How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby
If you're expecting a baby it is essential to select the right cot that is secure and safe for your little one. 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 basic but stylish cot from John Lewis' Anyday range. It has three mattress height positions, teething rails, and a storage drawers. It's also easy to assemble with clear instructions.
Comfort
The best cot bed keeps infants comfortable and warm. Find a comfortable soft and comfortable fabric. Make sure the mattress is fitted snugly to avoid any gaps that could create the danger of the mattress becoming suffocated. There are many types of mattresses available - foam, coils springs, and natural materials for allergy-sufferers. Do your research to find the most suitable one for your child.
It doesn't matter if you pick a conventional cot or a convertible the mattress is vital to your comfort. It must provide the right support and encourage a healthy posture. The slats should also be securely attached and not sliding. The slats must be secured to the frame, so your child doesn't get trapped in them while moving during sleep.
Ask your friends and family for recommendations or browse online reviews. Select mattresses that are breathable, since they will aid in regulating your body temperature and less likely to hold bacteria.
When it comes to style there's a broad selection from classic sleigh styles with elaborate details to sleek, contemporary designs. Some are even painted in bold primary colours, which is ideal if you want your baby to wake up feeling bright and content!
Most cots come with an under-bed storage drawer, teething rails that prevent your child from chewing the sides of the cot and height bases that can be adjusted to accommodate the growth of your baby. You can also buy a drop-side for infants who are small or suffer from health issues that make it hard to bend over.
For extra peace of mind, look for a cot that meets the stringent UK safety standards and will easily transform into an infant bed when the time is appropriate. Find this information in the description or in the specifications.
Safety
A safe and secure sleeping environment is an essential aspect to consider when choosing a crib. The mattress should 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). Check that the mattress is not too firm and thin. Thick mattresses can increase the risk of SIDS. There are many companies that offer a variety of mattresses, from simple foam to natural materials for allergy sufferers. Some even come with anti-microbial treatment. If your cot features drop-sides, ensure that it is locked and in the up position.
A drop side should be allowed to fall only when an adult is present - to prevent accidental release. If your cot has a solid end be sure to avoid placing it against the wall since it will block airflow and could cause death in the coffin. The latest research suggests that slatted ends could be safer since they allow more airflow.
If your cot is set to one side, you should choose it. It's the most secure option for your baby as they start to crawl and then pull themselves upwards. When your child is confidently standing and climbing, it is a sign that they are ready to move into a junior bed.
Some cots have features that allow the base can be raised to three different heights, so that it will grow with your child - this is very practical and a great safety measure. Some cots feature footplates that can be adjusted to suit for toddlers who want to stand up.
When you place your child's cot ensure there are no visible hazards. It should be placed away from heaters and power points. Also, keep it away from windows, curtains and blind cords. They all could create strangulation risks. If you are buying second-hand furniture or heirlooms, be sure to look for any potential hazards to your child's safety such as labels and transfers. They can come off and pose a danger.
If see more of how to use your cot in a safe manner you can ask parents around or go to a local NCT New Baby course for assistance and guidance. If your cot comes with a guide be sure to read it before using it and follow all the instructions.
Style
This gorgeous cot bed with its sleigh-style design will look fantastic in your nursery. Our panel loved the combination of natural and white pine, as well as its innovative features, like under-bed storage drawers to keep all those baby essentials like nappies, bedding, and a stunning assortment of baby clothes. It's also easy to assemble with clear instructions and separate packs of screws for each section. It can also be transformed into a toddler bed and desk when your child gets older (see the product's description for more details).
The teething rails are one of our favorite features. They prevent your child from hitting their head against the crib's side or any other protruding part of the crib, such as the handle or corner post. They also prevent them from chewing the wood, and prevent them from getting suffocated. It also features an opening that can be removed to allow you to get access to your baby. We appreciate that the cot could be converted into a toddler bed and that it's built to last for four years. It also met strict UK safety standards. These are listed in the specifications below for each product.
Cot beds can be turned into toddler beds when your child is old enough. This allows you to not have to buy a new crib when your child's ready to go up. They can be more expensive than cribs.
If your nursery isn't big enough, you might think about the possibility of a crib. It is smaller and requires less space. However should you be planning to spend a lot of your baby's time in the room or if you require a bed that will last longer, you should opt for a crib.
A crib isn't safe for babies to sleep in if it doesn't meet the strict UK safety standards set out in BS EN 716 and BS 8509, which deals with the thickness of mattresses, the materials used and other key elements of baby cot mattresses. The slats shouldn't be too close together, to ensure that your child doesn't fall out.
Stores
The amount of baby equipment you'll need is a mess whether you're a new parent or a seasoned one. This is the reason it's important to think about storage options when selecting the crib bed. Some cots have additional storage options, such as drawers underneath the bed or a coordinating top changer (available separately). Certain cots can be transformed into a toddler bed or small single bed to extend their use.
Some cot beds can be transformed into a daybed as shown on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is a great choice for those who prefer an edgier design. The conversion is easy and requires only the removal of one side panel. This will allow parents to save on the cost of the purchase of a separate bed.
Some cot beds have hanging rails that can be used to hang muslins, dolls and other small items. This allows you to keep everything organized tidy, neat and tidy and also looks fantastic. These items are easily accessible to parents which makes it easier for parents to feed their child.
A teething rail is an additional desirable feature that is included in some cots. This will prevent your child from chewing on the cot's wooden structure, which can cause irritation. Some cots are designed in a more traditional style and have a huge drawer under the bed that is perfect for storing blankets, toys, clothes and other baby essentials.
While this is a great idea if you're in a tight space, you must keep in mind that you'll have to purchase an additional drawer. It is also possible to buy a new mattress and bedding since oval mattresses and sheets are not typically included with the cot.
This sleigh cot from Stokke is a beautiful example of Scandi-style at its best and comes with a massive under-bed storage drawer that's ideal to keep baby essentials out of sight but still within reach. Our panel found it very easy 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 crib when your child is ready.