How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby
When you are expecting a baby, it is important to select a cot which can provide security and safety for your baby. Find a cot with fixed sides (rather than drop-sides) that meet strict UK safety standards.
Our top choice is this simple but elegant cot 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 beds keep babies comfy and cosy. Look for a soft and breathable fabric and make sure the mattress is snug to avoid any gaps, which could create a suffocation risk. There are a variety of mattresses available on the market that include coil springs, foam and other natural materials suitable for allergy sufferers. So do your research and select the right one for your baby's requirements.
No matter if you choose a conventional cot or a convertible cot one, a comfortable mattress is vital to your ease of use. It should provide adequate support and promote an ideal posture. This is also true for the slats. They should be secured and not bent or sagging. The slats must also be securely fixed to the frame, so that your little one doesn't get stuck in them while they move in their sleep.
Ask your friends and family for recommendations, or read online reviews. Look for ones that are air-conditioned, as they'll help regulate temperature and are less likely to be a home for bacteria.
There are a variety of styles to choose from such as traditional sleighs, with ornate details and modern, sleek designs. Some are decorated with bright primary colors to make your child feel cheerful and cheerful as they wake up.
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 are adjustable to accommodate the growth of your baby. You can also purchase a drop side for petite infants or those with health issues that make it difficult to bend over.
For extra peace of mind, look for a cot that complies with the strict UK safety standards and can easily transform into an infant bed when the time is right. Find this information in the product description or in the specifications.
Safety
A secure sleeping space is a must and a major factor when selecting a cot. Make sure that the mattress is snug and has no gap between it and the cot/cot beds edges or sides (big gaps could keep your child's head from being caught in the arms). Check that the mattress is not too firm and thin. Mattresses that are too thick could increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies sell mattresses in a variety of materials from foam to natural materials that are great for allergy sufferers. Some have anti-microbial treatment. If your cot has a drop side, ensure it is in the up position and secured.
Drop sides should only be permitted down when an adult is present in the room. This will prevent accidental releases. If your coffin has a solid bottom be sure to avoid placing it against the wall as it can block airflow and can cause the death of a coffin. Recent research suggests that slatted edges could be safer as they permit more airflow.
If your cot is set to one side, you should choose it. It's the safest option for your baby when they begin to crawl and then pull themselves upwards. When your child is standing and climbing, this is a sign they're ready to move into the junior bed.
Some cots come with a feature where the base can be raised to three different levels to allow it to increase with your child's growth This is extremely useful and is a safety measure. Some cots also have footplates that can be adjusted, which are ideal for toddlers who wish to stand up in their bed.
When you put your child in their cot, ensure that there isn't any visible danger. It must be kept away from heaters, windows, power points and blind cords and curtains (these can be strangulation hazards). If you're buying furniture that is second-hand or an heirloom Be sure to check for potential hazards to choking such as stickers and transfers that may be removed and create danger.
If you're unsure of how to safely use your cot, consult other parents for advice or attend an local NCT New Baby class. If your crib comes with a manual ensure that you go through it prior to using it and follow all the directions.
Style
With its stunning sleigh design This gorgeous cot bed will look great in your nursery. Our panel loved the combination of natural and white pine, and its clever features, such as drawers under the bed to store everything necessary for babies, including nappies, bedding, and a stunning variety of baby outfits. 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's desk and bed when your child gets older (see the product description for more information).
One of our favorite features are the teething rails that protect your little one from bumping their head on the cot's side or any other protruding parts of the cot, like handles or a corner post, and which will also stop them from chewing on the wood, preventing them from becoming trapped. There's also a drop-side to allow easier access to your infant. We are thrilled that it can be converted into an infant bed, and that it's sturdy enough to last up to four years. It also met the strict UK safety standards. You can find these in the key specs below each product.
Cot beds are usually larger than cribs and can be turned into toddler beds when your child is ready and you can avoid purchasing a new bed at an age when they're ready to move on. However, they may be pricier upfront than a crib that is standard.
If your nursery is small, you may be considering a crib. It is smaller and takes less space. However should you be planning on spending a lot of your baby's time in the room or you need a bed that will last longer, you should choose a cot.
A crib isn't safe for babies to sleep in if it doesn't meet the strict UK safety standards outlined in BS EN 716 and BS 8509, which covers mattresses' thicknesses, materials, and other essential elements of baby cot mattresses. The slats must not be too far apart to prevent your baby from falling off.
Storage
Whether you're a first-time parent or an experienced one, the amount of stuff a baby needs is staggering. Full Statement is important to think about storage when choosing a cot-bed. Some cots come with additional storage options, including drawers underneath the bed or a top changer (available separately). Certain cots can be transformed into a toddler bed or small single beds to expand their usage.
Some cots can be transformed into day beds, as shown on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is an ideal option for those who prefer an unstructured design since the process of conversion is simple and requires just the removal of one side panel. This allows parents to save money on a separate bed purchase.
Some cot beds have a hanging rail that can be used to hang muslins and dolls and other small items. This helps to keep everything organised tidy and neat - and it also looks amazing. Being good cribs to access these items will make it easier for parents to feed their infant.
Another desirable feature to look for is a toothing rail that comes with some cots. This will help prevent your little one chewing on the wood that can cause irritation. Some cots feature more traditional designs and include a large storage drawer beneath the bed, which is perfect for clothes, toys blankets, baby essentials.
While this is a great option if you're in a tight space, you must keep in mind that you'll have to purchase an extra for the drawer. You may need to buy an additional mattress and bedding because oval mattresses and sheets do not come with the cot.
This sleigh cot bed from Stokke is a beautiful example of Scandi-style in its finest and comes with a massive under-bed storage drawer that's perfect to keep baby essentials out of sight but within easy reach. Our panel was able to find it straightforward to put together, due to the alphabetically-labelled parts and clear instructions. It's suitable for infants as young as birth, and can be converted into a toddler's bed once your child is ready.