How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby
If you are expecting a child it is crucial to choose a cot that can provide security and safety for your baby. Look for a cot with fixed sides (rather than drop-sides) that meet strict UK safety standards.
This simple but elegant cot is our top choice from the Anyday range by John Lewis. It comes with three mattress positions, teething bars, and storage drawers. It's also simple to put together with clear instructions.
Comfort
The best cot beds will keep baby's warm and comfortable. Choose a soft, airy fabric, and ensure that the mattress is fitted snugly to avoid any gaps, which could create an suffocation threat. There are a variety of mattresses available, including foam, coils springs, and natural materials for allergy-sufferers. Do your research to find the ideal mattress for your child.
No matter if you select an ordinary or convertible cot, the primary factor to comfort is a good-quality mattress that provides proper support and encourages healthy posture. The slats must be securely attached and not sagging. The slats should also be firmly connected to the frame to ensure that your child will not be caught when they move in their sleep.
Ask your friends and family for recommendations or look at online reviews. Choose breathable mattresses, as they can help regulate your body temperature and are less likely to be a breeding ground for bacteria.
There are many styles to choose from that include traditional sleighs with intricate details and sleek, modern designs. Some are even painted in vibrant primary colours which is great if you want your child to wake up feeling fresh and happy!
Most cots come with a drawer underneath for storage, teething rails to protect your child from chewing on the sides of the cot, and adjustable height bases to accommodate baby's growth. You can also buy an extra drop-side for babies that aren't tall enough or have medical conditions that make it difficult to bend over.
To ensure your peace of mind, look for a cot that is compliant with the stringent UK safety standards and will easily convert into an infant bed when the time is right. This information can be found in the product description as well as the specifications.
Safety
A secure sleeping space is a must and a major factor when selecting a cot. Make sure that the mattress fits snugly, with no gap between it and the cot/cot bed's sides or ends (big gaps can restrict your child's head or arms). Check that the mattress is firm and thin. Mattresses that are thick can increase the risk of SIDS. There are many companies that offer mattresses made of different materials including foam and natural materials that are good for allergy sufferers. Some even come with an anti-microbial treatment. If your cot features a drop-side, make sure it is locked and in the up position.
A drop side should be allowed to fall when an adult is present; this prevents accidental release. Avoid placing best crib newborn against a wall if it has a solid end. This will restrict airflow, which can lead to coffin death. According to the latest research, slatted end cots are safer since they allow for more airflow.
If your cot is fixed to one side, you should choose it. It will be the safest option for your baby when they begin to crawl and then pull themselves upwards. Once your child is standing and climbing, it is a sign that they are ready to move into a junior bed.
Some cots feature an option where the base can be raised to three different levels, so that it will grow with your child This is extremely practical and a great security 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 that there isn't any visible danger. It should be away from heaters, power points, windows, curtains and blind cords (these are a strangulation hazard). If you're purchasing furniture that is second-hand or an heirloom be sure to look for any choking hazards like stickers and transfers that can be removed and create danger.
If you're not sure how to safely use your cot, consult other parents for help or attend a local NCT New Baby class. If your cot comes with a manual ensure that you read it before using it and adhere to the instructions.
Style
This gorgeous cot bed with its sleigh style will look fantastic in your nursery. Our panel members loved the combination of natural and white pine, as well as its clever features, such as drawers under the bed to store everything necessary for babies, including bedding, nappies and a dazzling assortment of baby clothes. It's also simple to put together, with concise instructions and separate sets of screws for each section. It could also be transformed into a toddler desk and bed when your child gets older (see the product description for more information).
One of our most loved features is the teething rails, which shield your little one from bumping their head on the cot's side or any other protruding parts of the cot, like handles or a corner post, and which will also stop them from chewing on the wood, preventing them from becoming in danger of being suffocated. It also has a drop-side to allow easier access to your infant. We are thrilled that it can be converted into an infant bed, and that it's sturdy enough to last for up to four years. It also met strict UK safety standards. You can find these in the main specifications below each product.
Cot beds can be converted into toddler beds when your child is old enough. This lets you not have to buy a new bed as your child gets ready to make the leap. However, they may be more expensive than a crib that is standard.
If your nursery is small, you may 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 bedroom, or if you need an item that lasts longer, you should consider a crib.
A cot isn't suitable 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 cot mattresses for baby. The slats should not be too far apart to prevent your baby from falling out.
Storage
The amount of baby gear you'll need is a mess regardless of whether you're a first-time parent or an experienced one. It is important to think about storage when selecting a cot. Certain cots offer additional storage options, including drawers beneath the bed or a coordinating top changer (available separately). Some can be transformed into a toddler bed or a single bed, increasing their usefulness for a longer period of 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 option for those who prefer an unstructured design since the conversion process is simple and involves the removal of one side panel. This allows parents to save on the cost of the purchase of a separate bed.
Some cot beds are equipped with a hanging rail that can be used to hang muslins, Dummies and other small things. This keeps everything tidy, neat and organized. It also looks great. Being able to access these items makes it much easier for parents when feeding their baby.
A teething rail is an additional desirable feature that is included in some cots. This can stop your child from chewing on the wood that could cause irritation. Some cots are designed in a more traditional style and include a large under-bed storage drawer that is perfect for storing toys, blankets clothing, and other baby necessities.
This is a great choice if space is an issue but you'll need to purchase a drawer separately. You may also have to buy a new mattress and bedding as sheets and mattresses that are oval aren't usually included in the cot itself.
This sleigh-style cot bed is a beautiful example of Scandi style at its finest. It has a spacious under-bed storage area that is ideal to keep baby's essentials out-of-sight but within easy access. 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 bed when your child is ready. This means it's a good investment too.