How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby
If you're expecting a child it is essential to select a cot that will be 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.
This simple but elegant crib is our top choice from the Anyday range of John Lewis. It comes with three mattress height positions, teething rails as well as a storage drawers. It's also easy to assemble with clear instructions.
Comfort
The best cot beds keep children warm and cozy. Choose a breathable, soft fabric. Make sure that the mattress is fitted snugly to avoid any gaps that could cause the danger of the mattress becoming suffocated. There are a variety of mattresses available: foam, coils springs, and even natural materials for allergy sufferers. Do your research to find the ideal mattress for your child.
Whatever you decide to use, whether a standard cot or a convertible cot, a good mattress is essential to the comfort. It should provide proper support and encourage an upright posture. The same is true for the slats, which must be secured and not bent or sagging. The slats must also be securely attached to the frame so that your child isn't stuck in them while they move during sleep.
Ask your family and friends for recommendations, or read online reviews. Choose a mattress that is ventilated, as they'll aid in regulate temperature and are less likely to harbour bacteria.
When it comes to style, there's a wide choice of styles, from traditional sleigh designs with intricate detailing to sleek, modern designs. Some are even painted in vibrant primary colours which is perfect for those who want their little one to wake up feeling fresh and cheerful!
You'll find most cots have drawers underneath to store items as well as teething rails that protect your child from chewing on the sides of the cot, and adjustable height bases for infant growth. You can also purchase an extra drop-side for babies that aren't big or have health issues that make it difficult to bend over.
For added peace of mind, search for a cot that meets the strict UK safety standards and will easily convert into an infant bed when the time is appropriate. This information is available in the product description as well as key specifications.
Safety
When selecting a cot, a safe sleeping environment should be the top priority. Make sure that the mattress is snug and has no gaps between it and the cot/cot bed's sides or ends (big gaps can trap your child's head or arms). Check that it's firm and thin. Thicker mattresses aren't recommended because they can increase the risk of SIDS. There are many companies that offer mattresses made of different materials from foam to natural materials that are great for allergy sufferers. Some have anti-microbial treatment. If your cot has an inclined side, make sure it is in the upward position and secured.
Drop sides should only be allowed to go down when an adult is in the room. This will prevent accidental release. If your cot has a solid end, avoid placing it against the wall since it will block airflow and may contribute to the death of a coffin. According to the most recent research, cots with slatted edges could be safer as they permit more airflow.
If your crib has a fixed edge you should choose this because it's safer when your child begins to crawl and pull themselves up. When your child is standing and climbing, this is a sign that they're ready to transition into the junior bed.
Some cots come with an option that allows the base to be raised to three different levels. Baby beds is a great security feature that allows your child's cot to grow with their needs. Some cots have adjustable footplates, which are great for toddlers who want to sit up in their beds.
When you put your child in their cot, check whether there is no visible danger. It must be kept away from heaters and power points, windows and curtains and blind cords (these pose a strangulation risk). When purchasing second-hand furniture, or heirlooms to look for any dangers to your child's health such as stickers and transfers. They can come off and pose a danger.
If you're unsure of about how to use your cot, ask other parents for advice or take part in an local NCT New Baby class. If your cot comes with an instruction manual, read it carefully before you begin using it, and be sure to follow the safety guidelines closely.
Style
This gorgeous cot bed with its sleigh-style design will look amazing in your nursery. Our panel members loved the mix of natural and white pine, as well as its innovative features, like under-bed storage drawers to keep all those baby essentials like bedding, nappies 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 could also be transformed into a toddler desk and bed as your child grows older (see product description for more details).
The rails for teething are among our most loved features. They prevent your child from hitting their head on the crib's side or any protruding part of the crib, such as the handle or corner post. They also stop them from chewing the wood and also preventing them from getting suffocated. There's also an opening that can be removed to make it easier for you to access your newborn. We appreciate that the cot could be transformed into a toddler bed, and that it's built to last for four years. It also met the strict UK safety standards, which are listed in the key specs beneath each product.
Cot beds can be turned into toddler beds when your child is old enough. This allows you to avoid purchasing an entirely new bed when your child is ready to go up. However, they may be pricier upfront than the standard crib.
If your nursery is small, you might think about the possibility of a crib. It is smaller and takes less space. However it is recommended to consider a cot if you are planning to spend a lot of your baby's time in the room or if you require an item that lasts longer, you should consider 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 deals with mattresses' thicknesses, materials, and other key elements of cot mattresses for babies. The slats should not be too far apart to prevent your baby from falling off.
Storage
The amount of baby gear you need is overwhelming, regardless of whether you're a new mom or a seasoned one. It's crucial to think about storage when selecting a cot. Some cots have additional storage options, such as drawers beneath the bed or a top changer (available separately). Some are even able to be converted into a toddler or small single bed, which can extend their use for a longer time.
Some cots are able to be converted into day beds, as seen on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is a great option for those who prefer more flexible designs as the conversion process is fairly simple and involves the removal of one side panel. This allows parents to save money on a separate bed.
A number of cot beds feature hanging rails that can be used to store muslins, dolls and other small objects. This helps to keep everything organised tidy and neat and looks great. These items are easily accessible to parents, making it easier for them to feed their baby.
A teething rail is a desired feature that is found in some cots. This will stop your child from chewing on the wooden cot, which could cause irritation. Some cots are designed in a more traditional style and include a large under-bed storage drawer which is ideal for storing toys, blankets clothes, and other baby necessities.
This is a great choice if space is an issue but you'll need to purchase a drawer on your own. You may need to buy a separate mattress and bedding since oval sheets and mattresses don't come with the cot.
This sleigh-style cot is a beautiful illustration of Scandi style at its finest. It features a huge under-bed storage compartment that's ideal for keeping all baby essentials out-of-sight but within easy access. The alphabetically labeled parts and clear instructions made it simple to put together for our panel. It's suitable for infants from birth and can be made into a toddler bed when your child is ready, which means it's a good investment too.