How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby
If you're expecting a child it is essential to select a cot that's secure and safe 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 elegant cot from John Lewis' Anyday range. It comes with three mattress positions, teething bars and a storage drawer. It is also simple to put together, and comes with clear instructions.
Comfort
The best cot beds will keep baby's warm and comfortable. Find a comfortable, soft fabric. Make sure that the mattress fits snugly, to avoid any gaps that could pose a risk of suffocation. There are a variety of mattresses on the market including coil springs, foam and other natural materials suitable for allergy sufferers, so do your research and select the right one for your baby's requirements.
It doesn't matter if you pick a standard cot or a convertible cot, a good mattress is vital to your comfort. It should provide proper support and promote a healthy posture. The slats need to be secured and not sagging. The slats must also be securely attached to the frame so that your child isn't caught in them when moving in their sleep.
Ask your family and friends for recommendations or browse online reviews. Look for ones that are air-conditioned, as they'll help maintain temperature and are less likely to harbour bacteria.
There are many styles to choose from such as traditional sleighs, with intricate details and sleek, modern designs. Some are painted in vibrant primary colors to make your child feel cheerful and cheerful as they awake.
You'll find most cots have drawers underneath to store items, teething rails to protect your baby from chewing on the side of the cot and adjustable height bases for infant growth. You can also purchase a drop-side for babies who aren't tall enough or suffer from health issues that make it difficult for them to bend over.
For added security, opt for a cot that meets the stringent UK safety standards and will easily transform into an infant bed when the time is right. Look for this information in the description or key specs.
Safety
When selecting a cot, the safety of your child's sleep should be a priority. Make sure the mattress fits snugly, with no gap between it and the cot/cot beds edges or sides (big gaps could restrict your child's head or arms). Check that the mattress is firm and thin. Mattresses that are thick could increase the risk of SIDS. There are many companies that offer a variety of mattresses, ranging from basic foam to natural materials for allergy sufferers and some even come with anti-microbial treatment. If your cot has drop-sides, make sure it is locked and in the upward position.
A drop side should be allowed to go down only if an adult is present; to prevent accidental releases. If your cot has a solid end, avoid placing it against the wall as it can block airflow and can cause death in the coffin. According to the latest research, cots with slatted edges could be safer as they allow for greater airflow.
If your cot has a fixed side, opt for this as it is the most secure option when your baby starts to crawl and pull themselves up. When your child is confidently climbing and standing, it's time to move to a junior bed.
Some cots come with a feature that allows the base to be raised to three different levels. This is a wonderful security measure that allows your child's cot to expand with the child. Some cots have footplates that can be adjusted to suit for toddlers who like to stand up.
When you put your child in their cot, ensure whether there is no visible danger. It must be kept away from heaters and windows, power points and curtains and blind cords (these can be strangulation hazards). When purchasing second-hand furniture, or heirlooms to check for potential hazards to your child's safety such as labels and transfers. They may peel off and pose a danger.
If you're unsure about how to use your cot safely, ask parents around or go to an local NCT New Baby course for assistance and guidance. If your cot has a manual, read it carefully before you start using it, and then follow the safety-use guidelines carefully.
Style
With its gorgeous sleigh style This stunning cot bed will look amazing in your nursery. The panel was impressed with the mix of white and natural wood and the clever features like under-bed storage drawers that can hold everything needed by babies, such as bedding, nappies, and a wide selection of baby clothes. It is also easy to build, with clear instructions and separate screws for each section. Visit Homepage can also be transformed into a toddler desk and bed as your child grows older (see product description for more details).
The teething rails are one of our favorite features. They prevent your child from hitting their head on the crib's side or any protruding portion of the crib, like the corner post or handle. They also stop children from chewing on the wood and preventing them from suffocating. It also has a drop-side for easier access to your newborn. We love that the cot can be transformed into a toddler bed, and that it's strong 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 if your child is old enough. This lets you not have to buy a new bed when your child's ready to make the leap. They are more expensive than cribs.
If your nursery is small, a crib might be the best choice for you as it is smaller and takes up less space, but should your baby be expected to spend a lot of time in their parents' room or you want a longer-lasting bed, consider a cot.
If a cot doesn't meet the UK safety standards as defined by BS EN 716 or BS 8509 (which cover mattress thicknesses, materials and other essential elements in baby mattresses for cots), it is unsafe for babies to sleep. The slats should not be too close together to ensure your baby doesn't fall off.
Stores
The amount of baby gear you'll need is a mess regardless of whether you're a new mom or a seasoned one. This is why it's crucial to think about storage options when choosing a cot bed. Some cots have additional storage options, such as drawers beneath the bed or a coordinating top changer (available separately). Some cots are able to be converted into toddler beds or a smaller single beds to expand their use.
Some cots are able to be converted into day beds, as seen 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. It also lets parents save money on a separate bed purchase.
A number of cot beds come with hanging rails that can be used to store muslins dummies and other small items. This allows you to keep everything organised tidy, neat and tidy - and it also looks great. The ease of access to these items will make it much easier for parents when feeding their infant.
Another feature worth looking for is a toothing rail that is available in a few cots. This can keep your baby from chewing on the wood which can cause irritation. Some cots are designed with more traditional designs and include a large under-bed storage drawer which is ideal to store blankets, toys clothing, and other baby necessities.
While this is a great idea for when you're running out of space, you should remember that you will require a separate extra for the drawer. You may also have to buy a new mattress and bedding since sheets and mattresses that are oval aren't usually included in the cot itself.
This sleigh cot bed by Stokke is a beautiful example of Scandi-style at its best and comes with a massive under-bed storage drawer that's perfect for keeping all those baby's essentials out of view but within easy reach. The alphabetically labeled pieces and clear instructions made it simple to assemble our panel. It's suitable for babies from birth and can be converted into a toddler's bed when your child is ready.