How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby
If you are expecting a child, it is important to choose a cot that will ensure safety and security for your baby. Choose a cot that has fixed sides, instead of drop-sides. This will meet UK safety standards.
This slick and elegant cot is our top pick from the Anyday range of John Lewis. It has three mattress height positions, teething rails and storage drawers. It is also easy to put together and comes with clear instructions.
Comfort
The best cot beds will keep children warm and cozy. Look for a soft and airy fabric, and ensure that the mattress is fitted snugly to avoid any gaps, which could pose a suffocation risk. There are a variety of mattresses available, including coils springs, foam, and natural materials for allergy sufferers. Do your research to find the ideal mattress for your child.
It doesn't matter if you pick a conventional cot or a convertible cot the mattress is essential to comfort. It should provide adequate support and promote a healthy posture. This is also true for the slats. They should be securely attached and not bent or sagging. The slats must be securely fixed to the frame, so your child doesn't get stuck in them while they move in their sleep.
Ask your friends and family for recommendations or look at online reviews. Make sure you choose a mattress that's air-conditioned, as they'll help to regulate temperature and are less likely to be a home for bacteria.
When it comes to style there's a variety of styles, from traditional sleigh styles with elaborate detailing to sleek, modern designs. Some are painted in bright primary colours to make your child feel joyful and cheerful as they wake up.
You'll find most cots have a drawer underneath for storage and teething rails to guard your baby from chewing on the sides of the cot, and adjustable height bases for infant growth. You can even purchase a drop side for smaller babies or those who have medical conditions that make it difficult for them to bend over.
To ensure your security, opt for a cot that is compliant with the strict UK safety standards and will easily transform into a toddler bed when the time is appropriate. This information is available in the description of the product and the specifications.
Safety
A safe and secure sleeping environment is a must and a major consideration when choosing a bed. 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 or cot-bed (large gaps could trap the child's arms or head). Verify that the mattress is firm and thin - thicker mattresses aren't recommended because they can increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies offer a range of mattresses, from simple foam to natural materials suitable for allergy sufferers. Some have anti-microbial treatment. If your mattress has a drop side, ensure it is in the up position and secured.
Drop sides should only be allowed down only when an adult is present in the room. This will prevent accidental releases. If your coffin has a solid bottom do not place it against the wall since it can block airflow and can cause the death of a coffin. According to the latest research, cots with slatted ends may be safer because they allow for more airflow.
If your cot is set on one side, choose it. best cot newborn 's the safest option for your child when they begin to crawl and pull themselves up. If your child is climbing with confidence and standing, it's the time to move to a junior bed.
Some cots have an option that allows the base to be raised to three different levels. This is a great security feature that allows the cot of your child to grow with them. Other cots come with footplates that can be adjusted, which are ideal for toddlers wanting to stand up in their bed.
Whenever you place your child in their cot, make sure that there is no visible danger. It should be away from heaters, power points, windows and blind cords and curtains (these are a strangulation hazard). If you're buying second-hand or heirloom furniture, check for hazards to choking such as stickers and transfers that can be removed and pose danger.
If you're unsure about how to use your cot safely consult other parents or visit the local NCT New Baby course for assistance and guidance. If your cot comes with a guide ensure that you read it before using it and follow all the directions.
Style
With its beautiful sleigh design, this gorgeous cot bed will look great in your nursery. Our panel loved the combination of natural and white pine, as well as its smart features, including drawers under the bed to store everything necessary for babies, including nappies, bedding and a dazzling assortment of baby clothes. It's also simple to put together with clear instructions and separate screws for each section. It can also be transformed into a bed for toddlers and a desk when your baby grows older (see the product description for details).
One of our most loved features are the teething rails, which shield your little one from bumping their head against the cot's side or any protruding part of the cot, like the handle or corner post, and which can also stop them from chewing on the wood, which prevents them from being suffocated. There's also a drop-side to make it easier for you to get access to your baby. We love that it can be converted to a toddler bed, and that it's built to last for up to four years. It also met the strict UK safety standards. These are listed in the main specifications below each product.
Cot beds are usually larger than cribs and can be transformed into toddler beds when your child is ready and you can avoid purchasing a new bed at an age when they're ready to transition. They may cost more than cribs.
If your nursery is small, a crib might be the best choice for you, as it's smaller and occupies less space, but should your baby be expected to spend most of the time in their parents' room or you want a longer-lasting bed, consider a crib.
If a cot doesn't meet the UK safety standards set by BS EN 716 or BS 8509 (which covers mattress thicknesses, materials and other key elements in baby cot mattresses) it is not safe for babies to sleep. The slats should not be too close together to ensure your baby doesn't get tossed out.
Stores
Whether you're a first-time parent or a veteran the amount of items that a baby requires is overwhelming. It's crucial to think about storage when choosing a cot-bed. A number of cots have additional storage options like drawers under the bed or a coordinating top changer (available separately). Some cots are able to be converted into an infant bed or a small single beds to expand their use.
Some cots can be converted into day beds, like the one shown on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is an ideal option for those who prefer a less rigid design as the conversion process is fairly simple and involves the removal of one side panel. This allows parents to save on the cost of an additional bed.
Some cot beds come with hanging rails that can be used to hang muslins and dolls along with other small things. This keeps everything neat, tidy and organised. It also looks fantastic. These items are easily accessible to parents and make it easier for them to feed their baby.
Another desirable feature to look for is a toothing rail that is available with cots. This will stop your child from chewing on the cot's wooden structure, which can cause irritation. Some cots are designed with an older style and include a large under-bed storage drawer that is ideal for storing blankets, toys clothes, and other baby necessities.
This is a great option for those who have limited space but you'll need to purchase a drawer on your own. It is also possible to purchase a different mattress and bedding as oval mattresses and sheets aren't usually included in the cot.
This sleigh-style cot bed is an exquisite example of Scandi style at its finest. It features a huge under-bed storage area that is ideal to keep baby's essentials away from view but easily accessible. Our panel of experts found it straightforward to put together, thanks to alphabetically labelled parts and clear instructions. It's suitable for babies as young as birth and can be converted into a toddler bed when your child is ready, which means it's a good investment too.