How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby
If you are expecting a child, it is important to choose a cot that will ensure safety and security for your baby. Look for a cot that has fixed sides rather than drop-sides. This will be in line with UK safety standards.
Our top pick is this simple yet stylish coffin from John Lewis' Anyday range. It comes with three mattress height positions, teething rails and storage drawer. It's also easy to assemble with clear instructions.
Comfort
The best cot beds keep babies comfy and cosy. Find a comfortable soft, soft fabric. Make sure that the mattress is snug to eliminate any gaps that could cause a risk of being suffocated. There are a variety of mattresses available, including foam, coils springs, and natural materials for allergy-sufferers. Do your research to determine the most suitable one for your child.
Whether you opt for a convertible or standard cot, the key to comfort is a mattress of high-quality that is supportive and promotes a healthy posture. The same applies to the slats, which should be firmly attached and not bent or sagging. The slats should also be securely attached to the frame so that your little one doesn't get caught in them when moving during sleep.
Ask your friends and family for recommendations or look at online reviews. Choose breathable mattresses, as they will help you regulate your body temperature and less likely to hold bacteria.
When it comes to style, there's a wide choice, from traditional sleigh styles with intricate details to sleek, contemporary designs. Some are painted in bright primary colours to make your child feel cheerful and happy when they awake.
Most cots come with a drawer for storage underneath, teething rails that prevent your child from chewing 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 babies who aren't big or suffer from medical conditions that make it difficult to bend over.
Look for a cot which is in compliance with the strict UK safety standard and is easily converted into a toddler's bed when it is time. This information can be found in the product description as well as the key specifications.
Safety
When choosing a cot a safe sleeping environment should be a priority. The mattress should be able to fit snugly and there should be no gaps between the mattress and the sides or ends of the cot or cot-bed (large gaps could trap the child's arms or head). Make sure it's firm and thin. Thicker mattresses aren't recommended since they could increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies offer a choice of mattresses, ranging from basic foam to natural materials suitable for allergy sufferers and some even have anti-microbial treatment. If your crib has drop sides, make sure it is in the upward position and secured.
Drop sides should only be allowed down when an adult is present in the room. This can prevent accidental releases. If your cot has a solid end be sure to avoid placing it against the wall since it will block airflow and may contribute to death in the coffin. According to the most recent research, slatted end cots may be safer because they allow for greater airflow.
If your cot is fixed on one side, then you can choose it. It's the most secure option for your baby when they begin to crawl and pull themselves up. When your child is confidently climbing and standing, it's the time to move to a junior bed.
Some cots feature a feature where the base can be raised to three different heights in order to increase with your child's growth This is extremely convenient and an added security measure. Some cots feature footplates that can be adjusted to suit for toddlers who like to stand up.
When you place your child's cot be sure that there aren't any visible dangers. It should be put away from any heaters or power points. Also make sure it is away from windows, curtains and blind cords. These can all present a strangulation threat. If you are buying second-hand furniture or heirlooms, be sure to check for choking hazards such as stickers and transfers. They may peel off and create a risk.
If you're unsure about how to use your cot safely, ask other parents or visit an local NCT New Baby course for assistance and guidance. If your cot comes with instructions, read them carefully before using it, and be sure to follow the safety-use guidelines carefully.
Style
With its stunning sleigh design This stunning crib will look stunning in your nursery. Our panel was impressed by the mix of natural and white pine, as well as its clever features, such as drawers under the bed to store all the baby necessities like nappies, bedding, and an enviable variety of baby outfits. It is also easy to construct with clear instructions and screws for each section. What's more, small cot beds can be converted into a toddler bed and desk when your child gets older (see the product description for details).
The rails for teething are one of our favorite features. They keep your baby from hitting their head against the side of the crib or any other protruding part of the crib, like the handle or corner post. They also prevent them from chewing the wood, and prevent them from getting suffocated. It also features drop-sides to allow you to access your newborn. We love that the cot can be transformed into a toddler bed, and that it's strong enough to last for up to four years. It also met the strict UK safety standards. You can find these in the specifications below for each product.
Cot beds can be turned into toddler beds if your child is old enough. This lets you avoid purchasing a new crib when your child is ready to go up. However, they may be more expensive than the standard crib.
If your nursery isn't big enough, you might want to consider a crib. It is smaller and takes less space. However, if you plan on spending a lot of your baby's time in your bedroom or if you require an item that lasts longer, you should opt for a crib.
If a cot doesn't meet the UK safety standards outlined by BS EN 716 or BS 8509 (which cover mattress thicknesses, materials and other essential elements of baby mattresses for cots) it is not safe for babies to sleep. The slats shouldn't be too far apart to stop your baby from falling out.
Stores
If you're a new parent or an experienced one the amount of items the baby will require is immense. This is why it's essential to think about the storage options when you choose the right crib bed. Many cots come with additional storage solutions available such as under-bed drawers or a coordinating top changer (available separately). Some can even be adapted into a toddler bed or a single bed, which can extend their usefulness for a longer period of time.
Some cots are able to 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 like an edgier design. The conversion is easy and only requires the removal of one side panel. It also lets parents save money on a bed purchase.
Some cot beds come with a hanging rail that can be used to hang muslins and dolls and other small items. This helps keep everything tidy, neat and organized. It also looks great. Having easy access to these items makes it much easier for parents to feed their child.
A teething rail is another desirable feature that is included in some cots. This will stop your child from chewing on the wooden cot which could cause irritation. Some cots are designed in more traditional designs and have a huge under-bed storage drawer which is perfect to store blankets, toys, clothes and other baby necessities.
While this is a great idea if you're in a tight space, it's important to be aware that you'll have to purchase an extra for the drawer. It is also possible to purchase a different mattress and bedding as sheets and mattresses that are oval aren't usually included in the cot.
This sleigh cot from Stokke is a lovely example of the Scandi-style at its finest and features a huge under-bed storage drawer that's perfect to keep all the baby's essentials out of view but easily reachable. The alphabetically labeled components and clear instructions made it simple to assemble for our panel. It's suitable for infants as young as birth and can be transformed into a toddler's bed when your child is ready.