How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby
If you're expecting a baby it is essential to select a cot that will be safe and secure for your child. Find a cot which has fixed sides, instead of drop-sides. This will meet UK safety standards.
This minimalist, stylish cot is our top pick from the Anyday range of John Lewis. Baby Cot Bed comes with three mattress positions, teething bars and storage drawers. It's also simple to put together with clear instructions.
Comfort
The best cot mattress keeps babies comfortable and cozy. Look for a breathable soft and comfortable fabric. Make sure the mattress is snug to prevent any gaps that could cause the danger of suffocation. There are a range of mattresses available on the market including coil springs, foam, natural materials for allergy sufferers - so do your research and choose the right one for your baby's requirements.
Whether you opt for an ordinary or convertible cot, the most important thing to ensure satisfaction is a high-quality mattress that provides proper support and promotes a healthy posture. The same is true for the slats. They should be secured and not sagging or bent. The slats should also be secured to the frame, so your child doesn't get caught in them when moving in their sleep.
Ask your friends and family for recommendations or browse online reviews. Choose mattresses that are breathable, as they help regulate your body temperature and are less likely to harbor bacteria.
There are many styles to choose from such as traditional sleighs, with ornate details and modern, sleek designs. Some are painted in vibrant primary colors to make your child feel happy and happy when they wake up.
There are a lot of cots that have drawers underneath to store items and teething rails to guard your child from chewing on the sides of the cot and adjustable height bases for infant growth. You can also purchase a drop side for petite infants or those with medical conditions that make it difficult to bend over.
For added security, opt for a cot that meets the stringent UK safety standards and can easily convert into a toddler bed when the time is right. Look for this information in the description or key specs.
Safety
A safe and secure sleeping environment is an essential aspect to consider when choosing a cot. The mattress should fit snugly and there should be no gaps between the mattress and the sides or ends of the cot/cot-bed (large gaps can trap the child's arms or head). Verify that the mattress is firm and thin. Thicker mattresses aren't advised because they can increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies offer a choice of mattresses, from simple foam to natural substances for allergy sufferers. Some come with anti-microbial treatment. If your cot features drop-sides, ensure that it is locked and in the up position.
Drop sides should only be allowed to go to fall when an adult is present in the room. This will prevent accidental release. If your coffin has a solid edge, avoid placing it against the wall as this will restrict airflow and could cause coffin death. According to the most recent research, cots with slatted ends could be safer as they allow for more airflow.
If your cot is set on one side, choose it. It's the safest option for your baby when they start to crawl and then pull themselves upwards. When your child is standing and climbing, this is a sign that they're ready to move into the junior bed.
Some cots have a feature where the base can be raised to three different heights in order to increase with your child's growth - this is very convenient and an added safety measure. Some cots come with adjustable footplates that are ideal for toddlers who like to stand up.
When placing your child's cot, make sure there aren't any visible dangers. It should be put away from any heaters or power points. Also, keep it away from windows, curtains and blind cords. These can all create strangulation risks. If you're buying furniture that is second-hand or an heirloom, check for hazards to choking such as stickers and transfers that may be removed and create a risk.
If you're unsure of how to safely use your cot, consult other parents for advice or attend a local NCT New Baby class. If your cot comes with instructions, read them carefully before you start using it, and follow the safety-use guidelines carefully.
Style
With its beautiful sleigh design This gorgeous cot bed will look great in your nursery. Our panel members loved the mix of white and natural pine, as well as its innovative features, like drawers under the bed to store all the baby necessities like nappies, bedding, and a stunning variety of baby outfits. It's also simple to build with clear instructions and screws for each section. It can also be converted into a bed for toddlers and a desk when your child gets older (see the product description for details).
One of our favorite features is the teething rails that protect your little one from bumping their head on the side of the cot or any protruding parts of the cot like handles or a corner post. They can also stop them from chewing on the wood, preventing them from becoming trapped. It also features a drop-side to make it easier for you to access your newborn. We are thrilled that the cot can be transformed into a toddler bed, and that it's sturdy enough to last up to four years. It also meets the strict UK safety standards, which are listed in the main specifications beneath each product.
Cot beds are typically larger than cribs and can be transformed into toddler beds once your child is ready which means you don't have to worry about purchasing a bed at an age when they're ready to transition. They are more expensive than a crib.
If your nursery is very small, a crib might be the best option for you, as it's smaller and occupies less space, but if your child is likely to spend much of their time in their parents' room or you want a longer-lasting bed, opt for a cot.
If a cot doesn't meet the UK safety standards set by BS EN 716 or BS 8509 (which cover mattress thicknesses, materials and other key elements of baby mattress cots), it is unsafe for babies to sleep. The slats shouldn't be too far apart to prevent your baby from falling off.
Stores
The amount of baby stuff you'll need is overwhelming regardless of whether you're a new mom or an experienced one. This is the reason it's important to consider storage options when choosing the right crib bed. Some cots come with additional storage options, like drawers beneath the bed or a coordinating top changer (available separately). Some are even able to be converted into a toddler bed or a single bed, increasing their use for a longer time.
Some cots are able to be converted into day beds, as seen on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is a great option for those who prefer a less rigid design as the conversion process is fairly simple and involves the removal of a side panel. This lets parents reduce the expense of the purchase of a separate bed.
Some cot beds have hanging rails that can be used to hang muslins, Dummies and other small items. This makes everything neat, tidy and organised. It also looks beautiful. These items are easily accessible to parents and make it easier for them to feed their baby.
Another thing to look out for is a teething rail that is available with cots. This will prevent your child from chewing on the wooden cot which could cause irritation. Some cots are designed with a more traditional style and have a huge drawer under the bed that is ideal for storing toys, blankets, clothes and other baby necessities.
This is a great solution when space is a problem but you'll need to purchase a drawer separately. It is also possible to buy a new mattress and bedding since oval mattresses and sheets are not typically included with the cot.
This sleigh-style cot bed is an exquisite example of Scandi style at its finest. It has a large under-bed storage area that is ideal to keep baby's essentials out of sight but still easily accessible. Our panel found it very easy to put together due to the alphabetically-labelled parts and clear instructions. It's suitable for babies from birth and can be converted into a toddler bed when your child is ready, which means it's also a good value.