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How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby<br />If you're expecting a baby it is essential to select a cot that will be secure and safe for your little one. Choose a cot that has fixed sides (rather than drop-sides) that meet strict UK safety standards.<br />Our top pick is this basic but elegant coffin from John Lewis' Anyday range. It comes with three mattress positions, teething rails and storage drawers. It is also simple to put together and comes with clear instructions.<br />Comfort<br />The best cot bed will keep infants comfortable and warm. Find a comfortable soft and comfortable fabric. Make sure that the mattress fits snugly, to eliminate any gaps that could cause the risk of the mattress becoming suffocated. There are many mattresses available on the market - foam, coil springs and natural materials for allergy sufferers - so do your research and choose the best one for your baby's needs.<br />No matter if you choose a standard cot or a convertible cot one, a comfortable mattress is crucial to ensure your ease of use. It should provide proper support and promote a healthy posture. The same is true for the slats, which must be securely attached and not bent or sagging. The slats must be securely attached to the frame, so your child isn't caught in them when moving in their sleep.<br />If you're unsure of the mattress to buy, consult your family and friends or consult online reviews for recommendations. Select mattresses that are breathable, since they can help regulate your body temperature and less likely to harbor bacteria.<br />There are a myriad of styles to choose from that include traditional sleighs with ornate details and modern, sleek designs. Some are even painted with vibrant primary colours, which is ideal for those who want their child to wake up feeling fresh and content!<br />The majority of cots have an under-bed storage drawer, teething rails that prevent your child from chewing the sides of the cot and height bases that can be adjusted to accommodate your child's growth. You can also purchase a drop-side for babies who aren't big or suffer from health issues that make it difficult to bend over.<br />To ensure your peace of mind, search for a cot that complies with the stringent UK safety standards and can easily transform into a toddler bed when the time is appropriate. Look for this information in the product description or in the specifications.<br />Safety<br />When selecting a cot, an environment that is safe for sleeping should be a priority. The mattress should be snugly fitted and there shouldn't be gaps between the mattress and the sides or ends of the cot/cot-bed (large gaps could trap the child's arms or head). Check that the mattress is firm and thin. Mattresses that are thick could increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies sell mattresses in different materials from foam to natural materials that are good for those suffering from allergies. Some even come with an anti-microbial treatment. If your cot has a drop-side, make sure it is secured and in the up position.<br />A drop side should be allowed to go down only when an adult is present; this prevents accidental release. If your coffin has a solid edge do not place it against the wall because it can block airflow and could cause death in the coffin. Recent research suggests that slatted edges could be safer as they permit more airflow.<br />If your cot has a fixed side choose this option as it will be safest when your child starts to crawl and pull themselves up. If your child is confidently climbing and standing, it's time to move to a junior bed.<br />Some cots feature a feature where the base can be raised to three different levels in order to grow with your child which is extremely convenient and an added safety measure. Other cots come with adjustable footplates, which are great for toddlers who want to sit up in their bed.<br />When placing your child's cot ensure there are no visible hazards. It should be put away from any heaters or power points. Also be sure to keep it away from windows, curtains, and blind cords. They all could create strangulation risks. If you're buying furniture that is second-hand or an heirloom Be sure to check for potential hazards to choking such as stickers and transfers that may peel off and present danger.<br />If you're not sure how to safely use your cot, ask other parents for help or take part in an local NCT New Baby class. If your cot comes with a manual be sure to go through it prior to using it and adhere to the directions.<br />Style<br />This gorgeous cot bed, with its sleigh-style design will look stunning in your nursery. Our panel members loved the mix of natural and white pine, and its clever features, such as under-bed storage drawers to keep all the baby necessities like nappies, bedding, and an enviable assortment of baby clothes. It's also easy to assemble with clear instructions and separate sets of screws for each section. It could also be transformed into a toddler's desk and bed as your child gets older (see the product description for more details).<br />The teething rails are among our top features. They stop your child from hitting their head against the side of the crib or any other protruding part of the crib, such as the handle or corner post. They also stop them from chewing the wood, and prevent them from suffocating. [https://www.cots4tots.co.uk/ great crib www.cots4tots.co.uk] has an opening that can be dropped to make it easier for access to your newborn. We appreciate that the cot could be converted into a toddler bed and that it's sturdy enough to last for up to four years. It also met the strict UK safety standards, which can be found in the key specs beneath each product.<br />Cot beds can be converted into toddler beds if your child is old enough. This allows you to not have to buy a new bed when your child's ready to make the leap. However, they are more expensive upfront than the crib that is standard.<br />If your nursery isn't big enough, you might be considering the possibility of a crib. It is smaller and occupies less space. However, if you plan to spend a significant portion of your baby's time in your room or you need a bed that lasts longer, you should choose a crib.<br />If a cot doesn't meet the UK safety standards as defined by BS EN 716 or BS 8509 (which covers mattress thicknesses, materials and other essential elements in baby mattress cots), it is unsafe for babies to sleep. The slats must not be too wide apart to prevent your baby from falling off.<br />Stores<br />The amount of baby stuff you need is overwhelming, regardless of whether you're a new mom or a seasoned one. This is why it's essential to think about storage options when selecting a crib bed. Many cots come with additional storage solutions available like drawers under the bed or a coordinating top changer (available separately). Some can be transformed into a toddler or small single bed, extending their usability for longer.<br />Some cot beds can be transformed into a daybed as shown on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is a great option for those who prefer a less rigid design as the process of conversion is simple and involves the removal of a side panel. This lets parents save on the cost of the purchase of a separate bed.<br />A number of cot beds come with hanging rails that can be used to store muslins, dolls and other small objects. This makes it easier to keep everything organised, neat and tidy - and it also looks amazing. These items are easily accessible to parents and make it easier for them to feed their baby.<br />Another feature worth looking for is a teething rail that comes with cots. This can help to prevent your little one chewing on the wood which could cause irritation. Some cots have more traditional designs and come with a large storage drawer beneath the bed, which is perfect for clothes, toys, blankets and other baby essentials.<br />While this is a great idea for when you're in a tight space, it's important to remember that you will have to purchase an extra for the drawer. You may also have to purchase a different mattress and bedding as oval mattresses and sheets are not typically included with the cot itself.<br />This sleigh-style cot bed a beautiful example of Scandi style at its finest. It features a huge under-bed storage compartment that's ideal to keep all baby necessities out-of-sight but within easy access. The alphabetically labeled components and clear instructions made it simple to assemble our panel. It's suitable for babies as young as birth and can be made into a toddler bed once your child is ready, meaning it's good value too.<br />