How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby
When you are expecting a child it is essential to choose a cot that will provide 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.
This minimalist, elegant coffin is our top pick from the Anyday collection by John Lewis. It has three mattress positions, teething bars and an storage drawer. It's also easy to assemble with clear instructions.
Comfort
The best cot beds will keep babies comfy and cosy. Find a comfortable soft, soft fabric. Make sure that the mattress is fitted snugly to prevent any gaps that could pose the danger of suffocation. There are a variety of mattresses available: coils springs, foam and even natural materials for allergy sufferers. Do your research to find the ideal mattress for your child.
Whether you opt for a standard or convertible cot, the key to comfort is a mattress of high-quality that provides proper support and promotes healthy posture. The same applies to the slats, which should 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 get caught when they move during sleep.
Ask your friends and family for recommendations, or read online reviews. Make sure you choose a mattress that's breathable, as they'll help to regulate temperature and are less likely to harbour bacteria.
There are a myriad of styles to choose from, including traditional sleighs with intricate details and sleek, modern designs. Some are even painted with bold primary colours which is great when you want your little one to wake up feeling fresh and cheerful!
The majority of cots have an under-bed storage drawer and teething rails that stop your child from chewing on the sides of the cot, and adjustable height bases to accommodate baby's growth. You can also buy a drop-side for babies who are small or suffer from medical conditions that make it difficult to bend over.
Choose a cot that is compliant with the strict UK safety standard and is able to be easily transformed into a toddler's cot when it is time. This information can be found in the description of the product and key specifications.
Safety
A safe sleeping environment is a must and a major factor when selecting a bed. The mattress should be snugly fitted and there should be no gaps between the mattress and the sides or ends of the cot/cot-bed (large gaps can restrict the child's arms or head). Make sure the mattress is firm and thin. Thick mattresses can increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies offer a choice of mattresses, ranging from basic foam to natural materials for allergy sufferers. Some even come with anti-microbial treatment. If your cot has drop-sides, ensure that it is locked and in the upward position.
Drop sides should only be allowed to go to fall when an adult is in the room. This can prevent accidental release. If your coffin has a solid edge be sure to avoid placing it against the wall because it can block airflow and could cause coffin death. According to the latest research, cots with slatted edges are safer since they allow for greater airflow.
If your cot has a fixed side choose this option as it's safer when your baby starts to crawl and pull themselves up. When your child is climbing with confidence and standing, it's time to upgrade to a junior bed.
Some cots come with an option that allows the base to be raised up to three levels. This is a wonderful security measure that allows the cot of your child to grow with them. Some cots come with footplates that can be adjusted to suit for toddlers who like to stand up.
When you put your child in their cot, make sure that there is no visible danger. It should be away from heaters, power points, windows and blind cords and curtains (these are a strangulation hazard). When purchasing second-hand furniture, or heirlooms, make 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 of how to safely use your cot, ask other parents for help or take part in an local NCT New Baby class. If your cot has a manual, read it carefully before you begin using it, and then follow the safety-use guidelines carefully.
Style
This gorgeous cot bed, with its sleigh style will look fantastic in your nursery. The panel was impressed with the mix of white and natural wood as well as the innovative features like under-bed storage drawers for everything essential for babies, including bedding, nappy and an impressive array of baby clothes. It's also a breeze to put together with clear instructions and separate sets of screws for each section. It could also be transformed into a toddler's desk and bed as your child grows older (see product description for more information).
One of our favourite features are the teething rails which protect your baby from bumping their head on the cot's side or any other protruding parts of the cot, such as handles or a corner post. They can also stop them from chewing on the wood, which prevents them from getting trapped. It also features an opening that can be removed to make it easier for you to get access to your baby. We love that the cot can be transformed into a toddler bed, and that it's sturdy enough to last for four years. It also met the strict UK safety standards, which you'll find in the main specifications beneath each product.
Cot beds are usually larger than cribs and can be turned into toddler beds once your child is ready and you can avoid purchasing a bed at an age when they're ready to transition. They are more expensive than a crib.
If your nursery is small, you may want to consider a crib. It is smaller and takes less space. However, if you plan to spend a lot of your baby's time in your bedroom or you need an item that lasts longer, you should choose a crib.
A cot isn't safe for babies to sleep in if it does not meet the strict UK safety standards as outlined 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 baby. The slats should not be too close together to ensure that your baby won't get tossed out.
Storage
The amount of baby equipment you need is overwhelming, regardless of whether you're a new mom or a seasoned one. This is the reason it's important to think about storage options when choosing the right crib bed. A number of cots have additional storage options, such as under-bed drawers or a coordinating top changer (available separately). Some are even able to be converted into a toddler or small single bed, which can extend their use for a longer time.
Some cot beds can be adapted into a day bed, as seen here on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is an excellent option for those who like an edgier design. The conversion is simple and only requires the removal of ONE side panel. It also lets parents save money on a separate bed.
Some cot beds have a hanging rail that can be used to hang muslins, dolls along with other small things. This keeps everything neat, tidy and organised. It also looks beautiful. Being able to access these items makes it much easier for parents when feeding their infant.
A teething rail is a desired feature that is found in some cots. This can prevent your little one chewing on the wood, which could cause them irritation. Some cots have more traditional designs and come with a large storage drawer beneath the bed that is ideal for toys, clothes blankets, and other baby necessities.
This is a great choice for those who have limited space, but you will have to purchase a drawer separately. You might need to purchase an additional mattress and bedding, as oval sheets and mattresses do not come with the cot.
This sleigh cot bed by Stokke is a stunning example of the Scandi-style at its finest and comes with a massive under-bed storage drawer that's ideal for keeping all those baby's essentials out of view but within easy reach. The alphabetically labeled components and clear instructions made it simple to assemble our panel. It's suitable for babies as young as birth and can be converted into a toddler bed once your child is ready, meaning it's also a good value.