How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby
If you're expecting a child it is essential to select the right cot that is secure and safe for your baby. Find a cot which has fixed sides instead of drop-sides. This will comply with UK safety standards.
Our top pick is this basic but stylish coffin from John Lewis' Anyday range. It comes with three mattress height positions, teething rails, and a storage drawers. It is also simple to put together, and comes with clear instructions.
Comfort
The best cot beds keep baby's warm and comfortable. Look for a soft, airy fabric, and ensure that the mattress is fitted snugly to prevent any gaps which could cause the risk of suffocation. There are many types of mattresses available: coils springs, foam, and even natural materials for allergy sufferers. Do your research to determine the most suitable one for your child.
Whatever you decide to use, whether a conventional cot or a convertible cot, a good mattress is crucial to ensure your comfort. It must provide the right support and encourage an upright posture. The same is true for the slats, which should be securely attached and not bent or sagging. The slats need to be firmly connected to the frame so that your child does not get caught when they move in their sleep.
If you're not sure what mattress to buy, consult your family and friends or consult online reviews for recommendations. Choose breathable mattresses, as they help you regulate your body temperature and are less likely to harbor bacteria.
There are a myriad of styles to choose from that include traditional sleighs with intricate details and modern, sleek designs. Some are painted in vibrant primary colors to make your child feel cheerful and cheerful as they awake.
There are a lot of cots that have a drawer underneath for storage as well as teething rails that protect your child from chewing on the side of the cot, and adjustable height bases for infant growth. You can also buy a drop-side for infants who aren't big or suffer from health issues that make it difficult for them to bend over.
For added peace of mind, search for a cot that complies with the stringent UK safety standards and will easily transform into an infant bed when the time is appropriate. This information is found in the product description and the specifications.
Safety
A safe sleeping environment is a must and a major factor when selecting a bed. Make sure the mattress fits snugly, with no gaps between it and the cot/cot bed sides or ends (big gaps could restrict your child's head or arms). Check that the mattress is firm and thin. Mattresses that are too thick could increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies offer a range of mattresses, ranging from basic foam to natural substances for allergy sufferers and some even come with anti-microbial treatment. If your cot features a drop-side, make sure it is locked and in the upward position.
Drop sides should only be allowed to fall when an adult is in the room. This prevents accidental releases. If your coffin has a solid edge be sure to avoid placing it against the wall since it can block airflow and can cause coffin death. Recent research suggests that slatted edges could be safer because they allow more airflow.
If your crib has a fixed side choose this option as it's safer when your baby starts to crawl and climb up. When your child is climbing with confidence and standing, it's the time to upgrade to a junior bed.
Some cots have an option that allows the base to be raised to three levels. This is a fantastic safety measure and enables your child's cot to grow with their needs. Other cots come with footplates that can be adjusted, which are ideal for toddlers wanting to sit up in their beds.
If you are putting your child in their cot, check that there isn't any visible danger. It must be away from heat sources and windows, power points and curtains and blind cords (these pose a strangulation risk). If you're buying second-hand or heirloom furniture Be sure to check for potential hazards to choking such as stickers and transfer tapes that could be removed and create danger.
If you're unsure of how to use your cot safely consult other parents or visit a local NCT New Baby course for assistance and guidance. If your cot comes with a guide, make sure you go through it before using it and adhere to the directions.
Style
This gorgeous cot bed, with its sleigh-style design will look amazing in your nursery. Our panel was impressed by the mix of natural and white pine, and its smart features, including drawers under the bed to store all those baby essentials like nappies, bedding and a stunning variety of baby outfits. It's also a breeze to put together, with concise 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 product description for more details).
The teething rails are among our top features. They stop your child from hitting their head against the side of the crib or any other protruding part of the crib, such as the handle or corner post. They also stop them from chewing the wood, and prevent them from suffocating. The cot also has a drop-side for easier access to your baby. 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, which are listed in the key specs beneath each product.
Cot beds can be transformed into toddler beds in the event that your child is old enough. This allows you to avoid buying an entirely new bed when your child's ready to go up. However, they may be more expensive than a standard crib.
If your nursery is small, a crib may be the best option for you, as it's smaller and occupies less space. However, should your baby be expected to spend most of the time in their parents' bedroom or you're looking for a more durable bed, consider a cot.
A crib isn't safe for babies to sleep in if it does not meet the strict UK safety standards as outlined in BS EN 716 and BS 8509, which deals with mattresses' thicknesses, materials, and other essential elements of cot mattresses for baby. The slats should not be too far apart to stop your baby from falling off.
Storage
No matter if you're a first-time parent or a veteran the amount of items the baby will require is immense. This is why it's crucial to consider storage options when selecting a cot bed. Many cots come with additional storage options, such as drawers in the under-bed or a coordinating cot top changer (available separately). Some cots are able to be converted into toddler beds or a smaller single bed to extend their usage.
Some cots can be converted into day beds, as shown on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is a great option for those who prefer the flexibility of a design. The conversion is simple and requires only the removal of ONE side panel. This allows parents to save money on a separate bed.
Some cot beds are equipped with hanging rails that can be used to hang muslins, Dummies along with other small items. This allows you to keep everything organized tidy and neat - and it also looks fantastic. Being able to access these items makes it much easier for parents to feed their child.
A teething rail is a desirable feature that is included in some cots. This will prevent your child from chewing on the wooden cot, which could cause irritation. Some cots feature a more traditional design and come with a large storage drawer underneath the bed. It is perfect for clothes, toys blankets, and other baby essentials.
While this is a great idea if you're running out of space, you must keep in mind that you'll have to purchase an extra for the drawer. You may also have to buy a new mattress and bedding as oval mattresses and sheets aren't typically included in the cot.
This sleigh-style cot is a beautiful illustration of Scandi style at its finest. It has a spacious under-bed storage compartment that's ideal for keeping all baby essentials away from view but easily accessible. Our panel was able to find it straightforward to put together, thanks to the alphabetically labeled parts and clear instructions. It's suitable for infants from birth and can be converted into a toddler bed once your child is ready, meaning it's good value too.