How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby
When you are expecting a baby it is essential to choose a cot that will ensure safety and security for your baby. Find a cot with fixed sides (rather than drop-sides), which comply with strict UK safety standards.
This simple but elegant coffin is our top choice from the Anyday range of John Lewis. It comes with three mattress positions, teething bars, and an storage drawer. It's also easy to assemble with clear instructions.
Comfort
The best cot mattress keeps children comfortable and warm. Look for a breathable soft and comfortable fabric. Make sure the mattress fits snugly, to eliminate any gaps that could cause the risk of suffocation. There are a range of mattresses available including coil springs, foam and other natural materials suitable for allergy sufferers. So do your research and select the one that is suitable for your baby's needs.
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 is true for the slats, which must be securely attached and not bent or sagging. The slats must also be securely attached to the frame so that your child isn't caught in them when moving during sleep.
Ask your friends and family for recommendations or browse online reviews. Choose breathable mattresses, as they help regulate your body temperature and are 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 vibrant primary colors to make your child feel joyful and cheerful as they awake.
There are a lot of cots that have drawers underneath to store items and teething rails to guard your child from chewing on the sides of the cot and adjustable height bases for baby growth. You can also purchase a drop side for petite infants or those with health issues that make it difficult for them to bend over.
Look for a cot which is compliant with the strict UK safety standard and is able to be easily converted into a toddler's bed when it is time. Find this information in the description or key specs.
Safety
When choosing a cot, a safe sleeping environment should be a priority. Make sure the mattress fits snugly, with no gaps between it and the cot/cot bed sides or ends (big gaps could trap your child's head or arms). Make sure the mattress is firm and thin. Mattresses that are too thick could 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 great for allergy sufferers. Some even have an anti-microbial treatment. If your cot has drop-sides, ensure that it is locked and in the up position.
Drop sides should only be permitted down only when an adult is present in the room. This will prevent accidental releases. Do not place your cot against the wall if it is an end that is solid. This could restrict airflow, which can result in death of the coffin. Recent research suggests that slatted edges could be safer because they allow more airflow.
If your crib has a fixed edge choose this option as it is the most secure option when your child starts to crawl and pull themselves up. If your child is climbing with confidence and standing, it's time to upgrade to a junior bed.
Some cots are equipped with an option that allows the base to be raised up to three levels. This is a fantastic security feature that allows your child's cot to expand with the child. Some cots feature adjustable footplates that are ideal for toddlers who want to stand up.
When putting your child's cot in the crib be sure that there aren't any visible dangers. It should be kept away from any heaters or power 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 dangers to your child's health such as stickers and transfers that can peel off and present a risk.
If you are unsure what you should do to use your cot, ask other parents for help or take part in a local NCT New Baby class. If your cot has instructions, read them carefully before you start using it, and then follow the safety-use guidelines carefully.
Style
With its beautiful sleigh design, this gorgeous cot bed will look great in your nursery. Our panel loved the mix of natural and white pine, as well as its clever features, such as under-bed storage drawers that can hold all those baby essentials like nappies, bedding, and an enviable assortment of baby clothes. It's also simple to put together with clear instructions and screws for each section. It can also be transformed into a toddler's desk and bed as your child gets older (see the product description for more details).
One of our most loved features is the teething rails that protect your little one from bumping their head on the side of the cot or any other protruding parts of the cot, such as handles or a corner post. They also help stop them chewing on the wood, which prevents them from being in danger of being suffocated. There's also drop-sides to make it easier for parents to reach their newborn. We appreciate that it is able to be converted to a toddler bed, and it's built to last for up to four years. It also complies with strict UK safety standards. You can find these in the key specs below each product.
Cot beds can be transformed into toddler beds when your child is old enough. This allows you to avoid purchasing a new bed when your child is ready to move up. They can be more expensive than a crib.
If your nursery is very small, a crib might be the best option for you as it is smaller and occupies less space. However, should Baby beds be expected to spend most of the time in their parents' rooms or you're looking for a more durable bed, opt for a crib.
A cot 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 deals with the thickness of mattresses, the materials used and other important elements of cot mattresses for baby. The slats should not be too far apart to stop your baby from falling off.
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 selecting the crib bed. Many cots come with additional storage options such as drawers in the under-bed or a coordinating top changer (available separately). Some are even able to be converted into a toddler bed or a single bed, which can extend their usability for longer.
Some cot beds can be converted into a daybed as shown on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is a great option for those who prefer more flexible designs as the conversion process is simple and requires just the removal of one side panel. This allows parents to save on the cost of an additional bed.
Some cot beds are equipped with a hanging rail that can be used to hang muslins and Dummies along with other small items. This helps to keep everything organized tidy and neat - and it also looks amazing. Having easy access to these items makes it easier for parents to feed their infant.
Another feature worth looking for is a toothing rail that is available in a few cots. This can help to stop your child from chewing on the wood, which could cause irritation. Some cots are designed in an older style and come with a large drawer under the bed that is ideal for storing blankets, toys, clothes and other baby essentials.
While this is a great idea if you're in a tight space, you should be aware that you'll need to buy a separate extra for the drawer. You may have to purchase an additional mattress and bedding since oval sheets and mattresses do not come with the cot.
This sleigh cot bed by Stokke is a stunning example of the Scandi-style at its finest and comes with a massive under-bed storage drawer that's great for keeping all those baby's essentials out of view but within easy reach. The alphabetically labeled parts and clear instructions made it easy to put together for our panel. It is suitable for babies as young as birth and can be made into a toddler's bed when your child is ready.