How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby
If you're expecting a child it is essential to select a cot that will be safe and secure for your baby. Look for a cot with fixed sides (rather than drop-sides) that meet strict UK safety standards.
Our top choice is this simple but stylish coffin from John Lewis' Anyday range. It comes with 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 mattress keeps infants comfortable and warm. Look for a breathable soft and comfortable fabric. Make sure that the mattress fits snugly, to eliminate any gaps that could pose the danger of the mattress becoming suffocated. There are a variety of mattresses available - coils springs, foam, and even natural materials for allergy sufferers. Do your research to determine the ideal mattress for your child.
If you choose an ordinary or convertible cot, the most important thing to ensure comfort is a mattress of high-quality that provides proper support and promotes healthy posture. The same applies to the slats, which should be securely attached and not bent or sagging. The slats should also be securely fixed to the frame, so your child isn't caught in them when moving during sleep.
Ask your family and friends for recommendations or look at online reviews. Make sure you choose a mattress that's air-conditioned, as they'll help regulate temperature and are less likely to harbor bacteria.
When it comes to style there's a broad selection of styles, from traditional sleigh designs with intricate details to sleek, contemporary designs. Some are even painted with bright primary colors which is great when you want your little one to wake up feeling bright and content!
Most cots come with an under-bed drawer for storage as well as teething rails that protect your child from chewing on the sides of the cot, as well as adjustable height bases to accommodate baby's growth. You can also purchase a drop side for petite babies or those with medical conditions that make it difficult for them to bend over.
Find a cot that is compliant with the strict UK safety standards and can easily be transformed into a toddler's cot when it is time. Find this information in the product description or key specs.
Safety
When selecting a cot, a safe sleeping environment should be the top priority. Make sure that the mattress is snugly fitted, with no gaps between it and the cot's bed sides or ends (big gaps can keep your child's head from being caught in the arms). Make sure it's solid and thin - more thick mattresses aren't recommended as they may increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies offer mattresses in different materials including foam and natural materials that are suitable for those suffering from allergies. Some have anti-microbial treatment. If your cot features a drop-side, make sure it is secured and in the up position.
Drop sides should only be permitted down when an adult is in the room. This prevents accidental release. If your cot has a solid end, avoid placing it against the wall since it can block airflow and could cause the death of a coffin. Recent research suggests that slatted edges could be safer because they allow for more airflow.
If your cot is set to one side, you should choose it. It will be the most secure choice for your baby as they start to crawl and pull themselves upward. When your child is confidently standing and climbing, this is a sign they're ready to move into a junior bed.
Some cots come with an option where the base can be raised to three different levels in order to grow with your child This is extremely practical and a great safety measure. Some cots also have adjustable footplates, which are ideal for toddlers who wish to sit up in their bed.
When putting your child's cot in the crib ensure there aren't any obvious 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 pose a strangulation risk. If you're purchasing furniture from a secondhand store or an heirloom piece be sure to look for any choking hazards like stickers and transfers that can peel off and present a risk.
If you are unsure how to safely use your cot, consult other parents for help or attend an local NCT New Baby class. If your cot has instructions, read them carefully before you start using it, and be sure to follow the safe-use instructions closely.
Style
With its gorgeous sleigh style This stunning cot bed will look amazing in your nursery. The panel was impressed by the combination of natural and white wood, as well as the innovative features like drawers under the bed for everything essential for babies, including bedding, nappy and an impressive array of baby clothes. It's also simple to put together, with concise instructions and separate packs of screws for each section. It can also be transformed into a toddler desk or bed when your child gets older (see the product description for more details).
The rails for teething are one of our favorite features. They stop your child from hitting their head against the crib's side or any other protruding part of the crib, like the corner post or handle. They also prevent them from chewing on the wood, and prevent them from suffocating. The cot also has a drop-side to allow easier access to your baby. tots and cots appreciate that it is able to be converted into a toddler bed, and it's sturdy enough to last 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 transformed into toddler beds if your child is old enough. This lets you not have to buy an entirely new bed when your child's ready to make the leap. However, they are more expensive upfront than the standard crib.
If your nursery is small, you might be considering a crib. It is smaller and requires less space. However should you be planning on spending a lot of your baby's time in your bedroom, or if you need a bed that lasts longer, you should consider a crib.
A crib isn't safe for babies to sleep in if it does not meet the strict UK safety standards outlined in BS EN 716 and BS 8509, which covers mattress thicknesses, materials and other important elements of baby cot mattresses. The slats should not be too wide apart to stop your child from falling out.
Storage
The amount of baby equipment you need is overwhelming, regardless of whether you're a new mom or a seasoned one. This is the reason it's important to consider storage options when choosing the crib bed. There are a variety of cots that have additional storage options like drawers under the bed or a coordinating top changer (available separately). Some cots can be converted into toddler beds or a smaller single bed to extend their usage.
Some cots are able to be converted into day beds, as seen on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is a great choice for those who prefer an unstructured design since the process of conversion is simple and involves the removal of a side panel. It also lets parents save money on a bed purchase.
Some cot beds have a hanging rail that can be used to hang muslins and dummies and other small items. This makes it easier to keep everything organised tidy and neat - and it also looks great. These items are easily accessible to parents which makes it easier for them to feed their baby.
A teething rail is a desired feature that is found in some cots. This will help prevent your little one chewing on the wood, which can cause irritation. Some cots feature more traditional designs and have a huge storage drawer underneath the bed, which is perfect for clothes, toys blankets, baby necessities.
While this is a great idea for when you're short on space, it's important to remember that you will need to buy a separate extra drawer. You may also have to buy a new mattress and bedding as oval mattresses and sheets aren't usually included in the cot.
This sleigh-style cot bed is a beautiful illustration of Scandi style at its best. It features a huge under-bed storage area that is ideal to keep baby's essentials out-of-sight but within easy access. The alphabetically labeled parts and clear instructions made it easy to put together for our panel. It's suitable for infants from birth and can be converted into a toddler bed once your child is ready, which means it's also a good value.