How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby
If you're expecting a child it's crucial to select a cot that's safe and secure for your child. 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 stylish cot from John Lewis' Anyday range. It comes with three mattress height positions, teething rails as well as a storage drawers. It's also easy to set up with clear instructions.
Comfort
The best cot bed keeps children comfortable and warm. Choose a soft, comfortable fabric. Also, make sure that the mattress is snug to prevent any gaps which could create an suffocation threat. There are many types of mattresses available, including coils springs, foam, and even natural materials for allergy sufferers. Do your research to determine the ideal mattress for your child.
No matter if you select a standard or convertible cot, the primary factor to satisfaction is a high-quality mattress that is supportive and promotes a healthy posture. This is also true for the slats, which must be firmly attached and not bent or sagging. The slats must also be securely connected to the frame to ensure that your child does not become caught in the movement in their sleep.
If nursery cots of the mattress to purchase, talk to your family and friends or consult online reviews for recommendations. Look for ones that are air-conditioned, as they'll help to regulate temperature and are less likely to harbour bacteria.
When it comes to style there's a broad selection of styles, from traditional sleigh designs with elaborate details to sleek, contemporary designs. Some are even painted with bold primary colours, which is ideal when you want your child to wake up feeling fresh and cheerful!
You'll find most cots have a drawer underneath for storage as well as teething rails that protect your child from chewing on the sides of the cot, and adjustable height bases to accommodate baby's growth. You can also purchase a drop side for smaller babies or those with health issues that make it difficult for them to bend over.
Look for a cot which is compliant with the strict UK safety standard and is able to be easily converted into a toddler's bed when it is time. This information is found in the product description as well as key specifications.
Safety
A safe sleeping environment is essential and a big consideration when choosing a crib. The mattress should be able to fit snugly and there shouldn't be gaps between the mattress and the ends or sides of the cot or cot-bed (large gaps could restrict the child's arms or head). Verify that the mattress is not too firm and thin. Mattresses that are thick could increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies offer a choice of mattresses, from simple foam to natural materials for allergy sufferers and some even have anti-microbial treatment. If your cot has a drop-side, make sure it is locked and in the upward position.
Drop sides should only be allowed down when an adult is present in the room. This prevents accidental release. Avoid placing your cot against walls if it has an end that is solid. This can restrict airflow, which can cause death in the coffin. Recent research suggests that slatted ends may be safer as they permit more airflow.
If your crib has a fixed side you should choose this because it's safer when your child begins to crawl and then pull themselves up. When your child is confidently climbing and standing, it's the time to upgrade to a junior bed.
Some cots come with 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 the child. Some cots feature footplates that can be adjusted to suit for toddlers who love to stand up.
Whenever you place your child in their cot, check whether there is no visible danger. It should be away from heaters and power points, windows, blind cords and curtains (these are a strangulation hazard). If you are buying second-hand furniture or heirlooms, make sure to look out for dangers to your child's health such as stickers and transfers. They can come off and pose a danger.
If you're not sure how to safely use your cot, consult other parents for help or attend an local NCT New Baby class. If your crib comes with a manual, make sure you read it before using it and adhere to the directions.
Style
With its gorgeous sleigh style This stunning crib will look stunning in your nursery. The panel was awed by the combination of natural wood and white as well as the clever features like drawers under the bed for all baby essentials, like bedding, nappies and a wide selection of baby clothes. It's also easy to assemble with clear instructions and separate sets of screws for each section. It can also be transformed into a toddler desk or bed when your child gets older (see the product description for more information).
One of our most loved features is the teething rails that protect your baby from smacking their head against the cot's side or any protruding part of the cot, like handles or a corner post, and which also help stop them chewing on the wood, which prevents them from getting trapped. It also features an opening that can be removed to allow you to get access to your baby. We are thrilled that it can be converted into an infant bed, and it's built to last for four years. It also met strict UK safety standards. These are listed in the main specifications below each product.
Cot beds can be turned into toddler beds in the event that your child is old enough. This lets you not have to buy an entirely new bed when your child's ready to go up. 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. However, if your child is likely to spend much of their time in their parents' room or you want a longer-lasting bed, consider a cot.
A cot isn't safe for babies to sleep in if it does not meet the strict UK safety standards outlined in BS EN 716 and BS 8509, which covers the thickness of mattresses, the materials used and other key elements of baby cot mattresses. The slats should not be too wide apart to stop your baby from falling off.
Storage
If you're a new parent or a seasoned one the amount of things that a baby requires is overwhelming. It's important to consider storage when you choose a cot. Some cots have additional storage options, such as drawers beneath the bed or a top changer (available separately). Some can be transformed into a toddler or small single bed, increasing their use for a longer time.
Some cot beds can be further transformed into a daybed, as seen here on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is a great choice for those who prefer an unstructured design since the conversion process is fairly simple and involves the removal of one side panel. This lets parents save on the cost of an additional bed.
Some cot beds come with hanging rails that can be used to hang muslins and dummies along with other small things. This makes it easier to keep everything organised tidy, neat and tidy and also looks great. Having easy access to these items makes it easier for parents when feeding their infant.
A teething rail is an additional desired feature that is found in some cots. This will prevent your child from chewing on the wooden cot, which can cause irritation. Some cots feature more traditional designs and include a large storage drawer underneath the bed, which is perfect for toys, clothes blankets, baby necessities.
While this is a great idea if you're running out of space, it's important to remember that you will need to buy a separate extra for the drawer. You may have to purchase bedding and a mattress separately because oval sheets and mattresses do not come with the cot.
This sleigh cot from Stokke is a beautiful example of Scandi-style at its best and has a huge under-bed storage drawer that's ideal to keep baby necessities out of sight but easily reachable. The alphabetically labeled parts and clear instructions made it simple to assemble our panel. It's suitable for infants from birth and can be transformed into a toddler's bed when your child is ready.