperature and less likely to be a breeding ground for bacteria.

There are a myriad of styles to pick from that include traditional sleighs with elaborate details and sleek, modern designs. Some are decorated with bright primary colors to make your child feel joyful and cheerful as they awake.

Most cots come with an under-bed storage drawer, teething rails that prevent your child from chewing on the sides of the cot and height bases that can be adjusted to accommodate baby's growth. You can also purchase a drop side for petite babies or those with health issues that make it difficult for them to bend over.

Find a cot that meets the strict UK safety standard and is easily transformed into a toddler's bed when it's time. Look for this information in the description or key specs.

Safety

When selecting a cot, an environment that is safe for sleeping should be the top priority. Make sure the mattress fits snugly, with no gaps between it and the cot/cot bed's sides or ends (big gaps can restrict your child's head or arms). Verify that the mattress is solid and thin - more thick mattresses aren't recommended, since they could increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies offer mattresses in various materials from foam to natural materials that are great for allergy sufferers. Some even come with an anti-microbial treatment. If your mattress has an inclined side, make sure that it is in the up position and secured.

Drop sides should only be allowed to fall when an adult is in the room. This can prevent accidental release. Avoid placing your cot on walls if it has a solid end. This can restrict airflow, which can result in death of the coffin. The latest research suggests that slatted ends may be safer since they allow more airflow.

If your cot is fixed on one side, choose it. It's the most secure option for your child when they start to crawl and pull themselves up. When your child is climbing with confidence and standing, it's time to upgrade to a junior bed.

Some cots feature a feature where the base can be raised to three different heights in order to expand with your child - this is very convenient and an added safety measure. Other cots 4 tots come with adjustable footplates, which are ideal for toddlers who wish to sit up in their bed.

When putting your child's cot in the crib be sure that there aren't any visible dangers. It should be placed away from power and heater points. Also be sure to keep it away from windows, curtains and blind cords. They all could create strangulation risks. If you're purchasing furniture that is second-hand or an heirloom, check for hazards to choking such as stickers and transfers that may peel off and present the risk of.

If you're not sure 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 has a manual, read it carefully before you begin using it, and be sure to follow the safety guidelines closely.

Style

With its beautiful sleigh design This stunning cot bed will look great in your nursery. The panel was impressed by the mix of white and natural wood and the innovative features like under-bed storage drawers that can hold everything essential for babies, including bedding, nappy and an impressive array of baby clothes. It's also a breeze to put together, with concise instructions and separate sets of screws for each section. It can also be converted into a toddler's desk and bed when your child gets older (see product description for more information).

The teething rails are among our most loved features. They prevent your child from hitting their head against the crib's side or any other protruding part of the crib, like the handle or corner post. They also prevent them from chewing on the wood and also preventing them from getting suffocated. The cot also has a drop-side for easier access to your newborn. We love that the cot can be transformed into a toddler bed, and that it's strong enough to last for four years. It also complies with the stringent UK safety standards, which you'll find in the key specs beneath each product.

Cot beds are generally bigger than cribs beds and can be turned into toddler beds when your child is ready which means you don't have to worry about buying another bed until they're ready for the transition. However, they are more expensive than the standard crib.

If your nursery is very small, a crib could be the best choice for you since 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 want a longer-lasting bed, consider a cot.

A cot isn't safe for babies to sleep in if it doesn't meet the strict UK safety standards as outlined in BS EN 716 and BS 8509, which covers the thickness of mattresses, the materials used and other key elements of cot mattresses for baby. The slats should not be too far apart to stop your baby from falling out.

Stores

If you're a new parent or a seasoned one the amount of things the baby will require is immense. It's important to consider storage when choosing a cot-bed. Many cots come with additional storage options, such as under-bed drawers or a coordinating cot top changer (available separately). Certain cots can be transformed into an infant cot bed bed or a small single beds to expand their use.

Some cot beds can be transformed into a daybed like this one on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is a great option for those who like an edgier design. The conversion is simple and only requires the removal of a single side panel. This will allow parents to save on the cost of a separate bed.

Some cot beds are equipped with hanging rails that can be used to hang muslins, dolls along with other small things. This makes it easier to keep everything organised tidy and neat and also looks great. These items are easily accessible to parents, making it easier for parents to feed their child.

Another desirable feature to look for is a teething rail which is included in a few cots. This can help to prevent your little one chewing on the wood that could cause irritation. Some cots are designed in an older style and come with a large under-bed storage drawer that is ideal for storing toys, blankets, clothes and other baby essentials.

This is a great choice when space is a problem however, you will need to purchase a drawer separately. You may need to buy an additional mattress and bedding since oval mattresses and sheets do not come with the cot.

This sleigh-style cot bed is stunning illustration of Scandi style at its finest. It has a large under-bed storage space that is perfect for keeping all Baby Cot essentials out-of-sight but within easy access. Our panel of experts found it straightforward to put together, due to the alphabetically-labelled parts and clear instructions. It's suitable for infants from birth and can be transformed into a toddler bed once your child is ready, which means it's good cribs value too.