What Will Cot Beds Be Like In 100 Years

How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby

If you are expecting a child it is essential to select a cot which can provide security and safety for your baby. Find a cot with fixed sides (rather than drop-sides) that are in line with strict 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 is also easy to put together and comes with clear instructions.

Comfort

The best cot beds keep babies comfy and cosy. Look for a soft and breathable fabric and make sure the mattress fits snugly to avoid any gaps, which could create the risk of suffocation. There are many types of mattresses available - coils springs, foam, and even natural materials for allergy sufferers. Do your research to determine the best one for your child.

Whether you opt for a standard or convertible cot, the key to satisfaction is a high-quality mattress that provides proper support and promotes healthy posture. The same applies to the slats, which must be firmly attached and not sagging or bent. The slats must also be securely attached to the frame to ensure that your child does not get caught when they move during sleep.

If you're not sure which mattress to buy, ask your family members or friends or look up online reviews for suggestions. Look for ones that are breathable, as they'll help maintain temperature and are less likely to harbour bacteria.

There are many styles to pick from, including traditional sleighs with intricate details and sleek, modern designs. Some are painted in bright primary colours to make your child feel cheerful and cheerful when they wake up.

There are a lot of cots that have a drawer underneath for storage, teething rails to protect your child from chewing on the side of the cot and adjustable height bases for infant growth. You can also purchase a drop-side for infants who aren't big or suffer from medical conditions that make it difficult for them to bend over.

For extra peace of mind, look for a cot that is compliant with the strict UK safety standards and will easily transform into an infant bed when the time is right. This information is found in the product description and the specifications.

Safety

A safe sleeping environment is a must and a major factor when selecting a crib. The mattress should be able to fit snugly and there shouldn't be gaps between the mattress and the edges or sides of the cot or cot-bed (large gaps can trap the child's arms or head). Verify that the mattress is firm and thin. Thick mattresses can increase the risk of SIDS. There are many companies that offer mattresses made of a variety of materials including foam and natural materials that are good for allergy sufferers. Some have anti-microbial treatment. If your cot features drop-sides, make sure it is secured and in the upward position.

A drop side should be allowed to fall when an adult is present, this will prevent accidental release. If your coffin has a solid bottom, avoid placing it against the wall because it can block airflow and can cause coffin death. The latest research suggests that slatted ends may be safer since they permit more airflow.

If your crib has a fixed edge you should choose this because it will be safest when your child begins to crawl and then pull themselves up. When your child is confidently climbing and standing, it's the time to upgrade to a junior bed.

Some cots come with a feature that allows the base to be raised up to three different levels. This is a great security measure that allows your child's cot to expand with them. Some cots also have footplates that can be adjusted, which are ideal for toddlers who wish to sit up in their bed.

Whenever you place your child in their cot, ensure that there is no visible danger - it must be away from heat sources, power points, windows, blind cords and curtains (these are a strangulation hazard). If you are buying second-hand furniture or heirlooms, be sure to check for choking hazards such as stickers and transfers. They can come off and cause danger.

If you're not sure how to use your cot safely, ask parents around or go to an local NCT New Baby course for assistance and guidance. If your cot comes with instructions, read them carefully before using it, and then follow the safety-use guidelines carefully.

Style

This gorgeous cot bed, with its sleigh-style design will look stunning in your nursery. The panel was impressed with the mix of white and natural wood, as well as the innovative features like under-bed storage drawers that can hold everything essential for babies, including bedding, nappy and a huge selection of baby clothes. It is also easy to construct, with clear instructions and screws for each section. It can also be transformed into a toddler desk or bed as your child grows older (see the product description for more information).

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

Cot beds are usually larger than cribs and can be converted into toddler beds when your child is ready and you can avoid buying another bed until they're ready for the transition. They can be more expensive than a crib.

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 you need a bed that will last longer, you should opt for a crib sets.

If the cot you are using does not meet the UK safety standards as defined by BS EN 716 or BS 8509 (which refers to mattress thicknesses, materials and other key elements in baby mattresses for cots), it is unsafe for babies to sleep. The slats shouldn't be too close together to ensure that your child doesn't fall out.

Storage

The amount of baby stuff you'll need is a mess regardless of whether you're a first-time parent or a seasoned one. This is the reason it's important to consider storage options when choosing the cot bed. A number of cots have additional storage options, like drawers under the bed or a coordinating cot top ranked cribs changer (available separately). Some are even able to be converted to a toddler or a small single bed, which can extend their use for a longer time.

Some cots can be transformed into day beds, as shown here on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is a great option for those who like a more flexible design. The conversion is simple and only requires the removal of a single side panel. It also lets parents save money on a separate bed.

A few cot beds have a hanging rail which can be used to store muslins dolls and other small objects. This makes it easier to keep everything organised, neat and tidy and also looks amazing. These items are easily accessible to parents, making it easier for them to feed their baby.

Another desirable feature to look for is a teething rail that comes with cots. This will stop your child from chewing on the cot's wooden structure, which can cause irritation. Some cots have more traditional designs and come with a large storage drawer under the bed. It is perfect for clothes, toys blankets, baby essentials.

This is a great solution if space is an issue, but you will have to purchase a drawer separately. You may need to buy bedding and a mattress separately since oval mattresses and sheets do not come with the cot.

This sleigh cot bed from Stokke is a stunning example of Scandi-style in its finest and features a huge under-bed storage drawer that's great to keep all the baby necessities out of sight but easily reachable. Our panel of experts found it 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 transformed into a toddler bed once your child is ready, meaning it's also a good value.