What Is The Future Of 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 important to choose a cot that can provide security and safety for your baby. Find a cot with fixed sides (rather than drop-sides), which comply with strict UK safety standards.

This minimalist, elegant coffin is our top pick from the Anyday range of John Lewis. It comes with three mattress positions, teething bars, and storage drawers. It's also easy to set up with clear instructions.

Comfort

The best cot beds keep babies comfy and cosy. Look for a soft and airy fabric, and ensure that the mattress is snug to avoid any gaps, which could pose a suffocation risk. There are a range of mattresses available on the market including coil springs, foam and other natural materials suitable for allergy sufferers - so do your research and select the best one for your baby's requirements.

Whether you opt for a standard or convertible cot, the primary factor to comfort is a good-quality mattress that provides proper support and promotes a healthy posture. The slats must be firmly attached, and not sliding. The slats must also be securely fixed to the frame, so your child doesn't get caught in them when moving in their sleep.

If you're unsure of the mattress to buy, ask your family and friends or consult online reviews for suggestions. Select mattresses that are breathable, since they can help you regulate your body temperature, and are less likely to hold bacteria.

When it comes to fashion, there's a wide choice, from traditional sleigh styles with intricate details to sleek, contemporary designs. Some are even painted in vibrant primary colours which is perfect when you want your child to wake up feeling bright and cheerful!

There are a lot of cots that have a drawer underneath for storage and teething rails to guard your baby from chewing on the sides of the cot and adjustable height bases for infant growth. You can even buy drop sides for small cot beds babies or those who have health issues that make it difficult to bend over.

Choose a cot that is compliant with the strict UK safety standards and can easily be converted into a toddler's bed when it's time. This information is found in the description of the product and key specifications.

Safety

A safe and secure sleeping environment is essential and a big consideration when choosing a bed. The mattress should fit snugly and there should be no gaps between the mattress and the ends or sides of the cot/cot-bed (large gaps could restrict the child's arms or head). Verify that the mattress is firm and thin. Thick mattresses can increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies offer a range of mattresses, from simple foam to natural materials suitable for allergy sufferers. Some even contain anti-microbial treatments. If your cot has drop-sides, ensure that it is locked and in the upward position.

A drop side should be allowed to go down when an adult is present; to prevent accidental releases. Do not place your cot against 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 edges could be safer as they allow more airflow.

If your crib has a fixed side you should choose this because it's safer when your baby starts to crawl and climb up. Once your child is confidently standing and climbing, it is a sign that they're ready to move into a junior bed.

Some cots have an option where the base can be raised to three different levels, so that it will grow with your child This is extremely useful and is a security measure. Some cots and tots also have footplates that are adjustable, which is ideal for toddlers wanting to sit up in their bed.

When placing your child's cot be sure that there are no visible hazards. It should be put away from heaters and power points. Also, keep it away from windows, curtains and blind cords. They all could present a strangulation threat. When purchasing second-hand furniture, or heirlooms, make sure to look for any choking hazards such as stickers and transfers. They can come off and create a risk.

If you're unsure about how to use your cot in a safe manner, ask other parents or visit an local NCT New Baby course for assistance and guidance. If your cot has instructions, read them carefully before you start using it, and be sure to follow the safe-use instructions closely.

Style

This stunning cot bed with its sleigh design will look stunning in your nursery. Our panel members loved the mix of white and natural pine, and its smart features, including under-bed storage drawers to keep all those baby essentials like nappies, bedding and a dazzling variety of baby outfits. It's also easy to assemble with clear instructions and separate sets of screws for each section. It can also be converted into a toddler desk or bed when your child gets older (see the product description for more information).

The rails for teething are among our top features. They prevent your baby from hitting their head on the crib's side or any protruding part of the crib, such as the corner post or handle. They also stop them from chewing on the wood, and prevent them from getting suffocated. There's also an opening that can be dropped to make it easier for access to your newborn. We are thrilled that it can be converted into a toddler bed, and that it's sturdy enough to last for up to four years. It also complies with the stringent UK safety standards, which you'll find in the specifications that are listed under each product.

Cot beds can be turned into toddler beds when your child is old enough. This allows you to avoid buying a new crib as your child gets ready to go up. However, they can be more expensive upfront than a standard crib.

If your nursery is small, a crib could be the best cot bed choice for you as it is smaller and takes up less space, but should your baby be expected to spend a lot of time in their parents' rooms or you'd like a more long-lasting bed, consider a crib.

If a cot doesn't meet the UK safety standards set by BS EN 716 or BS 8509 (which cover the thickness of mattresses, the materials used, and other essential elements in baby mattress cots) it is not safe for babies to sleep. The slats shouldn't be too far apart to prevent your cheap baby cots from falling off.

Storage

If you're a new parent or a seasoned one the amount of things the baby will require is immense. This is why it's crucial to think about storage options when selecting the right crib bed. Certain cots offer additional storage options, including drawers under the bed or a coordinating top changer (available separately). Some cots are able to be converted into toddler beds or a smaller single bed to increase their usage.

Some cots can be converted into day beds, like the one shown here on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is a great choice for those who prefer more flexible designs as the process of conversion is easy and only requires the removal of a side panel. This allows parents to save money on a bed purchase.

A few cot beds have a hanging rail which can be used to store muslins, dummies and other small items. This helps keep everything neat, tidy and organised. It also looks beautiful. These items are easily accessible to parents and make it easier for parents to feed their child.

A teething rail is a desired feature that is found in some cots. This will stop your child from chewing on the wooden cot, which can cause irritation. Some cots feature an older style and come with a large storage drawer underneath the bed. It is perfect for toys, clothes blankets, baby necessities.

This is a great solution when space is a problem however, you will need to purchase a drawer separately. You may need to buy a separate mattress and bedding since oval sheets and mattresses don't come with the cot.

This sleigh cot from Stokke is a beautiful example of Scandi-style in its finest and features a huge under-bed storage drawer that's ideal to keep baby's essentials out of view but within easy reach. Our panel was able to find it straightforward to put together, thanks to the alphabetically labeled parts and clear instructions. It is suitable for babies as young as birth and can be converted into a toddler's bed once your child's ready.