How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby
If you are expecting a baby it is essential to select a cot which will ensure safety and security for your baby. Find a cot which has fixed sides, rather than drop-sides. This will comply with UK safety standards.
This minimalist, stylish cot is our top choice from the Anyday range by John Lewis. It comes with three mattress positions, teething rails and storage drawer. It is also easy to put together, and comes with clear instructions.
Comfort
The best cot bed keeps children comfortable and warm. Choose a breathable soft and comfortable fabric. Make sure the mattress is snug to prevent any gaps that could create the risk of being suffocated. There are a variety of mattresses available on the market including coil springs, foam and natural materials for allergy sufferers - so do your research and select the one that is suitable for your baby's requirements.
Whether you opt for an ordinary or convertible cot, the primary factor to satisfaction is a high-quality mattress that provides proper support and promotes healthy posture. The slats must be secured and not sagging. The slats must also be securely attached to the frame to ensure that your child will not be caught when they move in their sleep.
Ask your family and friends for recommendations or look at online reviews. Select mattresses that are breathable, since they will help you regulate your body temperature, and are less likely to be a breeding ground for bacteria.
In terms of style, there's a wide choice, from traditional sleigh styles with elaborate details to sleek, contemporary designs. Some are decorated with bright primary colors to make your child feel happy and cheerful when they wake up.
Most cots come with an under-bed storage drawer and teething rails that stop your child from chewing on the sides of the cot, and height bases that can be adjusted to accommodate your child's growth. You can even buy a drop side for smaller infants or those with health issues that make it difficult to bend over.
Find a cot that is in compliance with the strict UK safety standards and can easily be converted into a toddler's bed when it's time. This information is available in the product description as well as the key specifications.
Safety
When selecting a cot, the safety of your child's sleep should be a priority. Make sure that the mattress is snugly fitted, with no gap between it and the cot/cot beds edges or sides (big gaps can keep your child's head from being caught in the arms). Check that it's firm and thin - thicker mattresses aren't advised because they can increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies sell mattresses in various materials from foam to natural materials that are great for allergy sufferers. Some even have an anti-microbial treatment. If your mattress has drop sides, make sure that it is in the up position and locked securely.
Drop sides should only be permitted to fall when an adult is in the room. This will prevent accidental release. 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. The latest research suggests that slatted ends could be safer because they allow for more airflow.
If your cot is fixed on one side, then you can choose it. It's the most secure choice for your baby as they start to crawl and pull themselves upward. Once your child is confidently standing and climbing, this is a sign that they're ready to move into the junior bed.
Some cots have a feature that allows the base to be raised up to three levels. This is a great security measure that allows your child's cot to grow with them. Some cots have footplates that can be adjusted, which are ideal for toddlers who wish to sit up in their beds.
When placing your child's cot ensure there are no visible hazards. It should be put away from power and heater points. Also be sure to keep it away from windows, curtains and blind cords. They all could create strangulation risks. If you're purchasing furniture from a secondhand store or an heirloom piece, check for dangers to your child's health such as stickers and transfers that can be removed and create danger.
If you're unsure about how to use your cot safely consult other parents or attend the local NCT New Baby course for assistance and guidance. If your cot comes with an instruction manual, read it carefully before you begin using it, and follow the safety guidelines closely.
Style
With its stunning sleigh design This stunning cot bed will look amazing in your nursery. Our panel members loved the mix of natural and white pine, as well as its clever features, such as under-bed storage drawers that can hold all the baby necessities like nappies, bedding and an enviable assortment of baby clothes. It's also a breeze to put together with clear instructions and separate packs of screws for each section. It could also be transformed into a toddler desk and bed as your child grows older (see product description for more details).
The rails for teething are among our most loved features. They prevent your child from hitting their head against the crib's side or any protruding part of the crib, like the handle or corner post. They also prevent them from chewing on the wood and preventing them from being suffocated. There's also an opening that can be removed to allow you to get access to your baby. We appreciate that the cot could 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, which can be found in the specifications that are listed under each product.
Cot beds can be turned into toddler beds in the event that your child is old enough. This allows you to avoid purchasing an entirely new bed when your child's ready to go up. They may cost more than a crib.
If your nursery is very small, a crib may be the best option for you as it is smaller and takes up less space, but should your baby be expected to spend much of their time in their parents' rooms or you'd like a more long-lasting bed, you should consider a cot.
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 babies. The slats should not be too wide apart to stop your child from falling out.
Stores
Whether you're a first-time parent or an experienced one, the amount of stuff that a baby requires is overwhelming. This is why it's essential to consider the storage options when you choose the cot bed. mini cot beds have additional storage options, such as drawers underneath the bed or a top changer (available separately). Some can be transformed into a toddler or small single bed, extending their use for a longer time.
Some cot beds can be converted into a daybed as shown on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is a great option for those who prefer the flexibility of a design. The conversion is simple and requires only the removal of a single side panel. This allows parents to save money on a bed purchase.
Some cot beds have hanging rails that can be used to hang muslins, dummies, as well as other small objects. This keeps everything neat, tidy and organised. It also looks beautiful. Having easy access to these items will make it easier for parents to feed their child.
Another feature worth looking for is a toothing rail that comes in a few cots. This will stop your child from chewing on the wooden cot which could cause irritation. Some cots are designed in an older style and include a large under-bed storage drawer that is ideal to store blankets, toys clothes, and other baby necessities.
This is a great choice when space is a problem, but you will have to purchase a drawer separately. You may need to buy bedding and a mattress separately, as oval sheets and mattresses do not come with the cot.
This sleigh-style cot bed is a beautiful example of Scandi style at its best. It has a spacious under-bed storage area that is ideal to keep baby's essentials out-of-sight but within easy access. Our panel found it very 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 when your child is ready. This means it's good value too.