How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby
If you're expecting a baby it's crucial to select a cot that will be safe and secure for your child. Find a cot which has fixed sides instead of drop-sides. This will be in line with UK safety standards.
This slick and stylish cot is our top choice from the Anyday range by John Lewis. It comes with three mattress positions, teething bars, and an storage drawer. It is also easy to assemble, with clear instructions.
Comfort
The best cot beds keep children warm and cozy. Look for a breathable soft and comfortable fabric. Make sure that the mattress is fitted snugly to prevent any gaps that could cause the risk of being suffocated. There are a variety 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 a standard or convertible cot, the primary factor to comfort is a good-quality mattress that is supportive and promotes healthy posture. The slats need to be secured and not sliding. The slats must also be firmly fixed to the frame, so that your child does not get caught when they move during sleep.
If you're not sure which mattress to buy, ask friends and family or check online reviews for suggestions. Make sure you choose a mattress that's ventilated, as they'll aid in regulate temperature and are less likely to harbor bacteria.
There are a myriad of styles to pick from that include traditional sleighs with intricate details and modern, sleek designs. Some are painted in bright primary colours to make your child feel joyful and happy when they wake up.
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 buy a drop-side for babies who aren't big or suffer from medical conditions that make it difficult to bend over.
Find a cot that is in compliance with the strict UK safety standard and is able to be easily transformed into a toddler's cot when it is time. Find this information in the product description or key specs.
Safety
When selecting a cot, a safe sleeping environment is a must. Make sure the mattress is snug and has no gaps between it and the cot's bed's sides or ends (big gaps can restrict your child's head or arms). Make sure the mattress is not too firm and thin. Mattresses that are thick can increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies offer a choice of mattresses, ranging from basic foam to natural materials for allergy sufferers and some even contain anti-microbial treatments. If your cot has drop-sides, ensure that it is locked and in the upward position.
Drop sides should only be allowed to go to fall when an adult is in the room. This can prevent accidental release. If your cot has a solid end do not place it against the wall since it will block airflow and may contribute to death in the coffin. The latest research suggests that slatted ends could be safer since they allow more airflow.
If your cot is set on one side, choose it. It's the most secure option for your baby as they begin to crawl and pull themselves up. When your child is confidently standing and climbing, this is a sign they're ready to move into a junior bed.
Some cots feature an option 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. Other cots come with adjustable footplates, which are ideal for toddlers wanting to stand up in their bed.
If you are putting your child in their cot, check whether there is no obvious danger - it should be away from heaters and power points, windows, curtains and blind cords (these are a strangulation hazard). If you're purchasing furniture that is second-hand or an heirloom, check for dangers to your child's health such as stickers and transfer tapes that could be removed and pose the risk of.
If you're unsure about how to use your cot safely you can ask other parents or visit an local NCT New Baby course for support and advice. If your cot comes with a guide, make sure you go through it prior to using it and adhere to the instructions.
Style
With its beautiful sleigh design This stunning cot bed will look amazing in your nursery. Our panel loved the mix of natural and white pine, as well as its innovative features, like drawers under the bed to store all those baby essentials like nappies, bedding and a stunning assortment of baby clothes. It's also easy to put together, with clear instructions and separate screws for each section. It could also be transformed into a toddler's desk and bed as your child grows older (see product description for more information).
The rails for teething are among our most loved features. They prevent your child from hitting their head on the crib's side or any protruding portion of the crib, such as the handle or corner post. They also prevent them from chewing on the wood and also preventing them from being suffocated. The cot also has a drop-side to allow easier access to your baby. We love that it can be converted into an infant bed, and it's sturdy enough to last up to four years. It also met the strict UK safety standards. These are listed in the specifications below for each product.
Cot beds can be transformed 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 is ready to make the leap. However, they are more expensive upfront than the crib that is standard.
If your nursery isn't big enough, you might be considering a crib. It is smaller and requires less space. However it is recommended to consider a cot if you are planning on spending a lot of your baby's time in your room, or if you need a bed that lasts longer, you should choose a crib.
A cot isn't suitable for babies to sleep in if it doesn't meet the strict UK safety standards as outlined in BS EN 716 and BS 8509, which covers mattress thicknesses, materials and other important elements of baby cot mattresses. The slats must not be too far apart to stop your baby from falling out.
Stores
The amount of baby stuff you'll need is overwhelming regardless of whether you're a new mom or a seasoned one. This is the reason it's important to think about the storage options when you choose a cot bed. Some cots come with additional storage options, like drawers under the bed or a top changer (available separately). Certain cots can be transformed into an infant bed or a small single bed to extend their use.
Some cots can be transformed into day beds, as shown on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is an excellent option for those who prefer a more flexible design. The conversion is easy and requires only the removal of a single side panel. This allows parents to save money on a separate bed.
Some cot beds are equipped with hanging rails that can be used to hang muslins and Dummies and other small objects. This makes everything neat, tidy and organized. It also looks beautiful. These items are easily accessible to parents, making it easier for parents to feed their child.
Another thing to look for is a toothing rail that is available with some cots. This will help keep your baby from chewing on the wood which could cause irritation. Some cots come with more traditional designs and include a large storage drawer beneath the bed, which is perfect for clothes, toys blankets, and other baby essentials.
This is a great option for those who have limited space however, you will need to purchase a drawer separately. You may have to purchase a separate mattress and bedding because oval sheets and mattresses do not come with the cot.
This sleigh cot from Stokke is a stunning example of Scandi-style in its finest and features a huge under-bed storage drawer that's perfect for keeping all those baby's essentials out of view but within easy reach. Our panel of experts found it easy to put together thanks to the alphabetically labeled parts and clear instructions. It's suitable for infants from birth and can be made into a toddler bed once your child is ready, meaning it's a good investment too.