How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby
If you're expecting a baby, it's important to choose a cot that's safe and secure for your little one. Look for a cot with fixed sides (rather than drop-sides), which comply with strict UK safety standards.
This minimalist, elegant coffin is our top pick from the Anyday collection by John Lewis. It has three mattress positions, teething bars and storage drawers. It is also simple to put together and comes with clear instructions.
Comfort
The best cot bed keeps infants comfortable and warm. Choose a breathable soft and comfortable fabric. Make sure that the mattress is fitted snugly to prevent any gaps that could create a risk of suffocation. There are a variety of mattresses available on the market that include coil springs, foam and other natural materials suitable for allergy sufferers. So do cots 4 tots and select the one that is suitable for your baby's requirements.
No matter if you select a standard or convertible cot, the key to comfort is a good-quality mattress that provides proper support and promotes healthy posture. The same is true for the slats, which must be securely attached and not sagging or bent. The slats need to be firmly connected to the frame to ensure that your child does not be caught when they move in their sleep.
Ask your friends and family for recommendations or look at online reviews. Look for ones that are air-conditioned, as they'll help to regulate temperature and are less likely to harbor bacteria.
When it comes to fashion there's a variety of styles from classic sleigh styles with ornate detailing to sleek, modern designs. Some are decorated with bright primary colors to make your child feel joyful and happy when they wake up.
You'll find most cots have an under-bed drawer for storage and teething rails to guard your baby from chewing on the sides of the cot, as well as adjustable height bases for baby growth. cots and tots can also purchase a drop-side for babies who aren't big or suffer from medical conditions that make it difficult for them to bend over.
Look for a cot which is compliant with the strict UK safety standards and can easily be converted into a toddler's bed when it's time. Look for this information in the product description or in the key specifications.
Safety
A safe sleeping environment is essential and a big factor when selecting a cot. The mattress should be snugly fitted and there shouldn't be gaps between the mattress and the sides or ends of the cot/cot-bed (large gaps can trap the child's arms or head). Make sure the mattress is not too firm and thin. Thick mattresses can increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies offer a range of mattresses, from simple foam to natural substances for allergy sufferers. Some even come with anti-microbial treatment. If your cot has an inclined side, make sure it is in the up position and secured.
Drop sides should only be allowed to go down only when an adult is in the room. This can prevent accidental release. Avoid placing your cot against a wall if it has an end that is solid. This could limit airflow, which could result in death of the coffin. Recent research suggests that slatted ends could be safer because they permit more airflow.
If your cot is fixed on one side, then you can choose it. It's the safest option for your baby as they start to crawl and pull themselves upward. Once your child is standing and climbing, this is a sign they're ready to transition into the junior bed.
Some cots come with a feature that allows the base to be raised to three different levels. This is a wonderful security measure that allows your child's cot to grow with their needs. Other cots come with footplates that can be adjusted, which are ideal for toddlers wanting to sit up in their beds.
When you place your child's cot ensure there aren't any obvious dangers. It should be put away from power and heater points. Also make sure it is away from windows, curtains, and blind cords. All of these could create strangulation risks. When buying second-hand furniture or heirlooms, be sure to check for dangers to your child's health such as stickers and transfers. These can peel off and pose a danger.
If you're unsure about how to use your cot safely you can ask other parents or visit a local NCT New Baby course for support and advice. If your cot comes with a guide be sure to go through it before using it and follow the instructions.
Style
With its stunning sleigh design This gorgeous crib will look stunning in your nursery. Our panel was impressed by the mix of natural and white pine, as well as its clever features, such as under-bed storage drawers that can hold all those baby essentials like bedding, nappies and a dazzling array of baby outfits. It's also simple to put together, with concise instructions and separate packs of screws for each section. It can also be transformed into a toddler bed and desk as your baby gets older (see the product description for more details).
The teething rails are among our most loved features. They stop your child from hitting their head on the crib's side or any protruding portion of the crib, such as the corner post or handle. They also stop them from chewing the wood and preventing them from being suffocated. It also features an opening that can be removed to make it easier for parents to reach their newborn. We are thrilled that it can be converted into an infant bed, and that it is sturdy enough to last for up to four years. It also complies with strict UK safety standards. These are listed in the main specifications below each product.
Cot beds are typically larger than cribs and can be turned into toddler beds once your child is ready which means you don't have to worry about purchasing a bed when they're ready for the transition. They can be more expensive than a crib.
If your nursery is small, you may want to consider a crib. It is smaller and occupies less space. However, if you plan on spending a lot of your baby's time in your bedroom, or if you need a bed that lasts longer, you should choose a cot.
A crib isn't safe for babies to sleep in if it does not meet the strict UK safety standards set out in BS EN 716 and BS 8509, which deals with the thickness of mattresses, the materials used and other key elements of cot mattresses for babies. The slats shouldn't be too far apart, to ensure that your child doesn't get tossed out.
Stores
The amount of baby equipment you need is overwhelming, regardless of whether you're a first-time parent or an experienced one. This is why it's crucial to think about storage options when selecting the crib bed. A number of cots have additional storage solutions available such as drawers in the under-bed or a top changer (available separately). Some can even be adapted into a toddler or small single bed, extending their usability for longer.
Some cots are able to be converted into day beds, as shown on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is an excellent option for those who prefer a more flexible design. The conversion is easy and requires only the removal of a single side panel. This will allow parents to reduce the expense of the purchase of a separate bed.
A variety of cot beds have a hanging rail which can be used to store muslins, dummies and other small items. This keeps everything neat, tidy and organised. It also looks great. These items are easily accessible to parents and make it easier for parents to feed their child.
A teething rail is another desirable feature that is included in some cots. This will prevent your child from chewing on the wooden cot which can cause irritation. Some cots are designed with a more traditional style and include a large under-bed storage drawer that is perfect for storing blankets, toys, clothes and other baby necessities.
While this is a great idea for when you're running out of space, you must keep in mind that you'll need to buy a separate extra for the drawer. It is also possible to purchase a different mattress and bedding, as oval mattresses and sheets are not typically included with the cot itself.
This sleigh-style cot bed is an exquisite example of Scandi style at its finest. It has a spacious under-bed storage space that is perfect for keeping all baby essentials out-of-sight but within easy access. Our panel found it very easy to put together due to the alphabetically-labelled parts and clear instructions. It is suitable for babies from birth and can be transformed into a toddler's bed when your child's ready.