How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby
If you're expecting a child it is essential to select a cot that will be safe and secure for your little one. Look for a cot that has fixed sides rather than drop-sides. This will meet UK safety standards.
This minimalist, stylish cot is our top pick from the Anyday range of John Lewis. It has 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. Choose a breathable, soft fabric. Make sure the mattress fits snugly, to eliminate any gaps that could pose the danger of suffocation. There are a range of mattresses on the market - foam, coil springs and natural materials for allergy sufferers, so do your research and choose the right one for your baby's needs.
If you choose a convertible or standard cot, the primary factor to satisfaction is a high-quality mattress that provides proper support and promotes healthy posture. The slats should also be firmly attached, and not sagging. The slats must also be securely fixed to the frame, so that your little one doesn't get trapped in them while moving during sleep.
Ask your friends and family for recommendations or look at online reviews. Make sure you choose a mattress that's air-conditioned, as they'll help maintain temperature and are less likely to harbor bacteria.
When it comes to style, there's a wide choice from classic sleigh styles with intricate details to sleek, contemporary designs. Some are even painted in vibrant primary colours which is great for those who want their little one to wake up feeling fresh and happy!
Most cots come with an under-bed drawer for storage, teething rails to protect your baby from chewing on the side of the cot and adjustable height bases for infant growth. You can even purchase a drop side for petite infants or those with medical conditions that make it difficult for them to bend over.
To ensure your peace of mind, search for a cot that complies with the strict UK safety standards and will easily convert into an infant bed when the time is appropriate. This information is found in the product description as well as key specifications.
Safety
A safe sleeping environment is an essential factor when selecting a bed. The mattress should be able to fit snugly and there shouldn't be gaps between the mattress and the edges or sides of the cot or cot-bed (large gaps can restrict the child's arms or head). Check that it's solid and thin - more thick mattresses aren't recommended, since they could increase the risk of SIDS. There are many companies that offer mattresses made of a variety of materials including foam and natural materials that are great for allergy sufferers. Some even have an anti-microbial treatment. If your cot has drop-sides, make sure it is secured and in the up position.
Drop sides should only be permitted down when an adult is in the room. This will prevent accidental release. Avoid placing your cot against a wall if it has an end that is solid. This will hinder airflow and could lead to coffin death. The latest research suggests that slatted ends could be safer since they permit more airflow.
If your cot is set on one side, choose it. It will be the most secure choice for your baby as they start to crawl and then pull themselves upwards. When your child is climbing with confidence and standing, it's the time to move to a junior bed.
Some cots are equipped with an option that allows the base to be raised up to three different levels. This is a great security feature that allows your child's cot to grow with the child. Some cots have footplates that can be adjusted, which are ideal for toddlers who wish to stand up in their bed.
When you put your child in their cot, make sure that there is no obvious danger - it must be kept away from heaters, power points, windows, curtains and blind cords (these pose a strangulation risk). If you're buying furniture from a secondhand store or an heirloom piece be sure to look for any dangers to your child's health such as stickers and transfers that can be removed and create the risk of.
If you're unsure about how to use your cot safely consult other parents or attend a local NCT New Baby course for assistance and guidance. If your cot comes with a manual ensure that you go through it prior to using it and follow the instructions.
Style
With its gorgeous sleigh style, this gorgeous cot bed will look great in your nursery. Our panel was impressed by the mix of white and natural pine, and its innovative features, like under-bed storage drawers to keep all those baby essentials like nappies, bedding, and a dazzling variety of baby outfits. tots and cots is also easy to construct, with clear instructions and screws for each section. It could also be transformed into a toddler desk or bed as your child grows older (see product description for more details).
One of our favourite features is the teething rails that protect your baby from smacking their head against the cot's side or any protruding parts of the cot, such as a handle or a corner post. They can also stop them from chewing on the wood, preventing them from getting in danger of being suffocated. There's also a drop-side to allow easier access to your infant. 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 complies with the stringent UK safety standards, which can be found in the specifications that are listed under each product.
Cot beds can be converted into toddler beds in the event that your child is old enough. This lets you avoid purchasing a new crib as your child gets ready to go up. However, they may be more expensive than the crib that is standard.
If your nursery is small, you may want to consider a crib. It is smaller and occupies less space. However should you be planning to spend a significant portion of your baby's time in the room or you need a bed that lasts longer, you should choose a cot.
If a cot doesn't meet the UK safety standards as defined by BS EN 716 or BS 8509 (which covers the thickness of mattresses, the materials used, and other essential elements of baby mattress cots) it is not safe for babies to sleep. The slats shouldn't be too close together to ensure that your baby won't fall out.
Stores
If you're a new parent or a veteran, the amount of stuff that a baby requires is overwhelming. This is why it's crucial to think about storage options when selecting the right cot bed. Certain cots offer additional storage options, including drawers beneath the bed or a coordinating top changer (available separately). Some cots can be converted into toddler beds or a smaller single bed to extend their usage.
Some cot beds can be further converted into a daybed as shown on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is an excellent option for those who prefer the flexibility of a design. The conversion is easy and only requires the removal of a single side panel. This allows parents to save on the cost of a separate bed.
Some cot beds are equipped with a hanging rail that can be used to hang muslins, dolls along with other small objects. This helps keep everything tidy, neat and organized. It also looks fantastic. The ease of access to these items makes it much easier for parents when feeding their infant.
A teething rail is another desirable feature that is included in some cots. This will stop your child from chewing on the wooden cot, which can cause irritation. Some cots come with more traditional designs and have a huge storage drawer beneath the bed that is ideal for clothes, toys, blankets and other baby necessities.
This is a great option when space is a problem but you'll need to purchase a drawer on your own. You may have to purchase a separate mattress and bedding, as oval sheets and mattresses don't come with the cot.
This sleigh cot from Stokke is a stunning example of the Scandi-style at its finest and comes with a massive under-bed storage drawer that's perfect to keep baby necessities out of sight but within easy reach. 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 when your child's ready.