How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby
If you're expecting a baby it's crucial to select a cot that's safe and secure for your baby. Choose a cot that has fixed sides (rather than drop-sides), which comply with strict UK safety standards.
Our top choice is this simple but elegant cot from John Lewis' Anyday range. It comes with three mattress positions, teething bars and a storage drawer. It is also easy to put together, and comes with clear instructions.
Comfort
The most comfortable cot beds keep babies comfy and cosy. Choose a soft, breathable fabric and make sure the mattress is fitted snugly to avoid any gaps, which could pose the risk of suffocation. There are a range of mattresses available on the market including coil springs, foam, natural materials for allergy sufferers - so do your research and select the right one for your baby's needs.
No matter if you select an ordinary or convertible cot, the key to comfort is a mattress of high-quality that provides proper support and promotes a healthy posture. The slats must be firmly attached, and not sliding. The slats must be securely attached to the frame, so your child isn't stuck in them while they move during sleep.
If best cot beds 're not sure which mattress to purchase, talk to your family and friends or consult online reviews for suggestions. Make sure you choose a mattress that's ventilated, as they'll aid in maintain temperature and are less likely to harbor bacteria.
In terms of style, there's a wide choice from classic sleigh styles with ornate detailing to sleek, modern designs. Some are painted in bright primary colours to make your child feel joyful and cheerful as they wake up.
The majority of cots have an under-bed storage drawer teething rails to prevent your child from chewing the sides of the cot, and height bases that can be adjusted to accommodate baby's growth. You can even buy drop sides for small babies or those who have health issues that make it difficult to bend over.
For added security, opt for a cot that is compliant with the stringent UK safety standards and can easily convert into an infant bed when the time is right. Find this information in the description or in the specifications.
Safety
When selecting a cot, a safe sleeping environment should be a priority. Make sure that the mattress fits snugly, with no gaps between it and the cot/cot beds edges or sides (big gaps could trap your child's head or arms). Make sure the mattress is not too firm and thin. Thick mattresses could increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies offer a choice of mattresses, from simple foam to natural materials suitable for allergy sufferers and some even have anti-microbial treatment. If your cot has drop-sides, make sure it is secured and in the up position.
A drop side should only be allowed to go down when an adult is present - this prevents accidental release. If your cot has a solid end, avoid placing it against the wall as it will block airflow and could cause death in the coffin. The latest research suggests that slatted ends could be safer since they permit more airflow.
If your cot is set on one side, then you can choose it. It will be the safest option for your baby when they start to crawl and pull themselves upward. When your child is standing and climbing, this is a sign that they are ready to transition into a junior bed.
Some cots have a feature where the base can be raised to three different heights, so that it will increase with your child's growth This is extremely useful and is a safety measure. Some cots have footplates that are adjustable, which is ideal for toddlers who wish to sit up in their bed.
When putting your child's cot in the crib, make sure there aren't any obvious dangers. It should be kept away from heaters and power points. Also be sure to keep it away from windows, curtains, and blind cords. All of these could pose a strangulation risk. If you're buying furniture that is second-hand or an heirloom be sure to look for any hazards to choking such as stickers and transfers that can peel off and present the risk of.
If you're unsure of how to safely use your cot, consult other parents for advice or attend a local NCT New Baby class. If your cot comes with a manual, make sure you read it before using it and adhere to the instructions.
Style
With its beautiful sleigh design This stunning crib will look stunning 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 an enviable variety of baby outfits. It's also easy to assemble with clear instructions and separate sets of screws for each section. It could also be transformed into a toddler's desk and bed when your child gets older (see the product description for more details).
One of our most loved features are the teething rails, which shield your baby from bumping their head against the side of the cot or any protruding parts of the cot, such as the handle or corner post. They also help stop them chewing on the wood, preventing them from being in danger of being suffocated. The cot also has a drop-side to make it easier for you to access your newborn. We appreciate that the cot could be converted into a toddler bed and that it's built to last for up to four years. It also complies with the stringent UK safety standards, which are listed in the specifications that are listed under each product.
Cot beds are typically larger than cribs and can be converted into toddler beds when your child is ready, allowing you to avoid purchasing a bed until they're ready to move on. However, they can be pricier upfront than the standard crib.
If your nursery is small, a crib may be the best option for you since it is smaller and takes up less space, but if your baby is likely to spend most of the time in their parents' rooms or you're looking for a more durable bed, opt for a crib.
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 the thickness of mattresses, the materials used and other essential elements of cot mattresses for baby. The slats shouldn't be too wide apart to prevent your baby from falling off.
Storage
No matter if you're a first-time parent or a seasoned one, the amount of stuff a baby needs is staggering. This is the reason it's important to consider storage options when choosing the cot bed. Some cots come with additional storage options, including drawers beneath the bed or a top changer (available separately). Certain cots can be transformed into an infant bed or a small single beds to expand their usage.
Some cot beds can be adapted into a day bed, as seen here on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is a great choice for those who prefer more flexible designs as the process of conversion is easy and only requires the removal of one side panel. This will allow parents to save on the cost of an additional bed.
Some cot beds come with a hanging rail that can be used to hang muslins, dummies along with other small objects. This allows you to keep everything organised, neat and tidy - and it also looks fantastic. The ease of access to these items will make it much easier for parents when feeding their infant.
A teething rail is an additional desired feature that is found in some cots. This can keep your baby from chewing on the wood, which can cause irritation. Some cots come with a more traditional design and have a huge storage drawer underneath the bed. It is perfect for clothes, toys, blankets and other baby essentials.
While this is a great idea for when you're short on space, you should remember that you will have to purchase an extra for the drawer. It is also possible to buy a new mattress and bedding, as oval mattresses and sheets aren't usually included in the cot.
This sleigh cot bed from Stokke is a lovely example of Scandi-style at its best and features a huge under-bed storage drawer that's great to keep baby's essentials out of view but still within reach. The alphabetically labeled components and clear instructions made it simple to assemble for our panel. It's suitable for babies from birth and can be made into a toddler bed when your child is ready, meaning it's a good investment too.