How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby
If you are expecting your first child 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. This will meet UK safety standards.
Our top choice is this simple but elegant coffin from John Lewis' Anyday range. It comes with three mattress positions, teething bars, and a storage drawer. It's also easy to set up with clear instructions.
Comfort
The best cot beds keep babies comfy and cosy. Look for a soft and comfortable fabric. Also, make sure that the mattress is fitted snugly to prevent any gaps which could cause a suffocation risk. There are a variety of mattresses available: coils springs, foam 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 conventional cot or a convertible one, a comfortable mattress is crucial to ensure your the comfort. It should provide adequate support and promote a healthy posture. The slats need to be secured and not sagging. The slats must also be secured to the frame, so that your little one doesn't get stuck in them while they move during sleep.
Ask your family and friends for recommendations or look at online reviews. Select mattresses that are breathable, since they aid in regulating your body temperature and less likely to be a breeding ground for bacteria.
When it comes to style, there's a wide choice of styles, from traditional sleigh designs with ornate detailing to sleek, modern designs. Some are painted in bright primary colours to make your child feel happy and cheerful as they wake up.
Most cots come with a drawer for storage underneath teething rails to prevent your child from chewing on the sides of the cot, and height bases that can be adjusted to accommodate baby's growth. You can also purchase an extra drop-side for babies that are small or have medical conditions that make it difficult for them to bend over.
For added security, opt for a cot that complies with the stringent UK safety standards and can easily transform into a toddler bed when the time is appropriate. Find this information in the description or in the key specifications.
Safety
A safe sleeping environment is essential and a big consideration when choosing a crib. Make sure that the mattress fits snugly, with no gap between it and the cot/cot bed's sides or ends (big gaps can keep your child's head from being caught in the arms). Verify that the mattress is firm and thin. Mattresses that are too thick can increase the risk of SIDS. There are many companies that offer mattresses made of different materials, from foam to natural materials that are suitable for those suffering from allergies. Some even come with an anti-microbial treatment. If your cot has a drop side, ensure it is in the up position and locked securely.
A drop side should only be allowed to drop when an adult is present - to prevent accidental releases. If your cot has a solid end be sure to avoid placing it against the wall because this will restrict airflow and could cause coffin death. The latest research suggests that slatted edges could be safer since they allow more airflow.
If your cot is fixed on one side, then you can choose it. It will be the most secure option for your baby when they begin to crawl and pull themselves upward. If your child is climbing with confidence and standing, it's time to move to a junior bed.
Some cots have an option that allows the base to be raised up to three different levels. This is a great security measure that allows your child's cot to grow with them. Other cots come with 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, ensure that there is no visible danger. It must be kept away from heaters or windows, power points and blind cords and curtains (these pose a strangulation risk). If you are buying second-hand furniture or heirlooms, be sure to check for choking hazards such as stickers and transfers. They may peel off and pose a danger.
If you are unsure about how to use your cot, ask other parents for help or attend an local NCT New Baby class. If your cot comes with an instruction manual, read it carefully before using it, and be sure to follow the safety guidelines closely.
Style
This gorgeous cot bed, with its sleigh-style design will look fantastic in your nursery. Our panel was impressed by the mix of natural and white pine, and its clever features, such as drawers under the bed to store all those baby essentials like nappies, bedding, and an enviable variety of baby outfits. It's also a breeze to put together with clear instructions and separate sets of screws for each section. It can also be transformed into a toddler's desk and bed as your child grows older (see product description for more information).
The teething rails are among our top features. They keep your child from hitting their head against the crib's side or any other protruding part of the crib, like the corner post or handle. They also stop them from chewing on the wood and also preventing them from suffocating. It also has a drop-side to allow easier access to your newborn. We love that the cot can be converted into a toddler bed and that it's strong enough to last up to four years. It also complies with the stringent UK safety standards, which you'll find in the main specifications 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 purchasing an entirely new bed when your child's ready to go up. They are more expensive than cribs.
If your nursery is small, you might think about a crib. It is smaller and occupies less space. However, if you plan to spend a significant portion of your baby's time in your bedroom or if you require a bed that lasts longer, you should opt for a crib.
If a cot doesn't meet the UK safety standards set by BS EN 716 or BS 8509 (which cover mattress thicknesses, materials and other essential elements of baby mattresses for cots) it is not safe for babies to sleep. The slats must not be too wide apart to stop your child from falling out.
Storage
The amount of baby gear you'll need is overwhelming regardless of whether you're a new mom or a seasoned one. It's crucial to think about storage when choosing a cot-bed. Many cots come with additional storage options, such as under-bed drawers or a coordinating top changer (available separately). cots offers are even able to be converted to a toddler or a small single bed, which can extend their usefulness for a longer period of time.
Some cots are able to be converted into day beds, like the one shown here on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is a great option for those who prefer a less rigid design as the conversion process is fairly simple and requires just the removal of a side panel. This also allows parents to save money on a separate bed purchase.
A number of cot beds feature a hanging rail which can be used to store muslins Dummies, and other small items. This makes it easier to keep everything organised, neat and tidy and also looks amazing. Being able to access these items makes it easier for parents to feed their child.
cots and tots teething rail is another desirable feature that is included in some cots. This will prevent your child from chewing on the wooden cot, which can cause irritation. Some cots come with an older style and have a huge storage drawer under the bed. It is perfect for toys, clothes blankets, and other baby necessities.
This is a great choice for those who have limited space but you'll need to purchase a drawer separately. You might need to purchase an additional mattress and bedding, as oval sheets and mattresses do not come with the cot.
This sleigh-style cot bed stunning illustration of Scandi style at its finest. It has a large under-bed storage compartment that's ideal to keep baby's essentials out-of-sight but within easy access. The alphabetically labeled parts and clear instructions made it simple to assemble for our panel. 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.