How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby
If you are expecting a baby it is essential to select a cot which can provide security and safety for your baby. Choose a cot that has fixed sides (rather than drop-sides) that are in line with strict UK safety standards.
Our top pick is this simple yet elegant coffin from John Lewis' Anyday range. It has three mattress height positions, teething rails as well as a storage drawer. It's also easy to assemble with clear instructions.
Comfort
The best cot bed keeps babies comfortable and cozy. Look for a soft and comfortable fabric. Also, make sure that the mattress is fitted snugly to avoid any gaps, which could create a suffocation risk. There are many types of mattresses available - foam, coils springs, and natural materials for allergy sufferers. Do your research to find the best one for your child.
It doesn't matter if you pick a standard cot or a convertible cot one, a comfortable mattress is essential to ease of use. It should provide proper support and promote an ideal posture. The slats must be securely attached and not sliding. The slats should also be firmly fixed to the frame, to ensure that your child does not become caught in the movement in their sleep.
If you're not sure which mattress to buy, ask friends and family or check online reviews for recommendations. Select mattresses that are breathable, since they can help you regulate your body temperature and are less likely to hold bacteria.
There are many styles to pick from that include traditional sleighs with intricate details and modern, sleek designs. Some are painted in vibrant primary colors to make your child feel joyful and happy when they wake up.
You'll find most cots have a drawer underneath for storage, teething rails to protect your baby from chewing on the side of the cot, and adjustable height bases to accommodate baby's 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.
For extra 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. Look for this information in the description or in the specifications.
Safety
When selecting a cot, the safety of your child's sleep should be a priority. The mattress should be able to fit snugly and there should be no gaps between the mattress and the sides or ends of the cot/cot-bed (large gaps can trap the child's arms or head). Check that it's firm and thin - thicker mattresses aren't advised since they could increase the risk of SIDS. There are many companies that offer a variety of mattresses, from simple foam to natural substances for allergy sufferers. great crib have anti-microbial treatment. If your cot has a drop side, ensure it is in the up position and secured.
A drop side should be allowed to fall only when an adult is present, to prevent accidental releases. If your coffin has a solid edge be sure to avoid placing it against the wall since this will restrict airflow and can cause the death of a coffin. According to the most recent research, cots with slatted ends could be safer as they allow for more airflow.
If your cot is fixed on one side, then you can choose it. It will be the most secure choice for your baby when they begin to crawl and pull themselves upward. Once your child is standing and climbing, this is a sign that they're ready to move into a junior bed.
Some cots come with a feature that allows the base to be raised up to three levels. This is a great security measure that allows your child's cot to expand with them. Some cots also have footplates that are adjustable, which is great for toddlers who want to sit up in their beds.
If you are putting your child in their cot, make sure that there is no visible danger. It should be away from heaters or power points, windows and blind cords and curtains (these can be strangulation hazards). When buying second-hand furniture or heirlooms, be sure to look for any dangers to your child's health such as stickers and transfers. They may peel off and pose a danger.
If you're unsure of how to use your cot safely, ask parents around or go to the local NCT New Baby course for assistance and guidance. If your cot has instructions, read them carefully before you begin using it, and follow the safe-use instructions closely.
Style
With its stunning sleigh design This gorgeous cot bed will look amazing in your nursery. Our panel was impressed by the mix of natural and white pine, and its clever features, such as under-bed storage drawers that can hold everything necessary for babies, including nappies, bedding, and a dazzling assortment of baby clothes. It's also a breeze to put together, with concise instructions and separate packs of screws for each section. What's more, it can be transformed into a toddler bed or desk when your child gets older (see the product description for details).
One of our favorite features is the teething rails which protect your little one from bumping their head on the side of the cot or any protruding part of the cot, such as a handle or a corner post. They can also stop them from chewing on the wood, preventing them from getting suffocated. There's also drop-sides to make it easier for you to get access to your baby. We love that it can be converted into an infant bed, and it's built to last up to four years. It also met the strict UK safety standards, which are listed in the key specs beneath each product.
Cot beds are usually larger than cribs and can be transformed into toddler beds once your child is ready and you can avoid purchasing a bed at an age when they're ready to move on. They may cost more than cribs.
If your nursery is small, you may think about a crib. It is smaller and occupies less space. However, if you plan 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 does not meet the strict UK safety standards as outlined in BS EN 716 and BS 8509, which covers mattresses' thicknesses, materials, and other key elements of cot mattresses for baby. The slats should not be too far apart to stop your baby from falling off.
Stores
No matter if you're a first-time parent or a veteran, the amount of stuff a baby needs is staggering. This is the reason it's important to consider storage options when selecting a crib bed. Many cots come with additional storage options, like drawers under the bed or a coordinating cot top changer (available separately). Some cots can be converted into an infant bed or a small single beds to expand their use.
Some cots can be converted into day beds, as shown here on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is an ideal option for those who prefer an unstructured design since the conversion process is fairly simple and requires just the removal of a side panel. This will allow parents to save money on the purchase of a separate bed.
Some cot beds are equipped with hanging rails that can be used to hang muslins and Dummies and other small items. This helps keep everything neat, tidy and organised. It also looks beautiful. These items are easily accessible to parents which makes it easier for parents to feed their child.
Another feature worth looking out for is a teething rail that comes in a few cots. This will prevent your child from chewing on the wooden cot, which can cause irritation. Some cots have a more traditional design and come with a large storage drawer beneath the bed that is ideal for clothes, toys blankets, and other baby necessities.
While this is a great idea for when you're short on space, it's important to keep in mind that you'll need to buy a separate extra drawer. It is also possible to purchase a different mattress and bedding since oval mattresses and sheets aren't usually included in the cot itself.
This sleigh-style cot bed is stunning example of Scandi style at its best. It features a huge under-bed storage space that is perfect for keeping all baby essentials out-of-sight but within easy access. Our panel of experts found it easy to put together thanks to the alphabetically labeled parts and clear instructions. It's suitable for babies from birth and can be made into a toddler bed once your child is ready, meaning it's a good investment too.