How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby
If you are expecting your first child it is essential to choose a cot that will ensure safety and security for your baby. Find a cot which has fixed sides, rather than drop-sides. This will be in line with UK safety standards.
Our top pick is this basic but elegant cot from John Lewis' Anyday range. It comes with three mattress positions, teething bars and a storage drawer. It is also easy to put together, and comes with clear instructions.
Comfort
The best cot bed keeps babies comfortable and cozy. Look for a soft and airy fabric, and ensure that the mattress is fitted snugly to prevent any gaps which could pose the risk of suffocation. There are many types of mattresses available - coils springs, foam and natural materials for allergy-sufferers. Do your research to determine the most suitable one for your child.
No matter if you select a standard or convertible cot, the key to satisfaction is a high-quality mattress that provides proper support and promotes a healthy posture. The slats must be securely attached and not sagging. The slats need to be securely fixed to the frame, to ensure that your child does not become caught in the movement in their sleep.
If you're not sure what mattress to purchase, talk to friends and family or check online reviews for recommendations. Make sure you choose a mattress that's ventilated, as they'll aid in maintain temperature and are less likely to be a home for bacteria.
There are a myriad of styles to pick from such as traditional sleighs, with ornate details and sleek, modern designs. Some are even painted in bright primary colors, which is ideal if you want your little one to wake up feeling fresh and cheerful!
Most cots come with a drawer for storage underneath teething rails to prevent your child from chewing on the sides of the cot, and adjustable height bases to accommodate your child's growth. You can also purchase a drop side for petite babies or those who have medical conditions that make it difficult to bend over.
Choose a cot that is in compliance with the strict UK safety standard and is able to be easily converted into a toddler's bed when it's time. This information is found in the description of the product and the key specifications.
Safety
A safe sleeping environment is essential and a big aspect to consider when choosing a bed. The mattress should fit snugly and there shouldn't be gaps between the mattress and the sides or ends of the cot/cot-bed (large gaps can hold the child's arms and head). Make sure the mattress is firm and thin. Thick mattresses can increase the risk of SIDS. There are many companies that offer mattresses made of a variety of materials, from foam to natural materials that are suitable for those suffering from allergies. Some have anti-microbial treatment. If your crib has an inclined side, make sure it is in the upward position and secured.
Drop sides should only be allowed to go to fall when an adult is present in the room. This can prevent accidental release. If your coffin has a solid edge be sure to avoid placing it against the wall as it will block airflow and can cause the death of a coffin. Recent research suggests that slatted ends could be safer because 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. If your child is climbing with confidence and standing, it's the time to move to a junior bed.
Some cots have a feature where the base can be raised to three different levels, so that it will grow with your child which is extremely practical and a great safety measure. Some cots feature adjustable footplates that are ideal for toddlers who like to stand up.
When you put your child in their cot, check that there isn't any visible danger - it must be kept away from heaters or windows, power points and curtains and blind cords (these pose a strangulation risk). When buying second-hand furniture or heirlooms to check for choking hazards such as stickers and transfers. They can come off and cause danger.
If you're not sure how to use your cot safely you can ask parents around or go to an local NCT New Baby course for assistance and guidance. If your cot has instructions, read them carefully before you begin using it, and be sure to follow the safe-use instructions closely.
Style
With its beautiful sleigh design This gorgeous crib will look stunning in your nursery. The panel was awed by the combination of white and natural wood and the clever features like under-bed storage drawers for all baby essentials, like bedding, nappies, and an impressive array of baby clothes. It's also easy to construct, with clear instructions and screws for each section. It can also be converted into a toddler desk and bed as your child grows older (see product description for more details).
The teething rails are among our top features. They prevent your child from hitting their head on the side of the crib or any protruding part of the crib, such as the corner post or handle. They also prevent them from chewing the wood and preventing them from suffocating. It also has an opening that can be dropped to make it easier for access to your newborn. We appreciate that the cot could be converted into a toddler bed and that it's strong enough to last for up to four years. It also complies with the stringent UK safety standards, which are listed in the main specifications beneath each product.
Cot beds can be converted into toddler beds in the event that your child is old enough. This lets you not have to buy an entirely new bed as your child gets ready to go up. They are more expensive than cribs.
If your nursery is small, a crib could be the best choice for you, as it's smaller and occupies less space. However, if your baby is likely to spend a lot of time in their parents' bedroom or you'd like a more long-lasting bed, opt for a crib.
A cot isn't suitable for babies to sleep in if it doesn't meet the strict UK safety standards as outlined in BS EN 716 and BS 8509, which covers the thickness of mattresses, the materials used and other important elements of baby cot mattresses. The slats must not be too far apart to prevent your baby from falling off.
Stores
Whether you're a first-time parent or a veteran the amount of items the baby will require is immense. This is the reason it's important to think about storage options when selecting the right crib bed. Some cots come with additional storage options, including drawers beneath the bed or a top changer (available separately). Some can even be adapted into a toddler bed or a single bed, extending their usability for longer.
Some cots can be transformed into day beds, as shown on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is a great choice for those who prefer an unstructured design since the process of conversion is simple and involves the removal of a side panel. It also lets parents 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 things. This allows you to keep everything organized tidy, neat and tidy - and it also looks great. These items are easily accessible to parents, making it easier for them to feed their baby.
Another thing to look for is a teething rail which is included in a few cots. This will prevent your child from chewing on the wooden cot which can cause irritation. Cots For Tots UK feature more traditional designs and include a large storage drawer underneath the bed. It is perfect for clothes, toys blankets, baby essentials.
While this is a great option if you're short on space, you should keep in mind that you'll have to purchase an extra drawer. You may also need to purchase a different mattress and bedding, as sheets and mattresses that are oval aren't usually included in the cot.
This sleigh cot from Stokke is a beautiful example of the Scandi-style at its finest and has a huge under-bed storage drawer that's great to keep all the baby essentials out of sight but easily reachable. The alphabetically labeled pieces and clear instructions made it simple to put together for our panel. It's suitable for infants from birth and can be made into a toddler's bed once your child is ready.