How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby
If you are expecting a baby it is essential to choose a cot that can provide security and safety for your baby. Choose a cot that has fixed sides, instead of drop-sides. This will comply with UK safety standards.
Our top pick is this basic but stylish coffin from John Lewis' Anyday range. It comes with three mattress height positions, teething rails, and a storage drawer. It is also simple to assemble, with clear instructions.
Comfort
The Best cot bed cot beds keep babies comfy and cosy. Look for a soft, airy fabric, and ensure that the mattress is fitted snugly to prevent any gaps which could pose an suffocation threat. There are a variety of mattresses available, including coils springs, foam and natural materials for allergy-sufferers. Do your research to determine the ideal mattress for your child.
No matter if you choose a standard cot or a convertible cot, a good mattress is vital to your comfort. It should provide adequate support and promote an upright posture. This is also true for the slats, which must be securely attached and not sagging or bent. The slats should also be secured to the frame so that your child doesn't get caught in them when moving in their sleep.
If you're not sure which mattress to buy, consult your family and friends or consult online reviews for suggestions. Choose breathable mattresses, as they help regulate your body temperature and less likely to hold bacteria.
There are many styles to choose from such as traditional sleighs, with ornate details and sleek, modern designs. Some are even painted in bold primary colours which is perfect if you want your little one to wake up feeling bright and cheerful!
There are a lot of cots that have drawers underneath to store items and teething rails to guard your child from chewing on the side of the cot and adjustable height bases to accommodate baby's growth. You can also purchase an extra drop-side for babies that are small or have health issues that make it difficult for them to bend over.
To ensure your peace of mind, look for a cot that meets the stringent UK safety standards and can easily transform into a toddler bed when the time is right. This information is available in the description of the product and the key specifications.
Safety
A safe sleeping environment is essential and a big consideration when choosing a bed. Make sure the mattress is snugly fitted, with no gaps between it and the cot/cot beds edges or sides (big gaps could trap your child's head or arms). Make sure it's firm and thin - thicker mattresses aren't recommended, because they can increase the risk of SIDS. There are many companies that offer a variety of mattresses, from simple foam to natural materials for allergy sufferers. Some even come with anti-microbial treatment. If your cot has an inclined side, make sure it is in the upward position and locked securely.
A drop side should only be allowed to fall only when an adult is present - to prevent accidental releases. Avoid placing your cot on walls if it has a solid end. This will restrict airflow, which can lead to coffin death. The latest research suggests that slatted edges could be safer since they allow more airflow.
If your cot is fixed to one side, you should choose it. It's the most secure option for your child when they begin to crawl and pull themselves upward. When your child is confidently standing and climbing, it is a sign they're ready to move into a junior bed.
Some cots have features that allow the base can be raised to three different heights in order to increase with your child's growth which is extremely convenient and an added safety measure. Other cots come with footplates that can be adjusted, which are great for toddlers who want to stand up in their bed.
When you place your child's cot be sure that there are no visible hazards. It should be kept away from any heaters or power points. Also make sure it is away from windows, curtains, and blind cords. They all could create strangulation risks. When buying second-hand furniture or heirlooms, make sure to look out for potential hazards to your child's safety such as labels and transfers. These can peel off and cause danger.
If you're unsure of how to safely use your cot, consult other parents for advice or take part in an local NCT New Baby class. If your cot comes with a manual be sure to read it before using it and adhere to the directions.
Style
With its gorgeous sleigh style This gorgeous cot bed will look great in your nursery. The panel was awed by the combination of natural wood and white as well as the innovative features like under-bed storage drawers for everything needed by babies, such as bedding, nappies, and a wide selection of baby clothes. It's also simple to put together, with concise instructions and separate sets of screws for each section. It can also be converted into a toddler desk and bed when your child gets older (see product description for more information).
One of our favorite features is the teething rails which protect your little one from bumping their head on the cot's side or any protruding part of the cot, like handles or a corner post. They also help stop them chewing on the wood, preventing them from getting in danger of being suffocated. It also features a drop-side to make it easier for parents to reach their newborn. We appreciate that the cot could be transformed into a toddler bed and that it's sturdy enough to last for four years. It also complies with the stringent UK safety standards, which can be found in the key specs beneath each product.
Cot beds can be transformed into toddler beds in the event that your child is old enough. This allows you to not have to buy a new bed when your child's ready to go up. They can be more expensive than a crib.
If your nursery is very 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 a lot of time in their parents' rooms or you're looking for a more durable bed, consider a cot.
If a cot does not meet the UK safety standards as defined by BS EN 716 or BS 8509 (which refers to mattress thicknesses, materials, and other important elements in baby cot mattresses), it is unsafe for babies to sleep. The slats shouldn't be too far apart, to ensure that your child doesn't fall off.
Stores
If you're a new parent or a seasoned one, the amount of stuff that a baby requires is overwhelming. It is important to think about storage when you choose a cot. Some cots have additional storage options, like drawers beneath the bed or a coordinating top changer (available separately). Some are even able to be converted into a toddler bed or a single bed, increasing their usefulness for a longer period of time.
Some cots can be transformed into day beds, like the one shown here on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is a great choice for those who prefer the flexibility of a design. The conversion is easy and requires only the removal of one side panel. This also allows parents to save money on a separate bed.
Some cot beds come with a hanging rail that can be used to hang muslins, dummies along with other small objects. This keeps everything neat, tidy and organized. It also looks fantastic. Having easy access to these items will make it much easier for parents to feed their infant.
A teething rail is another important feature that's included in some cots. This can prevent your little one chewing on the wood that could cause irritation. Some cots are designed with more traditional designs and include a large under-bed storage drawer that is ideal for storing toys, blankets, clothes and other baby necessities.
While this is a great option if you're running out of space, you must keep in mind that you'll require a separate extra drawer. You may need to buy an additional mattress and bedding because oval sheets and mattresses don't come with the cot.
This sleigh cot bed by Stokke is a stunning example of Scandi-style in its finest and has a huge under-bed storage drawer that's ideal to keep baby necessities out of sight but easily reachable. Our panel was able to find it easy to put together, thanks to the alphabetically labeled parts and clear instructions. It's suitable for babies as young as birth and can be transformed into a toddler's bed once your child is ready.